Seacoast Marine Construction Inc. has been awarded a $39.9 million contract by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the restoration of Barren Island, part of the Mid-Chesapeake Bay Island Ecosystem Restoration initiative in Dorchester County, Maryland. This ambitious project aims to rejuvenate coastal habitats and enhance local economies by constructing bird islands, stone structures, and dredging approximately 335,000 cubic yards of material. The restoration efforts will cover a total of 2,072 acres on James Island and 72 acres on Barren Island. Barren Island is expected to begin accepting dredged material by late 2025 or early 2026, while James Island's restoration is projected to be completed around 2030. The entire project is anticipated to reach completion by 2067. This initiative is bolstered by over $80 million awarded in 2022 from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for design and preconstruction phases. U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen have emphasized the project's significance for both economic success and environmental health in the region. [08355afb]
In addition to this, Birdon America, Inc. has announced significant improvements at its Bayou La Batre, Alabama shipyard, aimed at enhancing capabilities for the U.S. Coast Guard's Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) program. The company is investing over $27 million to modernize its facilities, which will allow for the simultaneous construction of up to four vessels. This investment follows Birdon's receipt of U.S. Coast Guard certification in August 2024, enabling the docking and relaunching of vessels weighing up to 589 long tons. Birdon has been awarded a substantial $1.187 billion contract in 2022 for the construction of 27 WCC vessels, which are crucial for maintaining the U.S. Marine Transportation System that spans over 12,000 miles. The company, established in 1977, has a strong presence in both Australia and the U.S. and is recognized as a key defense contractor. In-house design work is also being performed to mitigate technical risks associated with the project. [31a156f7]