Yes! Camel fenders! The upgrade included new large-diameter HDPE camels.
An affordable solution. The USCG serves a vital mission in the Alaska and deep waters of the Pacific providing security, salvage, and rescue operations. The floating fuel pier and timber wharf used for mooring a wide range of USCG vessels, including National Security Cutters, were not designed for lateral earthquake loads and for the significant hull sweep of the Security Cutters. Damage often occurred to the fender system and wharf because of the configuration due to moorage operations. A previous feasibility study resulted in repair and replacement recommendations of over $47 million which were higher than available budgets. Searching for more cost effective solutions, the U.S. Coast Guard hired Reid Middleton to review the proposed repairs and determine if there was a more economical solution that improved efficiency at the fuel float and addressed the need to accommodate the loading from various USCG vessels while protecting the existing Cargo Wharf facility from damage. Reid Middleton developed a high-performance, cost-effective, and affordable solution for upgrading both facilities. Openings within the existing fuel float were filled in, improving operations and safety on the fuel float. An innovative fender system with large diameter floating camels along with localized repair, replacement, or upgrade of structural components was implemented for the Cargo Wharf, eliminating the need for expensive large-scale pier structural upgrades and preventing future damage from operations. The alternative solution and innovative design addressed the facility deficiencies and saved the USCG more than $5 million.
