Alaska Native village corporation Huna Totem Corporation and the City and Borough of Juneau have finalized a tidelands lease agreement for the Áak’w Landing project, clearing the way for final design and construction of a new cruise ship dock and waterfront destination in downtown Juneau. The lease agreement follows Assembly and Planning Commission approvals and represents years of collaboration and public engagement.
Once completed, Áak’w Landing is expected to generate significant economic activity, improve visitor flow, and create new opportunities for community engagement along the downtown waterfront.
Áak’w Landing is expected to help meet growing demand for berth space, with 95 large cruise ships projected to anchor in 2026 and additional capacity needed in the years ahead. Given its location, this development significantly reduces vehicle congestion along Marine Park and South Franklin Street, while providing easy pedestrian access to downtown attractions and shops.
“Áak’w Landing is a meaningful investment in Juneau’s future,” said Russell Dick, president and CEO of Huna Totem Corporation. “The project creates a welcoming space to share our culture and provides opportunities for local businesses, events, and community use, further revitalizing the downtown waterfront.”
Beyond dock infrastructure, the development incorporates public spaces, dining, retail, and cultural experiences. Áak’w Landing improves harbor safety and air quality by bringing ships currently at anchor to a dock. The dock will be constructed with shore power capability, further promoting environmental sustainability.
Áak’w Landing is also expected to support new jobs, increase cruise passenger spending, and contribute significantly to local tax revenues—positioning it among Juneau’s top property taxpayers.
As part of broader waterfront coordination efforts, Huna Totem Corporation worked closely with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure dock alignment is compatible with the Coast Guard’s proposed pier. The Coast Guard has expressed interest in using the Áak’w Landing dock for the icebreaker Storis and other vessels on an interim basis if needed.
“This project reflects many years of extensive community input and collaboration,” Dick said. “As the project moves into its next phase, we remain committed to working closely with the community as we bring this unique development to life.”
(Photo by OST/iStock/Getty Images Plus/Getty Images)
Formed under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971 (ANCSA), HTC represents more than 1,850 Alaska Native shareholders with Indigenous ties to Glacier Bay and the community of Hoonah, Alaska. The corporation is the single largest employer in Hoonah. To learn more, visit www.hunatotem.com.
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