The redevelopment of the Belleville Terminal in Victoria’s Inner Harbour has reached an important milestone.
The first phase of the project, which began in March 2024, is officially complete, setting the stage for a new, state-of-the-art pre-clearance terminal.
This redevelopment will improve travel, trade, and tourism by modernizing border security and making the entire transportation experience more efficient.
“This project is a key milestone for Greater Victoria, strengthening trade, travel, and tourism by serving as a vital transportation gateway for goods and people,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.
The first phase included some essential upgrades, like modifications to the Steamship Wharf and the construction of a temporary terminal within the existing Steamship building.
This temporary terminal now houses the FRS Clipper and US Customs and Border Protection, ensuring that ferry service between Vancouver Island and Washington state continues without disruption during construction.
“The completion of the first phase lays the groundwork for new terminal facilities that will secure our Canada-U.S. border, improve travel convenience, and help drive the regional economy,” said Mike Farnworth, BC’s Minister of Transportation and Transit.
The project has been a long-time discussion, and it has garnered significant support from local communities, businesses, and the tourism sector.
With phase one complete, the next part of the project is set to kick off in spring 2025.
This next phase includes demolishing the existing Clipper terminal and constructing a new pre-clearance terminal building. The new terminal will allow passengers to complete US customs and immigration processes before leaving Victoria, making travel faster and easier.
This phase also involves replacing outdated wharf facilities and building a commercial goods processing facility.
The BC government is working with a design-build proponent for phase two, with contract details expected to be finalized soon. The full project is expected to be completed in time for the 2028 tourism season.
According to the province, the new Belleville Terminal will be built to LEED Gold standards, making it an environmentally friendly, all-electric facility.
It will meet energy usage and carbon emission targets and will be fully accessible, in line with Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) standards.
In addition to meeting modern standards, the redevelopment will also celebrate local Indigenous culture. The Province is working closely with the Songhees Nation and Esquimalt Nation to showcase the cultural significance of the terminal’s location and provide an authentic welcome to visitors entering Lekwungen territory.
For more updates on the project, visit the official Belleville Terminal website: Belleville Terminal Redevelopment.
