GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. (GZA), a leading multi-disciplinary firm providing geotechnical, environmental, ecological, water, and construction management services, congratulates Maine Maritime Academy on successfully opening the first phase of a revamped waterfront facility to welcome the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel State of Maine.

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NSMV “State of Maine” arrived for the first time at Maine Maritime Academy on Sunday, July 12. In the foreground is ongoing construction for the future fully revamped waterfront facility. (Photo credit: GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc.)

The vessel’s successful arrival at the Academy this past Sunday followed four years of work by MMA, GZA, and other partners that began with a condition assessment of the existing pier and facility. Work progressed through the specialized new pier and mooring dolphin design to address the wide tidal range, resilience to coastal storms, and the specific ship characteristics and mooring requirement for the new training vessel; design of other new water dependent structures; and permitting and construction.

The State of Maine is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art training vessel that will revolutionize the educational experience MMA cadets receive as a part of the Academy’s unlimited license program. The vessel is equipped with a dedicated training bridge and navigation lab, two full-sized engine rooms, eight classrooms, laboratory space, an auditorium, and a helipad. The new vessel, replacing the one of the same name that was retired in 2024, increases the number of cadets who can train on board from 245 to 600.

NSMV State of Maine is one of five vessels in the National Defense Reserve Fleet equipped to respond to and support major federal relief efforts resulting from natural disasters by providing hospital facilities, helicopter landing capabilities, a roll-on/roll-off ramp, container storage space, and berthing for up to 1,000 people.

GZA President and CEO Patrick Sheehan said: “It’s an exciting milestone to see our client MMA welcome this innovative vessel that promises to bring MMA cadets an even stronger educational and training experience and to serve our country in times of great need. On behalf of all her colleagues, I want to congratulate Associate Principal Cheryl Coviello and her team for their diligent work so far that led to this historic day.”

In Phases 2 and 3 of the construction project, scheduled to be completed in mid-2027, the existing timber pier will be demolished and reconstructed to include a new bulkhead, concrete block retaining wall, and new floating docks and floating breakwater. New mechanical, electrical, and plumbing components will be installed. The existing mooring and breasting platforms and other existing structures will be modified and maintained. Maintenance dredging of the existing inner boat basin will also be conducted.

Other partners working alongside GZA on the MMA pier project include GZA’s team members Haley Ward, Inc., and RMF Engineering, the Owner’s Representative; Colliers Project Leaders; and general contractor Reed & Reed, Inc., of Woolrich, Maine.

About GZA

GZA is a multi-disciplinary, employee-owned firm providing Geotechnical, Environmental, Ecological, Water, and Construction Management services. GZA’s more than 800 professionals are based in 35 offices across the United States. Our corporate headquarters is at 249 Vanderbilt Avenue, Norwood, Mass. 02062.

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“It’s an exciting milestone to see our client MMA welcome this innovative vessel that promises to bring MMA cadets an even stronger educational and training experience and to serve our country in times of great need,” said GZA CEO Patrick Sheehan.