Seattle Ferries For Sale on Ebay- Roosevelt Island Could Use One

Lauren McFalls/Associated Press

According to Dan Doctoroff, NYC Deputy Mayor for Economic Development:

"Ferry service is an ideal transportation alternative because it takes cars off our streets without requiring a substantial investment in infrastructure, and it's something to which we are absolutely committed," said Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Rebuilding Daniel L. Doctoroff. "New York City and communities throughout our region have tremendous access to waterways, providing us with an excellent opportunity to promote ferries as a means of commuting to our business districts."

No disrespect intended, but please put the city's money where your mouth is Mr. Doctoroff. You as well as any other city official, property owner or ferry service operator (NY Water Taxi, NY Waterway) concerned with waterfront development and the accompanying lack of transportation infrastructure issues should consider putting in a bid on behalf of NYC for these Seattle pedestrian ferry boats that will be put up for sale after Thanksgiving on Ebay. According to this article in NY Times:

Look for two more items on the sale rack after Thanksgiving: the Chinook and the Snohomish, last seen ferrying people across Puget Sound. The big boats can be yours for $4.5 million each. As is. Exclusively at eBay.

And:

W. Michael Anderson, chief executive of Washington State Ferries, said the market for a decade-old foot ferry on the larger side looked promising. He noted that foot-ferry service is set to expand in San Francisco Bay.

The Chinook and Snohomish will be offered at their appraised prices. Mr. Anderson conceded that both could use “some work,” including upgrades to more fuel-efficient engines and fresh paint. “You’d want to put a considerable amount of money into them,” he said. Still, he said, they were a bargain compared with the $12 million to $15 million such a ferry would cost new.

There were at least some signs of early interest. After news of the planned sale became public on Friday, Lloyd’s of London called, said Marta Coursey, a spokeswoman for the ferry system. Ms. Coursey said the caller was circumspect about what buyer it might be representing.

Seattle has a wonderful ferry transportation system. New York City would do well to emulate as much as possible the Seattle waterfront transportation experience. Roosevelt Islanders would certainly be appreciative.

Image of Seattle ferry is from NY Times.