PSRC is circulating a letter to the State Legislature’s Transportation Committee in support of the ferry plans in Governor Ferguson’s draft budget. It would allocate $1.1 billion within the transportation budget to purchase three new hybrid-electric ferries and maintain and preserve the current fleet. The Governor’s proposal puts the state on a path to achieve its goal to acquire 13 new hybrid-electric ferries by 2040. If you are a local elected official, please consider signing by January 30 at 5:00 p.m.
Support Letter Text:
Local Elected Official Ferry Support Letter to Transportation Committee Leaders Dear Chair Liias, Chair Fey, Ranking Member King and Ranking Member Barkis:
We are local elected officials from ferry communities across the Puget Sound region writing in support of Governor Ferguson’s budget proposal for Washington State Ferries.
We are grateful for the legislature’s continued investments in the ferry system and workforce during the 2025 legislative session, including funding to construct three new hybrid-electric ferries. Please ensure that ferry system investments remain a priority.
Governor Ferguson’s budget offers a practical solution for investment in Washington State Ferries. It allocates $1.1 billion within the transportation budget, including $1 billion to purchase three new hybrid-electric ferries and $150 million to maintain and preserve the current fleet. By using bond sales to finance major ferry investments, the state can move critical projects forward while managing costs over time. The Governor’s proposal puts the state on a path to achieve its goal to acquire 13 new hybrid-electric ferries by 2040.
Right now, there are three ferries out of service for emergency repairs. This disruption in service caused by unmet critical repair needs highlights the fragility of the ferry system and underscores the need for sustained investment and a plan to continue replacing the aging fleet. The Governor’s proposed funding for maintenance and preservation will provide Washington State Ferries with the necessary support to keep the fleet of aging vessels in operation until new boats are in the water. We respectfully encourage you to move forward with Governor Ferguson’s proposal to invest in ferries. We are grateful for the work that has been done and the progress that has been made in strengthening this important transportation system.
Sincerely,
Limited to local elected officials only. Please contact Alyssa Quinn, Senior Government Relations Specialist, at aquinn@psrc.org with any questions.
Please note that if a quorum of your full legislative body or a committee of your legislative body is planning to sign on to the letter, you may be required to take legislative action on the letter to comply with the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA).