KELLER - The Keller Ferry across Lake Roosevelt will be closed for vessel repairs Tuesday, March 31, according to the state Department of Transportation.
     The ferry is part of state Highway 21 north of Wilbur between Lincoln and Ferry counties.
     Service is expected to resume at 6 a.m. April 1.
     DOT officials advise drivers to detour on other state routes.
     The project eventually will include design and construction of a replacement ferry boat and associated vehicles loading terminals.
     The current vessel, the Martha S., has been in service on the route since 1948. Replacement parts are no longer being manufactured commercially, so must be custom-made as needed, according to the DOT.
     The vessel has a limited capacity, especially when large trucks are on board.
     The new vessel and terminals are being designed, and vessel construction is dependent on additional funding.
     "Increasing safety is one of our priorities," according to a DOT announcement. "Improved vessel reliability and modern design will enhance safety for users and operators."
     The project is funded through $217,000 in state gas tax revenue and $10.78 million in federal funds. An additional $5.5 million is needed to complete the project.
     More information is available at www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/sr21/kellerferry or from project engineer Ken Olson, 2714 N. Mayfair, Spokane, WA 99207; phone (509) 324-6140 or e-mail olsonk@wsdot.wa.gov.