The new Upper Arrow Lakes ferry will not be in service for the May long weekend due to delays caused by a subcontractor for the project.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Transportation told the Arrow Lakes News that while construction of the ferry is on schedule, sea trials have been delayed, pushing the maiden voyage of the ferry into June, past the previously scheduled May 16 date.
“While construction of the vessel is anticipated to be completed on schedule, the sea trials will be delayed due to unforeseen circumstances associated with personnel from one of the sub-contractors,” the transportation ministry spokesperson said. “A key participant in the sea trials is unable to attend due to medical reasons and the company was not able to immediately assign a replacement.”
The $26.5 million ferry is being built by Waterbridge Steel in Nakusp. During a February tour of the ferry, lead contractor John Harding told the Times Review construction was on schedule and the ferry would be ready for sea trials at some point in March, however that is obviously no longer the case.
When contacted on April 14, Harding said provincial authorities have requested he not communicate with members of the media about the ferry project.
The ferry will be able to transport 80 vehicles and 250 passengers on the Galena Bay to Shelter Bay route, and will replace the two existing ferries that currently ply the route in the summer.
Two ferries will run over the May long weekend until the new ferry is in service.