A new dock wall system for the S.S. Badger Car Ferry is nearly complete -just in time for the start of the new sailing season. McMullen and Pitz of Manitowoc is the lead contractor, and Project Manager Ted JenneJohn says work began last October on replacing the original dock wall that was built in the early 1940s. He says multiple repairs and maintenance has been a yearly necessity. The Badger doesn’t have modern “bow-thruster” meaning it can’t steer the bow precisely when it docks, especially in strong wind. A robust “fender system” will allow the captain to put the boat on the fender and right up to the apron for a smoother landing. JenneJohn adds that passengers from both Manitowoc and Ludington will reap the benefits including faster and safer docking, avoiding delays. He says there have been multiple calls for tug boats in the past to help dock the Badger in bad weather and the new dock wall will provide a solid infrastructure for the foreseeable future. It cost approximately $4.5 million to build. The Badger is ready to set sail for Manitowoc Friday, May 10th.
