Date:  Saturday, January 31, 2009

Contact: Marta Coursey, Communications Director (206) 515-3918

SEATTLE – Washington State Department of Transportation Ferries Division (WSF) released its revised draft Long-Range Plan today. The revised draft plan highlights a need for $1.3 billion to $3.3 billion in new funding over the next 22 years to maintain the ferry system.

The revised draft plan defines two very different scenarios for the state ferry system. Scenario A would make minor improvements to the system, but it would also require $3.3 billion of additional funding over the next 22 years. Scenario B would cut back some service and pare the system to its bare essentials, reducing the funding need to $1.3 billion.

“The revised draft plan begins the policy discussion, and presents for the communities, the Legislature and the Governor scenarios that seek to balance achievable service goals and funding requirements,” said Paula Hammond, Transportation Secretary. “We need to emerge from this legislative session with clear policy direction and a budget that sets a sustainable course for the future of the ferry system.”

The revised draft plan updates a draft document released on Dec. 19, 2008 for public review and comment. WSF accepted comments on the draft through Monday, Jan. 26. During the 38-day comment period, WSF conducted a total of 10 public hearings in ferry-served communities to present the draft plan and to listen to public testimony. More than 1,300 individuals attended the public hearings, and hundreds in attendance testified. In addition, WSF received more than 800 written comments.

“I want to thank everyone who took the time to attend a public hearing or write us with their comments,” said David Moseley, Assistant Secretary for Washington State Ferries. “We have reviewed all the comments and, where possible, made some modifications to the draft plan scenarios. We are eager to continue this discussion with the Legislature.”

To obtain a copy of the revised plan or read the public comments submitted between Dec. 19, 2008 and Jan. 26, 2009, visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/planning/ESHB2358.

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