Washington State
House of Representatives
 BILL
ANALYSIS
Transportation Committee

HB 3218

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Requiring the procurement of new ferry vessels that carry no more than one hundred motor vehicles.

Sponsors: Representatives Clibborn, VanDeWege, Appleton, Liias, Rolfes, Kessler, Smith, Bailey, Kenney, McIntire, Seaquist and Hankins; by request of Governor Gregoire.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Directs the Washington State Department of Transportation to construct one or more new ferry vessels in the state of Washington for service on the Port Townsend-Keystone route or other routes that require a vessel that carries fewer than 100 motor vehicles.

Hearing Date: 2/4/08

Staff: David Munnecke (786-7315).

Background:

Washington State Ferries (WSF) owns four 80-year-old Steel Electric class vessels - the Quinault, Klickitat, Illahee and Nisqually. While active, these vessels predominantly served the Port Townsend-Keystone route and the San Juan Islands inter-island route. They were the only vehicle ferries in the WSF fleet capable of operating on the Port Townsend-Keystone route due to Keystone's narrow and shallow harbor.

In November of 2007, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) ordered all four steel electric class vessels removed from service due to corrosion and pitting discovered in the hull of the vessels.

Summary of Bill:

The intent section declares that an expedited procurement is required for the construction of new vessels to replace the steel electric class vessels and restore permanent auto and passenger service on the Port Townsend-Keystone route.

The WSDOT is directed to construct one or more new ferry vessels for service on the Port Townsend-Keystone route or other routes that require a vessel that carries fewer than 100 motor vehicles.

The vessel or vessels must be constructed within the boundaries of the state of Washington, except for equipment furnished by the state and standard manufactured components, products, and systems. All warranty work on any vessel or vessels must also be performed in Washington, to the extent this is practicable.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.