WHIDBEY ISLAND, Wash. — A local shipbuilder believes the state missed a significant opportunity to bolster its economy and workforce when a multimillion-dollar ferry contract was awarded to a Florida company instead of a Washington-based firm.
Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, located on Whidbey Island, stated that its proposal not only aimed to create over 1,300 jobs but also sought to enhance the apprenticeship pipeline within the state. Instead, the $714.5 million contract for three new hybrid-electric ferries has been granted to Eastern Shipbuilding Group, which submitted a bid approximately 6% lower than the state’s own estimates.
Gavin Higgins, CEO of Nichols Brothers, expressed disappointment at the decision, highlighting the missed chance to train a new generation of shipbuilders essential for the industry. “It’s disappointing for us because it’s not just about the financial aspect; it’s about nurturing skills in our workforce,” Higgins noted. His company operates a state-approved apprenticeship program and envisioned this contract as a means to develop critical trade skills throughout the Puget Sound region.
The new ferries, expected to be delivered over the next five years, are designed to significantly reduce emissions, with anticipations of cutting pollution by up to 90% compared to older vessels powered by diesel. Governor Bob Ferguson, who announced the contract award, stated that the decision was made to provide the best value for taxpayers. The ferries will serve important routes, including those connecting Seattle with Bremerton and Mukilteo with Clinton.
Despite the governor’s assertion, Higgins maintains that Nichols Brothers was prepared to adhere to the initial timeline for ferry construction. The company even proposed a collaborative approach, suggesting a split contract where both entities could build ferries concurrently.
Communication between Nichols Brothers and the governor’s office has been sparse. Higgins revealed that the only contact he had received was a phone call informing him of the decision to award the contract to their competitor.
Beyond financial implications, Higgins voiced concerns regarding the long-term maintenance of the vessels, particularly given the challenging conditions of the Pacific Ocean. “The Pacific is a rough washing machine,” he remarked, emphasizing that ferries bound for Seattle would require navigating through the Panama Canal, presenting additional logistical challenges.
Looking ahead, Nichols Brothers plans to pivot toward other projects, including the development of high-speed aluminum ferries. However, for Higgins and his team, the loss of the contract signifies more than just a business setback; it represents a lost opportunity to cultivate future talent in shipbuilding.
As the state moves forward with the contract, local advocates continue to stress the importance of investing in homegrown businesses and workforce development, hoping future decisions will prioritize job creation and local expertise.