Construction of America’s First Arctic Deepwater Port Begins

News Summary

The construction of the first deepwater port in the Arctic begins in Nome, Alaska, marking a significant step toward enhancing maritime infrastructure in the region. Awarded by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the contract for the initial phase is valued at approximately $399.4 million. The project aims to improve access for larger vessels, support military operations, and bolster economic activities in the Arctic, as increasing maritime activity is seen in the Bering Strait. Future phases are planned for completion by 2030.

Construction of America’s First Arctic Deepwater Port Begins in Nome, Alaska

The city of Nome, Alaska, has officially begun the construction of the United States’ first deepwater port in the Arctic. After nearly two decades of planning and development, the project marks a significant milestone in expanding infrastructure to support Arctic maritime activities and enhances strategic access in the region.

Project Overview and Contract Details

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a contract for Phase 1A of the port development to Kiewit Infrastructure West Co., a construction firm based in Vancouver, Washington. The firm-fixed-price contract is valued at approximately $399.4 million. Completion of this initial phase is targeted for September 5, 2029.

Historical Context and Planning Evolution

The idea of a deepwater port in Nome gained momentum during a 2008 conference held by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where the strategic importance of Arctic port facilities was discussed. However, earlier attempts faced challenges due to cost issues, leading to a cancellation of the initial solicitation. The original plan called for extending the west causeway by 3,400 feet and expanding dock facilities, but these plans were scaled down to address funding constraints.

Revised Scope of Construction

Under the revised Phase 1A plan, the causeway extension has been reduced to 1,200 feet, along with an additional 600 feet of dock space. Subsequent phases, including Phase 1B, are planned to extend the causeway by an extra 1,870 feet and add further port infrastructure, such as an additional deep-water basin at -40 feet depth — a significant increase from the current maximum vessel draft of 18 feet.

Port Capabilities and Regional Significance

Currently, the Port of Nome can only accommodate vessels with a draft of 18 feet, limiting access for larger ships and critically affecting operations for Coast Guard icebreakers like the Healy (with a 29-foot draft) and the Storis (with a 34-foot draft). Future vessels, including the upcoming Polar Security Cutter and Arctic Security Cutter, are designed with drafts of 36 feet and 23 feet respectively, emphasizing the need for port expansion.

Strategic and Infrastructure Improvements

The port expansion aims to provide improved access for military and commercial vessels, bolstering public safety, military presence, and economic activities in the Arctic region. Because Nome is not connected to Alaska’s road system, the port’s improved facilities will significantly enhance supply chain resilience and regional connectivity.

Future Phases and Timeline

The project is structured in multiple phases, with the upcoming phases involving further dredging, causeway extensions, and the addition of a second causeway and breakwater, with completion expected around 2030. The U.S. Army Corps plans to solicit bids for Phase 2 by May 2026, followed by Phase 1B in 2028, and the final developments slated for 2030.

Increasing Maritime Activity in the Arctic

The expansion of the Port of Nome is driven by a notable increase in vessels operating in the Bering Strait, rising from 340 vessels in 2016 to 665 in recent years. The growth is linked to expanding Arctic shipping routes, resource exploration, and strategic military exercises, which underscore the port’s vital role in the region’s evolving maritime landscape.

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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