Company Faces Lawsuit Over Kootenay Lake Ferry Costs
A major dispute has emerged over the construction of the new Kootenay Lake ferry in southeastern British Columbia after a contractor filed a lawsuit seeking more than $6 million in unpaid fees. The legal action underscores growing tensions surrounding the long-delayed and costly ferry project.
Civil Claim Filed in B.C. Supreme Court
On December 24, Eco HeavyDuty Repairs filed a civil claim against Western Pacific Marine, the company that had been responsible for building the new ferry, in B.C. Supreme Court. The lawsuit says the Vancouver-based firm owes about $6.4 million for work completed on the vessel, which is being built at a temporary dry dock near Nelson on Kootenay Lake.
According to the claim, Eco HeavyDuty initially worked under an oral agreement with Western Pacific Marine and later under a formal contract that allowed the company to bill monthly. The contractor says it submitted 86 invoices between January and September of 2025. While payments totaling about $11.7 million were made, the unpaid balance grew to roughly $6.7 million before Western Pacific Marine returned about $321,000 toward the end of the year.
Alleged Contract Breach and Damages
Eco HeavyDuty’s claim argues Western Pacific Marine “refused or neglected” to settle the outstanding invoices, which Eco HeavyDuty says amounts to a breach of contract. The lawsuit states that the company has suffered financial loss and damage as a result of the unpaid balance and any applicable contractual interest.
At the time of reporting, neither a spokesperson for Eco HeavyDuty nor a representative for Western Pacific Marine responded to requests for comment.
Ferry Project Delays and Budget Increases
Western Pacific Marine was awarded the original provincial contract in 2021, with the goal of building a new ferry and upgrading terminals so the vessel could eventually run on electric power. That contract was valued at about $63 million. However, the project faced repeated delays due to labour shortages and the challenges of building in an inland location. The province removed Western Pacific Marine from the project in early December 2025, and now says the ferry will cost around $117 million and enter service in 2027.
The new ferry, designed to carry up to 55 vehicles, is intended to replace the aging MV Balfour, which has been operating the scenic crossing between Balfour and Kootenay Bay since the 1950s.
What Happens Next
The court case will now proceed through the legal system, where Eco HeavyDuty seeks payment of the unpaid fees and related damages. As the lawsuit moves forward, it could create additional scrutiny on the ferry project’s management and contracts, especially given the significant cost increases and timeline changes.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
