Expanded Access to the Connecticut River: Jones Ferry River Access Facility Upgrades Nearing Completion

New viewing platform along the Connecticut River on Jones Ferry Rd. in Holyoke, MA.

Holyoke Rows and the Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) are proud to announce the successful completion of major improvements and program expansions at the Jones Ferry River Access Facility in Holyoke, MA, made possible through $324,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. 

The investment has contributed to making the Jones Ferry site a safer, more accessible, and more inclusive community hub for recreation and environmental engagement. All construction should be complete in time for next summer’s season on the Connecticut River. 

John Hooks Davis with new river safety signage

New downstream dock

New upstream dock

Photos: (left) John Hooks Davis with new safety signage; (center) new downstream dock; (right) new upstream dock.

Here are some of the benefits and outcomes of these efforts:

Expanding Opportunities for Community and Youth:

With ARPA support, Holyoke Rows expanded its free and low-cost youth and family programming by offsetting the cost of hiring new seasonal staff and a boathouse manager through these funds.  

Infrastructure Upgrades for Safety and Accessibility:

The project included a redesign and installation of a multi-use dock system, new channel and no-wake markers, installation of new safety signage and the removal of derelict stairs that had long presented safety hazards. The new docks support rowing, paddling, and motorized uses with clearly designated areas, improving safety for all users. In addition to increasing the footprint of the downstream rowing docks, this project paid for the installation of a new upstream dock used only for kayak and hand carry access. While we couldn’t fully replace the city owned boat ramp, new Mobi-Mat technology was installed to create a more accessible landing and launch pad for recreational users.  

As part of the site improvements, the project included the installation of a new ADA-accessible river viewing platform, designed to ensure that all residents, regardless of age or ability, can safely and comfortably enjoy the Connecticut River. The platform provides stable, barrier-free space for observation, expanding opportunities for recreation beyond paddling and boating. Providing access to multiple types of recreation is central to the project’s mission, recognizing that not everyone engages with the river in the same way. Whether through paddling, rowing, fishing, or quiet observation, these improvements ensure that every member of the Holyoke community can connect meaningfully with the river environment. 

Bilingual signage was installed throughout the facility, making information and safety guidance accessible to both English- and Spanish-speaking residents. The purchase and installation of new signage and signage boxes will have a long-term impact on use of the space.  

Additional site enhancements supported by ARPA funds will include the installation of a public drinking fountain as well as the purchase of a new motor for Holyoke Rows’ boat fleet. These improvements are estimated to be implemented by Spring of 2026.  

Gabriél and Maggie planting trees.

New deck cantilevered out above slope.

In-progress work being done on the new viewing platform.

Photos: (left) Gabriél and Maggie planting trees; (center) new deck cantilevered out above slope; (right) in-progress work being done on the new viewing platform.

Riparian Restoration:

In addition to the facility and program upgrades, a major habitat restoration effort was completed at the Jones Ferry site this fall. On October 15th, Holyoke Rows, CRC, and 17 community volunteers planted 130 native trees to help stabilize the riverbank and improve long-term ecological health. This planting followed an extensive invasive species removal effort that cleared the area of aggressive plants such as poison ivy and bittersweet, which had overgrown large portions of the shoreline. The new native trees, including species selected for flood resilience and wildlife value, will help prevent erosion, provide shade for river users, and enhance habitat along the Connecticut River for years to come. 

Community Impact and Collaboration:

The improvements were driven by unprecedented demand for outdoor recreation and safe youth programming following the COVID-19 pandemic. Holyoke Rows and the Connecticut River Conservancy partnered closely with the City of Holyoke to ensure the project addressed both community and infrastructure needs, leveraging each organization’s expertise in program delivery and project management. 

Looking Ahead:

Holyoke Rows and the Connecticut River Conservancy hope this project serves as the leading edge of continued improvements at the state-owned Jones Ferry River Access site. Building on the momentum of these upgrades, partners envision further investments to enhance both recreation and public enjoyment of the river. Future goals include the complete replacement of the existing ramp system to ensure long-term durability and accessibility, and the creation of a small pocket park to provide shaded gathering areas, green space, and expanded opportunities for families and visitors to connect with the riverfront. These efforts will continue to make the Jones Ferry site a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant destination for the community. 

About the Partners: 

Holyoke Rows is a community-based nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to the Connecticut River through rowing, paddling, and equipment rental. The organization provides affordable programs for youth, adults, and families, with a focus on inclusion, health, and empowerment. 

The Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to protect and restore the Connecticut River and its tributaries through advocacy, restoration, and community engagement. 

This project is supported in part by the American Rescue Plan Act.