Regional News

14-day closure of Keller Ferry delayed until September

Aug 08, 2019

Keller Ferry users will get a two-week reprieve on a terminal repair project closure, with work now starting in September.

Initially, the 14-day closure and repair was scheduled to be complete by Aug. 30, but delays in obtaining materials have pushed back that work.The ferry vessel M/V Sanpoil will now be out of service for two weeks in mid-September. The closure dates have tentatively been set for the evening of Friday, Sept. 13, through Friday, Sept. 27 - but those could be pushed back if any fires in the area restrict first responder and traveler access.

The delay from the August schedule was necessary because work to finish the terminal and pontoon replacement can’t begin until the steel components needed to fabricate part of the approach span arrive. When completed, this project will replace severely corroded terminal pontoons on both sides of the Columbia River, helping preserve the vital ferry service for many more years.

Travelers planning trips across the Columbia River on State Route 21 should choose an alternate route during the closure via SR 25 or SR 155 and SR 174. Plan additional time for travel as it can take up to an hour to complete the detour.