Ferguson delays WA hybrid electric ferry conversions to restore pre-pandemic service
WA Gov. Ferguson pauses hybrid-electrification of state ferries
Governor Bob Ferguson is pausing the hybrid-electrification of two Washington state ferries, saying things are way behind schedule.
SEATTLE - Governor Bob Ferguson announced Thursday that Washington will delay the conversion of two ferries to hybrid electric power, focusing instead on restoring pre-pandemic service levels.
"Right now, we have to balance a lot of priorities," said Ferguson.
What's next:
The first hybrid electric ferry, however, is still on track to launch in June. Despite the conversion process taking 22 months longer than the initially planned year.
According to Ferguson, this summer, 18 vessels will be in service, with a few undergoing routine maintenance.
Additionally, the state is moving forward with plans to procure five new hybrid electric ferries, with bidding starting in April and a builder selected by June. These new ferries will replace aging vessels in the fleet.
Looking ahead, Ferguson noted that Washington will need to replace 11 more vessels by 2040. WSF is also exploring faster ferry options, with an update expected by June.
Dig deeper:
Washington State Ferries Executive Director Steve Nevey said Ferguson is focused on restoring the system to full operation. However, at a community meeting last month, Nevey acknowledged that securing the necessary funding remains a challenge due to a significant shortfall in the state’s transportation budget.
"A lot of tough decisions are going to be made that are going to affect the entire state. But, you know, Governor Ferguson has made it clear in his public statements that Washington State Ferries is one of the priorities and funding our needs is top of his priority list," Nevey said.
New Bill Could Revolutionize Washington's Ferry System
As Washington State Ferry (WSF) service cuts enter their sixth year, a new bill, HB 1923, aims to restore reliable ferry service by allowing counties and transit systems to create their own fleets of passenger-only ferries.
Ferguson has also called for further research to address issues that cause service disruptions. This has been a key priority since before he took office and was a focus of his transition team.
Addressing the ferry crisis is one of the governor’s policy goals for his first 100 days in office.
The Source: Information for this report comes from a press conference held by Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson and representatives from the Washington State Ferries.
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