June 2013
- IMPORTANT NOTICE: Beginning on Monday, July 8, 2013, ferry service on the Keller Route will be temporarily suspended for about 5 weeks to upgrade the terminals and fit them to the new vessel. Service will resume on Wednesday, August 14, 2013. Drivers will need to use alternate routes via state highways during this period.
- The hull sections are in place and the superstructure is being assembled.
- The terminal refurbishment and upgrade contract is in place and on-site work begins on Monday, July 8, 2013.
- On June 19, 2012, the Washington State Transportation Commission passed a resolution to name the new Keller Ferry Vessel, "Sanpoil."
- Vessel construction began on March 28, 2012 with Secretary of Transportation Paula Hammond performing the first "ceremonial" weld.
- On Nov. 16, 2011 WSDOT awarded the construction contract to Foss Maritime Co. Read the news release.
- Details about the replacement vessel are available in the project contract.
- Keller Ferry operational status is now available on the 511 telephone info system in Washington. Follow the "ferry" options on the menu.
This project includes construction of a replacement ferry boat with associated vehicle loading terminals.
Why is WSDOT
replacing the existing Keller Ferry vessel?
The current vessel, the Martha S., has been in service on this route since 1948. Replacement parts are no longer being commercially manufactured, they now must be custom-made as needed. The vessel has a limited capacity, especially when large trucks are on board.
The End Result
A more reliable vessel with enhanced passenger amenities.
Project Benefits
Reduced service interruptions and increased safety for ferry users.
What is the project timeline?
- July 2011 – Construction contract advertised for bids
- Aug. 2011 - Pre-bid site visit for interested contractors
- Nov. 2011 - Bid opening (three bids received). Contract awarded to Foss Maritime Co.
- February 2012 - Construction started
- March 2013 - Modules move to Grand Coulee for final assembly
- July 2013 – Launch vessel for testing
- August 2013 - Christening, Tribal Blessing, and vessel enters service.
Financial Information
Project signage will reflect the cost of construction engineering, project bid award and sales tax.
| Financial Data for PIN 602110J |
| Funding Source |
Amount ($ in thousands) |
| 2003 Gas Tax (Nickel Funding) |
$0 |
| 2005 Gas Tax (TPA) |
$0 |
| Pre-Existing Funds (PEF) |
$11,616 |
| Total |
$11,616 |
|
Funding noted above consists of $9,641,000 in federal funds, $361,000 in state funds, and $2 million from the Colville Confederated Tribes.
In addition, a separate contract has been awarded to the Max J. Kuney Company of Spokane for the refurbishment of the ferry terminals. This work will be done in conjunction with the boat contract and will be completed prior to the new vessel entering service.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Al Gilson, Communications Manager
WSDOT Eastern Region
2714 N. Mayfair
Spokane, WA 99207
509-324-6015
al.gilson@wsdot.wa.gov
Laura Johnson, Communications
WSDOT Ferries Division
2901 3rd Ave., Ste. 500
Seattle, WA 98121
206-515-3913
laura.johnson@wsdot.wa.gov
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