WSF weekly update

||| FROM PATTY RUBSTELLO for WASHINGTON STATE FERRIES |||

Service restoration update

Our latest Service Restoration Plan Progress Report released this week shows that our Seattle/Bainbridge route has reached 95% reliability over the last three weeks. As a result, I’m happy to report that the run has moved from trial service (Stage 3) to fully restored (Stage 4). With Yakima out of service due to damage from a dislodged anchor yesterday, we’re unexpectedly down a boat. With limited vessel availability right now, all other routes will remain in their current stage, with most runs in alternate service (Stage 2).

Fourteen new terminal employees completed orientation and training earlier this month and are now out working throughout our system.

The other factor in moving a route from Stage 2 to Stage 3 is crewing availability. That can also be unpredictable depending on relief requests and the number of new employees we’re able to recruit, who then must complete the required training needed to crew our vessels. I know our alternate service schedules have been challenging and understand how they are frustrating for our riders. Again, we are committed in keeping you updated throughout our service restoration process.

No new San Juan Islands vehicle reservations through Sunday, May 1

New vehicle reservations for our Anacortes/San Juan Islands route have been suspended through at least Sunday, May 1, with no-show fees waived. These changes were made following the unexpected loss in vehicle space on the run with Yakima going out of service yesterday. Existing reservation holders will be prioritized and loaded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Distracted Driving Awareness Month

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and I thought this would be a good time to remind our customers to be safe, attentive drivers on our vessels and at our terminals, where many of our employees work right in the middle of lanes of traffic. A particular concern I’ve heard from my colleagues is the use of cell phones while driving. Please remember that as an extension of the state highway system, all state laws on distracted driving apply on our ferry system.

When driving onto a vessel it’s important to pay attention, make eye contact with our employees and look at where they are directing you.

Peak season surcharge begins Sunday, May 1

Starting Sunday, May 1, the peak season surcharge goes into effect for vehicle-and-driver fares. This change does not affect passenger fares and multiride products. The surcharge lasts through Sept. 30.

Colman Dock Project update

Construction slowed during the recent concrete strike, but crews working on our Colman Dock Project rearranged their plans to make steady progress on the final two-thirds of the new Seattle terminal building. With concrete flowing again, we’re now on target for a summertime opening of the completed terminal building, which features bright, welcoming entryways. Crews are also busy constructing the new entry building along Alaskan Way and the elevated walkway connecting it to the terminal building. Both are slated to open in 2023.