— Submitted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection officially opened the newly relocated Friday Harbor Port of Entry facility on Oct. 5. This new facility provides more convenient and centralized services for travelers entering the United States via Friday Harbor by air, land or sea.

The new, larger facility, located at 100 1st Street, will allow Customs and Border Protection officers to more efficiently and effectively process the more than 37,000 individuals that come into the United States via this port.

CBP employees conduct a variety of activities at this office including cargo importations; processing individuals for trusted traveler programs; importation of personal boats, vehicles and other merchandise; and screening of arriving cargo and passengers.

“Friday Harbor’s new office ensures Customs and Border Protection can carry out its functions and serve our community,” said Blaine Area Port Director Gregory Alvarez. “It enhances our ability to ensure the flow of legitimate international travel while safeguarding the homeland from threats abroad.”

Customs and Border Protection has a long history at Friday Harbor. The Port of Entry was first established in 1883 and a full-time inspector was assigned to the office in 1900. Today, the Friday Harbor office processes 8,000-plus small vessels into the United States each year, more than the rest of the country combined.

The Friday Harbor Port of Entry was previously located at port. The newly-leased space is managed by the U.S. General Services Administration on behalf of Customs and Border Protection.