By Karen Robes Meeks
Nearly a decade in the making, the long-awaited Swantown Marine Fueling Station is now open at the Port of Olympia.
The new fueling station, which is open daily and accepts cash and major credit cards, features emergency shutoff buttons and shutoff valves along the delivery system, a leak detection system that automatically alerts to any abnormalities, and dedicated monitors and security cameras.
“The port is committed to creating infrastructure to support and significantly expand recreational opportunities and regional visitation,” said Executive Director Ed Galligan. “This same infrastructure will also broaden the port's support of commercial maritime activities in the area. Swantown is now a full-service marina, which will not only make access easier for local boaters, but also help promote tourism in Thurston County. The fact that we also will operate the most environmentally-friendly facility in Puget Sound is a particular source of pride.”
Until the new station, downtown Olympia had no marine fueling service option since 1999. In 2008, 800 residents signed a petition asking the port to put in a station at Swantown Marina.
