Project overview
Washington State Ferries is planning a new walkway at the Clinton ferry terminal to make it easier and safer for passengers to board the ferry. The Mukilteo-Clinton ferry route is one of the busiest in the system, carrying 3.7 million riders in 2025. Bringing overhead passenger loading to Clinton terminal aligns with WSF’s 2040 Long Range Plan for enhanced service and operational efficiency.
What to expect
WSF began planning for Clinton terminal overhead loading in early 2026 and aims to complete a pre-design study by early 2027. The project will evaluate options for a new overhead loading structure and second-level passenger waiting area.
We will provide regular project updates and opportunities for engagement for Clinton ferry users and community members.
WSF is also bringing electrification to the Clinton ferry terminal. Through the System Electrification Program, the Clinton/Mukilteo route will receive a new hybrid-electric 160-vehicle capacity ferry by 2030. The Clinton terminal electrification project will install a new power line that will connect to the terminal and supply power to charge the future hybrid-electric vessel that will serve this route.
Project benefits
- Provide a connection for passengers on the Clinton/Mukilteo route
- Improve safety and access for riders walking or rolling onto the ferry
- Reduce wait time during vessel loading and offloading by allowing vehicles and passengers to load and offload at the same time
- Reduce vessel fuel consumption during vessel loading and offloading
Clinton ferry terminal is located in Possession Sound at the south end of State Route (SR) 525 on Whidbey Island. WSF has operated ferry service between Mukilteo and Clinton since 1951. The terminal is a major transportation link for island residents, commuters and visitors traveling between Whidbey Island and the greater Puget Sound region.
The terminal is served by Island Transit, helping connect ferry riders to the terminal and to destinations on Whidbey Island. In 2020, WSF completed the new Mukilteo ferry terminal, including an overhead passenger loading walkway. Now we are working to complete the connection for passengers traveling between Mukilteo and Clinton.
The overhead passenger loading structure at Mukilteo ferry terminal
WSF’s 2040 Long Range Plan outlines plans for Clinton ferry terminal to improve efficiency and increase sustainability and resilience. The plan recommends adding overhead loading to allow passengers to load at the same time as vehicles and reduce the time vehicles must wait or idle during vessel offloading and loading.
