New state ferry named 'Sammamish'?

Could one of Washington's new ferries soon carry the name, "Sammamish?"

The city sure hopes so.

In a response to an invitation from the Washington State Transportation Commission, the city asked the name be considered for one of the two new Olympic Class, 144-car ferries.

According to the commission, tribal names, bodies of water and geographical locations are good candidates. Ideally, the names should also represent the state's image, culture and have a broad familiarity.

"We're excited about the possibility," Sammamish City Manager Ben Yazici said. "We know there will be a lot of worthy submissions, but I think 'Sammamish' would look great on one of these two new ferries. I think the City Council would also be happy to pass a proclamation in support of the idea."

The deadline for name submissions is Sept. 26. Among other things, the submission should include background information on the name, evidence of public enthusiasm and letters of support from local organizations.

"It would be great if residents sent us letters of support to include in the submission," Yazici said. "We could make this a real group effort."

After the submission deadline, the commission will begin a review and public comment process. The final selection of names for the two ferries will occur at the commission's Nov. 13 meeting in Tacoma.

Those interested in showing support for the name "Sammamish" should send letters by Sept. 21 to Allison Gubata, Sammamish City Hall, 801 228th Ave., S.E., Sammamish, WA, 98075.

 

Contact Issaquah Reporter Assistant editor Kevin Endejan at kendejan@issaquah-reporter.com or 425-391-0363, ext. 5054.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.