Barbour Boat Works Environmental Remediation

The Barbour Boat Works site in New Bern, North Carolina is rich with history. Situated on the Trent River, the six-acre vessel repair and construction shop shaped the coastal economy of North Carolina for over sixty years.  The site also lies adjacent to Tryon Palace, site of the first permanent state capitol of North Carolina.

After the boat builder closed in the mid 1990s, the state added the site to its Superfund list. The environmental site conditions were dire. In addition to contaminated soil, groundwater, and river sediments, there were asbestos containing materials and Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) transformers.

S&ME performed environmental remediation services. As a result of these successful efforts, the site became the new home for the North Carolina History Center. The 60,000 square-foot facility contains two museums. It also provides public attractions designed to enhance enjoyment of the waterfront.

Highlights

An NCDCR Capital Projects Office engineer said, “S&ME, Inc performed exceptionally well in their long-term involvement…at the former Barbour Boat Works site, from early clean-up efforts to the expertise required to make the fine museum opening a reality.” The end result…Tryon Palace’s new waterfront super fun place for all to enjoy.