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Pierce County Ferry System Projects
2022-2023 Long Term Ferry Financial Plan
We're preparing a 20-year financial plan for the Pierce County ferry system, which provides year-round vehicle and passenger ferry service from Steilacoom to Anderson and Ketron islands.
Goals of the long-term financial plan:

Project timeline:
- March 30- April 28: Online Open House
- March 30, 2023: Open House Thursday, March 30: Anderson Island Historical Society Archival Building, 9603 Otso Point Rd Anderson Island, WA 98303
- Feb. 28, 2023: EIDC Meeting, watch online: February 28, 2023 Committee Meeting (pierce.wa.us)
- Feb. 2023: Survey results
- Jan. - Feb. 2023: Public survey & outreach
- Nov. - Dec. 2022: Fare options analysis
- Oct. 11, 2022: Economic & Infrastructure Development Committee (EIDC) Meeting. View the presentation, status of the Ferry Long Term Financial Plan.
Steilacoom II DRY DOCK MAINTENANCE
Spring 2023: Steilacoom II Dry Dock
The Steilacoom II is currently scheduled for dry dock maintenance this Spring 2023. The Steilacoom II will leave for Everett Ship Repair on Monday, March 27. We expect the dry dock period to last 30 working days. While in dry dock, the Christine Anderson will provide regular service.
Routine maintenance and preservation
This work is required every five years to ensure continuous maintenance and preservation of the vessels.
- Dry docking date: March 27- Mid May 2023
- Duration: Approximately 30 working days
Back-up boat plan
While the Steilacoom II is being worked on, the Christine Anderson will provide service to Anderson and Ketron Islands. In the event of an emergency or any unforeseen service issues with the Christine Anderson, Pierce County has developed a back-up plan to provide limited passenger only service while repairs are made. Please be advised that it could take up to 48 hours to implement emergency service. Therefore, passengers may not be able to get on or off the islands for a maximum of 48 hours. Please plan your trips accordingly during the upcoming Dry Dock period. The plan consists of walk-on only boat service (no vehicles) to move passengers to and from the terminals, and coordination with the local fire district, school district, and the Anderson Island general store. Any changes to service due to an emergency will be shared through Rider Alerts, social media, and the website.
Ferry Planning
- 14-Year Ferry Program The 14-Year Ferry Program (2023-2036) is a ferry system planning document required by state law. Pierce County embeds this document annually with the County's Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).
- 2015 Waterborne Transportation Study Most recent report with recommendations for improvements to the Pierce County Ferry System. The study included: population and demographic changes projected through 2034, service changes that would enhance island economy and livability, financial sustainability of the ferry system and 14-year capital needs of the ferry system.
- 2013 Ferry Service Evaluation The purpose of the 2013 Ferry Service Evaluation was twofold: first, to evaluate several proposed service changes that have been suggested, and second, to evaluate the results of recently implemented and historical service changes that have been put into effect. The Pierce County Ferry System will use this study to determine future potential schedule changes to better serve its customers.
- 2003 Waterborne Transportation Study Prior report with recommendations for improvements to the Pierce County Ferry System.
Projects out for advertisement
Find out about any projects out for advertisement on the Bid Opportunities page.
(253) 588-1950
Ferry Administration:
(253) 798-2478
After Hours Emergency:
(253) 798-6000
56 Union Ave.
Steilacoom, WA 98388
Office Location:
9850 64th Street W.
University Place, WA 98467