Washington State Commission Approves Ferry Fare, Surcharge Increases

The Washington State Transportation Commission has approved fare increases for Washington State Ferries, with a 3% rise starting October 1, 2025, followed by another 3% increase on May 1, 2026. Additionally, the summer season surcharge will be standardized to 35% across all routes, applying only to vehicle fares. These fare hikes aim to meet a $408.8 million revenue target set by the state Legislature for the 2025-2027 biennium and are expected to generate approximately $412 million for ferry operations. The commission also voted to repeal toll exemptions for transit buses, vans, and rideshare vehicles on the State Route 520 and Tacoma Narrows bridges, effective October 1, 2025, while exemptions remain for Express Toll Lanes and the State Route 99 tunnel. The rate increases will affect passenger and vehicle fares on popular routes such as Edmonds-Kingston and Mukilteo-Clinton, with discounted rates continuing for seniors and people with disabilities. These measures follow the recent return to service of the hybrid-electric ferry Wenatchee, restoring the fleet to pre-pandemic operational levels.