Tagged: ferries

Washington state lawmakers are considering ending a requirement that ferries be built in state. According to a recent state audit Washington is overpaying for ferries compared to other states. Ross Reynolds talks with ferry maker Brian Mannion about his thoughts on opening up state ferry production to outside competition. 

State auditors say that Washington state ferries cost too much money to build. The Chetzemoka ferry for example, which transports passengers from Coupeville to Port Townsend, cost around $36 million more than a similar boat that was built on the east coast. Auditors say it’s due to a state law that requires ferries to be built by Washington companies. Now they’re asking lawmakers to get rid of the law. Ross talks to Clipper Navigation CEO Derrell E. Bryan to get the details.

Washington State Ferry system staff cutbacks are leading to some last minute cancelations and that is causing headaches for some ferry commuters.  Yesterday, two ferry sailings were canceled due to crew shortages. Ross Reynolds talks to state ferry system director, David Moseley.