Proposed ferry fare increase would go toward electric, hybrid ferries
Mar 26, 2019, 8:49 AM
Ferry sailings will continue to be reduced this summer. (Washington State Ferries)
(Washington State Ferries)
Riding a Washington State ferry could soon cost more. Some state lawmakers are proposing a 6 percent fare hike that would affect riders across the Sound.
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House Democrats who are pushing for the hike say the money will go toward a new $99 million electric-powered ferry that will carry both passengers and cars.
They also want to convert two other ferries into hybrids.
To pay for the new ferry, and conversions of the two others, the proposal first calls for the 6 percent hike that could go into effect as early as this year or by 2021, as well as a new fee on every transaction made with a credit or debit card.
The vehicle fare surcharge would also increase from $.25 to $1.
The proposed increases are all part of a 2-year transportation budget — one that also plans for a new waterfront connector project in Edmonds for emergency and pedestrian access.
