A key training centre for the US Coast Guard will be upgraded and expanded over the next four years to increase capacity by nearly 50% and prepare recruits for new challenges and services
As part of a modernisation campaign, the US Coast Guard (USCG) is investing US$400M to enhance training facilities at its Tracen centre in Cape May, New Jersey.
Whiting Turner Contracting has been contracted to rebuild the centre and upgrade training facilities as the US agency prepares for decades of maritime services within heightened and evolving geopolitical tensions.
The USCG aims to make Tracen Cape May the premier location in the US for developing military enlisted members and to ensure it can meet future demands.
The national service expects to increase its number of annual recruits from 5,500 to more than 8,000 annually by 2030, with a new multi-purpose training facility.
“This investment marks a historic milestone in modernising our facilities and ensuring we are fully prepared to develop the next generation of coast guardsmen while maintaining the highest standards,” said Tracen Cape May commanding officer Captain Amanda Lee.
“By improving infrastructure and quality of life, we are not only strengthening our workforce but also enhancing our readiness and ability to carry out critical missions that protect the nation’s maritime interests.”
Upgrade work will include construction of barracks buildings, relocation of electrical duct banks and transformers, new multi-purpose training facilities, indoor graduation space and track, and a new drill hall, galley and fire station.
Training modules will support USCG missions, including search and rescue, navigational safety, drug interdiction and maritime border security.
Contracted work will be conducted in phases to minimise interruption to existing recruit training.
