Fuel Prices Drive Ferry Fares Up

Rising fuel costs may mean another fare hike for ferry riders. The Washington State Transportation Commission last week directed the ferry system to cover a $10 million shortfall blamed on the high cost of diesel fuel. Fare increases between 5 percent and 20 percent are now under consideration, as well as capital improvement cutbacks and asking the state Legislature for more money. The WSF Tariff Advisory Committee will likely convene soon to review WSF’s finances and possibly recommend increased ticket prices. Riders last month saw a 6 percent increase. According to Bainbridge Island Ferry Advisory Committee, WSF has hiked fares by about 70 percent since 2000. That was the year voters approved Initiative 695, which slashed the state motor-vehicle excise tax to $30. (Source: www.bainbridgereview.com)