August 25, 2025

Construction Begins on America’s First Arctic Deepwater Port

News Summary

Construction has commenced on America’s first Arctic deepwater port in Nome, Alaska, following a $399.4 million contract awarded to Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. The project aims to enhance maritime access in the region by expanding the current port’s capabilities, allowing for larger vessels. With significant increases in maritime traffic noted in recent years, the new infrastructure is deemed essential for both public safety and military operations in the Arctic. Future phases of development are planned to further improve the port by 2030.

Nome, Alaska – Construction has officially begun on America’s first Arctic deepwater port nearly two decades after the initial proposal was introduced. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $399.4 million contract to Kiewit Infrastructure West Co., based in Vancouver, Washington, for the initial phase of the project, designated as Phase 1A. The completion of this phase is projected for September 5, 2029.

The deepwater port initiative first gained momentum during a conference held by the Army Corps in 2008, which focused on the need for U.S. deep-water ports. The project has faced challenges, notably cost overruns in previous solicitations that led to the cancellation of earlier bidding attempts. In response, project leaders revised their approach, scaling back the initial plans to make them more feasible. Phase 1A will involve extending the existing west causeway by 1,200 feet and adding 600 feet of dock space, as opposed to the original plan, which called for a 3,400-foot extension.

Future developments, under Phase 1B, will extend the causeway another 1,870 feet. The ultimate goal is to create a deep-water basin capable of supporting vessels with drafts of up to 40 feet, as the current port can only accommodate ships with a draft of 18 feet. This limited capacity restricts access for critical U.S. Coast Guard icebreakers, such as the Healy (draft of 29 feet) and the Storis (draft of 34 feet). Newer vessels, including the Polar Security Cutter and the Arctic Security Cutter, are designed with drafts of 36 feet and 23 feet, respectively, making the expanded port vital for enhancing operational capabilities in the Arctic.

The expansion of the Port of Nome is crucial for both public safety and military presence, aimed at improving access for larger vessels in an area where maritime traffic has surged. Recent data indicates a significant increase in vessels navigating the Bering Strait, with totals rising from 340 in 2016 to 665 last year. This growth underscores the urgent need for enhanced infrastructure to accommodate modern shipping demands.

Looking ahead, subsequent phases (Phase 2, Phase 1B, and Phase 3) will involve additional dredging, further extending the causeway, and plans for a second causeway and breakwater to be completed by 2030. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is anticipating contractor bids for Phase 2 to occur by May 2026, with Phase 1B expected to go out to bid in 2028 and the final phase in 2030.

Currently, Nome’s port operations are complicated by the fact that the city is not linked to Alaska’s road system. This isolation adds further challenges for managing increasing shipping traffic and maintaining necessary support for both military and civilian vessels in the Arctic region. The construction of the deepwater port in Nome not only aims to bolster critical infrastructure but also intends to establish the capabilities needed to navigate Arctic challenges effectively.

As the emphasis on Arctic shipping grows amid climate changes and increased international interest, the completion of the deepwater port could transform Nome into a vital hub for maritime activity in the future.

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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER

BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.

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