Maguire Group Inc. Foxborough, Massachusetts
ACEC Silver Award: Oak Bluffs Ferry Terminal Expansion Project The Steamship Authority (SSA) Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts The Project Team of architects, engineers, contractors, consultants and project management specialists led by Maguire Group provided the SSA with an optimum project approach that resulted in a functional, attractive and durable facility that will serve the Steamship Authority well into The 21st century.
Shore-side view of the terminal facility shows the former ticketing office, and timber pile-supported walkway. The effects of years of ocean exposure can be seen on the building itself, the piles, and the landside areas.
Phased winter construction placed the Spin Fin® piles to support the pedestrian walkway. The butt ends of new steel Spin Fin support piles stand ready for the new walkway assembly.
The pavilion and 240-ft passenger walkway were constructed using large Port Orford Cedar (POC) beams, a sustainable design feature selected because of its strength, durability, and natural decay resistance.
The original 35-ft transfer bridge needed to be replaced with a 50-ft bridge to accommodate longer trucks now in common use. Photo shows new pile-supported transfer bridge and the pilesupported breasting, mooring and turning dolphins.
The new 1,750-SF Terminal Building is the hub for activity at the facility, and architect Cecil Group’s concept designs help it meet the Steamship Authority’s goal of creating an attractive and welcoming gateway for visitors to Oak Bluffs.
As of May 2010, a new Terminal Building, newly constructed pier for vehicles, and a wide covered walkway greet passengers of the Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority ferries and the New England Fast Ferry.