ICE® Drives Port of Vancouver’s Redevelopment
June 15, 2025
The Port of Vancouver is currently undergoing a significant redevelopment project at Terminal 1, reinforcing its role as a key economic and transportation hub. One of the main components of this project is the replacement of a century-old dock. Executed in three phases, this project's first phase involves the demolition of the existing dock and removal of old wooden pilings. The second phase includes upland ground improvements and rebuilding the bulkhead wall, while the final phase will involve the installation of approximately 200 steel piles to support the new dock.
Keller Construction, a leading geotechnical firm, is the contractor handling the foundation and substructure work, employing deep foundations and ground improvement techniques to ensure the stability and longevity of the new dock. Their expertise includes steel pile installation, secant pile walls, and deep foundation solutions, essential for managing the challenging conditions of the site.
Vancouver's Terminal 1 project is an ambitious waterfront redevelopment, originally targeting three blocks for opening by 2023. However, unforeseen challenges caused slight delays, with demolition and removal of wooden pilings completed in 2024. As of May of 2025, the full project--including the public market and final block--is expected to be completed by 2027.
Prior to early 2025, Keller has made significant strides, notably completing ground stabilization at Block D, removing old piles and reinforcing the soil through deep soil mixing. This effort is part of the broader plan to transform Terminal 1 into a vibrant destination, integrating retail, commercial, and residential spaces.
In addition to the dock installation, the project includes the revitalization of the Bus Depot, ensuring improved commuter efficiency and transportation accessibility. The Bus Depot redevelopment is critical in Vancouver's multi-modal transit expansion, reinforcing the integration of public transit with waterfront commercial spaces.
For this portion of the project, Keller Construction has deployed various pieces of ICE® deep foundation equipment to provide a stable base for the Bus Depot, using deep soil mixing, CFA piles, and soldier piles to combat liquefaction risks and ensure seismic resilience. These improvements will enhance public transportation infrastructure, supporting future transit expansion and pedestrian accessibility within Terminal 1's redevelopment.
To tackle the rigorous foundation work, Skanska deployed an ICE® 50B Vibratory Hammer driver/extractor--rented from International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®)--as the driving force behind the pile installation and extraction phases. Engineered to deliver 187 tons of driving force and 180 tons of centrifugal force, the ICE® 50B proved indispensable for penetrating dense, compacted soils and achieving the deep embedment needed for structural integrity. Its precision handling and consistent performance allowed crews to maintain tight tolerances while working efficiently through varied subsurface conditions, securing a stable and secure foundation for this critical coastal infrastructure project.
Additionally, an ICE® I-100v2 Diesel Hammer was employed for tough extraction jobs, efficiently removing difficult timber piles while maintaining structural reliability. As construction progresses, an ICE® 44E Vibratory Hammer and various other ICE® Diesel hammers will be utilized to drive the final steel piles.
ICE® hammers are known for their reliability and high energy output, making them suitable for large-scale construction projects and are often used in tandem to achieve optimal pile driving results. Each of these pieces of equipment plays a crucial role in guaranteeing the success of pile driving operations, providing the necessary strength and precision to handle different types of piles and soil conditions.
Reinforcing this powerful lineup of foundation equipment, Hydrauli-Flex hose assemblies serve as the essential veins of the hydraulic systems, ensuring energy courses seamlessly from the ICE® Power Units on site. Built to thrive under punishing cycles and extreme environmental demands, these hoses combine precision flow control with rugged resilience--keeping each ICE® vibratory hammer and drill operating at full force without interruption. Their high-tensile reinforcements and abrasion-resistant jackets proved especially valuable as crews maneuvered through varied soil conditions and demanding extraction work. In a project where every second matters, Hydrauli-Flex hoses didn't just support the job--they propelled it forward.
Congratulations to the entire Keller team! Thanks to their hard work and dedication, the Terminal 1 project at the Port of Vancouver will transform the area's original marine terminal into a vibrant waterfront destination. Once completed, it is expected to be a major economic driver for the region; creating jobs, attracting tourists, and generating revenue for local businesses.
International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) is elated to be such a large part of this monumental development that will also include better public accessibility, cultural and historical spaces and boasts a commitment to sustainable development, including efforts to minimize environmental impact and promote environmental stewardship meant to ensure that the development meets today's needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. Bravo!
For more detailed updates and images visit the Port of Vancouver USA website or the Terminal 1 project page.
Learn more about the ICE® 50B, ICE® 44E and ICE® I-100v2
Media Contact-
Pollyanna Cunningham, MA, MBA
Vice President
ICE® - International Construction Equipment, Inc
The Hose Company
Office - 704-821-8200
Email - marketing@iceusa.com / info@hydraulichose.com
