Bill could allow walk-on ferry service in Everett, statewide

EVERETT — A bill making its way through the Washington Legislature could allow local municipalities, ports or transit agencies to create passenger-only ferry service serving communities across the state.

Currently, state statute allows only Kitsap and King counties to operate passenger-only ferries. The new bill would allow counties, city and county transit agencies, or port districts to create a new passenger-only ferry service district, which would then be able to collect revenue and operate walk-on ferries.

The bill, known as the Mosquito Fleet Act, is named after a network of passenger ships that crisscrossed the Puget Sound throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Under the current Senate version of the bill, the ferry services could be locally funded by a parking tax, tolls, or property taxes within the boundaries of the passenger ferry district. Any new taxes would require voter approval.

Read more at: https://www.heraldnet.com/2026/03/10/bill-could-allow-walk-on-ferry-service-in-everett-statewide/