OLYMPIA – Construction of a new, hybrid electric Olympic Class ferry is expected to start in 2022. The new 144-car vessel will need a name and the Washington State Transportation Commission has initiated its process to do so by seeking naming proposals from the public. But it takes a little more work than just suggesting a name.
Naming guidelines
Sponsors of naming proposals will need to keep in mind the following:
• Names should carry statewide or regional significance and represent our state’s image and culture.
• Names should represent such things as state-adopted symbols, tribal names, names of bodies of water, geographic locations, cities, counties, relate to nautical heritage, etc.
• Consideration will be given for consistency with existing WSF fleet names.
• Names should have broad familiarity, be non-offensive, and meet ethical standards.
• Names with commercial overtones or names honoring or commemorating individuals should generally be avoided, but will be considered upon very careful review. In these cases, the following guidelines will apply:
o Individuals must be deceased for at least 20 years.
o They must have enduring distinction and have played a significant historical role in the region and/or state.
Naming proposals submitted to the commission must identify how they conform to the above guidelines; provide background on the proposed name, making a case for the proposal; and provide evidence of public support for the name.
How to submit name proposals:
Naming proposals must be received by 5 p.m. Friday, October 1 and must be provided in both hard copy and electronic form as follows:
• Hard copies are to be mailed to:
Washington State Transportation Commission
PO Box 47308
Olympia, WA 98504-7308
• Electronic copies are to be emailed to: transc@wstc.wa.gov, indicating “Ferry Naming Proposal” in the subject line.
