The new, built-in-B.C. cable ferry to serve Adams Lake is now undergoing final outfitting on site, and lake trials will begin shortly, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Todd Stone announced today.

“This new cable ferry will provide a safe, reliable crossing for the Adams Lake Indian Band and other residents along Adams Lake for years to come,” said Stone. “The new ferry for Adams Lake is part of our commitment to renew the province’s inland ferry fleet, to ensure this important service can continue uninterrupted for residents, visitors, and commercial and industrial users.”

In addition to the new ferry for Adams Lake, other cable ferries are being constructed to replace aging vessels serving the communities of Glade and Harrop on the Kootenay River, and Arrow Park on Arrow Lake. The existing vessels have now reached the end of their working life and some have been serving in these communities since the 1940s.

In 2016, Waterbridge Steel of Nakusp was awarded a $27.9-million contract to design and build four new cable ferries. All new vessels are scheduled to be in service by the end of 2019. The project is generating employment for approximately 30 people over four years, with the majority of work taking place in Nakusp.

The renewal of the inland ferry fleet is a priority in B.C. on the Move, the Province’s 10-year transportation plan.

Quick Facts:

• There are 14 inland ferry routes in B.C., operated for the Province of B.C. under contract.
• Five of the routes are served by cable ferries, five are reaction ferries (propelled by river current), three use free-running ferries, and one is served by a tug and barge.
• Last year, B.C.’s inland ferries carried approximately 1.6 million vehicles and 2.3 million passengers.
• The four cable ferries to be replaced carried approximately 482,000 vehicles and 685,000 passengers last year.

Learn More:

A photo of the Adams Lake II is available at: http://ow.ly/EQWP30azmUp

For information on Inland Ferries visit: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/passenger-travel/water-travel/inland-ferries