QUICK SUMMARY
Washington lawmakers propose cutting fast ferry and water taxi routes for Kitsap County and Vashon Island commuters due to a multi-billion dollar budget shortfall. The plan includes slashing seven weekday roundtrips to Bremerton and four to Vashon Island, which residents argue will disrupt their commutes.
Washington lawmakers propose cutting fast ferry and water taxi routes for Kitsap County and Vashon Island commuters due to a multi-billion dollar budget shortfall. The current plan includes eliminating seven weekday roundtrips to Bremerton and four to Vashon Island, raising concerns among residents about reliable access to Seattle. Commuter Brad Hogan remarked that reduced service would destroy free time for those needing to catch earlier or later ferries. Deb, a Bremerton resident, emphasized the necessity of maintaining fast ferry services. Despite initial funding allocated in the Washington State Senate's 2023-2025 budget to expand ferry services, these funds were excluded in the latest budget draft. Governor Bob Ferguson announced a delay in the hybrid-electrification of the ferry fleet, aiming to keep more vessels operational. This decision may help address service gaps but does not fully resolve commuter concerns. The proposed cuts reflect ongoing budget challenges that could significantly impact local transportation.