The Saxman Seaport is a 6-acre multi-use site with a dredged harbor basin and uplands development, including a boatyard, launch ramp, moorage, and a mariculture facility. In 2022, PND was contracted by ADF&G and the City of Saxman to develop conceptual plans for a new boat launch and boarding float at the seaport. Later that year, Southeast Conference contracted PND to design alternatives for a new ferry terminal at the Saxman Seaport, building on a 2010 study that identified it as the preferred future facility site.
Public feedback on relocating the ferry terminal from Ketchikan to Saxman Seaport largely favored the move, citing potential for increased commerce in Saxman and Metlakatla, and reduced ferry run times leading to more frequent service. However, supporters also raised questions about guaranteed increased service frequency, potential fare reductions, and the provision of public transportation to Ketchikan. As part of an ongoing effort to include community voices in the development of Southeast Alaska, the Southeast Conference takes these community concerns into consideration as it plans out the next steps of improving the Saxman Seaport and by extension, the Alaska Marine Highway System.
