The Coast Guard has announced significant investments to build out Base Seattle and Base Charleston to make homeports. The two construction contracts, with a combined total potential of over $150 million, reflect a strategic commitment to improving operational readiness and enhancing the quality of life for our personnel. Driven by the need to support both our growing fleet and our workforce, these efforts will streamline operations and create a more stable and efficient work environment.
As new cutters get commissioned, our shore infrastructure must support their unique requirements. Beyond simply providing berthing space, these modernization efforts are focused on optimizing support structures to ensure seamless operations and maximize mission effectiveness. Strategically consolidating homeports centralizes resources and fosters economies of scale.
“These historic investments and projects at Bases Charleston and Seattle reflect how the Shore Program is advancing Force Design 2028, building and modernizing the shore infrastructure to strengthen operational readiness today and meet the mission demands of tomorrow,” said Mr. Michael Haycock, Assistant Commandant for Program Executive Office – Shore.
Base Charleston
The Coast Guard’s Facilities Design and Construction Center (FDCC) just signed a contract modification to invest nearly $15 million in Base Charleston. The modification is to remove submerged concrete piles under the old Pier November, clearing the way for the construction of new piers capable of supporting up to five major cutters. Construction is expected to be completed in 2026.
This is the Coast Guard’s first expenditure of funds from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
“Thanks to the leadership and support of the President, the Secretary of Homeland Security and Congress, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act provides more than $24 billion to invest in the Coast Guard fleet and our inventory of shore facilities and infrastructure,” said Rear Adm. Chad L. Jacoby, deputy commandant for systems. “We are moving out to make the most of this historic investment, beginning with this contract modification to address previously unidentified obstacles and keep construction of Pier November at Base Charleston on schedule. The CG-SHORE and contracting teams took prompt action to get this effort underway quickly and ensure the project is completed on time with minimal impact to operations. They are setting a strong example for future efforts that will be supported with reconciliation funding.”
Base Seattle
FDCC awarded an initial contract to start building out Base Seattle to accommodate polar security cutters (PSCs). This phase of the project involves widening the slip between berths 36B and 37B, upgrading berths 37A and 37B with modernized utilities to support two new PSCs, demolishing an existing building, stabilizing the waterfront at Berth 36B and upgrading Station Seattle’s small boat docks and boathouse. These improvements are critical for enabling Coast Guard missions in high latitudes and advancing U.S. national security interests in the Arctic and Antarctic. With the One Big Beautiful Bill Act providing historic funding for our PSC fleet, we’re building the foundation for the Coast Guard’s future in polar operations.
We're also taking care of the environment! As part of the project, we'll remove and dispose the contaminated sediment from the harbor. This is a BIG deal – the largest cleanup project the Coast Guard has ever undertaken!
What does this mean for you?
- Enhanced career stability: Mass hubs of cutters may provide increased opportunities for multiple tours in desirable locations such as Seattle and Charleston, fostering institutional knowledge and improving quality of life.
- Improved efficiency: Co-location of resources will ease administrative processes and expedite maintenance and repairs, allowing for a greater focus on mission execution.
- Improved family services: The Coast Guard is committed to improving family support services, housing options, and recreational facilities in these centralized locations, enhancing the overall well-being of our personnel.
These upgrades and changes are all about helping you do your job better, making your career more secure, and improving your overall experience. The Coast Guard, fueled by Force Design 2028 and historic investment through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, is dedicated to giving you the tools and support you need to succeed and thrive.
Further updates will be provided as these projects progress.
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