The U.S. Coast Guard is continuing its spending spree with a $173.7 million contract award for work at Base Seattle in Washington.
The Coast Guard picked contractor Whiting-Turner for Phase 1B of the base’s modernization efforts, which include a new pier at Slip 36B, structural enhancements and utility and electrical upgrades, according to an announcement. The branch is funding the contract through fiscal year 2025 budget reconciliation funding.
With the award, Baltimore-based Whiting-Turner will continue its work at Base Seattle. Last year, the builder was tapped for Phase 1A of the modernization to the tune of $137 million, with responsibilities that included upgrading and widening the slip between berths, demolition work and waterfront stabilization.
The impetus for work on Base Seattle comes from the Coast Guard’s preparation for Arctic and Antarctic missions, per the announcement.
“This investment strengthens our ability to homeport and maintain polar security cutters, enhances readiness for our growing surface fleet, and ensures our crews have the facilities they need to meet the Nation’s evolving maritime security needs,” said Adm. Thomas Allan, vice commandant of the Coast Guard, in the announcement.
Indeed, the Coast Guard has spent significant cash on base improvement projects across the country, particularly with Whiting-Turner. Last year, the branch picked the contractor to build two new hangars at Air Station Barbers Point in Kapolei, Hawai’i, via an approximately $69 million contract.
In May, the branch picked Whiting-Turner to improve barracks, training facilities and other structures at Coast Guard Training Center Cape May in New Jersey for a contract that could extend up to $400 million. It also picked the builder to perform work on Pier Mike at Base Charleston in South Carolina for $116.7 million.
