Navy Could Be Tipping Point for Ferries

To date it has seemed like local ferry supporters have been speaking to crowds secretly plugged into iPods. The audience looks like it’s listening, but its attention is clearly elsewhere. We’ve discussed this before. The ferry study gets shut down, Frank Chopp stays silent and no one except our legislators seems to be calling for anything other than reductions in service.

Now, the Navy chimes in.

“I strongly recommend the state of Washington pursue a course of action that will maintain the service our Navy sailors, civilian employees and families now depend on and enjoy,” wrote Adm. James Symonds to David Moseley, ferry jefe.

Politically, this could be exactly the backing the ferry system needed. It’s the first voice I’ve noticed that has a real potential for motivating someone who doesn’t depend on the ferries. Moseley seems to see this. From Ed Friedrich’s story:

“Moseley thanked Symonds for the feedback and encouraged Navy personnel to contact local legislators.”

I would assume that means contacting legislators besides the nine who represent Kitsap.

Getting the Navy’s backing also gives U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks, D-Belfair, more clout than he had before with the Legislature. He didn’t get NASCAR. He might get this. More from the story:

U.S. Rep. Norm Dicks, D-Belfair, said the defense industry stabilizes the state’s economy, and “it’s important for our future to preserve the state’s valuable defense jobs by working hard to accommodate the needs of Washington’s military bases and defense industries, as well as the military personnel who serve our nation.”

Besides calling on the state to back our military, you’ll notice he included “industry,” “economy” and “jobs.” That’s gotta be worth something.