Port of Seattle officials celebrated their new Shilshole Bay Marina on June 14 with an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony.

"Today represents an important milestone," said Port Commissioner President John Creighton.

"We are almost complete, we have completed 15 of the 23 docks that we are doing. So we are almost there. In 2008 we will complete all the new docks," said Creighton

While the entire $80 million project is not yet completed, the port showed off its new public plaza, children's fountain, North End Small Boat and Sailing Center and its Administration Building, along with some of the new docks.

"The overall design of the renovation was executed with environmental improvement in mind," said Creighton.

Creosote treated wood pilings have been removed. Dock configurations now reduce the shading effect on intertidal/shallow habitat. It protects eel grass clusters where juvenile salmon gather.

The marina also has new slips with moorage for vessels up to 200-feet long and the slips are wider in more sizes. Other features include generous fairways, internet and cable television hookups, up to 100 amps of shore power and three and five-ton hoists. A new Anthony's Restaurant is expected to open in 2009.

"It has been a ten-year effort, $80 million dollars. The money has been well spent on behalf of the public and especially people who love to sail and enjoy the water here," said Port Commissioner Patricia Davis.

Shilshole Marina is considered one of the region's largest recreational boating facilities with about 300 liveaboards.

New slips will be available in the late fall and early 2008 for moorage in 40, 42, 50, and 60 foot slips.

Call 728-3006 or visit http://www.portofseattle.org.