Upgraded Docks for Port of Bandon

Oregon’s Port of Bandon recently upgraded its docks after years of patience and hard work to secure funding. In 2023, the port awarded a design-build contract to West Coast Contractors (WCC), which brought in Seattle-based KPFF for overall marina design work that summer. WCC removed the existing piles and hired Bergerson Construction to dredge approximately 36,000 cubic yards of material from the marina and boat launch. A bathymetric survey was performed to ensure proper depth following dredge activity. Bellingham Marine manufactured and designed the new docking system, consisting of five docks for a total slip count of 80. Forty-eight 16-inch diameter steel piles were driven and encased with SuperSleeve HDPE sleeves from Lee Composites to ensure protection from the elements and a prolonged lifespan.

The port’s location at the mouth of the Coquille River in southern Oregon receives drastic tide changes and constant wind activity, resulting in continuous movement and wave action. WCC Senior Project Manager Chad Walker noted that the sleeves “will add years to the life of the piling.” The expected usable life of the new marina is placed at 35-50 years. The project was completed in spring 2024.