Drivers who use the Bell Island ferry service will see improvements to traffic flow at the ferry terminal in Portugal Cove-St. Philips beginning during the week of Dec. 05.

The $516, 000 upgrade includes two new dedicated traffic lanes for boarding and a new paved parking area to accommodate buses at the terminal just west of St. John's.

The ticket booth has also been renovated and will allow users to purchase tickets for the ferry in advance.

Complaints of backed-up traffic and long wait-times from locals and tourists have been a perennial issue at the ferry terminal.

A spokesperson from the Department of Transportation said flag people and electronic signage will be at the terminal to help travelers when the new system is in operation.