Stantec and Seaspan Complete Outfitting Pier for Canadian Shipbuilding Strategy

What's Happening?

Stantec, a leader in sustainable design and engineering, and Seaspan, a prominent figure in Canada's shipbuilding industry, have completed a new outfitting pier at Seaspan's Vancouver Shipyards. This pier, measuring 272 meters by 19 meters, is designed to accommodate large navy and coast guard vessels, including the Royal Canadian Navy's Joint Support Ship, HMCS Protecteur. The project, part of Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS), began with an environmental review in 2020, followed by construction in 2023. Stantec provided comprehensive services, including planning, engineering, and construction support, ensuring the pier's resilience to sea level rise, storm surges, and seismic events.

Why It's Important?

The completion of the outfitting pier is a significant milestone in Canada's National Shipbuilding Strategy, which aims to renew the Royal Canadian Navy and Coast Guard fleets. This development not only enhances Canada's shipbuilding capabilities but also supports economic growth on the west coast, with approximately $10.25 billion in contracts awarded to Pacific-area companies under the NSS. The pier's advanced design, including modern utilities and heavy load capacity, positions it as a critical infrastructure for future naval and coast guard operations, potentially boosting local employment and technological advancements in shipbuilding.

What's Next?

As the outfitting pier becomes operational, it will facilitate the outfitting and maintenance of large vessels, supporting Canada's naval and coast guard operations. The pier's design allows for future adaptability, with crane pockets and shore power capabilities that can be reconfigured to meet evolving ship requirements. This flexibility ensures that the infrastructure can accommodate future technological advancements and changing operational needs, maintaining its relevance in the long-term strategic goals of Canada's shipbuilding industry.