Washington ferries eye federal help amid aging fleet crisis

Many of the state’s vessels are more than 30 years old, with some over 50, prompting calls for federal investment.

EDMONDS, Wash. — Washington is joining Alaska, California and New York in forming a coast-to-coast federal ferry caucus aimed at boosting national support for ferry systems, lawmakers announced Wednesday.

The effort comes as Washington State Ferries operates 21 vessels — the most since before the pandemic — after resolving long-running staffing shortages. Still, officials warn that aging boats and state funding rules continue to pose challenges.

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