News Summary Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. has been awarded a $25.5 million maintenance dredging contract in Virginia Beach, overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The project, part of the Department of Defense initiatives, aims to improve navigation and coastlines, with completion targeted for April 2026. The company is expanding its fleet and investing in renewable energy projects, including offshore wind at the New Jersey Wind Port. These efforts demonstrate a strategic approach to growth in dredging and renewable sectors, despite legal challenges related to the Jones Act. Virginia Beach, Virginia – Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. LLC, a Houston-based company, has been awarded a $25.5 million contract for maintenance dredging work. The contract was secured through a firm-fixed-price agreement and is part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s initiatives. The dredging will take place in Virginia Beach, with completion expected by April 15, 2026. Bids for this project were solicited via the internet, and the Department of Defense reported that two bids were received. The total project funding of $25,485,000 was allocated from fiscal years 2015 to 2025 under civil operation and maintenance funds. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, will oversee the contracting process for this project. In addition to this contract, Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. has announced multiple dredging contracts totaling $107 million, which will cover various projects in different locations. Some of the upcoming projects include the Norfolk Harbor Navigation Improvements Project, Charleston Lower Harbor Maintenance Dredging Project, Tampa Harbor Maintenance Dredging 45-Foot Project, and New Jersey Wind Port Stage 1 Access Channel Dredging Project. Dredge Fleet Expansion The company has also expanded its fleet with the recent delivery of the Amelia Island, a new Jones Act-compliant hopper dredge. This vessel is specially designed for operations in shallow and narrow waters along U.S. coastlines. The Amelia Island can dredge depths of up to 100 feet and has a hopper capacity of 6,330 cubic yards. This new dredge is equipped with low-emission-rated engines, allowing it to engage in a variety of operations, including beach nourishment and channel deepening. The delivery of the Amelia Island has been highlighted as a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to enhance its fleet of advanced dredging vessels. Commitment to Renewable Energy Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co. is not only focused on traditional dredging projects but is also actively pursuing opportunities aligned with renewable energy goals. They have particular investments at the New Jersey Wind Port, reflecting a strategic move towards engaging with the offshore wind market in the U.S. Despite facing recent legal challenges related to the Jones Act, which governs maritime commerce in U.S. waters, the company remains committed to investing in U.S. offshore wind opportunities. Furthermore, they have secured contracts for their upcoming Acadia vessel, which is likely to support their continued growth in this sector. Conclusion Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co.’s recent contract and fleet expansion signify a robust approach to maintenance dredging and commitment to renewable energy projects. With the support of the U.S. Department of Defense and a proactive strategy in the offshore wind sector, the company is positioning itself for future growth and sustainability in the dredging industry. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Construction of America’s First Arctic Deepwater Port Begins Additional Resources Dredging Today: Virginia Beach Dredging Deal Wikipedia: Dredging WorkBoat: GLDD $107 Million Contracts Google Search: Great Lakes Dredge MarineLink: Great Lakes Dredge Delivery Google Scholar: Dredging gCaptain: Jones Act Challenge Encyclopedia Britannica: Dredging Dredging Today: GLDD New Build Program Google News: Dredging
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