Port of Québec to acquire historic New Québec Custom House for new headquarters

The Port of Québec will acquire the New Québec Custom House from the federal government and establish its administrative headquarters at the historic building in the Old Port, officials announced.

Olga Farman, CEO and president of the Port of Québec, and Joël Lightbound, minister of government transformation, public works and procurement, and Quebec Lieutenant, announced the transfer of the property, located at 130 Dalhousie Street.

The Port plans to relocate its administrative teams to the site in 2027 as part of an effort to consolidate operations and improve efficiency while maintaining a presence in the Old Port.

Built around 1860, the New Québec Custom House was designated a national historic site of Canada in 1972. The neoclassical building reflects a period of prosperity for the port in the mid-19th century, when its proximity to the St. Lawrence River allowed ships direct access to customs services.

“Acquiring this historic jewel will allow us to bring our administrative teams together under one roof, with a front-row seat to our magnificent St. Lawrence River,” said Farman. “Thanks to this strategic organizational project, employees will gain access to optimized, highly functional spaces in a setting steeped in history. We are committed to respecting and enhancing the heritage of the New Québec Custom House, and we are proud to promote this symbol of Québec’s maritime history.”

Conservation work on the building is scheduled for 2026 and 2027, including restoration of the stonework and other elements of the building envelope, as well as an interior refit designed to optimize workspace while preserving heritage features.

Once renovations are complete, the Port of Québec’s administrative headquarters will move from 150 Dalhousie Street to 130 Dalhousie Street. The building’s current occupant, the Canada Border Services Agency, will remain at the site until it relocates in the summer of 2026.