CBJ accepting public proposals for marine passenger fee proceeds starting December 1

(City and Borough of Juneau press release)

The City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ) invites the public to submit proposals for how proceeds from the 2026 Marine Passenger Fee (MPF) are used. Proposals can be made via webform from Dec. 1 to 31, 2025. This annual process ensures that all members of the community can have a say in how fees from the cruise ship industry are reinvested in local business and services. 

Various fees and taxes make up a $13 total fee per cruise ship passenger. These fees are designated to fund projects directly related to the visitor industry which enhance the tourism experience in Juneau and offset community impacts created by the cruise ship industry.  

The use of these fees is constitutionally restricted. CBJ and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) settled a lawsuit in 2019 with an agreement that governs how and where CBJ spends the fees. CBJ therefore encourages project proposals that benefit cruise ship passengers as well as Juneau residents. For a full description of project eligibility, please see CBJ 69.20.120. 

Examples of past projects funded in part through the MPF include the Downtown Seawalk project, growing pedestrian access to Juneau’s waterfront, and improvements to Juneau’s wastewater systems, increasing utility effectiveness and efficiency for all of Juneau’s residents and visitors. For more details, see the full list of FY26 projects and associated funding totals. 

After the proposal period has ended, the city manager will develop a draft recommendation list followed by a 30-day comment period that can be found on the Marine Passenger Fee Program website. All materials will then be submitted to the Assembly Finance Committee for review, and then to the Assembly for consideration during the upcoming budget cycle. 

Proposals must be submitted by Dec. 31 on the webform or the city manager’s office, attention Alexandra Pierce, 155 Heritage Way, Juneau, Alaska 99801. 

For more information, contact CBJ Visitor Industry Director Alexandra Pierce at alexandra.pierce@juneau.gov or visit the Marine Passenger Fee Program website.