The continued closure of the LaSalle Causeway in Kingston, Ontario, is not only causing issues for commuters and boaters but also impacting two of the city’s largest tourist attractions: the Thousand Island Cruises and trolley tours. With the trolley unable to reach Fort Henry and two cruise ships stuck on the wrong side of the causeway, the tourism season is in question. Thousand Islands Cruises general manager Eric Ferguson stated that leaving the vessels in the inner harbour is not an option and that finding a solution is crucial to the operation, as tourism is a significant contributor to the local economy, bringing in over half a billion dollars in 2023.
Despite the challenges posed by the closure of the LaSalle Causeway, Tourism Kingston CEO Megan Knott remains optimistic that a solution will be found. Ferguson also believes that a solution will be reached, mentioning discussions about potentially raising the bridge temporarily. If no resolution is found, alternate routes for the tour operations, such as going over, under, or around the causeway, have been considered. Additionally, the cruise company has proposed a new solution in collaboration with other local marine operators to allow marine traffic to pass through during the bridge repairs.
An internal document shared with Global News suggests temporarily removing the fixed concrete span of the LaSalle Causeway to accommodate marine traffic, coinciding with the repair of the Bascule span without causing additional delays for vehicle traffic on the causeway. Adjustments will be made for the trolley tours, focusing solely on the west side of the Cataraqui River and skipping Fort Henry. The tour will include visits to Kingston Penitentiary and the Rockwood Asylum site, along with new stops added to the itinerary to provide an enjoyable experience despite the bridge closure. Ferguson emphasizes that the commitments made to visitors will be kept, ensuring that Kingston’s tourism industry remains active.
Thousand Islands Cruises and other local marine operators are working together to address the challenges posed by the closure of the LaSalle Causeway and ensure that tourist activities continue smoothly. Plans to adapt tour operations and find alternative routes have been discussed, with a focus on maintaining the overall visitor experience in Kingston. Despite the obstacles, Ferguson reassures tourists that the city will still offer the iconic little red trolley and cruise ships as intended, utilizing different routes and adjusted itineraries to provide an exceptional experience. The determination to overcome the challenges and keep the tourism industry thriving remains a top priority for all involved parties in Kingston.
In conclusion, the closure of the LaSalle Causeway in Kingston has raised concerns for the city’s tourism industry, particularly for popular attractions such as the Thousand Island Cruises and trolley tours. Efforts are being made to find solutions to the challenges posed by the closure, with discussions on temporary removal of the concrete span and alternative routes for marine traffic. While adjustments will need to be made for tour operations, the commitment to providing an enjoyable experience for visitors remains strong. The collaboration between Thousand Islands Cruises and other local operators highlights the resilience and determination of Kingston’s tourism industry to overcome obstacles and ensure that tourists continue to enjoy all that the city has to offer.
