Brown University’s Marston Boathouse, home to the men’s and women’s crew teams, underwent a complete waterfront transformation beginning in 2018 to support daily training demands and extend the facility’s long-term resilience. Located along the Seekonk River, the site had experienced significant wear and required structural stabilization, safety enhancements, and modernization. VHB partnered with university stakeholders to develop a phased master plan that expanded the boathouse’s waterfront presence and addressed critical infrastructure needs.
VHB led landside and hydrographic surveys, geotechnical investigations, and the full design of new infrastructure—including a hot-dipped galvanized sheet pile bulkhead, revetment, access pier, and float anchor piles. To improve durability, the project incorporated HDPE-sleeved piles and IPE decking and railings. The team also managed the permitting process through state and federal regulatory agencies and prepared construction documents. VHB supported bidding and provided construction observation to help deliver a safer, more durable, and highly functional waterfront facility that enhances the student-athlete experience for years to come.
