A new bill moving through the Washington State Legislature could bring passenger-only ferry service to communities across Puget Sound, including Bellevue. House Bill 1923, known as the Mosquito Fleet Act, would establish a grant program to fund the purchase and operation of passenger-only ferries starting July 1, 2025.
Sponsored by State Rep. Greg Nance (D–Bainbridge Island), the bill would allow public transit agencies throughout the state to operate passenger-only ferry routes, expanding beyond the current service areas of Kitsap and King counties. The proposed ferries would likely carry up to 149 passengers each, providing an alternative to traditional road-based transit.
One potential route under discussion would connect Bellevue and Kirkland to the University of Washington across Lake Washington, easing congestion on major roadways like Interstate 405 and State Route 520. Nance emphasized the benefits of this approach, stating, “So, Kirkland and Bellevue over to the University of Washington without having to drive your car.”
The Mosquito Fleet Act aims to improve transportation efficiency for commuters and reduce strain on the Washington State Ferries system, which has faced significant service cuts and delays in recent years. “Folks are frustrated with years of ferry service cuts and cancellations,” said Nance. “Getting more passenger-only boats in the water is the fastest way to show our neighbors that the legislature is making progress to fix our ferries.”
If passed, the bill could provide a new transit option for Bellevue residents who commute to Seattle and other nearby locations, offering a potentially faster and more reliable alternative to driving or traditional bus routes. Bellevue’s growing population and increasing traffic congestion make water-based transit an appealing possibility for the city’s commuters.
“The benefits of passenger-only ferries should be available to folks across Puget Sound and around the state,” Nance said. “That’s what the Mosquito Fleet Act is all about.”
The legislation is currently under consideration, and if approved, funding for the grant program would begin in mid-2025.
