PAWLEYS ISLAND, S.C. (AP) - A new school ferry has been purchased to replace the 50-year-old one that had been carrying students who live on Sandy Island in Georgetown County.
The state Department of Education bought the ferry, named the New Prince Washington, which was specifically built to serve Sandy Island, multiple media outlets reported.
Georgetown County School District Superintendent Randy Dozier said the new boat is expected to be in use by the first day of school Aug. 20.
There is no bridge link to the island located west of Pawleys Island. The ferry takes students about a mile to the mainland, where they then board a school bus.
“The old boat had been in service for a long time and certainly it’s done its job,” Dozier said. “I would say it’s still safe, but the newer boat is a little safer, a little faster.”
The boat features six seating benches, new life jackets, several heaters, an elevated captain’s seat, an emergency exit and a 90-horsepower outboard Suzuki engine. It seats 12 people and has tie-downs for wheelchairs. School officials say it can safely carry 16 people.
“It has all the things we were looking for,” Dozier said. “And the handicap access is certainly important.”
The new ferry passed Coast Guard inspections Tuesday.
Dozier said the district has been in discussion with the state education department for a new ferry for about 10 years.
“We’re excited to have a new boat - it’s been a long time coming,” Dozier said. “I think the kids and community will be excited about it.”
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