The governments of BC and Canada announced funding to improve the Kootenay Lake ferry service today.
A new larger electric-ready vessel is part of the plan that will have almost twice the capacity of the MV Balfour and be able to accommodate between 50 and 60 vehicles. It will be used in tandem with the larger MV Osprey to significantly decrease wait times for users during peak seasons.
The Government of Canada is contributing up to $17,176,667 through the New Building Canada Plan. The Province is providing up to $37,515,720.
Upgrades will also be made to the Balfour and Kootenay Bay terminals, including new washrooms, sheltered waiting areas, public parking spaces and better terminal access for drivers along both Highway 31 and Highway 3A.
The new electric-ready vessel supports the B.C. government’s CleanBC plan to achieve full electrification of the inland ferry fleet by 2040.
