ORS 384.305: Operation of interstate ferries by Department of Transportation, counties, cities, towns or ports.

The state acting by and through the Department of Transportation, and any county, city, town or port of the State of Oregon adjoining or bordering on any interstate river or stream of water, is each and every one authorized to: (1) Establish, maintain and operate ferry service in and to any adjoining state, and for such purpose may acquire by gift, purchase, lease, contract, agreement, condemnation or otherwise, real, personal and mixed property, rights, rights of way, approaches, licenses, privileges and easements, equipment and facilities in the State of Oregon or any adjoining state, necessary or convenient for the proper construction, maintenance and operation of any such ferry service or services; or (2) Contract with others for the purpose of operating and maintaining such ferry service.