Reps. Randall, Larsen, alongside State Leaders, WSDOT Urge Bold Investment in Washington’s Ferry System and Celebrate Launch of Congressional Ferry Caucus
EDMONDS, WA – This week, Representative Emily Randall (WA-06) was joined by Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02), Washington State Senator Marko Liias, Washington State Representative Greg Nance, and Steve Nevey, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Washington State Ferry (WSF), WSDOT, to celebrate the launch of the Congressional Ferry Caucus, spotlight the critical work being done to strengthen Washington’s ferry system, and emphasize the national importance of federal funding for ferry infrastructure.
The Congressional Ferry Caucus, launched this week, is a bipartisan effort, co-chaired by Representatives Nick Begich (AK-At large), John Garamendi (CA-03), and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11), 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. The Caucus will educate Members on the vital role ferries play in America’s transportation network, connecting both urban and rural communities to jobs, schools, health care, and recreation. The Ferry Caucus will also serve as a platform to address the need for increased federal funding and improvements to these essential waterway transportation systems, from the Pacific Northwest to Alaska, the San Francisco Bay, and New York.
“Washington State’s ferry system isn’t just transportation infrastructure—our ferries are a lifeline for communities,” said Rep. Randall. “From daily work commutes and medical appointments to connecting with loved ones, Washingtonians rely on these boats every day. Without reliable service, my constituents face hours long drives just to reach Seattle—making daily life unnecessarily difficult for those living on the Peninsula. Ferries also bring visitors from around the world to experience the natural beauty and unique local businesses of our region, and without them, our local economies would struggle. I know my neighbors are excited about the recent return to full service on the Bremerton-Seattle run with the addition of a second boat. And I’m proud to be launching the bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus, and to be joined by a strong team of public servants, to advocate for the federal funds and support our marine highways deserve, to ensure we meet the unique needs of our coastal and rural communities and to build a more connected, resilient future.”
“As the top Democrat on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am focused on investing in Washington state’s ferry infrastructure to create good-paying jobs, keep people and the economy moving, and build a cleaner, greener, safer and more accessible transportation network,” said Rep. Larsen. “I am glad Rep. Randall, Rep. Begich, Rep. Garamendi and Rep. Malliotakis are starting a bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus to coordinate and advocate for federal support for ferry systems across the country. I look forward to working with the Ferry Caucus as the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee develops a new surface transportation bill to continue federal funding for ferry infrastructure projects.”
"Partnerships with our federal delegation are critical for ensuring we can replace our aging ferry fleet with more sustainable hybrid electric vessels," said Senator Liias. "Congresswoman Randall was a fierce advocate for ferries while she was in the Washington State Senate, and I'm so excited to see her continue that advocacy in Congress.”
“Folks across Washington count on reliable ferry service but it’s been a very challenging season with disruptions and delays,” said State Representative Nance. Thanks to our hardworking WSF crew, we are making an incredible comeback. Strong federal partnership is key to building the momentum. I’m grateful to Congresswoman Emily Randall for her leadership in establishing the Congressional Ferry Caucus. This is a big deal for bipartisan solutions to rejuvenate American shipbuilding and our maritime workforce. Together, we’ll Fix our Ferries.”
"Federal investment in ferry systems is a critical catalyst for strong regional economic growth, more efficient traffic flows, and enhanced resiliency and disaster readiness," said John Clauson, Executive Director of Kitsap Transit. "Over the past eight years, Kitsap Transit has stood up three cross-sound passenger-only ferry routes that have improved access to housing and good-paying jobs," he said. "Kitsap Transit has grown to become the second largest ferry operator in Washington state."
“Washington State Ferries appreciates Congresswoman Randall’s leadership in creating the Congressional Ferry Caucus and Congressman Larsen’s long-time support for both WSF and Washington Maritime,” said Steve Nevey, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Washington State Ferries, WSDOT. “With ferry services in at least 12 states, the caucus will raise awareness about the important role ferries play as part of the nation’s public transportation system.”