Welcome to Skagit County

June 17th, 2008

Commissioners adopt interim schedule for Guemes Island Ferry

County receives grant to experiment with bio-diesel

SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit County Board of Commissioners voted today to adopt a temporary interim schedule for the Guemes Island Ferry. This action was necessary because the existing extended schedule two-year trial ends June 30, 2008. Hours of ferry operations under the new temporary interim schedule will be the same as hours of operations currently begin provided and will be in force through December 31, 2008 unless the Commissioners take action earlier to change it.

“This will allow adequate time for gathering and analyzing ridership and cost data for review,” said Skagit County Commissioner Sharon Dillon. “It will also allow time to hear from the people before a permanent schedule is set.”

In 2006, the Skagit County Board of Commissioners approved a trial schedule change that extended service to 10: 00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. “We’ve had lots of input from Islanders both for and against the extended schedule,” said Commissioner Ken Dahlstedt. “We want to be sure we take enough time before making a final decision.”

On other Guemes Island Ferry news, Ferry Manager Ron Panzero reported on recent maintenance of the vessel and the introduction of bio-diesel. Panzero said that currently they are using bio-diesel for one of the two engines with a five percent mix with regular diesel, with a goal to reach 20 percent by November. Panzero reported that the County has received a $12,000 grant to help facilitate the trial.

Public Works Director Jim Voetberg commended Panzero for his aggressive new maintenance schedule. “I’d like to commend Ron for the changes he’s made. They will have a long-term benefit to the system.”

For further information, contact:

Dan Berentson
Communications Director
360-419-3461