Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach Ammunition Pier and Anaheim Bay Modernization Project

Seal Beach, CA

The Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach Ammunition Pier and Anaheim Bay Modernization Project is a critical initiative aimed at replacing an aging ammunition pier and revitalizing the surrounding infrastructure within Anaheim Bay. This $157 million project, spanning nearly five years, was designed to enhance operational efficiency and security for the U.S. Navy, accommodating modern vessel sizes and operational demands.

The scope of the project included constructing a new 1,100-foot-long, 125-foot-wide ammunition pier capable of accommodating dual ship operations, including larger vessels crucial for crisis response. Additionally, the project involved dredging for a public boating channel, naval ship channel, and turning basin, alongside the construction of a vehicle causeway, rock breakwater, and various shore protection measures. These efforts aimed to improve security by separating civilian boat traffic from naval operations, reducing harbor closure times, and enhancing readiness for naval fleet operations.

Despite its critical nature, the project faced significant challenges, including Covid-19 pandemic management, stringent environmental regulations, logistical complexities in construction staging, and the need to maintain ongoing naval operations throughout the construction period. These challenges required precise planning, coordination, and innovative solutions to ensure project success without disrupting base operations or environmental habitats.

Central to the success of the Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach project was the implementation of a formal Construction Partnering strategy facilitated by VELO Group. Twelve Partnering sessions were conducted throughout the project lifecycle, fostering a collaborative environment among all stakeholders, including government entities, contractors, and Navy officials.

Partnering facilitated open communication channels, proactive issue resolution, and alignment of project goals across all teams. During the initial Partnering session, the team established communication guidelines, defined success metrics, developed a structured issue resolution process, and set ambitious Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGS) for schedule, budget, safety, environment, public affairs, payments, quality, issue resolution, and interconnectivity. These goals were regularly reviewed and adjusted at subsequent meetings. Additionally, the team identified key challenges and opportunities requiring focused attention and assigned responsibilities accordingly. Partnering surveys conducted between meetings helped to monitor progress and ensure alignment with objectives. This holistic approach not only streamlined project coordination but also led to significant accomplishments.