Huna Totem Finalizes Tidelands Lease for Áak’w Landing, a Fifth Juneau Cruise Dock
Photo Credit: By Allen.G | Adobe Stock
A year after the City and Borough of Juneau Assembly greenlit development of a fifth dock on the capital city’s downtown waterfront, a tidelands lease with Huna Totem Corporation is now final. The project, called Áak’w Landing, would avoid the need to ferry passengers from a ship that anchors offshore when all four of Juneau’s existing cruise ship docks are occupied.
Meeting Demand, Reducing Congestion
“Áak’w Landing is a meaningful investment in Juneau’s future,” says Huna Totem CEO and President Russell Dick. “The project creates a welcoming space to share our culture and provides opportunities for local businesses, events, and community use, further revitalizing the downtown waterfront.”
Ninety-five large cruise ships are projected to anchor in Juneau during the season that starts next month. Áak’w Landing is expected to help meet growing demand for berth space while reducing vehicle congestion along Marine Park and South Franklin Street.
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The lease agreement clears the way for final design and construction. Beyond dock infrastructure, the development incorporates public spaces, dining, retail, and cultural experiences. Áak’w Landing improves harbor safety and air quality by bringing ships currently at anchor to a dock. The dock will be constructed with shore power capability, further promoting environmental sustainability.
The village corporation from nearby Hoonah has worked closely with the US Coast Guard to ensure dock alignment is compatible with the agency’s proposed pier in Juneau. In addition, the Coast Guard has expressed interest in using the Áak’w Landing dock for the icebreaker Storis and other vessels on an interim basis if needed.
“This project reflects many years of extensive community input and collaboration,” Dick says. “As the project moves into its next phase, we remain committed to working closely with the community as we bring this unique development to life.”
When completed by the target season of 2028, Áak’w Landing is expected to support new jobs, increase cruise passenger spending, and contribute significantly to Juneau tax revenues.
The project is separate from a cruise ship dock that Goldbelt, Juneau’s Alaska Native urban corporation, has proposed for property it owns on the far side of Douglas Island.
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