By Cyndi Sellers

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is advertising for a design firm to provide engineering and design for a new Cameron Ferry. It is the first step in eventually getting a new ferry across the Calcasieu Ship Channel. Proposals are due Tuesday, May 5.

The firm selected will design and oversee eventual construction of a ferry based on the design of the existing M/V Cameron II. It must be able to carry no less than 35 automobiles, no less than six semis (with other vehicles on board), 10 pedestrians and five bicyclists. The maximum width and height shall not exceed 50 feet, and it must be able to carry a minimum of 500 passengers and four crew members.

The firm will consult with DOTD personnel to “address DOTD proposed alterations to the existing preliminary design for better functionality of the vessel.” The overall timeline for the scope of services is five years.