The ferry line in Mukilteo won’t be quite so long now that at holding area has been expanded.

Effective today, May 21, are 12 new lanes holding a total of approximately 100 additional car spaces at the Mukilteo terminal.

This will bring the total vehicle spaces to 200. A news release from Washington State Ferries estimates the extra space should reduce backups on Highway 525 during peak commute periods by approximately a half mile.

The ferry system gained more room by leasing property that once held the Buzz Inn restaurant, adjacent to the ferry loading area. The restaurant building, which for many years housed the Seahorse restaurant, was razed to make room for more ferry parking.