Pier 1 Rises Again
April 2, 2026
The Port of Davisville at Quonset Point has long been one of Rhode Island's most valuable economic engines, serving as a major gateway for auto imports and a growing hub for offshore wind logistics. Just across Narragansett Bay from the waters where the Gaspee once ran aground, this coastline has quietly shaped the region's maritime identity for centuries. Today, the full replacement of Pier 1 continues that legacy. Originally built in the 1940s, the pier is undergoing a multi‑year reconstruction as part of a broader port modernization effort valued at more than $200 million, with Pier 1 itself supported by tens of millions in state and federal funding. Construction began in 2022 and is progressing in phases through 2026, ensuring the port can safely accommodate larger vessels, heavier cargo, and the growing offshore wind industry.
J.F. Brennan Company was selected to lead this critical marine foundation and pier reconstruction effort, as they were a natural fit given their deep experience in complex waterfront environments. Brennan has built a national reputation for excellence in heavy civil marine construction, environmental remediation, and underwater work, making them uniquely equipped to manage the challenges of a full pier replacement in an active port. Their commitment to safety, precision, and innovation has made them a trusted partner on major infrastructure projects across the country, and their expertise is especially valuable on a site with both historical significance and modern logistical demands.
Executing the high‑energy pile‑driving program at Pier 1 required a carefully matched suite of ICE® equipment capable of meeting the project's geotechnical and structural demands. To meet these requirements, Brennan has incorporated a newly purchased ICE® 44 Vibratory Hammer from International Construction Equipment, Inc. (ICE®) into the operation, taking advantage of its high eccentric moment and variable‑frequency control to efficiently advance the steel piles forming the pier's primary load‑bearing system. Integrated with an ICE® Hydro‑Lock Adapter equipped with an ICE® 140 clamp; the ICE® 44 is furthered enhanced by Hydrauli‑Flex™ hoses, ensuring reliable hydraulic performance, minimized pressure loss, and prevented excessive heat buildup during extended driving operations.
While ICE® vibratory hammers play a critical role in efficient pile driving operations, their performance and safety depend heavily on using the correct accessories. Using ICE® specialty clamps while driving ensures a secure, stable grip on the pile, preventing slippage and minimizing vibration loss so the hammer can deliver maximum energy into the ground. Equally important are the ICE® Hydro‑Lock Adapters, which allow operators to switch between clamps quickly and safely while maintaining consistent hydraulic pressure. Together, these components not only improve driving accuracy and productivity but also extend equipment life by reducing unnecessary wear and tear on the bolt holes. Incorporating the right clamps and adapters ultimately leads to smoother operations, reduced downtime, and a more reliable foundation installation process.
To meet required capacity on the 24" (in) pipe piles being driven, Brennan is supplementing the vibratory setup with a rented ICE® I‑46v2 Diesel Hammer paired with ICE® Model 55 Power Pack. The I‑46 delivers substantial single‑blow impact energy through its diesel‑combustion cycle, which is an essential capability for penetrating the dense glacial till and compacted marine sediments characteristic of Narragansett Bay.
Together, these systems provide the energy range and control necessary to sustain production rates, achieve required embedment depths, and maintain strict structural tolerances throughout the foundation installation phase.
As the new Pier 1 rises, the surrounding community stands to benefit from increased port capacity, improved infrastructure resilience, and continued economic growth. International Construction Equipment extends its appreciation to J.F. Brennan Company for their dedication and craftsmanship on this transformative project. Their work strengthens a waterfront that has supported Rhode Island for generations, and ICE® is proud to contribute equipment and expertise to a project that will serve the region well into the future.
Learn more about ICE® Clamping Systems, the ICE® I‑46v2 and ICE® 44
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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
