The Áak’w Landing cruise terminal project in downtown Juneau has undergone significant downsizing due to rising costs, and plans have been adjusted to a smaller scale while still maintaining key components. Originally, the terminal was set to cover 50,000 square feet; however, the current proposal has reduced this to approximately 18,000 square feet. The initial phase of construction will develop nearly 10,000 square feet of interior space, with an additional phase slated for the future without a specified timeline.
Despite these reductions, the revised design retains essential features of the original plan, including a visitor welcome center, a cultural center that celebrates local heritage, retail spaces, waterfront dining, and an extension of the seawalk. Nonetheless, the more extensive multi-story buildings and larger deck have been eliminated, painting a more modest vision of the terminal.
Huna Totem Corporation, which is developing the project, cites escalating expenses, especially tariffs affecting construction materials like steel, as the primary reasons for the modified plans. The overall cost of the project has surged from an initial estimate of $150 million to over $250 million due to these increases.
Parking modifications have also been made, shifting to above-ground facilities and simplifying pedestrian access. The aim is still to accommodate bus parking essential for tour groups linked to larger cruise ships.
Looking ahead, Huna Totem remains hopeful that the first phase of the terminal construction will be ready by the 2028 Alaska cruise season. To that end, the revised plans will need to pass through the Borough Assembly for approval once again, given the scope of changes compared to the original design.
If approved, the project is anticipated to benefit the local community by alleviating traffic congestion, extending the scenic waterfront, creating additional parking, and enhancing educational and economic opportunities for Juneau residents.
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