WSF Weekly Report | Online community meetings; fare setting process; boating season opens

||| FROM STEVE NEVEY for WASHINGTON STATE FERRIES |||

A message from Steve

Seeing my colleagues in action every day reminds me that the strength of our ferry system lies in the people who make it work. Their skill, commitment and teamwork are what keep us moving forward and delivering for the public we serve. Next week is Public Service Recognition Week. The Office of Financial Management coordinates our Washington state celebration. This is a good reminder to pause and acknowledge those who serve in government roles. But my appreciation goes far beyond a single week on the calendar.

One of our skilled machinists changes out injectors on a main engine aboard Spokane during a recent layup at our Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility. Their behind-the-scenes expertise keeps our vessels running smoothly and showcases the dedication that powers our ferry system.

Every one of our employees plays a vital role in keeping the nation’s largest ferry system running each day. They navigate rough waters, make critical repairs, manage vessel schedules, support customers and so much more. Their work matters. It matters to the millions of people who rely on us every year. It’s not always easy – but their professionalism, resilience and problem-solving show how proud they are to serve the public. Please join me in thanking our employees for all they do – not just next week, but all year long.

Several new crew members recently completed Deck New Employee Orientation. They are now working out in the fleet, joining our proud team that is committed to serving the public. Welcome aboard!

Online community meetings, May 21 and 22

We’re hosting two online community meetings this month to share what’s ahead for the busy travel season. We’ll provide updates on service plans, new vessel construction and upcoming projects. Most of the time will be for questions and comments from the public. Participants can also provide feedback on the Washington State Transportation Commission’s fare proposals. Advance registration is required to attend via Zoom at noon Wednesday, May 21, and 6 p.m. Thursday, May 22. Both meetings will cover the same information. If you’d like to submit a question ahead of time, feel free to email us. Can’t make it? Recordings will be posted on our community participation page.

Fare setting process

Every two years, the state Legislature sets an amount of money that must be raised from our passengers. The Washington State Transportation Commission is then tasked with setting fares to reach that target. We do not set our own fares. As part of WSTC’s process, we work with a subset of our Ferry Advisory Committees to develop proposals for the Commission. The FAC on Tariff has a meeting next week at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 8. The public is invited to listen to their discussion. Advance registration is required to attend via Zoom. The public can also provide during WSTC’s fare-setting process public comment period this summer.

Helm Operations to modernize our dispatching system

We kicked off a project this week to modernize our dispatching system with the selection of Helm Operations as our vendor. A new web-based platform made for maritime operations is expected to be in place in 2027. The new system will bring much-needed upgrades that will help us serve our customers better. They include the key functions of crew scheduling, dispatching, bidding for positions and vacations, training and tracking compliance.

Ferry communities get EV fast-charging stations

Some of our ferry-served communities are getting a boost in clean transportation options. It’s all thanks to our agency’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Partnerships grant program. EVCS is one of the biggest electric vehicle fast-charging networks on the West Coast. It recently completed a major expansion that includes six new charging locations as part of the West Sound Ferry Cluster project. Four stations – Bainbridge Island, Poulsbo, Gig Harbor and Port Townsend – are open to the public. Each offers at least 600kW of fast-charging capacity. Two more, at the Kitsap Bank in Port Orchard and Kingston, will open later this month. This project supports our commitment to cleaner, quieter ferry communities and a lower-emissions future.

Boating season opens this Saturday, May 3

I extend a warm welcome to all recreational boaters gearing up for Opening Day of Boating Season Saturday, May 3. This yearly event marks the return of more recreational boats on our waterways. With that comes a renewed focus on safety and respect on the water. Stay alert, watch out for our ferry routes and listen to VHF radio for updates. Opening Day is a time to celebrate our maritime traditions. Let’s make it a safe and enjoyable start to the season for everyone on the water.

Large vessels like our ferries can’t turn or stop quickly. We ask recreational boaters to stay far away, stay visible and not cross too close in front or behind.

National Bike Month

May is National Bike Month and our agency celebrates the occasion with Bike to Work Month. Opting to ride instead of driving for even some of our trips can boost our mood and our health, cut down on transportation costs and reduce pollution for everyone. And for those who don’t or can’t drive, bikes offer transportation freedom. Plus, when you bring your bicycle on our ferries, you get some nice perks. Bikes get priority loading and unloading on most of our sailings.

We carry hundreds of thousands of bicycles on our sailings each year.