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The refitted graving docks at Electric Boat: Photo by Harriet JonesConnecticut shipyard Electric Boat has put into service two new repair docks, after a $65 million reconstruction program. The investment was backed by the state after the threat to close the nearby sub base.

The graving docks on the Groton waterfront were originally built in the 1960s, and before the refit were at the end of their useful life, They are an essential tool for the submarine builder as it continues to maintain subs berthed at the Groton sub base just up the Thames River. EB President John Casey spoke at a ceremony to mark their completion.

“They’re used for new submarine construction as well as overhaul and repair, and they’ll make Electric Boat even more valuable as a Naval shipbuilder, extending the life of the docks by about a half a century or more, and reducing the maintenance costs associated with their operation.”

Governor Jodi Rell floods the refited graving docks at Electric Boat in Groton: Photo by Harriet Jones
The state of Connecticut provided $20 million in tax breaks and low interest loans for the project. Governor Jodi Rell opened the valve to flood the graving docks for the first time.

“It is a flood that really does help boost the economy in this area, and of course I think it boosts economic development in many ways. Think about what we’re doing for the future of the state of Connecticut when we can enhance our economy and we can invest in our buildings, and we can invest in a shipyard that has been here for so long, and is working to stay and to continue to grow jobs.”

Electric Boat is currently hiring, but cautions that its waterfront workforce won’t be considered stable until it can start building two new submarines each year.