It appears the Spokane Streetcar is back in the news. I found this in WSDOT's 2008-2011 Transportation budget.
Local Programs - Other Grants 0 9,522 0
000 2LP602E - Loomis - Oroville Road Guardrail 0 250 0
000 2LP704E - Leavenworth Icicle Rail Station 0 522 0
000 6LP705E - Spokane Street Car feasibility study 0 250 0
998 0LP601M - Passenger Only Ferry 0 8,500 0
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
A new life begins for King Street Station
All for $10 (Union Station was sold for $1... Yes, One Dollar to Sound Transit whom restored it)
And it's about time too... the last windstorm blew off a lot of tiles.
Best news of all - That ugly communications thing is going to be GONE. :D
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004262610_webkingstreet05m.html
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/353875_kingstreet06.html
And it's about time too... the last windstorm blew off a lot of tiles.
Best news of all - That ugly communications thing is going to be GONE. :D
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004262610_webkingstreet05m.html
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/353875_kingstreet06.html
Sound Transit to break through Second Tunnel @ Beacon Hill Today
Today at 11 a.m. Obayashi Corporation’s tunnel boring machine will complete the second light rail tunnel through Beacon Hill. Staff will inform news media about this dramatic “hole through” milestone in our light rail construction and we expect strong turnout and coverage. We apologize for the limited amount of advance notice that is possible based on the nature of this event.
Media Event: Beacon Hill Tunnel Boring Machine final break-through
Date: Wednesday, March 5
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Obayashi construction site at the east portal, above S. McClellan Street and Rainier Ave. S. (see map and directions)
Directions: From I-5 North or South, take exit 163 (Columbian Way exit). Turn left onto Spokane Street. Follow Spokane St. for about 1/2 mile and turn left onto 23rd Ave. South. After about three blocks, turn right onto S. Hanford Street. Hanford ends at 25th Ave. S. Turn left onto 25th Ave. S. Event site is at the end of the road; park on either side of the street. NOTE: there will be NO event access off of McClellan Street or Rainier Avenue. You must access the event site from 25th Ave. S. in the Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Additional information: all attendees must wear sturdy footwear/boots (no high heeled shoes, dress shoes or skirts, please).
Parking and Transportation: limited parking will be available at the event site. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
Project information: http://www.soundtransit.org/x1176.xml
Jennifer M. Lemus
Community Outreach Specialist
Sound Transit
401 S. Jackson St. | Seattle, WA 98104
206.398.5314 office
206.423.1407 mobile
Media Event: Beacon Hill Tunnel Boring Machine final break-through
Date: Wednesday, March 5
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Obayashi construction site at the east portal, above S. McClellan Street and Rainier Ave. S. (see map and directions)
Directions: From I-5 North or South, take exit 163 (Columbian Way exit). Turn left onto Spokane Street. Follow Spokane St. for about 1/2 mile and turn left onto 23rd Ave. South. After about three blocks, turn right onto S. Hanford Street. Hanford ends at 25th Ave. S. Turn left onto 25th Ave. S. Event site is at the end of the road; park on either side of the street. NOTE: there will be NO event access off of McClellan Street or Rainier Avenue. You must access the event site from 25th Ave. S. in the Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Additional information: all attendees must wear sturdy footwear/boots (no high heeled shoes, dress shoes or skirts, please).
Parking and Transportation: limited parking will be available at the event site. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
Project information: http://www.soundtransit.org/x1176.xml
Jennifer M. Lemus
Community Outreach Specialist
Sound Transit
401 S. Jackson St. | Seattle, WA 98104
206.398.5314 office
206.423.1407 mobile
Monday, March 3, 2008
Sound Transit Lunch Bus - March 28th, 2008
Want to see some updates to the Central Link Light-Rail line? Come ride the Lunch Bus!
http://www.soundtransit.org/x4825.xml
Saturday, March 1, 2008
On a small break
Those curious, been really busy with work and haven't had time to respond to e-mail or phone calls. thanks for all of the notes though and I'll be back on Sunday with a bunch of news.
In the meantime, visit some of the blogs located to the Right of my blog.
Have a great weekend!
In the meantime, visit some of the blogs located to the Right of my blog.
Have a great weekend!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Second Tunnel Hole Through Next Week!
There is less than 300 feet remaining for the Emerald Mole! This will complete the second tunnel through Beacon Hill.
Here is the e-mail I received from Jennifer at Sound Transit.
Here is the e-mail I received from Jennifer at Sound Transit.
Yes, you are correct…we approaching exciting times! According to the latest projections, hole-thru could be as early as Friday, February 29, 2008! Of course, this is only an estimate, and we won’t know until possibly the day before.
Keep an eye out on our website, as I’m sure there will be an announcement. Also, I have attached a link to a graphic that shows approximately where the tunnel boring machine is…about 300 feet to go!http://www.soundtransit.org
/x1176.xml
Click on ‘Tunnel Boring Machine “Emerald Mole” Progress’.
Excellent! Congrats to Sound Transit for this!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
New Change at Washington State Ferries
Frank over at Orphan Road has picked up on a change of names for the Washington State Ferry system.
It is now seemingly called "Washington State Department of Transportation Ferries Division"
So...WSDTFD? I think I'll keep the WSF....
O.o
It is now seemingly called "Washington State Department of Transportation Ferries Division"
So...WSDTFD? I think I'll keep the WSF....
O.o
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Seattle Streetcar Tagged
There are some really freaking low life people out there that would willingly break in to the maintenance facility and put graffiti all over a streetcar....
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004191120_streetcar20m.html
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004191120_streetcar20m.html
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
New Streetcar Ticket Vending Machines
Based off the cool unique design of the electronic parking meters around Seattle, the new Streetcar TVM's make life much, much, MUCH easier for the commuter. With 6 installed along the line, the new Ticket Vending Machines make getting tickets for the Streetcar much easier. It accepts Visa, Mastercard and coins.
The TVM's on-board the Streetcars are still there and still trouble-prone to $1 dollar bills but when they do work, except Paper Cash and Coins but not Credit Cards.
The Dream Ticket?
While I don't post too much political stuff on here, I couldn't pass this up
Too beautiful:
Sound Transit 2 + Obama = a kind of progressive perfect storm.
Yes, the Little Engine that Could and the Obama campaign.
The train whose slogan is I-Think-I- Can and the campaign whose slogan is Yes We Can
Perfect
Regular Bremerton ferry service resumes
The M.V. Walla Walla returns on the Bremerton - Seattle run
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/351763_ferry19.html
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/351763_ferry19.html
Anderson Island Terminal closed
The Anderson Island Ferry Terminal is closed for a short period due to vandalism. No ETA for restored service.
http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/updates/story/287233.html
http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/updates/story/287233.html
Monday, February 18, 2008
The Troubled Ferry System: Some thoughts
I got an e-mail from an interesting user of the ferry system. While she wished not to be disclosed because of a pending article in another newspaper however she points out something that is interesting and which seemingly echoed a new article in today's Kitsap Sun (Bottomed-Out Ferry System Looking to Bounce Back)
When I-695 passed, the Washington State Ferry system hit rock bottom with it's funding. While the State did have a surplus of cash, improvements that were in the process of starting were put on hold or canceled, including the fast ferry service between Bremerton and Seattle along other fast ferry routes and four new ferries.
The lady that e-mailed me, commutes on the Bainbridge - Seattle 6 days a week, one of the days visiting friends and family on the main land. While it is expensive, she recalls times when the system was indeed much cheaper when I-695 was around. It is to be seen if things would be the same or changed if I-695 was never thought of but the fact that the system is highly degraded is enough to show the effects of the initiative and how the ferry and transit system remains to date.
While plenty of road and transit taxes have recovered from the effects of 695, the ferry system is system remains to drag along. The ferry system is the largest system used in the United States of America however it is the least funded and only select routes recover fare and make money (Seattle to Bainbridge Island)
My guest believes that in order for the ferry system to recover and function completely, a 5 to 7 cent tax for those ONLY in Kitsap County, Seattle, Vashon, the San Juan Islands, and the Olympic Pennisula should pay for the ferry services as those are the ones that use the system the most, State ran or not, food should be equal or greater on all boats where the run is greater than 25 minutes.
Should passenger only ferry service be on the States or even the Counties wish list? Certainly, as long as the distance covers the cost of the run. The best example was my in-depth study of the Snohomish on the Seattle to Port Townsend run which I still believe is an important route to have since it cuts down the drive 2 to 4 hour drive (depending on how backed up the Kingston to Edmonds is) to just 85 to 90 minutes on the Snohomish. I go into detail of just how much it would cost to make money and to break even.
http://watransportation.blogspot.com/2008/01/seattle-2-port-townsend-deeper-look.html
http://watransportation.blogspot.com/2008/01/number-crunching-port-townsend-seattle.html
In order to meet the expected demand for the next 10 to 15 years, we both agreed that we need to look at the following to meet up with demand.
San Juan Ferries - This run typically has 4 boats which are all approaching retirement age. These 4 boats need to be replaced soon. There should be at least 2 backup boats for this route but one would be work just as well.
Port Townsend - Keystone route needs 2 ferries running at all times and a minimum of 90 cars, especially during the Summer months where they could really get away using 150+ car ferries. The 30 minute crossing (including unload/load times) and one backup ferry.
Clinton - Mukilteo - While I have only been on the ferry 3 times, it is no surprise that the Issaquah 130 class boats currently on the run are not big enough to meet the growth now and in the future. The waiting area is good though and it's short run makes it quick work of the cars waiting but a 150+ car boat would be best on this route. This run should have one backup which can be used on heavier known days. However in the interim...
These ferries operate are in serious need of some TLC, my ride on them yesterday was not impressive. New paint, a good wash to get the moss and other stuff growing on the windows is desperately needed. The lack of maintenance and torn seats were also a sign of what used to be a solid boat but now ran down and just pathetic. While the crossing is only 15 minutes, the entire run shouldn't suffer, trust me, people notice.
Kingston - Edmonds - These are some of the newer boats and work good however WSF should consider running a 3rd ferry. While only a 25 minute crossing this route is commonly backed up 1 to 2 hours. Last summer on July 4th, there was a few times of the backups upwards of 3 hours. Super Jumbo Mark II class boats should be built for this run.
Bainbridge - Seattle - I love this route. The people, the scenery, the tourists, the Seagulls that flies with the boat when the weather is nice. Everything makes this route just excellent which is also one of the reasons why it is WSF's highest patronized boat but again, the wait times are what kills this route and potential increased ridership. Taking a page out of BC Ferries, WSF should look at 300 car vehicles such as the new German built Super-C Class boats coming into service now. These boats have the capacity of 375 vehicles and 1,650 passengers and are simply stunning. These would be perfect for this route... but there one other problem.
Highway 305 which feeds the Bainbridge ferry through Bainbridge, is only a 2 lane highway. The entire highway needs to be a 4 lane highway between Bainbridge and Pouslbo to make things much more effective. While retaining the ferry only lane from Day Road to the terminal is vital. WSDOT needs to make this change as soon as it can to follow the growth of this run. It is the money maker and needs to be addressed. The three Super-C Class boats were only $370 million dollars.
Bremerton - Seattle - The poor Redheaded Stepchild of WSF which is the root of so many complaints and lack of service, shoddy ferries, lack of equal food service and getting the shaft when a boat needs a backup, needs to be re-thought, re-launched, and brought back to a reasonable service level with service to at least every 30 minutes. There is a lot that could be done but a shuffling of boats would be the right direction and using the Super Jumbo Class boats on this run would be the right step.
Fauntleroy - Vashon/Southworth - This route sometimes confuses me simply because I never been on it before. It is my understanding that some of the ferries continue from Vashon to Southworth. How they handle the vehicle loading is beyond me but at any rate from looking at route stats, it could use the Jumbo Class Mark I boats on the Fauntleroy to Vashon runs and a smaller 100 car ferry for the Fauntleroy to Southworth run. There needs to be a new waiting location at this terminal instead of the vehicles lining up all down the street and in front of peoples homes and the park there. There shouldn't be a shared use of runs IMO.
Pt. Defiance/Tehlequah (Vashon) - The Evergreen is the only boat on this run and it suits it beautifully but will need to be replaced. This boat overtime should be upgraded to at least a 100 car ferry but anything bigger would be a waste since most of the users take the Vashon - Fauntleroy run to get to Seattle.
If I was Paula Hammond and had opion of the 5 cent tax increase to buy new boats and maintain service.. I would at least do the following:
2 Super Jumbo class boats (144-car) and 2 Issaquah 100 class (90-car) boats on the San Juan Route
2 Issaquah 100 class boats on the Port Townsend - Keystone route (90-car).
2 Jumbo Class (188-car) boats on the Clinton - Mukilteo route
3 Jumbo Class (188-car) boats on the Kingston - Edmonds route
3 Super-C Class (370-car) boats on the Bainbridge - Seattle route
3 Super Jumbo Mark II (202-car) boat on the Bremerton - Seattle route (boats moved from Bainbridge)
4 Jumbo Class (188-car) boats on the Vashon/Southworth - Fauntleroy route
1 Issaquah 130 (124-car) boat on the Pt. Defiance - Tehlequah route
2 Passenger Only Fast Ferries on the Seattle to Kingston/Port Townsend route.
Plenty of room for expansion and the boats can be used on any route.
When I-695 passed, the Washington State Ferry system hit rock bottom with it's funding. While the State did have a surplus of cash, improvements that were in the process of starting were put on hold or canceled, including the fast ferry service between Bremerton and Seattle along other fast ferry routes and four new ferries.
The lady that e-mailed me, commutes on the Bainbridge - Seattle 6 days a week, one of the days visiting friends and family on the main land. While it is expensive, she recalls times when the system was indeed much cheaper when I-695 was around. It is to be seen if things would be the same or changed if I-695 was never thought of but the fact that the system is highly degraded is enough to show the effects of the initiative and how the ferry and transit system remains to date.
While plenty of road and transit taxes have recovered from the effects of 695, the ferry system is system remains to drag along. The ferry system is the largest system used in the United States of America however it is the least funded and only select routes recover fare and make money (Seattle to Bainbridge Island)
My guest believes that in order for the ferry system to recover and function completely, a 5 to 7 cent tax for those ONLY in Kitsap County, Seattle, Vashon, the San Juan Islands, and the Olympic Pennisula should pay for the ferry services as those are the ones that use the system the most, State ran or not, food should be equal or greater on all boats where the run is greater than 25 minutes.
Should passenger only ferry service be on the States or even the Counties wish list? Certainly, as long as the distance covers the cost of the run. The best example was my in-depth study of the Snohomish on the Seattle to Port Townsend run which I still believe is an important route to have since it cuts down the drive 2 to 4 hour drive (depending on how backed up the Kingston to Edmonds is) to just 85 to 90 minutes on the Snohomish. I go into detail of just how much it would cost to make money and to break even.
http://watransportation.blogspot.com/2008/01/seattle-2-port-townsend-deeper-look.html
http://watransportation.blogspot.com/2008/01/number-crunching-port-townsend-seattle.html
In order to meet the expected demand for the next 10 to 15 years, we both agreed that we need to look at the following to meet up with demand.
San Juan Ferries - This run typically has 4 boats which are all approaching retirement age. These 4 boats need to be replaced soon. There should be at least 2 backup boats for this route but one would be work just as well.
Port Townsend - Keystone route needs 2 ferries running at all times and a minimum of 90 cars, especially during the Summer months where they could really get away using 150+ car ferries. The 30 minute crossing (including unload/load times) and one backup ferry.
Clinton - Mukilteo - While I have only been on the ferry 3 times, it is no surprise that the Issaquah 130 class boats currently on the run are not big enough to meet the growth now and in the future. The waiting area is good though and it's short run makes it quick work of the cars waiting but a 150+ car boat would be best on this route. This run should have one backup which can be used on heavier known days. However in the interim...
These ferries operate are in serious need of some TLC, my ride on them yesterday was not impressive. New paint, a good wash to get the moss and other stuff growing on the windows is desperately needed. The lack of maintenance and torn seats were also a sign of what used to be a solid boat but now ran down and just pathetic. While the crossing is only 15 minutes, the entire run shouldn't suffer, trust me, people notice.
Kingston - Edmonds - These are some of the newer boats and work good however WSF should consider running a 3rd ferry. While only a 25 minute crossing this route is commonly backed up 1 to 2 hours. Last summer on July 4th, there was a few times of the backups upwards of 3 hours. Super Jumbo Mark II class boats should be built for this run.
Bainbridge - Seattle - I love this route. The people, the scenery, the tourists, the Seagulls that flies with the boat when the weather is nice. Everything makes this route just excellent which is also one of the reasons why it is WSF's highest patronized boat but again, the wait times are what kills this route and potential increased ridership. Taking a page out of BC Ferries, WSF should look at 300 car vehicles such as the new German built Super-C Class boats coming into service now. These boats have the capacity of 375 vehicles and 1,650 passengers and are simply stunning. These would be perfect for this route... but there one other problem.
Highway 305 which feeds the Bainbridge ferry through Bainbridge, is only a 2 lane highway. The entire highway needs to be a 4 lane highway between Bainbridge and Pouslbo to make things much more effective. While retaining the ferry only lane from Day Road to the terminal is vital. WSDOT needs to make this change as soon as it can to follow the growth of this run. It is the money maker and needs to be addressed. The three Super-C Class boats were only $370 million dollars.
Bremerton - Seattle - The poor Redheaded Stepchild of WSF which is the root of so many complaints and lack of service, shoddy ferries, lack of equal food service and getting the shaft when a boat needs a backup, needs to be re-thought, re-launched, and brought back to a reasonable service level with service to at least every 30 minutes. There is a lot that could be done but a shuffling of boats would be the right direction and using the Super Jumbo Class boats on this run would be the right step.
Fauntleroy - Vashon/Southworth - This route sometimes confuses me simply because I never been on it before. It is my understanding that some of the ferries continue from Vashon to Southworth. How they handle the vehicle loading is beyond me but at any rate from looking at route stats, it could use the Jumbo Class Mark I boats on the Fauntleroy to Vashon runs and a smaller 100 car ferry for the Fauntleroy to Southworth run. There needs to be a new waiting location at this terminal instead of the vehicles lining up all down the street and in front of peoples homes and the park there. There shouldn't be a shared use of runs IMO.
Pt. Defiance/Tehlequah (Vashon) - The Evergreen is the only boat on this run and it suits it beautifully but will need to be replaced. This boat overtime should be upgraded to at least a 100 car ferry but anything bigger would be a waste since most of the users take the Vashon - Fauntleroy run to get to Seattle.
If I was Paula Hammond and had opion of the 5 cent tax increase to buy new boats and maintain service.. I would at least do the following:
2 Super Jumbo class boats (144-car) and 2 Issaquah 100 class (90-car) boats on the San Juan Route
2 Issaquah 100 class boats on the Port Townsend - Keystone route (90-car).
2 Jumbo Class (188-car) boats on the Clinton - Mukilteo route
3 Jumbo Class (188-car) boats on the Kingston - Edmonds route
3 Super-C Class (370-car) boats on the Bainbridge - Seattle route
3 Super Jumbo Mark II (202-car) boat on the Bremerton - Seattle route (boats moved from Bainbridge)
4 Jumbo Class (188-car) boats on the Vashon/Southworth - Fauntleroy route
1 Issaquah 130 (124-car) boat on the Pt. Defiance - Tehlequah route
2 Passenger Only Fast Ferries on the Seattle to Kingston/Port Townsend route.
Plenty of room for expansion and the boats can be used on any route.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Tacoma Link conversion? You Bet'cha!
Imagine using this....
Instead of these little guys....
For those that don't know, Tacoma Link (streetcar) was built in such a way to support it's bigger brother, light-rail for about 80% of it's system. If Sound Transit goes to the ballot in 2008 or 2010 and passes, the Kinkishayro equipment could be ordered and used even if the line isn't connecting to the main line. What would the changes be you ask? Not as much as you would think...
Most do not remember this document but Google found it for me while I was researching University Link and if any additional cars have been ordered yet.
Read over it and comment. I really wouldn't mind the change but really, 2-car trains should be the goal and while space becomes an issue because the Kinki's are 95 feet long vs. the current 66 foot long Skoda's, nevertheless, it would be welcomed cause it does get very, very cramped sometimes on the Tacoma runs.
The total distance would go from 1.6 miles to 7.1 miles in length and would cost around $600 million for the project.
Sound Transit link on Tacoma Link conversion to Kinkishayro cars (.pdf file)
Compare and Contrast:
North, Central, University, East, South Link Light Rail - Kinkisharyo/Mitsui of Japan
Manufacture Specs are available at this link http://www.kinkisharyo.com/st_seattle.html
Tacoma Link - Inekon Trams formerly Skoda Dopravni Technika of Czech Republic
Manufacture Specs are available at this link http://www.skoda.cz/darkblue/obrazek.asp?ID=1613
Instead of these little guys....
For those that don't know, Tacoma Link (streetcar) was built in such a way to support it's bigger brother, light-rail for about 80% of it's system. If Sound Transit goes to the ballot in 2008 or 2010 and passes, the Kinkishayro equipment could be ordered and used even if the line isn't connecting to the main line. What would the changes be you ask? Not as much as you would think...
- The arrival of seven Kinkishayro light-rail vehicles
- Rebuilt stations to handle 1 car train (read below)
- The curve at 25th Ave to Pacific to be reconfigured. Current curve is too tight for LRVs
- Expanded Operations & Maintenance Facility to handle Kinkishayro LRVs
- 1 percent of art added to stations and key locations along the line
- Modified Fare Structure
- 7 new center-island platform stations, including shelters, signage, lighting, seating, ticket vending machines, CCTV's
- Power system conversion from 750dc to 1500dc unless LRV's can "step down" and still performance solidly.
- Construction of 5.5 miles of new double track light rail system to Tacoma Community College
Most do not remember this document but Google found it for me while I was researching University Link and if any additional cars have been ordered yet.
Read over it and comment. I really wouldn't mind the change but really, 2-car trains should be the goal and while space becomes an issue because the Kinki's are 95 feet long vs. the current 66 foot long Skoda's, nevertheless, it would be welcomed cause it does get very, very cramped sometimes on the Tacoma runs.
The total distance would go from 1.6 miles to 7.1 miles in length and would cost around $600 million for the project.
Sound Transit link on Tacoma Link conversion to Kinkishayro cars (.pdf file)
Compare and Contrast:
North, Central, University, East, South Link Light Rail - Kinkisharyo/Mitsui of Japan
Manufacture Specs are available at this link http://www.kinkisharyo.com/st_seattle.html
Length | 95 feet |
| Height | 12.5 feet |
| Weight | Estimated 105,000 pounds |
| Width | 8.7 feet |
| Passenger capacity | 200 passengers, 74 seated |
| Fuel type | Electricity |
| Fuel capacity | N/A |
| Power | Powered by electrical-1500 volts D.C. traction power system |
Tacoma Link - Inekon Trams formerly Skoda Dopravni Technika of Czech Republic
Manufacture Specs are available at this link http://www.skoda.cz/darkblue/obrazek.asp?ID=1613
Length | 66 feet |
| Height | 11.35 feet |
| Weight | 61,729 pounds |
| Width | 8.1 feet |
| Passenger capacity | 56 (30 seated and 26 standing) |
| Fuel type | Electricity |
| Fuel capacity | N/A |
| Power | Overhead electrical wires - 750 volts D.C., with pantograph current collection |
Central Link Light Rail update - Feb 16th, 2008
Here is a visual assessment for February 16, 2008 on the Central segment of Link Light Rail.
Vehicle Count:
16 of 35 vehicles are on the O&M property.
Order for additional LRV's should be coming up the end of the year for University Link.
Track Installation:
Trackwork is complete from Pine Street Station to the Airport Expressway.
The rest is dependent on the Port of Seattle work on the new Expressway road construction to Sea-Tac Airport which is slated to open in Spring 2008. The SR 518 Sea-Tac Airport to I-5/I-405 Interchange Project improves existing mobility and safety and accommodates projected airport traffic by adding a third eastbound lane on SR 518 between the North Airport Expressway and the I-5/I-405 Interchange. This is slated to open in Fall 2009.
Overhead Contact System (OCS):
Overhead Contact poles are installed from Tukwila International Blvd. Station to Mt. Baker Station. Support arms for the wire are being installed from SR-599 to MLK Way.
Unknown status within Beacon Hill Tunnel.
Powered tests is in operation between the O&M and Pine Street Tunnel. Tunnel testing is only on weekends and weeknights.
Signal System:
95% of the signaling is up and running though testing is required between Beacon Hill Tunnel and Tukwila Station but from a visual standpoint, they were all be a few lit up amber "hold"
All grade crossings are installed and operational. Royal Brougham is activated only during tunnel testing at this time.
Beacon Hill Tunnel:
No update on the progress but it has been about an month. I would expect the punch through sometime in the next week or so judging by the sudden influx on equipment around the site now (Big cranes) and flatbeds around the work site.
Stations:
New signs are being installed at Westlake Center Station today.
Westlake, University, Pioneer Square, International District, Stadium, Lander, and Henderson Street Stations are complete and ready for Link service.
Beacon Hill, Mt. Baker, Columbia City, Othello, Tukwila International Blvd, and Sea-Tac Airport are still under construction.
Transit Oriented Development (TOD):
Most noticeable is the remodeling of several apartments near the Tukwila International Blvd Station site and all up and down Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Low-income housing is in place instead of the old "projects" that was common from Rainier Avenue to Alaska Street. I've went to a couple of showings of these homes and they are very nice though some of the models were a bit cramped but that is what your getting for the new urban development. If Portland or Charlotte is any heads up, bigger condos and such will go up soon enough if the demand is there.
That's all for now, but do you want more? Want to see the construction up close and personal on a guided tour of Link? Ride the Sound Transit Lunch Bus on one of their plush MCI D4500 Commuter Coaches. Reclining seats, guest speakers and enjoy excellent, excellent, local food at a select location. Ask questions, be heard, and enjoy what is coming to you in 16 months from now!
M/V Chinook back on Ebay
This is something King County or one of the Victoria carriers should pick up and re-engine. This would be an excellent boat for fast ferry service. Detroit Diesel, CAT, and EMD has a replacement engine for these class ferries that would drop right into the boat and produce the same horsepower while cutting fuel costs by 15-35% according to documents I've seen from both manufactures.
It's going for $4.5 million
I need to win the lottery.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/M-V-Chinook-Passenger-Ferry-08-0422_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ26432QQihZ022QQitemZ350026143204QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW
Update 7:30am:
I felt the need to write an email to the City Council regarding this and why it should be done.
I am contacting the Council regarding the sale of Washington State M.V. Chinook passenger-only fast ferry on eBay. I have been doing a lot of research regarding the M.V Snohomish but would also apply for the Chinook since they are the same boat. While the boat is for sale for $4.5 million, Detroit Diesel, CAT, and EMD have replacement and near drop in engines that would would work great for both of these boats. They would cut fuel savings between 15 to 35%, lower emissions, and easier to maintain. I don't have the documents available due to a external hard drive failure but it would be worth to contact the above manufactures to see exactly how much it would run the County for the equipment Purchasing the Chinook and re-motoring the boats is probably one of the best things that could happen for this ferry district. It's a 38-knot or 43mph boat, which would bring Kirkland to Seattle passengers to Lake Union in less than 15 minutes, including the slow speed through the Montlake Cut. A dock near the Fred Hutch Streetcar would benefit not only the Streetcar but the ease of transfers. It's a 149-passenger boat that can be a 350-passenger boat if a safety plan is made, the same follows for the Snohomish.
It's a local boat that is ready to go for the King County Passenger Ferry District, can be used in service now. It's only a 10 year old boat and a lot of people have memories on these boats, this is something that we have in our hand and in our back yard and need to follow through on. We can't afford to pass up on this unique opportunity and personally it isn't worth scrapping the boat at all when it is perfectly fine for our future use.
Thank you for your time,
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Gregoire signs law for new ferries
Next year, look for 3 new Washington State Ferries, one like the 50-car Steilacoom II and other two will be similar to the Steel Electrics.....The catch? No more than 100 cars and must be built in Washington State and will only be used on the Port Towsend - Keystone route.
State Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond has said a request for proposals from ship builders will go out Friday with bids due back within 30 days. Bidders must provide cost estimates for building between one and three vessels.
The new 50-car boat will be in service on the PT - Keystone route until sea trials are completed on the first actual (bigger boat) replacement for the Port Townsend - Keystone route. The Steilacoom II will return back to it's normal route. The second big boat will serve the Port Townsend - Keystone route and the 50-car boat will then move to the Point Defiance route.
Still no official word on the three new 144-car ferries and their status.
More information is available on the Everett Herald.
http://heraldnet.com/article/20080214/NEWS01/579870067&news01ad=1#Gregoire.signs.law.for.new.ferries
State Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond has said a request for proposals from ship builders will go out Friday with bids due back within 30 days. Bidders must provide cost estimates for building between one and three vessels.
The new 50-car boat will be in service on the PT - Keystone route until sea trials are completed on the first actual (bigger boat) replacement for the Port Townsend - Keystone route. The Steilacoom II will return back to it's normal route. The second big boat will serve the Port Townsend - Keystone route and the 50-car boat will then move to the Point Defiance route.
Still no official word on the three new 144-car ferries and their status.
More information is available on the Everett Herald.
http://heraldnet.com/article/20080214/NEWS01/579870067&news01ad=1#Gregoire.signs.law.for.new.ferries
Bremerton Mayor Cary Bozeman steps into the fire...
Ferry passengers are Boiling up and Up....The comments follow the story very, very well....
http://kitsapsun.com/news/2008/feb/13/bozeman-ferry-riders-145boiling-up-and-boiling/
Been hearing small talks of protesting WSF the past few days...Wonder if that will actually happen...
http://kitsapsun.com/news/2008/feb/13/bozeman-ferry-riders-145boiling-up-and-boiling/
Been hearing small talks of protesting WSF the past few days...Wonder if that will actually happen...
The differences between the Chinook and Snohomish
I'm really curious about the differences between the M/V Chinook and the M/V Snohomish.
Here are the stats and images for the boats from Evergreenfleet.com unless otherwise noted
M/V Chinook
Official Number: D1063252
Call Sign: WCY2726
Length: 143' 3''
Beam: 39' 4''
Draft: 5'
Speed in Knots: 30
Horsepower: 7,200
Propulsion: Diesel-Waterjet
Max Passengers: 350
City Built: Anacortes
Year Built/Re-built: 1998
Name Translation: Breeze, wind.
M/V Snohomish
Official Number: D1084026
Call Sign: WCZ4837
Length:143'3"
Beam: 39' 4"
Draft: 5"
Speed in Knots: 30
Horsepower: 7,200
Propulsion: Diesel-Waterjet
Max Passengers: 350
City Built: Anacortes
Year Built/Re-built: 1999
Meaning of Snohomish : Means "tide water people".
Now according to Washington State Ferries, the Chinook has a top speed of 38-knots while the Snohomish has a top speed of 30-knots though they were built a year apart, have the same horse power and water jet system
Was this an error on WSF's part?
Here are the stats and images for the boats from Evergreenfleet.com unless otherwise noted
M/V Chinook
Official Number: D1063252
Call Sign: WCY2726
Length: 143' 3''
Beam: 39' 4''
Draft: 5'
Speed in Knots: 30
Horsepower: 7,200
Propulsion: Diesel-Waterjet
Max Passengers: 350
City Built: Anacortes
Year Built/Re-built: 1998
Name Translation: Breeze, wind.
M/V Snohomish
Official Number: D1084026
Call Sign: WCZ4837
Length:143'3"
Beam: 39' 4"
Draft: 5"
Speed in Knots: 30
Horsepower: 7,200
Propulsion: Diesel-Waterjet
Max Passengers: 350
City Built: Anacortes
Year Built/Re-built: 1999
Meaning of Snohomish : Means "tide water people".
Now according to Washington State Ferries, the Chinook has a top speed of 38-knots while the Snohomish has a top speed of 30-knots though they were built a year apart, have the same horse power and water jet system
Was this an error on WSF's part?
Even more setback for the ferry fleet
The woes continue but some relief is coming starting Tuesday for Bremerton riders. Check out the Sound Off's though...Some of the comments are spot on as to why this all has happened.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/351123_ferry14.html?source=rss
The three 149 passenger ferries, the M/V Snohomish and Victoria Express and Victoria Express II are on the Bremerton to Seattle run. If the weather holds and feeling well enough, I'm planning on taking a ride on the Victoria Express and Snohomish.
You would think WSF would get off their duff's with how long the Snohomish has been in service now that they would go through the hoops of getting it to it's maximum size of 350 passengers
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/351123_ferry14.html?source=rss
The three 149 passenger ferries, the M/V Snohomish and Victoria Express and Victoria Express II are on the Bremerton to Seattle run. If the weather holds and feeling well enough, I'm planning on taking a ride on the Victoria Express and Snohomish.
You would think WSF would get off their duff's with how long the Snohomish has been in service now that they would go through the hoops of getting it to it's maximum size of 350 passengers
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Sound Transit... Ferries?
Could Sound Transit, by some form or fashion, order ferries?
Not so much to take over WSF operations but as a way to quickly restore order within Washington State Ferry system. I know that WSF is State and ST is regional but does that possibility exist?
It also isn't so much just ferries but within the Sound Transit district would be able to use MVET or Sales Tax for the new boats and the revamp of all the WSF terminals that desperately need repair and passenger terminal improvements.
Any thoughts on this?
Not so much to take over WSF operations but as a way to quickly restore order within Washington State Ferry system. I know that WSF is State and ST is regional but does that possibility exist?
It also isn't so much just ferries but within the Sound Transit district would be able to use MVET or Sales Tax for the new boats and the revamp of all the WSF terminals that desperately need repair and passenger terminal improvements.
Any thoughts on this?
Fast Freight? Le Postal
I've seen people say that there is no high speed freight service on TGV lines.. this is somewhat true, but they do know how to haul the mail at 300 kmh.
There are indeed some freight trains that do run intermixed with TGV and vise versa though not at it's full 186 or 199mph runs.
There are indeed some freight trains that do run intermixed with TGV and vise versa though not at it's full 186 or 199mph runs.
Look out Alaska - Here comes Virgin and JetBlue
For some reason, I'm giddy about this.
Check out the colorful and snazzy looking planes at the Tacoma News Tribune
http://www.thenewstribune.com/business/story/281979.html
A dogfight is breaking out among SeaTac’s Alaska Airlines and two low-cost carriers who’ve announced plans to invade Alaska’s lucrative Pacific Northwest-California routes.The low-cost carriers, Virgin America and JetBlue, are bringing new flights and new planes to familiar Alaska Airlines routes. Alaska is countering with enhanced schedules, new food and beverage offerings, and the promise of airborne Internet service.
Check out the colorful and snazzy looking planes at the Tacoma News Tribune
http://www.thenewstribune.com/business/story/281979.html
Bremerton - The Redhead Stepchild Route?
At least according to this article in the Seattle Times. I will admit being on the times on the Bremerton route and it does lack the choices that are on the Bainbridge Island run. An hour sailing vs 35 minutes has the Bainbridge at an advantage but I do see the need to step the service up, especially for Mariners and Seahawks games or any other event that may be going on the main land and on Kitsap. Bremerton ferries still do not have wi-fi, even though wi-fi on the Bainbridge route has been going for about a year now.
Needless to say, people are not happy about the Bremerton route and want something done... now.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004180075_webferry13m.html
Needless to say, people are not happy about the Bremerton route and want something done... now.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004180075_webferry13m.html
M/V Hyak in was in service on Bremerton Run
Starting today, the M/V Hyak is in service on the Bremerton - Seattle run. This boat replaces the M/V Snohomish and the Victoria Express ferries that were assisting with passenger loads on the route.
Hopefully, this will end the string of problems that has plagued Washington State Ferries so far this year.
Update 8:58am: However no longer is in service after an engine failure while coming into Seattle on the 6:20am run. Possible drive shaft failure? No word if the M/V Snohomish and/or Victoria Express will return back to service today.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/351123_ferry14.html
Update 9:01am: Denise Brennan of Victoria Express e-mailed me and passenger only service continues on the Bremerton to Seattle route until probably at least the afternoon hours. It's a beautiful day to take the ferry over as well!
Hopefully, this will end the string of problems that has plagued Washington State Ferries so far this year.
Update 8:58am: However no longer is in service after an engine failure while coming into Seattle on the 6:20am run. Possible drive shaft failure? No word if the M/V Snohomish and/or Victoria Express will return back to service today.
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/transportation/351123_ferry14.html
Update 9:01am: Denise Brennan of Victoria Express e-mailed me and passenger only service continues on the Bremerton to Seattle route until probably at least the afternoon hours. It's a beautiful day to take the ferry over as well!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
M/V Snohomish strikes Bremerton dock
No love for the Snohomish it seems. After 2 big waves that caused minor damage to the Snohomish, wind pushed the Snohomish into the Bremerton dock, injuring 5 passengers.
http://www.king5.com/localnews/stories/NW_021108WAB_ferry_mishap_KC.b3381537.html
Update: The 149-passenger Snohomish was back in service this morning, starting with the 9 a.m. departure from the Bremerton Ferry Terminal, following a hard landing last night and an unrelated back-up generator malfunction this morning.
http://www.king5.com/localnews/stories/NW_021108WAB_ferry_mishap_KC.b3381537.html
Update: The 149-passenger Snohomish was back in service this morning, starting with the 9 a.m. departure from the Bremerton Ferry Terminal, following a hard landing last night and an unrelated back-up generator malfunction this morning.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Revised Bremerton Ferry schedule - Victoria Express even helping
Here is some updated information I was asked to post regarding the Bremerton ferry service. I'll snag it from the WSDOT site:
For stats and pictures of the Victoria Express ferries, along with their normal operating schedule check out their website below
http://www.victoriaexpress.com/repower.html
SEATTLE – Beginning Monday, February 11, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Ferries Division will have four ferries operating on the Seattle/Bremerton route. The route normally operates with two car ferries. These changes are part of an effort to restore service after the 144-car Yakima was pulled from service early Friday morning, February 8, following a hard landing where the vessel sustained damage.
Starting Monday morning, the route will operate with the following vessels:
- 124-car Kitsap operating on the normal #1 boat schedule
- 149-passenger ferry Snohomish operating on the normal #2 boat schedule, departing from the Bremerton Ferry Terminal and Washington State Ferries’ Pier 50 passenger dock (adjacent to Colman Dock) in Seattle. Crossing time is approximately 45 minutes.
- Two 149-passenger ferries leased from Victoria Express will depart from Kitsap Transit’s dock in Bremerton (adjacent to the Bremerton Ferry Terminal) and the Pier 50 passenger dock in Seattle. These ferries will supplement service provided by Kitsap and the Snohomish, and will depart either before or after the Snohomish to carry extra passengers. Crossing time for the Victoria Express ferries is approximately 60 minutes. These vessels are not ADA accessible.
Complete schedule information is available online at: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/. WSDOT/WSF staff will be at terminals on Monday morning to hand out schedule information and answer customer questions about the service changes.
These changes will be in effect until further notice. WSDOT Ferries Division is working to get the 144-car Hyak back into service, perhaps as early as next week, to restore vehicle ferry service on the Seattle/Bremerton route.
Update Jan 13, 2008:
http://www3.kitsapsun.com/news/2008/feb/09/bremerton-to-get-passenger-ferry-to-supplement/
For stats and pictures of the Victoria Express ferries, along with their normal operating schedule check out their website below
http://www.victoriaexpress.com/repower.html
Ferry Officials already looking at alternative for Steilacoom II
It only took one round trip for Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond to knowledge that a bigger ferry will be needed on the Port Townsend - Keystone run but will continue to build 1 of the boats for eventual use on the Port Defiance-to-Tahlequah run.
HeraldNet - Snohomish Herald has more on the news regarding the ferries.
http://heraldnet.com/article/20080209/NEWS01/956296668/
HeraldNet - Snohomish Herald has more on the news regarding the ferries.
http://heraldnet.com/article/20080209/NEWS01/956296668/
Friday, February 8, 2008
The Bad and Good Times of Washington State Ferries
The Bad Times...
During Sea Trial Testing yesterday, a huge wave reportedly hit the Steilacoom II and put water over the entire car deck. No one was injured during this episode. This wasn't as bad as what happened to the M/V Snohomish a few days ago... which was damaged by a huge wave which collapsed 2 sections of the ceiling.
The 144-car M/V Yakima slammed into the Bremerton Dock hard enough to start taking on water thanks to the high winds in the region. No injuries were reported. The Bremerton run is now down to one ferry.
The M/V Sealth also didn't fair well in the winds around here after being tossed about and seriously damaging cars, ill passengers
The Good times..
The M/V Steilacoom II has started passenger ferry operations between Port Townsend and Keystone as of February 4th. Vehicle service is expected to start on Saturday morning or as the weather allows.
Starting today (Friday), the 149-passenger Snohomish will depart Seattle’s Pier 52 at 6:45 p.m. for Bremerton. It will keep the remainder of the evening schedule.
Starting tomorrow, the 124-car Chelan will keep normal weekend two-boat service on the route.
Boy...the Snohomish is proving a mighty worthy vehicle.....I noticed that the listening for both ferries have been removed from Ebay permanently...
During Sea Trial Testing yesterday, a huge wave reportedly hit the Steilacoom II and put water over the entire car deck. No one was injured during this episode. This wasn't as bad as what happened to the M/V Snohomish a few days ago... which was damaged by a huge wave which collapsed 2 sections of the ceiling.
The 144-car M/V Yakima slammed into the Bremerton Dock hard enough to start taking on water thanks to the high winds in the region. No injuries were reported. The Bremerton run is now down to one ferry.
The M/V Sealth also didn't fair well in the winds around here after being tossed about and seriously damaging cars, ill passengers
The Good times..
The M/V Steilacoom II has started passenger ferry operations between Port Townsend and Keystone as of February 4th. Vehicle service is expected to start on Saturday morning or as the weather allows.
Starting today (Friday), the 149-passenger Snohomish will depart Seattle’s Pier 52 at 6:45 p.m. for Bremerton. It will keep the remainder of the evening schedule.
Starting tomorrow, the 124-car Chelan will keep normal weekend two-boat service on the route.
Boy...the Snohomish is proving a mighty worthy vehicle.....I noticed that the listening for both ferries have been removed from Ebay permanently...
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