At the Brink: Inslee issues $1.5 million emergency funding to restore San Juan ferry service

During a meeting with San Juan Island leaders, residents and businesses on Tuesday, September 17, Governor Jay Inslee announced he is issuing $1.5 million in emergency and short-term funding to restore critical ferry transportation networks throughout the San Juan Islands. Due to crewing challenges, the Interisland route has been the least reliable in the system, […]

Ferry workers say poor management, low pay pushing system into crises 

SEATTLE—Washington State Ferry engine room workers, backed by their union Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (M.E.B.A.), launched a public petition on Tuesday, August 6, asking Governor Jay Inslee to direct the state in providing competitive pay to retain and recruit engine room crew, which they say is paramount to restoring a safe and reliable ferry system.  […]