Fuel dock opens near downtown Olympia for first time in 18 years

The Port of Olympia’s marine fuel dock is finally open for business at Swantown Marina, marking the first time since 1999 to have such a facility near downtown, according to the port.

The fuel dock is located near the boat launch at the north end of the marina. It is open seven days a week and will accept cash and major credit cards. Checks won’t be accepted, according to the port.

The current fuel dock was a long time in the making. Boaters petitioned the port for one back in 2008, then the planning process got under way in 2011.

Not everyone supported the fuel dock and it encountered some delays during construction.

Commissioner E.J. Zita voted against seeking bids for the project and voted against awarding a contract for construction.

Still, commissioners Joe Downing and Bill McGregor voted in favor of the fuel dock in both instances to advance the project.

The fuel dock was originally supposed to open in spring, but harsh winter weather in Whatcom County delayed the manufacture of concrete floats.

The port, in a news release, touted the planning process for the fuel dock, saying it secured 10 federal, state and local agency permits to open the dock.

This story was originally published August 6, 2017 at 9:51 AM with the headline "Fuel dock opens near downtown Olympia for first time in 18 years."