Ketchikan’s city council will discuss the future of its cruise docks during a special meeting Thursday. The city is considering whether to request bids to renovate three berths and make upgrades to handle bigger ships.
The city is also weighing whether to seek a private sector operator of the cruise dock. It could also invite a cruise line to pay for upgrades in exchange for preferential berthing. None of the city’s current scenarios consider selling the cruise dock or restricting public access.
The city plans to continue collecting its head taxes and dockage fees. A public-private partnership envisions a private operator adding on fees that would be paid for by cruise lines and others using the dock.
The special city council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday in Ketchikan’s City Council chambers. The public will have a chance to weigh in during the meeting.
