WSF Engineers Work 24/7 on Engine Repairs
Overnight engine repairs and a meeting with Ferry Advisory Committee executives are detailed In this excerpt from the latest 'Washington State Ferries Weekly Update', by Capt. George A. Capacci, Interim Assistant Secretary WSDOT/Ferries Division. WSF crews constantly monitor the mechanical and support systems on all of our vessels. This week, the Vessel Engine department and Eagle Harbor maintenance crews completed overnight repairs on several vessels, including the Walla Walla, Spokane, and the Hyak. These repairs included replacing internal bolts that secure the piston on one of the Walla Walla’s main engines; repairing a cracked exhaust expansion joint on the Spokane; and replacing a seal on the Hyak’s generator.
Ferry Service Reduction Plan for WSF
Washington State Ferries (WSF) has drafted a plan to cut ferry service beginning next June to make up for a $52 million shortfall that stems from the passage of Initiative 695 and the loss of revenue from the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax. The plan has been approved by the state Transportation Commission and will be forwarded to full review by the state Legislature, which makes the final determination on ferry service levels. The ferry system's loss in motor vehicle taxes is $52 million in fiscal years 2000 and 2001. The agency can tap $30 million in cash reserves, but the remaining $22 million must come from expenditure reductions. Paul Green, director and CEO of WSF, has already announced plans to eliminate 92 management and support staff positions.
