Just inside the turnstiles at Newport News Shipbuilding’s 46th Street gate, a new set of stairs leads down into the shipyard. It’s a welcome improvement for the 9,500 people who use the gate every day.

The old set of stairs – constructed between 1919 and 1920 – had exceeded its serviceable lifespan. Maintaining the stairs to prevent safety issues had become a constant issue. Shipbuilders from Buildings and Grounds (O41) executed the replacement project with support from O43, O46 and O15.

The stairs were replaced in two phases. The first phase began in October 2021 and was completed the following month. The second phase started in November 2021 and was completed in December.

“The new stairs are a great improvement to safety and quality of life for those who use that gate daily, and we have received very positive feedback,” said Facilities Engineer Matt Yancer.