Why was the King County Ferry District created?
The ferry district was created to develop and oversee passenger ferry service to provide more travel options for King County communities. Passenger ferries can play an important role in helping to relieve traffic congestion while reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions. When major construction begins on the Alaskan Way Viaduct and State Route 520, these transit services will provide valuable travel alternatives to thousands of passengers. Passenger ferries can also promote economic development and provide tourism opportunities. Finally, passenger ferries have served major roles in disaster relief. Immediately following 9/11, passenger ferries played a critical role in the evacuation of the downtown Manhattan area. They continued to move commuters to and from Manhattan until the subway was repaired and service restored.
