Randall Hosts First Bipartisan Ferry Caucus Roundtable

WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Congresswoman Emily Randall (D, WA-06), co-chair of the Congressional Ferry Caucus, hosted the first bipartisan Ferry Caucus roundtable alongside Co-Chair Representatives Nick Begich (R, AK-At large), John Garamendi (D, CA-03), and Nicole Malliotakis (R, NY-11). This bipartisan caucus was created to advocate for the unique needs of communities where ferry transportation is essential. The Congressional Ferry Caucus aims to promote the benefits of and advocate for the long-term federal investment in public ferry systems, including marine, shoreside, and workforce needs. 

“I feel so honored to be joined by these leaders who ride the ferries themselves and who know what it means for their constituents to rely on that connection” said Congresswoman Randall. “Whether it's your doctor, or family member, or the chance to go hunting, visit a friend, our ferries are so essential to our ability to move about our communities.” 

The inaugural caucus meeting comes as ferry routes that serve communities across Washington’s 6^th district face significant service disruptions and funding gaps. The three ferry routes connecting Seattle to Kitsap County — serving Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, and Southworth have experienced recent service disruptions and are operating on reduced schedules. Ongoing mechanical issues have forced some ferries out of service, leaving routes with only a single vessel in operation and resulting in longer wait times, reduced reliability, and significant disruptions for riders. 

Also this week – Rep. Randall spoke at the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Member Day where she announced the FERRIES Act. Watch Rep. Randall’s full remarks HERE. 

“As a ferry commuter myself, I know that our ferry system is in desperate need of improvements” said Rep. Randall. “This bipartisan bill significantly increases funding for the FTA Passenger Ferry Grant Program, the Rural Ferry Grant Program, and the Federal Highway Administration’s Ferry Boat Program, and makes key changes to expand funding eligibility for ferry operators that service both urban and rural communities.” 

The roundtable participants included: Representative Chellie Pingree (D, ME-1); John Vezina, Assistant Secretary, Washington State Ferries; Tima Haile, Executive Director of Contra Costa County Transportation Agency; Seamus Murphy, Executive Director, SF Bay Ferry; Lauren Gularte, Government Affairs Manager, SF Bay Ferry; Geir Eilif Kalhagen, Director Maritime Division, Texas DOT; Robert B. Davis and Alex Kryska, Senior Advisors, Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority; Harry Glenn, Vice President, Van Scoyoc Associates; Dan Twohig, Vice President, from the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots for the United Inland Group-Pacific Maritime Region; Lars Turner, International Secretary/Treasurer, the International Organizations of Masters, Mates and Pilots; Alexa Jurczak, Senior Policy Advisor,  the International Longshore Warehouse Union; and Roland “Rex” Rexha, Secretary Treasure, the Mariner Engineers Beneficial Association.