PORT TOWNSEND — The Steilacoom II has served the route between Port Townsend and Whidbey Island for almost three years, and as it is about to be replaced by a new 65-car ferry, the people of Port Townsend are showing their appreciation.
Port Townsend artist Max Grover was commissioned to create a painting to give to Pierce County officials as a formal thank-you for the use of the ferry since January 2008.
The painting cost the city of Port Townsend $2,500, City Manager David Timmons said.
It depicts a view from Port Townsend with a representation of the Steilacoom II and a message painted across the blue water.
“On behalf of all those who ride the ferry, the city of Port Townsend thanks the people of Pierce County for the use of the Steilacoom II in our time of need,” the message reads.
Washington State Ferries leased the 50-car Steilacoom II from Pierce County.
The boat has been the solo ferry between the two Admiralty Inlet docks since state Transportation Secretary Paula Hammond pulled four 80-year-old Steel Electric ferries from service because their hulls were pitted and corroded.
“We are deeply grateful to Pierce County for their willingness to let Washington State Ferries lease the Steilacoom II ferry and keep traffic moving between Port Townsend and Whidbey Island,” Mayor Michelle Sandoval said.
A new 65-car ferry, the $76.5 million Chetzemoka, will sail between the Coupeville and Port Townsend terminals for the first time Sunday, Nov. 14, with much ceremony and fanfare.
The Chetzemoka will begin regular service on its route Monday, Nov. 15.
The painting is now on display at City Hall, 250 Madison St., between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
It is accompanied by a card addressed to Pierce County, and people can write messages of appreciation.
Timmons said the city hopes to present the painting to Pierce County officials during the Nov. 14 inauguration ceremony for the Chetzemoka, to which they have been invited.
Timmons said that the Port Townsend City Council agreed that appreciation should be extended to Pierce County, and Sandoval suggested the painting.
“We wanted to make this a surprise for them,” Timmons said.
“But we needed to let the public know they can sign the card, so that ruined the surprise.”
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
