A formal vote could be held in the island of Whalsay to determine the public demand for a fixed link connecting it to the Shetland mainland.
The result of the ballot, which has been proposed by Whalsay Community Council, would be non-binding.
The idea of a tunnel to Whalsay has been the subject of discussions for years.
The issue reared its head again in 2017 after the community council urged Shetland Islands Council (SIC) to reconsider an offer from a Norwegian company to build and invest in a £76 million tunnel project.
The community council has now submitted a formal request to the SIC to hold a vote.
Whalsay Community Council chairman David Hughson said the proposed ballot would:“finally get a clear steer from the isle [about] what they want”.
Mr Hughson said capacity and timetable issues have left the ferry service to Whalsay, which has a strong fishing industry, near breaking point.
North Isles councillor Duncan Simpson said that while everyone may not be in favour of a vote being held, it is the “fairest way” to gauge the public’s views.
“I would also like to emphasise that this process will not delay or hinder the ongoing fight for fair funding from Holyrood for both revenue and capital replacement costs of our ferries,” he said.
There is said to be principal support in the council for fixed links, but the issue of cost has prevented any movement.
In 2016 Scottish transport minister Humza Yousaf agreed to look into integrating fixed links into national policy – something which was described as a “huge step forward” for Shetland’s transport planning.
Ryan Thomson, who is also chairman of the council’s environment and transport committee, said the views of the public are vital in the process.
“Whatever the result, the wishes of each island must be taken on board when determining how to progress with such an important decision.”