Those travelling between Victoria and Washington State by ferry will soon have a new, secure, modern pre-clearance terminal as construction moves forward for the Belleville Terminal redevelopment project, according to the province.
The project aims to streamline travel by allowing passengers to complete the customs and immigration process in Victoria prior to disembarking in the U.S.
READ MORE: Public comments invited for multi-million dollar Bellville terminal project
“This terminal represents a critical trade junction for our region and the country as a whole,” said Rob Fleming, minister of transportation and infrastructure.
“Moving forward with this project to transform it into an improved, modern entry point will not only generate economic growth on both sides of the border, it will make travel more convenient and enjoyable for the people travelling through this hub every year.”
Willow Spring Construction Ltd. has been awarded the contract to construct phase one of the Steamship Temporary Terminal.
Early work on the terminal is set to begin immediately, with estimated completion in fall 2024.
Pacific Industrial & Marine Ltd. has been awarded the contract for the first phase of wharf modifications. Offsite work on the wharf is about to begin near Cowichan Bay, and wharf work at the terminal is expected to begin this summer.
During the first phase of construction, pedestrian access along the causeway behind the Steamship building will be closed, and a large temporary structure will be placed behind the building this spring.
The province says some noise is anticipated during this phase due to construction work to modify the wharf and building, adding there will be no impact to current Clipper and Coho ferry sailings during construction.
“The Belleville terminal redevelopment will respect modern safety and security standards, while facilitating the movement of both goods and people into the heart of Victoria’s inner harbour,” said Sean Fraser, federal minister of housing, infrastructure and communities.
“We will continue supporting projects, such as this one, that will strengthen our economy for decades to come.”
The terminal acts as an international gateway for goods, services and passengers and drives regional and provincial economic growth.
According to the province, travellers spend approximately $174 million annually, generating $268 million in economic output and $155 million in provincial gross domestic product (GDP).
“We are thrilled to see this project advancing as the redevelopment of the terminal has been our number one priority for the last three decades,” said Paul Nursey, CEO of Destination Greater Victoria. “This is an act of future-proofing our region, our businesses and our relationships with visitors from the U.S., and it keeps Greater Victoria looking like the remarkable destination it truly is.”
The upgrade will bring the terminal into compliance with the Canada-U.S. Land, Rail, Marine and Air Transport Pre-clearance Agreement.
The province says the project is also advancing toward the second phase of permanent upgrades to the terminal.
The shortlisted proponents invited to participate in a request for proposal include EllisDon Corporation, KL Belleville Terminal Partners and Pomerleau Inc.
The project is expected to be fully complete in time for the 2028 tourism season, with a budget of $303.9 million and a $41.6 million federal contribution.
The province is also working collaboratively with the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations to identify opportunities to showcase the cultural and geographical significance of the project’s location and welcome visitors into Lekwungen territory.
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