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NAS Jacksonville Shoreline Gets Facelift, New Piers

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060509-12
Release Date: 5/9/2006 10:00:00 AM

By Lithographer 1st Class (SW/AW) Heather Ewton, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville Public Works Department is removing five condemned piers from the station’s shoreline in May and replacing them with two upgraded piers that base officials say will provide enjoyment to patrons and employees for years to come.

The project team looked at all of the factors associated with reconstructing Fisherman’s Cove pier and the pier located across from Naval Hospital Jacksonville, and presented their ideas to base leaders.

“We were provided a budget to improve areas of the NAS Jax shoreline,” said Lynn Dickenson, Facilities Division project manager. “We knew that we had to work on the erosion problem on the north shoreline that was caused by past hurricanes. That area needed vegetation and gravel to be replaced so we could get control of the erosion problem out there. After the costs of that project had been deducted from our budget, we had enough left over to replace only two of the 25-year-old piers instead of the five that we had hoped for,” Dickenson stated.

Commander, Navy Region Southeast Rear Adm. Mark Boensel and NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Chip Dobson were set on ensuring that the piers chosen to be rebuilt would benefit the troops and their families.

“The location is ideal at both piers for maximum usage, and there are also pavilions and picnic areas with ideal parking, as well,” said Dickenson.

The pier at Fisherman’s Cove is now nearly complete. Both of the new piers will feature concrete pilings versus the old wood pilings and planks. They are also being constructed completely of aluminum. Construction of the new pier at the hospital entrance will begin within the week, and according to Dickenson, people can expect to enjoy the full benefit of a brand new pier at Fisherman’s Cove within the next two weeks. The pier is awaiting all of the required, final walk-through inspections.

Johnny Buettgem of Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS), was enjoying a view of the river while having lunch with some co-workers.

"The new pier is absolutely gorgeous," he said. "The previous pier was a rickety, wooden mess, and what’s out there now looks like it will last forever.”

“It was a much needed improvement to put a new pier out here," added Darrell Bullinger, also of NCTS. "It’s safe now, and the manatees are going to enjoy playing around it.”

Completion time for both of the piers may vary due to events such as weather or material availability. However, full use of Fisherman’s Cove is expected within three weeks, and the pier near the hospital entrance should be finished within the next three months.