VHB supported the City of Norfolk with both hydrographic surveying and dredging design services at the berth of the USS Wisconsin, a retired battleship docked in Norfolk Harbor that now serves as a museum. Together, this work helps guide long term maintenance and preservation of the berth while supporting the continued stewardship of a national landmark.
VHB completed a condition hydrographic survey using advanced multibeam technology to collect detailed soundings beneath and around the 887-foot vessel and the adjacent federal channel. The survey provided a precise view of underwater conditions supporting the ship, delivering critical data to inform maintenance decisions and identify areas of concern not visible from the surface.
Building on previous dredging design work completed several years ago, VHB is also helping the city evaluate siltation and develop an updated dredging approach. Because moving the ship is not feasible, the dredging design must be developed with the vessel in place and account for the challenges of working beneath the hull. The result will be a more strategic dredging plan that improves long term performance and helps protect the USS Wisconsin for future generations.
