Charleston’s waterfront has welcomed a major new addition as a state-of-the-art floating pier for NOAA was successfully launched and precisely positioned. This marked a significant milestone in NOAA’s investment in mission-ready maritime infrastructure.
In addition to constructing a new pier, the project included demolition of the existing pier and adding new infrastructure that will deliver shoreside power, a warehouse, sea wall and other vital support systems. The new pier and facility will provide essential support to NOAA Ship Nancy Foster, NOAA Ship Ronald H. Brown, and the NOAA Corps officers and civilian mariners who rely on safe, resilient waterfront infrastructure to execute scientific and operational missions.
On Dec. 30, 2025, at 5 p.m., the 62-by-360-foot floating pier was successfully launched by KEEL (formerly Metal Trades Inc.) in Meggett, South Carolina. The operation was executed with precision and professionalism, resulting in a perfectly level structure with a measured draft of approximately 21 inches. The decision to mobilize over the weekend reflected the team’s commitment to schedule and mission execution.
Following launch, the pier was transported to Cavier’s Dry Dock #4, where the deck was topped with more than 300 cubic yards of fiber-reinforced concrete to ensure long-term durability, structural integrity, and operational resilience.
This past February, the main gangway and trestle structures were launched and staged in preparation for final installation. On Feb. 11, the floating pier began its final transit. Using advanced marine survey equipment, the structure was positioned within one foot of its planned alignment. Two supply barges stabilized the float while a crewed tug vessel maneuvered and installed the pier into its final placement.
On Feb. 12, the 490,000-pound gangway, measuring 30 feet by 160 feet, was hoisted into position. After eight hours of coordinating from shore and on the water, the structure was landed onto the floating pier and concrete trench with remarkable precision. The final major component, the 30 by 80-foot trestle, was successfully placed on Feb. 17, completing the primary structural installation. The 220,000-pound lift marked the culmination of a highly complex marine evolution executed with exceptional coordination and skill.
This milestone reflects a truly collaborative effort across the entire project team. NOAA recognizes the prime contractor, Manson Construction; the designers, Corban Collier and Weldment Design; and COWI for their engineering leadership and delivery expertise. This achievement represents more than the placement of a pier — it represents the successful delivery of modern infrastructure that strengthens NOAA’s operational readiness along the Charleston waterfront for years to come.