PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS

Inter-Island Ferry Authority Invitation to Submit Proposals for Terminal Security Camera Systems

Click here for PDF document of the RPF

Introduction & Background
The Inter-Island Ferry Authority (IFA) invites qualified vendors to submit proposals for the supply and installation of security camera systems at its terminal facilities in Ketchikan and Hollis, Alaska. This project aims to enhance the safety and security of our passengers, employees, and property by implementing a reliable, modern surveillance system.
The IFA operates a daily ferry service between Prince of Wales Island and Revillagigedo Island and is committed to ensuring secure and well-monitored facilities as part of our public service mission.

Proposed Services
The IFA currently utilizes a 16-camera security system in its Hollis terminal facility. We are seeking to upgrade and expand this system to improve coverage, visibility, and overall functionality.
The selected vendor would be responsible for furnishing and installing a comprehensive camera security system that includes:

• An increase in the number of viewable camera angles to enhance overall coverage, particularly in public access areas, terminal entrances/exits, parking zones, and loading ramps.
• A license plate-grade camera capable of capturing clear vehicle identification at entry and exit points.
• A selection of wide-range, high-resolution cameras, such as dome or dual-lens cameras, to cover both indoor and outdoor areas with varying lighting and environmental conditions.
• Wireless bridge equipment or other networking solutions to ensure reliable connectivity between terminal buildings and remote-mounted cameras, including coverage of the vehicle ramp at the Hollis Terminal.
• A centralized recording system with ample storage capacity, extended viewing capabilities, and remote access for authorized personnel.
• A single camera located behind the desk area of the Ketchikan Terminal, viewing POS systems and cash handling areas.

IFA Terminal Security Camera System
In addition, the vendor must be able to:

• Safely decommission and remove the existing system and cabling.
• Install all new (limited) cabling and mounts.
• Configure and test the entire system for reliable performance.
• Provide staff training and basic troubleshooting.
• Coordinate any necessary electrical work, particularly for cameras placed in remote or exposed areas.
• Provide a diagram of viewing areas for both terminals to ensure adequate coverage.

Vendors may recommend alternative equipment and configurations, provided they meet or exceed the goals of improved visibility, reliability, and operational efficiency.

Scheduling Relating to this Invitation

• RFP Issued: October 16th
• Deadline to Submit Questions: November 5th
• Proposals Due: November 17th
• Anticipated Award Date: December 2025
• Target Installation Completion: January-February 2026

The IFA reserves the right to modify this schedule as needed.

Responding to this Invitation
To be considered, vendors must submit a complete proposal including the following:

• A letter that introduces the vendor to the IFA and discusses the vendor’s interest in and qualifications for performing the services outlined in this invitation.
• Description of proposed system and equipment specifications.
• Project approach and installation plan.
• Timeline for delivery and installation.
• Optional maintenance/service agreement terms.
• At least two recent client references.
• Proof of insurance, licensing, and bonding (if applicable).
• Budget.

No Warranties, Guarantees, or Promises
No member of the Board of Directors, nor any employee of the IFA, nor any contract employee of the IFA, is authorized to make verbal assurances, commitments, warranties, guarantees, or promises to Vendors or anyone acting on behalf of any Vendor with respect to this invitation to submit bids and any resulting proposals. Any requests for information must be submitted in writing by the IFA. It is the sole responsibility of any Vendor submitting a proposal to conduct whatever due diligence that Vendor deems necessary.

Submit Responses: By email: [email protected]
The deadline for submitting responses is 4:00 PM Alaska Time, November 17, 2025.

For additional information, please contact
Johanna Thayer Inter-Island Ferry Authority 907-313-8882 [email protected]

🌊 Travel Notice 🌊
Due to forecasted weather conditions, the Inter-Island Ferry Authority will not be sailing on Friday, September 26th.

The safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to plan accordingly.

For schedule updates, please visit: [insert IFA website link]

— Inter-Island Ferry Authority

The Inter-Island Ferry Authority will operate temporary service between Ketchikan and Annette Bay (Metlakatla) from September 18 through October 26, 2025, covering the route typically served by the AMHS Lituya.

Scheduled Departure Times:

Depart Ketchikan — 11:30 AM

Arrive Metlakatla — 12:15 PM

Depart Metlakatla — 12:30 PM

Arrive Ketchikan — 1:15 PM

Passengers traveling with vehicles must arrive at the terminal 45 minutes prior to departure for staging.

Sailing Dates:
September 18, 19, 21, 25, 26, 28
October 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24, 26

Reservations are strongly recommended. To book, please call (866) 308-4848 or visit our website.

We are pleased to provide this temporary service and appreciate the opportunity to assist the Metlakatla community.

Beginning in January 2025, the Inter-Island Ferry Authority (IFA) will implement a fare increase across all routes. This change reflects our commitment to strengthening the IFA’s service for the future by addressing rising operational costs, reducing reliance on state funding, and supporting essential community programs.

Why is the Fare Increase Necessary?

The fare increase will help the IFA:

• Reduce Dependence on State Funding: Fare adjustments allow us to rely less on fluctuating state support, creating a more resilient and stable operation.
• Address Rising Costs: Like many transportation services, the IFA faces increasing costs in areas such as fuel, vessel maintenance, and safety upgrades, all critical to keeping our ferries safe and dependable.
• Invest in Community Programs: The IFA proudly offers discounted fares for school trips, support for veterans, and additional programs benefiting our passengers and local communities. Fare revenue helps us maintain and expand these services.

Fare Contribution Breakdown

Every fare contributes to maintaining the quality and availability of our service. Here’s a breakdown of what your fare supports:

• Payroll and Staffing: Ensures competitive wages and consistent staffing levels, keeping ferry schedules running smoothly and efficiently.
• Safety and Maintenance Upgrades: Regular maintenance and safety checks are vital to providing safe, reliable journeys.
• Community Programs: Discounts and special rates, including 20% off for school trips, 50% disability discounts, and grants for veterans, are sustained through fare revenue.

Impact in Numbers:

Over the past five years, the IFA’s operational costs have increased steadily. However, our community programs, including the youth discount alone, provided over $120,000 in savings to schools between 2019 and 2024, benefiting over 16,000 school passengers. By adjusting fares, we can continue to offer these programs while remaining financially sustainable.

We are thrilled to announce that the Highly Rural Travel Grant for Veterans Traveling for Healthcare has been awarded to the State of Alaska once again! We are honored to continue offering this vital service to our veteran community.

Starting February 1st, we’ll be accepting walk-on fares and vehicle fares under this grant!

For Veterans traveling with an escort, make sure to obtain an authorization form from Forrest Powell, our dedicated Grant Administrator, at 907-334-0872 or [email protected].

It’s a privilege for us to provide this essential service to our veterans, and we can’t wait to welcome you all aboard soon.

Thank you for your service!

Click here for an appointment card

We are thrilled to announce that the Highly Rural Travel Grant for Veterans Traveling for Healthcare has been awarded to the State of Alaska once again! We are honored to continue offering this vital service to our veteran community.

Starting September 15th, we’ll be accepting walk-on fares under this grant. Please note that vehicle transport will be temporarily unavailable, but we’ll keep you updated as the year progresses regarding when vehicles will be allowed again.

For Veterans traveling with an escort, make sure to obtain a reauthorization form from Forrest Powell, our dedicated Grant Administrator, at 907-334-0872 or [email protected]. Because this is a new grant cycle, all of the FY2023 Escort Authorizations have expired. Please be sure to talk to Forrest to get those renewed before travel!

It’s a privilege for us to provide this essential service to our veterans, and we can’t wait to welcome you all aboard soon.

Thank you for your service!