PATUXENT RIVER, MD – The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Washington's Public Works Department (PWD) Patuxent River has broken ground on Phase I of a major construction initiative at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River, a key site for U.S. naval aviation research, development, and testing. The $10.8 million effort, officially designated Military Construction Navy P691, represents a vital step in preparing for a next-generation aircraft development and maintenance complex.

The launch of Phase I sets the stage for significant infrastructure modernization at the east coast alert base, where technological innovation, rapid prototyping, and mission-readiness converge to support critical U.S. Navy aviation capabilities.

The current phase involves the construction of three pre-engineered metal buildings that will house essential operations currently located in aging and outdated structures. These new facilities will ultimately clear space for the project's ambitious Phase II: a state-of-the-art aircraft hangar and a 53,722 square yard aircraft parking apron designed to support high-performance platforms and next-gen test missions.

“Phase I creates the foundation for this transformational project by relocating essential operations into modern, purpose-built facilities,” said Construction Manager Jason Kubischta. “These new buildings will directly enable the construction of our future aircraft hangar.”

A Closer Look at the New Facilities

The three new structures being built under Phase I each serve distinct operational needs:

• Air Operations Storage Facility: A 4,116 square foot facility that will consolidate mission-critical support equipment in one secure, accessible location.
• Sonobuoy Storage Facility: At 3,920 square feet, this facility includes lead-lined radio frequency shielding, offering enhanced protection for sensitive sonar and communications technologies.
• Hazardous Materials Storage (Building 2980): A 5,409 square foot structure featuring interior masonry fire barriers to meet the stringent safety standards for storing flammable and industrial-grade materials.

“Upon completion, the new buildings will allow demolition of six existing structures currently occupying the future hangar and apron site,” Kubischta noted.

This demolition will be crucial for freeing up real estate within the base for the Phase II main facility, designed to accommodate larger aircraft and more advanced maintenance infrastructure.

Construction and Contracting Teams

As of early June, substructure work and utility infrastructure installation are underway, with the first pre-engineered metal building set to begin erection by late June. The work is being led by Tuckman-Barbee Construction Company Inc., a firm with extensive experience in federal and defense sector construction.

Design and engineering services are provided by the Pond/Michael Baker International Joint Venture, while American States Utility Services and Southern Maryland Electrical Cooperative are delivering utility support through separately awarded contracts.

Strategic Importance of NAS Patuxent River

As the Navy’s principal site for aircraft systems testing and evaluation, NAS Patuxent River plays a pivotal role in supporting U.S. naval aviation. This new construction will enhance the base’s long-term operational readiness by streamlining logistics, supporting sustainable building practices, and optimizing the workspace for Navy personnel and mission partners.

NAVFAC’s Broader Mission

NAVFAC Washington continues to provide full-spectrum engineering, public works, and environmental services across the National Capital Region. From base support to energy management and sustainable facility design, the command remains at the forefront of infrastructure development for the Navy, Marine Corps, joint installations, and federal entities.

This latest project further exemplifies NAVFAC's commitment to mission-ready infrastructure, safety-first construction, and strategic asset modernization as part of a long-term vision for military facility excellence.

Originally reported by Natasha Waldron Anthony in Dvidshub.