To the editor:

The recent news coverage of ferry issues is much appreciated. It is important to shine a spotlight on the ferry system to ensure it continues to improve. Bainbridge Island residents have a local opportunity to provide important feedback at an open house from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9 at the Waterfront Park Community Center at 370 Brien Drive SE.

Washington State Ferries is taking comments on its new long-range plan that goes out to the year 2040 and calls for building a number of new ferries, including five over the next decade to replace aging ferries and improve the system reliability.

But it is just a plan that has to be approved by the Legislature and governor to actually be carried out. The ferry system needs to hear public support for the plan by Oct. 25, so that can be considered and transmitted with the final plan in January for action next session.

If you can’t make the open house, you may comment on-line at www.WSFLongRangePlan.com, or by email to WSFLongRangePlan@WSDOT.wa.gov.

All local residents who depend on the ferry system should consider taking a little time to express your support for the plan, or risk a repeat of the past when the ferry system was neglected.

BRAD JURKOVICH

Washington Ferry Coalition