Southold lawmakers are considering expanding the Cross Sound Ferry on the Long Island side to include a stop at Plum Island.
There are 10 acres of federally owned ferry property that are planned for rezoning to allow for the expansion.
Local lawmakers expect the expansion will be needed as Plum Island becomes a possible tourism destination in the future.
The island had been used for an animal disease research lab for 60 years. The federal government wanted to sell Plum Island to the highest bidder when the lab decided to relocate in 2008.
There are now plans to conserve part of the island and its diverse wildlife for public access.