Black Ball Ferry, which operates the now-idled Coho vehicle ferry between Victoria and Port Angeles, is hoping financial relief will soon be on the way, as a new emergency relief bill makes its way to the floor of the U.S. Senate.
According to Black Ball, it’s too early to say how much funding, if any, the company could receive if the measure is passed into law.
“While Congress still needs to appropriate money, and we need to make application for funds, this is a major step forward,” said Black Ball vice-president Ryan Malane.
The Maritime Transportation System Emergency Relief Act was proposed by Democratic lawmakers and attached to the National Defense Authorization Act, which lays out military and defence spending for the year. That act was passed by a large majority in the House of Representatives this week.
If passed in the Senate, the act would establish a new program to offer financial assistance to maintain the stability of the U.S. maritime transportation system in the event of a national emergency, including the current COVID-19 public health emergency.
It heads to the Senate for approval next week.
In a statement, Democratic Rep. Derek Kilmer said he understands the importance of the Black Ball ferry, having grown up in Port Angeles.
“It’s helped Port Angeles become the gateway for tourists and supported so many local businesses,” he said. “But, as has been the case for so many things during the COVID-19 public health crisis, it’s been really challenged during this difficult time.”
Democratic Sen. Maria Cantwell added that maritime transportation is part of Washington state’s way of life.
“As we continue to fight COVID-19, it’s so important we don’t lose important community ties, like those between the Olympic Peninsula and Canada,” she said.
Black Ball has been idled since the borders were closed in March.
The Coho is currently moored in Port Angeles. According to the company, its engines are regularly fired up and every six weeks or so it sets sail around Juan de Fuca Strait to keep it in good working order so it can get back into service when the border reopens.
