Struggling state ferry system finds its way in Washington governor's race

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

Washington’s front-running Democratic candidate for governor is embracing a Republican idea that would hasten building of new ferries and slow the state’s push to electrify the fleet.

Attorney General Bob Ferguson says he supports constructing two diesel-powered vessels “if this is the fastest solution” to adding boats needed to boost reliability of service amid the ongoing threat of cancellations when an existing vessel breaks down.

The approach is an element of Ferguson’s plan, released this week, to address a confluence of challenges besetting Washington State Ferries, the nation’s largest public ferry system that serves as a marine highway for businesses, tourists and daily commuters.

Other pieces of the plan include elevating the head of ferries to a cabinet level position, alongside the secretary of transportation, and expanding efforts to recruit and retain employees. Labor shortages are another cause of service disruptions.

https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2024/04/13/struggling-state-ferry-system-finds-its-way-in-washington-governors-race/

[LisaM]

1. We all know the main reason there are problems.

His name is Tim Eyman.

[RainCaster]

2. You're close

But the WSF people problem is not about how many boats we don't have. The WSF problem is about the people. for decades these fine people from the Inland Boatman's Union had carved out a great place to work, and to insure that the pay remained high, they allowed few into their union. It was a great gig.
Then Covid came along, and the union was told "get your jab" and they went nuts. Many retired, more quit. Suddenly there were not enough deck hands, machinists and captains/mates to run the full compliment of vessels anymore. Many runs would be halted on a random basis as people would walk off the job. And never come back. I have a friend who retired a tug skipper ten+ years ago, and the ferry system wanted him to come out of retirement. However, they wouldn't pay him a dime more than he was getting in retirement. He is still happily retired.
Me? I'm damn glad I only have to commute a few days a month. For me it's not a big deal to schedule an extra half day for ferry screw-ups.