News Summary
The construction of America’s first Arctic deepwater port in Nome is set to begin after nearly two decades of planning. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $399.4 million contract to Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. The project aims to enhance maritime access in the Arctic region, which is increasingly vital due to growing shipping activities. The phased approach includes extensions to the existing causeway and the creation of a deep-water basin to accommodate larger vessels, significantly improving infrastructure and safety in Alaska’s maritime operations.
Nome, Alaska – The construction of America’s first Arctic deepwater port in Nome is officially set to commence after nearly two decades of planning. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $399.4 million contract to Kiewit Infrastructure West Co., located in Vancouver, Washington. The first phase of construction is expected to be completed by September 5, 2029.
The initial concept for this deepwater port was first discussed during a 2008 Army Corps conference that focused on the potential for U.S. deep-water ports. The project aims to significantly improve maritime access in the Arctic region, which is becoming increasingly important due to rising shipping activities.
Originally, the project encompassed a broader Phase 1 that proposed extending the existing west causeway by 3,400 feet. However, due to cost overruns that saw bids exceed the allocated budget, plans were revised to a scaled-down Phase 1A. Under this revised plan, the causeway will be extended by 1,200 feet, accompanied by an additional 600 feet of dock space. Following Phase 1A, a subsequent Phase 1B is planned to add another 1,870 feet to the causeway.
The main goal of these expansions is to create a standard deep-water basin capable of accommodating vessels with a draft of minus 40 feet. Currently, the Port of Nome can only serve vessels with a draft of 18 feet, which limits access. This restriction has rendered critical Coast Guard icebreakers, such as the Healy (with a draft of 29 feet) and Storis (34 feet draft), unable to access the port. Additionally, newer Coast Guard vessels, including the Polar Security Cutter and Arctic Security Cutter, which have drafts of 36 feet and 23 feet respectively, would also benefit from the expanded infrastructure, enhancing safety and operational capabilities in the Arctic region.
The development of the Port of Nome is deemed crucial for the improvement of Alaska’s infrastructure, focusing on supporting both military and civilian vessels. Enhancements in port capabilities are expected to significantly bolster public safety and increase military presence in the Arctic, as the region sees increasing maritime traffic.
Future phases of the project are also underway. After completing Phase 1A, the Army Corps anticipates inviting bids for Phase 2 by May 2026. Following that, bids for Phase 1B are expected in 2028 and the final phase of construction, Phase 3, may be completed by 2030. The subsequent phases will include further dredging, additional causeway extension, and the construction of a second causeway and breakwater.
Furthermore, the logistical challenges of the Port of Nome are notable, as it currently lacks connectivity to Alaska’s road system. This absence complicates port operations, particularly how goods and personnel are transported to and from the facility. However, with the rise in shipping activities in the region—evident from the increase in vessels traversing the Bering Strait from 340 in 2016 to 665 last year—the upgrades to the port are increasingly urgent.
In conclusion, the development of the deepwater port in Nome marks a pivotal step toward enhancing accessibility for larger ships in Alaska’s Arctic waters. The investments made in improving port infrastructure will not only elevate the port’s functionality but are expected to serve broader implications for safety, security, and commercial shipping activities in the region as the Arctic continues to experience increased maritime activity.
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Additional Resources
- High North News: US Awards Construction Contract for First Phase Expanding Nome Arctic Deepwater Port
- Wikipedia: Nome, Alaska
- ENR: Kiewit Wins $400M Contract for Alaska Port Upgrade
- Google Search: Nome Arctic deepwater port
- Akbiz Magazine: $400M Contract for Kiewit to Build Phase 1A of Port of Nome Modification
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Deepwater Ports
- Anchorage Daily News: $663M Arctic Port Delayed Frustrating Nome Officials and Alaska Congressional Delegation
- Google News: Nome Arctic port expansion
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