The Next WSF Vessels Could Be Built Outside of Washington State
The next newbuilds for Washington State Ferries (WSF) could be built by a shipyard outside of Washington as the state seeks to accelerate its ferry electrification program.The Washington State Department of Transportation's (WSDOT) WSF earlier this week issued a request for information to the shipbuilding industry across the country as part of its effort to contract for five new hybrid-electric Olympic-class ferries. Responses are due in January and will provide critical information for the Invitation for Bid in spring 2024…
Washington State Ferries Awards Vigor Contract to Convert Its Largest Vessels to Hybrid-electric Power
Washington State Ferries has tapped local shipyard Vigor to convert up to three of its Jumbo Mark II class ferries to low-emission hybrid-electric power.Vigor's $150 million winning bid for the contract came in about $16 million under the second place bid from another Washington shipyard, but was still approximately $30 million above the state’s $120 million estimate for the project. Vigor has been awarded approximately $100 million for the conversion of two vessels, with a fixed-price option to convert the third vessel in 2025.WSF…
Build Team for WA Ferry Announced
Build-In-Washington Team announced for Washington State's next new ferry. Multi-company approach means 500 jobs across the region. Major members of the build-in-Washington subcontracting team that will build the state’s new 144-car ferry are now set, as prime contractor US Fab today announced final subcontracting agreements with companies, including Nichols Brothers Boat Builders of Whidbey Island, Jesse Engineering of Tacoma, Vigor Marine of Everett and Eltech Electric of Seattle. The multi-company, multi-town approach supports more than 500 direct jobs around Puget Sound, including many new hires, and will support an estimated 2,000 additional indirect jobs in the state.
Washington State to Establish Advisory Council
The Washington Legislature adopted Senate Bill 5432 to establish an independent oil spill advisory council, reporting directly to the Governor. The council, consisting of members of environmental organizations, fishing interests, the marine trades, marine labor, and oil companies, among others, will advise the Governor on matters relating to oil spill prevention, preparedness, and response. The legislation now goes to the Governor for signature. (HK Law)
