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PORT TOWNSEND — Ferry workers almost outnumbered passengers Wednesday as they rode the Keystone-Port Townsend run to discuss fare increases that go into effect Sunday.
One of the passengers, Jim Guthrie of Port Townsend, says he understands the need for the increases and doesn’t mind paying from 8 percent to 20 percent more.
“I like the ferries and I think the rates are justified,” Guthrie said. “Now that I’m in Port Townsend, let’s raise them more and keep everybody else out. I do think the fares are fair.”
Larry Gernaat of Traceyton said he rides the ferries to Seattle perhaps once per month and doesn’t expect the higher rates to affect the frequency of use.
“The entire Puget Sound area is keeping pace. And basically to keep the ferries going, you have to raise rates,” he said. “Costs go up. I understand why the fares have to go up.”
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