It’s not uncommon these days for the ferry lane in Kingston to be backed up along State Route 104. In fact, it’s expected during holiday weekends, as it has been for years.

Unfortunately for those held up in line — especially those people waiting further down 104 near Barber Cut Off — restrooms are not readily available. As local traffic whizzes by, those trying to make the voyage across the Puget Sound are stuck holding it in, trekking to the nearest business that has amendments, or relieving themselves on the side of the road.

In response to the January Editorial (“Local Priorities for 2012,” page 4), Kingston Port Commissioner Walt Elliott — who is also chairman of the Kingston Ferry Advisory Committee — began looking at the possibilities of installing portable restrooms along 104. Two possible locations: At Lindvog Road and near Barber Cut Off Road. We commend this initiative. However, there are factors to consider.

If installed, the amenities should be properly and frequently maintained. It’s going to take a cooperative approach to make sure the restrooms remain sanitary. Because all areas of business in Kingston potentially benefit from ferry traffic, the responsibility should be shared by Washington State Ferries, Kingston Chamber of Commerce and the Port of Kingston. Each entity could, for example, share the cost of cleaning and maintenance. Elliott said the restroom at Arness Park costs less than $100 a month.

Another concern is the aesthetic look of portable restrooms. There’s no getting around what they are, but finding a way to make the restrooms more aesthetically pleasing is necessary. This could be as simple as placing a few trees in planters on either side of the restroom, or as far as constructing a small, walled-in area with the restrooms inside. Naturally, there will need to be upkeep. Graffiti the restrooms could draw will need to be kept to a minimum.

But what if restrooms along the ferry lane do not come to fruition? Perhaps WSF could contract with local businesses to make restrooms available. The business could recover costs for maintenance and supplies, and attract potential customers.