Ferry ridership dips significantly

Following similar trends in other forms of public transportation, ferry routes connecting Whidbey Island to the rest of the state have seen a drop in ridership numbers due to coronavirus concerns.

Washington State Ferries has seen an overall decrease of 40 percent in the number of riders, with passengers down by 50 percent and vehicles down by 30 percent.

According to a press release, these decreases equate to about 15,000 to 30,000 fewer riders than this time last month.

During last week, the Coupeville-Port Townsend ferries had 60 percent less riders compared with February numbers, according to Justin Fujioka from State Ferries.

This means a 40 percent decrease in passengers, and a 50 percent decrease in vehicles.

The Clinton-Mukilteo ferries have had a ridership decrease of 40 percent, with 30 percent fewer passengers and 35 percent fewer vehicles.

A press release stated that the low numbers of riders has prompted the State Ferries to remain on winter sailing schedules through April 25. The change to the spring sailing schedules with increased service was originally scheduled to begin March 29.