NOTN- Juneau’s city leaders heard directly from Goldbelt Inc. on Monday night about the corporation’s plan for the Douglas Island port project, which includes two proposed cruise ship docks.
Deputy Mayor Greg Smith said it was the first time the full Assembly had received a detailed briefing from Goldbelt, calling it “a good start to the conversation.” The project, nicknamed “Goldbelt Aaní” is still in its early stages with no announced opening date.
“They give a good overview of the project, of the vision, the intent, you know, ,there’s still a fair bit to be determined and plan.” Said Smith. “There wasn’t an expected date. I did ask what kind of minimum infrastructure they would need out there to be open, they’re still evaluating that.”
According to Goldbelt, Goldbelt Aaní will highlight Lingít culture and boost the city’s economy.
Plans include docks, a welcome center, employee housing, child care facilities, and even a replica Lingít village.
Smith said Assembly members raised questions about transportation impacts, including whether North Douglas Highway could handle added traffic.
“My sense from the response was that they’re not planning to be bussing in tons and tons and tons of people. It’s people staying on the site, or going places via water again, we still need to learn more how that would work, what that looks like.” Said Smith, “How does the five ship limit play into it? That’s definitely been a big concern.”
Smith noted the project remains under evaluation, but Monday’s discussion helped open communication between the city and the Native corporation.
