DHS Awards $116.7M Design/Build Contract for Charleston Pier Recapitalization to Whiting-Turner
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $116,740,450 ($116.7M)
Contractor: Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, the
Awarding Agency: Department of Homeland Security
Start Date: 2026-03-06
End Date: 2030-04-17
Sector: Construction
Official Description: DESIGN/BUILD CONSTRUCTION FOR CHARLESTON PIER MIKE RECAPITALIZATION, USCG BASE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Homeland Security obligated $116.7 million to WHITING-TURNER CONTRACTING COMPANY, THE for work described as: DESIGN/BUILD CONSTRUCTION FOR CHARLESTON PIER MIKE RECAPITALIZATION, USCG BASE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA Key points: 1. Significant investment in critical USCG infrastructure. 2. Whiting-Turner is a large, established contractor. 3. Potential for cost overruns in large construction projects. 4. Focus on coastal resilience and modernization.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract value of $116.7 million is substantial for a design/build pier recapitalization. Benchmarking against similar large-scale maritime construction projects is difficult without more detailed cost breakdowns, but the scale suggests a need for careful cost management.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: unknown
The competition method is not specified, but for large design/build projects, it could range from full and open to a more limited solicitation. The impact on price discovery depends heavily on the number and quality of bids received.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being used for essential infrastructure upgrades, aiming for long-term operational efficiency and safety for the Coast Guard.
Public Impact
Modernization of a key Coast Guard facility. Potential for job creation in the Charleston area. Improved operational capabilities for the USCG. Ensuring resilience against environmental factors.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Lack of specified competition method.
- Potential for scope creep in design/build.
- Long project duration increases risk exposure.
Positive Signals
- Addresses critical infrastructure needs.
- Utilizes a single, large contract for efficiency.
- Long-term asset improvement.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the construction sector, specifically large-scale civil and maritime infrastructure. Spending benchmarks for similar pier recapitalization projects vary widely based on location, complexity, and design requirements.
Small Business Impact
The data does not indicate any specific provisions or set-asides for small businesses in this large design/build contract. Large prime contractors often subcontract portions of work, which could offer opportunities for SMBs.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight will be crucial given the project's scale and duration. The Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard will need robust project management and financial controls to ensure accountability and prevent cost overruns.
Related Government Programs
- Department of Homeland Security Contracting
- U.S. Coast Guard Programs
Risk Flags
- Large contract value.
- Long project duration.
- Potential for design changes.
- Coastal construction environment.
- Lack of specified competition details.
Tags
department-of-homeland-security, delivery-order, 100m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Homeland Security awarded $116.7 million to WHITING-TURNER CONTRACTING COMPANY, THE. DESIGN/BUILD CONSTRUCTION FOR CHARLESTON PIER MIKE RECAPITALIZATION, USCG BASE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is WHITING-TURNER CONTRACTING COMPANY, THE.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Homeland Security (U.S. Coast Guard).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $116.7 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2026-03-06. End: 2030-04-17.
What is the specific design/build scope and how does it compare to traditional construction methods in terms of cost and timeline?
The design/build scope encompasses both the architectural/engineering design and the physical construction of the pier recapitalization. This integrated approach can potentially streamline the process and reduce overall project duration compared to separate design and construction phases. However, it requires strong upfront definition of requirements to avoid costly changes later. Cost comparison is complex, as design/build can offer cost certainty if well-defined, but may also lead to higher initial bids due to contractor risk assumption.
What are the primary risks associated with the long duration (over 4 years) of this construction project?
The extended duration exposes the project to several risks, including potential material cost escalation, labor market fluctuations, and unforeseen site conditions that may not be apparent during initial design. Furthermore, changes in operational needs or environmental regulations during the project lifecycle could necessitate costly design modifications. Weather-related delays, especially in a coastal environment, are also a significant concern that can impact the schedule and budget.
How will the effectiveness of the pier recapitalization be measured post-completion?
Effectiveness will likely be measured through several key performance indicators. These could include the pier's structural integrity and load-bearing capacity meeting or exceeding design specifications, reduced maintenance requirements compared to the previous structure, enhanced operational efficiency for USCG vessels and activities, and successful integration with existing base infrastructure. Post-occupancy evaluations and user feedback from the Coast Guard will also be critical.
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