Wrangell and JAG Marine advance large-vessel shipyard plans in Alaska

The City and Borough of Wrangell in Alaska and JAG Marine Group have advanced plans to develop a large-vessel shipyard through an expanded public-private partnership at Wrangell’s deep-water port.
The parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding on January 28th, establishing a framework for collaboration on the proposed facility, while the Wrangell Assembly approved joint funding on February 10th to complete a 30% design phase, detailed cost estimates and a feasibility study. Local officials said the work would refine engineering concepts, infrastructure requirements and project costs, helping position the development for state and federal funding support.
The proposed yard aims to expand Alaska’s capacity for shipbuilding, fabrication and shiprepair of large commercial and government vessels, while supporting growing operational requirements of the US Coast Guard in Arctic and Pacific waters.
Mason Villarma, borough manager for the City and Borough of Wrangell, said: “This is about Alaska stepping into its role as a maritime powerhouse. By advancing 30% design and feasibility, we are demonstrating to our state and federal partners that this project is real, actionable, and aligned with both economic development and national security priorities. Wrangell is ready.”
Doug Huff, president and co-owner of JAG Marine Group, said: “Alaska has an opportunity to capture a greater share of fabrication and maintenance work that too often leaves the state. A Wrangell shipyard strengthens the entire maritime ecosystem. Together with Ketchikan, we can expand capacity, support federal assets operating in the Arctic, and create high-quality jobs for Alaska’s workforce.”