Clackamas County has spent the better part of a year studying the question of what to do about the Canby Ferry, and in a couple weeks, they’re finally going to tell us what they think.
The ferry is closely tied to the history of the area, with a legacy going back over 100 years, and it’s one of only three still operating on the Willamette River. But in terms of its fit with the overall county transportation system, the ferry is not very efficient or cost-effective and is poorly used.
It’s also due to be replaced in 15 to 20 years, at an estimated cost of $2-3 million — a figure some of the county commissioners have already balked at.
The main alternative would be a toll bridge at that location, perhaps with the ferry still operating on a reduced schedule, as a tourist attraction and nod to the local history.
County transportation staff will present their findings from the feasibility study at 6 p.m. Jan. 15 at Canby Foursquare Church. Their findings will include information on financial costs, traffic impacts and other issues related to potential alternatives such as building a toll bridge or discontinuing the ferry altogether.
For impacted residents, and anyone else who cares about what happens to the ferry, another date to mark on your calendars is from 6 to 8 p.m. on Feb. 19, also at Canby Foursquare Church. This will be your chance to testify before commissioners and let them know what you think should be done.
A decision is expected after staff completes their final report, which is expected in late February or March.