Renovation Begins at Historic Fisherman’s Terminal

The team at Stacey and Jacobsen, PLLC is delighted to announce that The Port of Seattle has broken ground and begun the renovation and modernization of the historic Ship Supply Building at Fishermen’s Terminal. The community can expect a state-of-the-art Maritime Innovation Center (MInC) certified by the Living Building Challenge (LBC). This new facility will cater to the maritime industry needs, fostering collaboration among students, businesses, public agencies, educators, and community members. The Port has teamed up with Miller Hull to reimagine this distinctive landmark.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a celebration of the Port’s substantial commitment to support innovation as a way to foster the maritime industry’s ability to sustain our region’s blue economy,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Felleman. “The transformation of the Port’s oldest asset into one that can meet the Living Building Challenge symbolizes the Port’s recognition of the maritime industry’s significance to our region’s history and future.”

“The future of the maritime industry and the ocean economy is innovative, sustainable, and equitable,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Ryan Calkins. “The Maritime Innovation Center will foster an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation which will ensure that all the sectors of the maritime industry, from commercial fishing to the growing green maritime economy, have not only a home but an anchor in Seattle.”

Opened in 1914, Fishermen’s Terminal has been a cornerstone of the fishing industry and community in the Pacific Northwest for over a century. As one of the premier facilities on our working waterfront, it is home to the North Pacific Fleet and the site of the Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial. Open to the public, Fishermen’s Terminal serves as a gathering place for maritime workers, neighbors, and tourists, fostering community and creating jobs. With restaurants, a fresh seafood market, a mailing center, a barber shop, and offices, it is a bustling hub.

To prepare for the next century of commercial fishing and maritime activity at the terminal, the Port of Seattle has committed over $100 million to a long-term strategic redevelopment plan. This investment aims to maintain docks for commercial fishers, enhance facilities, and honor the history and legacy of Fishermen’s Terminal. When the building opens, visitors will also enjoy new art projects funded by the Port’s 1% for the Arts program. For more information about this program and the plans for the space, see Art Funding.

The Port of Seattle has committed to a Blue Economy, supporting a sustainable maritime industry that prioritizes healthy ecosystems, thriving communities, and long-term economic growth. To further this commitment, Washington Maritime Blue will become the new anchor tenant for the Maritime Innovation Center (MInC). Maritime Blue’s dedication to developing maritime business, technology, and practices that foster a sustainable future aligns with the Port’s vision for economic growth, ecological health, and vibrant communities.

The design and construction of the MInC will adhere to the Living Building Challenge (LBC) framework, the world’s most progressive sustainability standard, in line with the Port’s goals. As a Living Building, the MInC will generate its own energy, capture its own water, and process its own waste. Key LBC sustainability and resiliency features include:

• Net positive energy
• Use of salvaged materials
• Reduced carbon emissions
• Rainwater capture
• Stormwater treatment
• Gray and black water treatment

The project designers will preserve, honor, and reuse the century-old timbers of this historic building. Miller Hull’s design will enhance the pitched roof using locally sourced, industrially appropriate materials. Sustainability features will include rainwater cisterns and energy generating solar panels, highlighting the building’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

“It is an honor to contribute our expertise in sustainable design to this landmark project, which will not only preserve the Ship Supply Building’s rich heritage but propel the maritime industry into a more innovative and resilient future,” said Miller Hull Principal Mike Jobes, AIA. “The Maritime Innovation Center will stand as a testament to the Port of Seattle’s and Miller Hull’s shared commitment to sustainability, resilience, and community. We look forward to seeing it become a symbol of innovation on Seattle’s waterfront.”

This facility is poised to support another century of commercial fishing and maritime industrial activity at one of Seattle’s most historic waterfront properties.