WSDOT to build four ferries

The Washington State Ferries (WSF) is building four new ferries to replace older vessels that are being retired. Some are nearly 80 years old. The newbuildings will carry 144 cars, and will be similar to the ?Issaquah? class vessels, the most reliable, popular and versatile vessels in the fleet. New technology and lessons learned from years of operating the ?Issaquah? class are being incorporated into the new vessels.

The new ferries will be equipped with the latest safety equipment and systems and will remain stable even if the two watertight compartments were flooded. Lower slope ramps make both driving and walking safer and more accessible. Passenger comfort will be much improved with better heating and ventilation, more internal seating and flexible seating configurations. The two passenger decks have sheltered observation areas, allowing passengers more opportunities to enjoy the Puget Sound scenery. Other improvements include quieter operations and improved restrooms.

They will provide increased car, passenger and truck capacity, and can be used on any route in the system. As a result, WSF will have greater flexibility in shifting vessels among various routes and rotating vessels for maintenance and preservation work. Wider lanes and higher clearance will improve vehicle loading as well as accommodate large trucks.

The first vessel is expected to be delivered in spring 2009, followed by the second vessel in fall 2009, third vessel in summer 2010 and fourth vessel in 2011. A budget figure of just over $287 million has been allocated for building four new vessels. Although a tendering process has begun, no shipyard has yet been awarded the contract