This overhaul will both update the struggling fleet of old and outdated vessels and tackle Gov. Jay Inslee’s long-range push to trim carbon emissions in Washington.
Currently, the WSF is struggling to keep its 10 routes that criss-cross Puget Sound fully functional. The system needs 19 vessels during its peak usage period and 17 during the off-season. Eight years ago, the ferry system had 24 boats, but three have since been sold after they reached the lifespan for which they were designed. The oldest vessels are 64 years old. With some ferries being maintained or under repair, the fleet usually has 16 to 18 vessels in service at a time.
→ Continue reading at Crosscut
