PORT ANGELES — Peninsula College announced on Friday that it will be closing its Fort Worden campus at the end of the current academic year.
With no summer classes offered at the location, that means the last day of the spring quarter at Fort Worden will be June 17.
The college plans to have vacated the Fort Worden space by Sept. 1.
Peninsula College has projected a $2.2 million budget deficit for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, according to the press release.
It cites financial challenges affecting institutions across the state, such as loss of funding, budgeting errors at the state level and unfunded wage increases.
In response, in order to stabilize their budget and the college long-term, the release said, the decision was made to close the Port Townsend campus, where they say in-person enrollment has declined to less than half of what it was in previous years.
“This decision was not made lightly, but it is one I believe will ultimately allow us to serve more students in Jefferson County,” said Peninsula College President Suzy Ames.
“Our commitment to access, innovation, and community partnership remains strong. In the long run, we are committed to finding a permanent location in Jefferson County that serves the community where and how they need us the most.”
Students in Jefferson County will still have access to hybrid, online and mobile offerings, the release said. Student services, including advising and financial aid support, will still be available via remote and mobile access. The college is also looking at expansions in mobile and digital opportunities, according to the release.
“There is a lot of buzz in the community about expanding access and services in Port Hadlock and Chimacum,” Ames said. “PC will be exploring ways to have a strong presence there.”
Students who are currently enrolled for fall quarter in Port Townsend, or were planning to enroll at that location, are asked to contact the Port Townsend Director Anna Forrestal at AForrestal@pencol.edu or 360-417-6317, and consult their academic advisor.
