Senate Democrats
Transportation
Ferries
Our state’s marine highway system provides vital transportation links to people and communities in the Puget Sound region, and Senate Democrats are committed to improving the quality of service provided by Washington State Ferries.
New Ferry Construction
The budget provides capital funding for the purchase of a total of four Island Home class (64-auto) ferry vessels within the 2009-11 and 2011-13 biennia, and begins funding for 144-auto vessels in subsequent biennia.
The budget continues to provide no major funding for terminal improvements; however, if WSF seeks and receives additional federal funding, it may be used to replace the Anacortes ferry terminal.
Ferry Service and Operations
Operating funding is provided for all routes, including maintaining the service to Sidney, B.C.
The budget holds the line on ferry fares by assuming no more than a 2.5% fare increase, and assumes various efficiencies recommended by the JTC study.
The budget directs the Transportation Commission to develop an administrative mechanism for a fuel surcharge in anticipation of integrating this mechanism into the system during the 2011-13 biennium.
Funding is provided to begin a WSF reservation system after a pre-design study is completed and the JTC recommends a proposed plan to the Legislature in 2010.
Ongoing System Improvements
The Joint Transportation Committee is directed to continue its work during the 2009-11 biennium by examining activities external to the workings of the WSF, including:
- employment issues
- vessel procurement processes
- third-party project management for vessel and terminal projects