The Steilacoom ferry terminal will close for four months starting the evening of Jan. 3. Passengers can purchase tickets beginning Jan. 4 at the temporary ticketing facility located in the parking space directly across from the terminal or online at piercecountywa.org/ferry.

A portable restroom and a temporary covered waiting area will be available outside for passengers during construction. The updated terminal is expected to be completed in mid-May, just in time for Memorial Day traffic.

“We appreciate the public’s patience and we look forward to the improved terminal,” said Deb Wallace, airport and ferry administrator for Pierce County Public Works and Utilities. “We are encouraging riders to buy tickets online so they don’t have to walk to the temporary ticketing area and endure the cold weather,” Wallace added.

The remodel includes a renovation of the restrooms, updated interior finishes, new windows, new waiting room furniture, more efficient office space, Wi-Fi access and upgrades to the ticketing system, updates to the exterior column finishes and railings, and new energy efficient windows. The design concept creates an aesthetic inside/outside approach to integrate the building with the natural environment. Interior spaces connect with the outside capturing views, daylight, and natural ventilation. Special consideration was given to materials that are sustainable, durable, and affordable. The renovation will also improve energy efficiency to meet the 2009 Energy Code adopted by Washington State earlier this year. The upgraded materials will provide lower maintenance costs.

A 2010 survey of ferry patrons helped create a mutual vision of the completed facility. The town of Steilacoom helped Pierce County Public Works and Utilities develop a plan that complies with the community’s historical preservation guidelines.

Bids opened on Nov. 10 and the project was awarded to Westcoast Contracting.

For more information, visit piercecountywa.org/ferry.