In April, Electric Boat (EB) began construction on the new central distribution hub for its warehousing, shipping, and receiving operations at 45 Frontage Road in North Stonington, CT. Since then, the 480,000‑square‑foot next‑generation warehouse facility has quickly taken shape. All wall panels are now complete, and construction is ahead of schedule. The facility will celebrate a topping‑off ceremony on Friday, Oct. 23.
The accelerated schedule, made possible by the Tilt‑Up Insulated Concrete Panel construction method, was critical to avoid significant weather delays. A total of 126 panels measuring 26 feet by 52 feet were cast on‑site while other site work progressed. After curing, they were lifted into position. Unlike traditional steel construction, Tilt‑Up panels offer comparable strength and durability, while delivering superior energy efficiency and sound attenuation. This drove an aggressive—and ultimately successful—push to cast and erect panels at a much faster construction schedule.
The building also incorporates environmental features such as solar panels—a first for EB—and the use of electric vehicles and equipment. Incorporating on‑site renewable energy aligns the company with emerging technologies and reinforces our commitment to environmental stewardship, energy efficiency, and long‑term sustainability. Its multiple docking bays and generous exterior layout support dedicated shipping and receiving areas, with traffic patterns designed to give drivers ample turning space for safe and efficient movement.
EB’s warehousing strategy is key to supporting the Navy’s requirement for one Columbia-class and two Virginia-class submarines per year. This facility is a major project supporting the Warehouse Master Plan, as it plays a vital role in relieving congestion at the shipyard waterfronts by moving warehousing operations off-site, reducing vehicle traffic, and contributing to a safer work environment.
Meeting production needs requires 1.8 million additional square feet of indoor storage and 52 acres of outdoor laydown space by 2027—a 263% increase that cannot be accommodated within the Groton or Quonset Point shipyards. To address this, 15 off‑campus storage sites were acquired, Eagle Park is expanding, and 45 Frontage Road is being built. The strategy relocates non‑essential warehousing, keeping only just‑in‑time materials in the shipyards to free up space for production. There are several additional offsite facilities in development to support both Groton and Quonset Point and help meet demand.
