The new, $14.6 million gate complex replaces an outdated truck queuing area with expanded capacity and advanced technology designed to increase truck throughput into the terminal. The new complex uses weigh-in-motion scales, eliminating the need for a full static stop and adding efficiency to terminal operations. The facility footprint has been strategically relocated further into the terminal, incorporating an improved traffic flow design that allows trucks to move more efficiently while doubling the number of vehicles that can queue on terminal.

The project's benefits extend well beyond the terminal gates. By doubling the on-terminal queuing capacity, the investment significantly reduces truck backup that previously spilled onto SW Spokane Street, a major freight and commuter corridor serving the Duwamish industrial area and West Seattle community. 

The improvements enhance access and reliability for all corridor users, including freight haulers, commuters, and businesses throughout the industrial area, all while reducing air pollution and noise adjacent to the multi-use path that runs along the corridor. 

The addition of refrigerated container plugs brings the total to over 1,500, representing a transformational investment in Terminal 5's capacity to handle temperature-sensitive cargo. Reefer plugs provide electrical power to refrigerated containers, maintaining optimal temperatures for perishable cargo while containers await vessel loading or inland transportation. 

For Washington's agricultural exporters, this expansion is critical. As one of the nation's leading agricultural export states, Washington ships apples, cherries, potatoes, hay and other products to customers across Asia and around the world. The expanded reefer capacity means exporters can move higher volumes through Terminal 5 without worrying about plug availability constraining their shipments. 

"The completion of the Terminal 5 Gate Complex and the expansion of our refrigerated container capacity eliminate critical bottlenecks that impact local traffic and commuters while dramatically expanding our ability to serve Washington's agricultural exporters," said The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-Chair and Port of Seattle Commission President Ryan Calkins. "These improvements strengthen our gateway's competitive position and demonstrate our commitment to investing in world-class facilities that meet the needs of global trade.” 

The reefer plug expansion provides the operational flexibility needed to accommodate increased volumes during peak agricultural seasons, keeping cargo moving efficiently while maintaining the cold chain essential for product quality and market value.

“The investment in modernized facilities position the NWSA to handle cargo more reliably and competitively,” said The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-Chair and Port of Tacoma Commission President Dick Marzano. “When you combine a modernized gate complex with over 1,500 reefer plugs, you are looking at infrastructure investments that will deliver benefits for shippers, workers and businesses for decades to come."  

Terminal 5, located in Seattle, is a key cargo facility in the NWSA gateway, operated by SSA Marine. The terminal serves as critical infrastructure for the movement of containerized cargo, including agricultural exports, manufactured goods and consumer products connecting Pacific Northwest businesses to global markets.  

The Northwest Seaport Alliance is one of North America's premier international gateways, managing the marine cargo operations of the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma. Handling containerized cargo, breakbulk and autos, the gateway supports tens of thousands of jobs and billions in economic activity across Washington state.