Washington, D.C. - Rep. Rick Larsen announced today that Maryland-based Zodiac of North America will open a plant in Ferndale if they are awarded a U.S. Coast Guard contract worth $145 million.  The contract could result in 60 new jobs for Ferndale, WA.

“Our economy has taken a big hit in recent years. This is an exciting opportunity to create new jobs for the hard working people in Ferndale,” Larsen said.  “Clearly the company recognizes Whatcom County’s strong and talented workforce.  I’m proud that Ferndale is on their radar screen.”

Zodiac is vying for a contract with the United States Coast Guard to build 700 response boats over the next seven years.  Two other companies are competing with Zodiac for the $145 million contract. 

“These Response Boats will be protecting our shores and participating in the homeland security effort. There is no better place to find the quality hard workers needed to make these important safety vessels than right here in the Second Congressional District,” Larsen said.

Zodiac has already been awarded a contract worth $183,700 for one Response Boat - Small (RB-S) that will be used to determine whether Zodiac will be awarded the long-term contract.  The RB-S is a 25-foot aluminum-hulled boat with an 8.5-foot beam and a cabin with twin engines.

Zodiac of North America is also competing for a contract to produce a fleet of medium-sized response boats (RB-M).  If that contract is awarded, the RB-M fleet would also be produced in Ferndale, and replace the 41-footers the Coast Guard now uses along coastal waters.