WSF Announces Agreement on Third Boat
Eastern Shipbuilding Group Inc. (ESG) and Washington State Ferries have officially started the construction of three new hybrid-electric ferries, each capable of carrying 160 vehicles, during a steel cutting ceremony held in Florida.
David Sowers, the Program Administrator for System Electrification at Washington State Ferries, led the event and announced that Washington state is going ahead with the option to add a third ferry to the contract.
“This is the first time in ten years that Washington state is building ferries,” stated Mr. Sowers. “We have brought our ferry system back to full, domestic service. Now, we are making a major step toward renewing our fleet.”
According to the contract terms, Eastern Shipbuilding will deliver the first ferry in 2030, the second in 2031, and the third in 2032.
“Eastern Shipbuilding Group is excited to start building these vessels and to work with Washington State Ferries on one of the biggest ferry modernization efforts in the country. Our team is dedicated to delivering safe, dependable, high-quality ferries that will benefit Washington communities for many years. Today’s steel cutting marks our progress towards creating three new vessels,” said Joey D’Isernia, CEO of Eastern Shipbuilding Group.
“After years of design and preparation, today’s steel cutting is a thrilling moment where all of our planning begins to take shape. These new hybrid-electric ferries will help us enhance the reliability and resilience that our customers rely on while building a cleaner, more modern fleet for the future. We are excited to move forward with Eastern Shipbuilding Group and look forward to delivering these vessels to the people of Washington,” said Steve Nevey, Deputy Secretary of Transportation, Washington State Ferries.