Is there a traffic jam at the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry?

Four new cameras added to the Virginia Department of Transportation’s 511 network can help motorists answer that question before they head out.

While not all ferry traffic will be in view of the cameras, motorists will be able to see the queue approximately a half mile from the Surry and James City County boarding locations in real time so they can decide if an alternate route is needed.

“We now have a direct way to efficiently assist ferry travelers and help them make informed decisions,” said Wes Ripley, ferry operations manager. “We transport up to 2,500 vehicles on average a day, and keeping motorists moving efficiently and safely is our number one priority.”

The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry is one of Virginia’s first ferry systems to be shown on VDOT’s 511 cameras. Installation of the four cameras along Route 31 began earlier this summer and went live Sept. 3. Two cameras are located at the intersection of Rolfe Highway and Pleasant Point Road in Surry County and the other two are located on the existing digital message sign on Jamestown Road in James City County.

Three ferries are currently in operation. The largest can hold up to 70 vehicles. Once on board, the trip across the James River takes approximately 20 minutes. The ferry is free and operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The camera feed can be accessed online at www.virginiadot.org/travel/ferry-jamestown.asp.