County and WSF complete Orcas Ferry Terminal Updates, paving the way for greater accessibility

||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||

The latest phase of accessibility improvements at the Orcas Ferry Landing is now complete. The project added ADA-compliant parking spaces, updated stormwater infrastructure, provided additional sidewalks and pavement markings, and added a new retaining wall, among other key features that increase public safety and access to amenities. The public is invited to join County and Washington State Ferries (WSF) officials to celebrate! 

You’re Invited

Come celebrate the new project in Orcas Village on Thursday, November 2. Meet at 10:30 AM at the new parking area on Orcas Rd., south of the Orcas Hotel. After a few words and a tree planting ceremony, the community is welcome to explore the new additions at Orcas Landing.

Project History: 

This project completes Phase II of Orcas Island Ferry Terminal upgrades.

• Phase I began in 2016 when WSF, with the support of San Juan County, installed ADA accessible ramps accompanied by a new retaining wall with walkways to and from the terminal, and a pedestrian pick up and drop off area. The first phase also remodeled the existing waiting room and ticketing structure with a better facility located on the upper floor of a county building.
• In 2018 San Juan County continued the work WSF initiated and extended the new retaining wall, converted an existing industrial structure to a scenic viewing area, constructed a ramp to expand public access to a larger portion of the Orcas Landing parcel, and relocated utility appurtenances which was essential to make way for Phase II of construction.

Phase II went out for bid in mid-November of 2022 and the contract was awarded in January of 2023. The County would like to thank the project contractor, Mike Carlson Enterprises, and his crew for their diligence and commitment to a successful outcome. Thank you also to the Orcas Village businesses, the ferry terminal crew, and the community for accommodating the construction, and for kindly and respectfully working with the Contractor, WSF, and the County.

About San Juan County’s Public Works Department  

San Juan County’s Public Works Department constructs and maintains county roads, designs and constructs storm water facilities, and plans and contracts for solid waste services. The department offices are located at 1609 Beaverton Valley Rd., Friday Harbor, WA 98250. For more information about San Juan County’s Public Works Department, visit www.sanjuanco.com/277/Public-Works .