Washington state ferries operations and preventative maintenance

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) awarded Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) a Project Grant of $21.08 million under the Highway Planning and Construction program (CFDA 20.205) on July 22, 2025, with a completion date of August 31, 2029. This grant funds the operations and preventative maintenance of Washington State Ferries (WSF) vessels and terminal facilities throughout Washington State. Eligible expenditures include fuel, utilities, operations labor and staffing, preventative vessel and facility maintenance, periodic inspections, certifications and permits required by the U.S. Coast Guard, and disposable supplies necessary for ferry system operations.

The funding supports critical infrastructure maintenance activities essential to maintaining the operational readiness and safety compliance of the WSF ferry fleet and associated terminal infrastructure. By providing dedicated funding for routine preventative maintenance and operational expenses, this award enables WSDOT to sustain ferry service continuity and extend asset lifecycle while ensuring adherence to federal maritime safety and regulatory requirements.

Project description

WSF operating and preventative maintenance costs on its ferry vessels and ferry terminal facilities. This could include fuel, utilities, operations labor/staffing, preventative maintenance of vessels or facilities, periodic inspections, certifications or permits, such as required by the U.S. Coast guard, or disposable supplies.