I-695 could leave dock half-done

"Although Washington State Ferries officials do not yet know how far-reaching budget cuts related to the passage of Initiative 695 will be, it is possible that the Clinton ferry dock could be a victim of the popular ballot measure.On Tuesday, State Ferries dock engineer Brian Holling said the completion of the Clinton ferry dock reconstruction is just one of the things that could go on to the budget chopping block if transportation funding falls drastically due to I-695.At present, MKB Constructors is rebuilding one-half of the dock, a project that is fully funded. However, the rebuild of the second half is not funded, nor has a contract been let for the work. If the $30 license tab initiative cuts far enough into the ferry system’s budget, Holling said, engineers would have to take “a hard look” at whether a half-wood, half-steel dock could stand. It may just have to.“If we don’t have any money, we don’t have any money,” Holling said.WSF is currently in the process of determining the total effect of I-695 on the services it offers. This research will eventually be given to the public through citizen advisory boards and the media.Meanwhile, work at the dock goes on. This week, dock construction crews will drive steel pilings for the south slip dolphins. Like other pilings driven in the construction zone, these hollow pilings will be filled with seawater then given airtight caps to prevent the interiors from rusting. MKB construction manager Kurt Grant said his company will also pour the 13th of 22 caps that will hold pre-cast sections of the dock."

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.