Metlakatla and Ketchikan Ferry Terminal Locations

[SS Shasta]

A conflict appears to be building over a Alaska DOT proposal to relocate the AMHS Ferry Terminals in both Metlakatla and Ketchikan. This ferry route currently served by the Alaska State Ferry MV Lituya. The root of the problem is described by Captain Steven Booth of the MV Lituya, who is writing in Ketchikan's SITNEWS as a private citizen:

www.sitnews.us/0310Viewpoints/032910_steven_booth.html

The DOT Terminal Relocation plan fails to consider that this route serves a large number of walk-on passengers who come to Ketchikan to shop, visit the doctor, etc. They currently load at a terminal near downtown Metlakatla and land at the Ketchikan terminal which is located near stores and medical services. The change would result in major inconveniences for these folks, according to Capt. Booth.

Oh yes, this is the same DOT that designed the famous "Bridge to Nowhere." ;D

[SS Shasta]

Captain Booth has presented a new concern about this Alaska DOT plan to relocate the AMHS ferry terminal on Annette Island near downtown Metlakatla. The proposed new terminal site is seriously lacking in security protection for the MV Lutuya which currently overnights at the Annette Island landing. His observations were published in the 5 April 2010 issue of SITNEWS:

www.sitnews.us/0410Viewpoints/040510_steven_booth.html