The U.S. Navy has awarded a $78 million contract modification to Huntington IngalI Industries' Newport News Shipbuilding to enhance the quality of life for sailors and shipyard workers. This initiative includes the construction of a new facility for personnel working on aircraft carriers undergoing mid-life refueling and overhaul, as detailed by Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).
The new carrier refueling overhaul workcenter will offer approximately 80,000 square feet of dedicated space near the ship. It will feature office spaces, a fitness center, counseling offices, and other amenities for both sailors and shipbuilders involved in refueling and complex overhaul operations at Newport News.
In addition to the workcenter, a new parking garage with over 2,000 spaces will be constructed to alleviate parking issues at the shipyard. This improvement follows the announcement of other initiatives aimed at enhancing sailors' quality of life during maintenance periods. These measures were introduced in response to challenges faced by sailors during extended overhaul projects, such as those encountered with the USS George Washington and USS John C. Stennis, which have faced significant delays and tough living conditions.
The new facility and other quality-of-life improvements are scheduled for completion by June 2026.
