If the state forfeits passenger-only ferry service, private companies are waiting to provide it. They'll need to navigate a minefield to get the chance, however. Horluck Transportation, Clipper Navigation and Argosy Cruises are tentatively watching Kitsap Transit's attempt to bring foot ferries under its umbrella. Should that happen, Kitsap Transit plans to contract with a private company to run a fleet of 150-seat sea buses.
Potential pitfalls are many.
WSF lost 22 percent of its operating revenues, Kitsap Transit 42 percent overall. Kitsap Transit proposes to cut its bus service and double its fares to offset the loss of motor vehicle excise taxes. It also must negotiate with the ferry system to share some of its facilities. That's not to mention finding the money to fund it, including passing a 1 percent local sales tax increase. Plus, there's still a wake lawsuit slowing boats in Rich Passage.