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Ferry procurement bill
signed into law, next steps will address boats
Bill is a good start to investing in short-term,
long-term solutions
Gov. Chris Gregoire today
signed
Senate Bill 6794, which approves the procurement of new ferries to
replace the Steel Electrics that were pulled off the Port Townsend -
Keystone run. The measure was supported by 10th District State
Representatives
Barbara
Bailey and
Norma
Smith.
Senate Bill 6794 requires the state Department of Transportation (DOT)
to construct three new vessels to replace the four Steel Electrics taken
out of service due to safety concerns. The bill requires that all the
vessels be constructed in Washington state. The department expects to
solicit bids for the new ferries Feb. 15.
“Today is an important step in the right direction for our communities
that rely on ferries as a way of life. It’s now important for the DOT to
carry the plan forward efficiently and effectively. Our state ferry
system needs accountability, vision and leadership if it is going to be
viable in the future,” said Bailey, R-Oak Harbor. “As we move forward
with this plan, it’s important the state learns from its past mistakes.
We should not be in the position we are in today. The state must do a
better job of navigating problems, using tax dollars wisely, and
ensuring promises are kept.”
Bailey and Smith have said that it is important to work toward a
short-term solution immediately, while crafting a workable solution for
the future. They believe Senate Bill 6794 can offer this opportunity.
“I’m pleased with the quick action on this legislation to start the
process of replacing the boats on our Port Townsend to Keystone route,”
said Smith, R-Clinton. “The route is an important link for citizens,
businesses, tourism and our naval bases around the region. I know we
have more discussions that must take place to make sure we make the
right boat with the right capacity and safety features is built for the
run. Our top concern, as we find a short-term solution, is to exhaust
all our options and spend our money wisely to make sure we make the
right choices for our communities for the long-term.”
Bailey and Smith participated in a test run of the Steilacoom II that
ran from Port Townsend to Keystone on Feb. 8. Fellow legislators, state
Department of Transportation experts and ferry officials gathered that
day to review and discuss vessel options and viability in different
weather and water conditions.
The bill was written to
include an emergency clause, making it effective immediately with the
governor's signature.
# # #
For more information, contact:
Bobbi Cussins, Public Information Officer:
(360) 786-7252
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