Melville Ferry Being Shut Down

Much to the dismay of local residents, the state is shutting down the Melville Ferry across the Atchafalaya River. DOTD spokesperson Lauren Lee says the ferry--which connects St. Landry Parish with Pointe Coupee to the east--is closing due to budget constraints and low usage. Lee says less than 1% of operating costs are covered by the $1 toll to ride the ferry. Melville resident Judith Thomasson is upset. She says the ferry is an essential and historic part of her town, and says budget constraints are a lame excuse for shutting the ferry boat down. Thomasson says she got to talk with the Governor about the ferry, but for only a couple minutes. She says he seemed unconcerned with the problems of a small town like Melville. Lee says DOTD regrets having to close the Melville Ferry, but the state's revenue shortfalls require saving money whenever and wherever possible. She says, after today, Melville residents will now have to drive several miles to cross the Atchafalaya.