Construction delays could push back fast ferry service from Southworth

Two passenger-only fast ferries meant to carry riders from Southworth to Seattle in 2020 have been delayed by the coronavirus pandemic, putting Kitsap Transit’s plans for starting service this year in jeopardy.

The first of two bow-loading ferries under construction at Nichols Bros Boat Builders on Whidbey Island was scheduled to be delivered to Kitsap Transit in April. That deadline has flown by, and now transit officials aren’t sure when the ferries might be completed.

“I’ve had a few people ask in regard to the Southworth route, are we on track to start service up?” Kitsap Transit executive director John Clauson said. “Admittedly this pandemic has had an impact on the construction.”

Nichols Bros – which Kitsap Transit also hired to renovate the M/V Finest for the Kingston route in 2018 – has struggled to get some of the materials necessary for ferry construction. Staffing levels have also been impacted by the virus and social distancing measures.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/construction-delays-could-push-back-fast-ferry-service-from-southworth/ar-BB149nhO?ocid=hplocalnews