Marine Atlantic customers will soon be enjoying a new, larger and more convenient ferry terminal building in North Sydney. Construction is nearing completion on the $20-million state-of-the-art structure, which will replace a smaller 30-year-old facility that had become inadequate to meet modern operational requirements.
Marine Atlantic CEO Paul Griffin says the new building will move the ferry service firmly into the 21st Century, adding that it is really configured around customer needs, while meeting all current security requirements as well. Mr. Griffin escorted a group of dignitaries, including Transport Minister Lisa Raitt, on a tour of the facility in late December.
It’s expected to be ready for occupancy in late spring, according to Marine Atlantic spokesman Darrell Mercer. He expects passengers will be pleased to have ready access to the amenities of downtown North Sydney while waiting to board. They will simply have to step out the main entrance to avail of a variety of dining options and other attractions and services just a short walk away. He said the company has been working closely with the business community as the project unfolded, and suggested there would be mutual benefits for the town, the company, and the travelling public.
The building will offer improved access for walk-on passengers and those connecting with Maritime Bus, and the new location offers much more public parking than was available previously. The design incorporates all the latest advances in services for passengers with special needs, as well as cutting-edge environmental technology. It will also have a dedicated lounge for commercial drivers.
