Ferry maintenance funds short

The 56-year-old state ferry Malaspina goes into indefinite layup in Ketchikan on Jan. 10, after completing its last revenue run Dec. 10. The vessel was due for a major overhaul but costs for that rose to $16 million. Higher-than-expected maintenance on two smaller state ferries, the Aurora and LeConte, have also outstripped the money budgeted, the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities reported, resulting in those vessels being pulled from a schedule of limited winter service to small coastal communities in Southeast Alaska. DOTPF had budgeted $1.2 million for the LeConte’s overhaul but steel surveys showed additional work is needed for a total cost of $4 million.

The state marine highway system has six vessels of 45 years of age or more and three 55 years or more. The standard private sector practice is to replace vessels at 35 years. DOTPF is working with a consulting firm on a new plan for the ferry system.