The Port of Davisville in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, began as a Naval Air Station during World War II. Today, the Quonset Development Corporation (QDC) manages port operations and leads the Pier 1 rehabilitation project. Built during the 1940s, Pier 1 now requires significant upgrades to support ongoing port activity.
J.F. Brennan Company (Brennan) serves as the project’s prime contractor. Brennan is carefully demolishing and reconstructing portions of the pier.
“The overall objective is to allow the Port of Davisville to berth an additional car carrier on the south berth of Pier 1. The improvements we’re making will extend the life of this pier easily into the 2070s.“
— Alex Baittinger, Brennan Senior Project Manager
Strategic Planning for Seamless Integration
The rehabilitation supports QDC’s $235 million Port of Davisville Master Plan. The initiative upgrades infrastructure throughout the port.
“This project is one of a series of developments necessary to ensure the port continues operations as one of the top 10 auto importers in North America.”
— Greg Coren, QDC Manager of Engineering
The project also prepares Pier 1 for future improvements. QDC designed the rehabilitation so future crews can replace remaining pier sections efficiently.
“We needed a design where we could demolish the remainder of the pier later and install new sections almost like a LEGO® block system. There’s a lot of coordination between Brennan, QDC, and the design engineer to make this happen.”
— Greg Coren
A Complex, Coordinated Effort
Brennan assembled experienced pile drivers and advanced equipment to complete the project. The team operates a Manitowoc 4100 pile-driving rig and a Liebherr LR 1300 crane on spud barges. This equipment lifts loads weighing up to 90,000 pounds.
Safety remains Brennan’s highest priority.
“Things can go wrong fast if we’re not well-coordinated. It’s crucial that every team member knows what’s happening next and is watching out for everyone’s safety.”
— Jonathan Panasik, Brennan Regional Safety Manager
Greg Coren praised Brennan’s performance:
“They are efficient, professional, and have the expertise to execute a project like this.”
Safety and Precision: The Brennan Way
Brennan maintains its commitment to safety and quality throughout the project. The company assigns experienced personnel to meet the project’s unique demands.
“Safety is paramount to the Brennan culture. We have a group of people who truly respect each other and the skills they bring to the table.”
— Alex Baittinger
Looking Ahead at QDC’s Pier 1
Brennan and QDC continue strengthening the Port of Davisville’s role in North American auto imports. Today’s improvements increase capacity and support long-term growth. The partners also designed the project to integrate seamlessly with future upgrades. Together, they are helping secure the Port of Davisville’s future and support global shipping across North America.
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