Gov. Mike Dunleavy and DOT Commissioner Ryan Anderson announced their plan to re-energize the Alaska Marine Highway System. Among the significant capital investments is to replace the 57-year-old Tustumena ferry.
The replacement vessel is estimated to cost $200 million to $250 million and will be competitively bid. The new ship is expected to begin service in 2027. The new ship’s vehicle and passenger capacity would increase by 40% over the Tustumena, from 34 to 52 vehicles and from 160 to 250 passengers.
In addition, because the Tustumena will be relied upon till the replacement arrives, $8 million will go towards upgrades to extend the Tustumena’s service life. The funds will go towards upgrades and replacements such as passenger and vehicle elevators, steelwork, superstructure coating, bridge deck upgrades, and interior engineering systems upgrades. The Tustumena’s return to service date is estimated to be June 30, 2022.
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