Work on new Victoria ferry terminal to begin this summer

Key Takeaways:

• Major construction on Victoria’s new Belleville ferry terminal will begin later this summer, following the awarding of a $304-million design-build contract to Pomerleau Inc. Preliminary work starts by the end of June.
• The project includes a new pre-clearance terminal that will streamline U.S. customs processing in Victoria, as well as upgraded wharves and a commercial goods facility, aimed at improving the ferry experience and supporting tourism and trade.
• The total project cost has increased to $416 million due to seismic and environmental challenges. The federal government has increased its funding to over $45 million to help cover the expanded budget. Completion is expected by 2028.

The Whole Story:

Construction is set to begin this summer on a long-awaited overhaul of the Belleville ferry terminal in downtown Victoria, after the B.C. government awarded a $304-million design-build contract to Pomerleau Inc.

Preliminary work on the project will begin by the end of June, with major construction to follow later in the summer. Once completed, the redeveloped terminal is expected to improve the international ferry experience for travellers between Vancouver Island and Washington State, while supporting local jobs and boosting the region’s tourism economy.

The new terminal will replace aging infrastructure and include a modern pre-clearance facility, allowing passengers to complete U.S. customs and immigration procedures before boarding — in line with the Canada-U.S. Land, Rail, Marine and Air Transport Preclearance Agreement. The project also includes a commercial goods processing facility and upgrades to wharf infrastructure.

“This major milestone brings us another step closer to offering improved ferry services and more convenient travel for decades to come,” said B.C. Transportation and Transit Minister Mike Farnworth in a statement.

The project’s total cost has risen from the $331 million budget approved in 2024 to $416 million. The province cited complex seismic and geotechnical conditions, extensive soil contamination, inflation and economic uncertainty, including tariffs, as key factors behind the increase. The federal government has increased its contribution to over $45 million.

The redevelopment is taking place on the traditional territory of the lək̓wəŋən (Lekwungen) people, represented by the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations. The province says it is working collaboratively with both Nations throughout the process.

Local leaders and tourism advocates welcomed the announcement as a major step forward for Victoria’s transportation infrastructure. The project has long been a priority for city officials and business groups who see the terminal as a critical gateway for trade and tourism.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2028.

Phase 1 of the project, now complete, included upgrades to the Steamship and Black Ball properties to ensure continued ferry service during the next stage of construction.