Expect a decision on the Galena Bay ferry soon.
That’s the word from the Marine Division of Highways, said Nakusp Mayor Karen Hamling.
Aging regional ferries that are part of the West Kootenay highway system remain a concern for area residents, and the Ferry Advisory Committee wants to keep the issue on the front burner.
Hamling spoke with Kirk Handrahan, executive director of the Marine Division of Highways on May 6.
“He has informed me that no decision has been made as yet … The ministry is cognisant of the Transport regulations and that there would be a fair amount of funding to upgrade the Galena Bay Ferry,” Hamling said in her May 10 report to the Village Council.
“He feels a decision is imminent and will call me when one has been reached and will also meet with our Ferry Advisory Committee,” she said. “I quizzed him on whether the ministry aware these things were old and breaking down. We don’t have food and enough washrooms … he said they were aware.”
Councillor Cam Leitch said there were also concerns with how well the ferries deal with industrial traffic in the heavy summer season.
Ministry spokeswoman Kate Trotter said the issue is being looked at. “The ministry is aware of concerns expressed by residents about the capacity of ferries on Upper Arrow lakes,” she said.
“It is looking at options to address the capacity issue, and should be able to provide more information to communities this summer.”
