Press Releases

Today, local leaders expressed their support for a piece of bipartisan legislation that Representative Rick Larsen (D-WA 2nd) introduced with U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Mark Begich (D-AK), to dramatically strengthen our federal investment in ferry systems nationwide, including Washington State Ferries. More than 100 million passengers take ferries every year in at least 38 states, often between work and home. The transportation services offered by ferries are critical to communities across the country, and their regional economies. However, according to the Department of Transportation, one fourth of ferry systems are 40 years or older and five percent are 60 years or older. The U.S. Ferry Systems Investment Act works to improve this aging fleet, and the ferry infrastructure as a whole.

“Ferries are a critical part of keeping the economy in Washington state moving as they carry commerce and commuters around the region,” said Rep. Larsen. “Washington State Ferries is the largest ferry system in the country and carries over 25 million riders annually. We must invest in our ferry system to create good jobs, promote long-term economic growth and help ensure that the folks who rely on ferries to get to work are traveling safely and efficiently.”

Dean Maxwell, Mayor of Anacortes, said:
"This is wonderful. I am glad that our ferries are a high priority of Rep. Larsen and Senators Murray and Cantwell. This kind of investment into our state’s ferry system will only serve to strengthen the Anacortes and State economy and help all of the other waterfront communities that rely on this critical piece of Washington’s transportation infrastructure. This couldn't have come at a better time, especially given the current budget issues our State is facing. Investment in critical infrastructure is the proven way to getting out of a bad economy.”

Nancy Conard, Mayor of Coupeville, WA said:
“I am delighted that our federal representatives are recognizing the critical role that ferries play in the transportation system. Just like roads and bridges, ferries should be given equal consideration.”

State Senator Mary Margaret Haugen, 10th Legislative District said:
“I am so pleased to see a federal commitment on the importance of our country’s marine highways. This act certainly shows the quality of leadership we have in our congressional delegation in that they were able to put this investment package together. In Washington State, the ferry routes are considered a part of the state highway system, and this act is incredibly important particularly to those areas of the state that are only accessible by ferry. Our state will certainly benefit from this program and I appreciate the dedication of our delegation in Washington, DC.”

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