What's Happening?
Seaspan and Stantec have completed a new outfitting pier at Seaspan's Vancouver Shipyards, designed for large navy and coast guard vessels. The pier, measuring 272 meters by 19 meters, facilitates outfitting of the Royal Canadian Navy's Joint Support Ship, HMCS Protecteur. Stantec provided planning, engineering, and construction services, supporting Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy. The pier is equipped with modern utilities, heavy load capacity, and environmental safeguards, replacing a timber pier from 1966. It is engineered to withstand future sea level rise, storm surges, and seismic hazards.
Why It's Important?
The completion of the outfitting pier is a significant development for Canada's shipbuilding industry, supporting the National Shipbuilding Strategy's goal to renew the Royal Canadian Navy and Coast Guard fleets. The pier enhances Seaspan's capabilities in ship outfitting and maintenance, contributing to the growth of shipbuilding and port infrastructure on Canada's west coast. This project represents a major investment in sustainable and resilient infrastructure, ensuring the long-term viability of Canada's naval operations.
What's Next?
The outfitting pier will continue to support key ship outfitting and maintenance operations, accommodating integrated tower cranes, civil utilities, and specialized equipment. Seaspan's role as a non-combat shipbuilder under the NSS will likely lead to further contracts and projects, driving growth in the shipbuilding sector. The pier's design allows for future adaptability, supporting different ship requirements and potential expansions.
