Biz Opps: Kitsap Transit issues RFP for Fast Ferry maintenance facility

Kitsap Transit wants to build a fast ferry maintenance facility to service vessels

Zachary Fletcher for the Kitsap Sun

Kitsap Transit is looking to bring a dedicated ferry maintenance facility to Kitsap County.

On July 29, the agency released a call for proposals in the initial planning and development stage of the process. A dedicated facility aims to provide a “higher level of reliability” and quicker boat repairs, said Kitsap Transit Executive Director John Clauson.

The plan for the site that includes:

• Four berthing docks that can accommodate the agency’s largest 140-foot vessel, the Enetai, which is a bow-loading ferry that serves on the Southworth and Kingston routes;
• Space for a lift with a capacity of 300 tons and room for two vessels;
• A fixed structure space to be used as a repair shop; 
• Parking space for four vehicles.

Washington State Ferries operates a similar facility in Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge Island. 

Kitsap Transit owns 10 ferries for three different passenger-only routes — three for Bremerton-Port Orchard, three for Bremerton-Seattle and four for Kingston/Southworth-Seattle. READ MORE

RFQ KT 22-782 Ferry Maintenance Facility Planning Study

Due: August 29, 2022

This scope of work requires the consultant to analyze and determine a plan to guide the development of space in Kitsap County for a Ferry Maintenance Facility. Kitsap Transit requires the space to efficiently operate the passenger only ferry services as dry dock space is limited in the private shipyard sector. The difficulties of scheduling dry dock time while maintaining ferry maintenance schedules is reducing the efficiency of ferry operations. By owning the Maintenance Facility, Kitsap Transit will be able to increase vessel reliability and reduce costs through increased maintenance efficiencies.

RFQ KT #22-782 (PDF)

View more procurement opportunities at Kitsap Transit

Kitsap Transit encourages participation by all firms wishing to participate in Kitsap Transit contracting opportunities. Firms seeking to be certified as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) should contact the state of Washington Office of Minority and Women's Business Enterprises (OMWBE).