On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, severely damaging Ingalls facilities. Despite the devastation, Ingalls demonstrated its unwavering commitment to shipbuilders, many of whom also faced personal losses. In the aftermath, with many parts of the shipyard damaged and shipbuilding at a halt, the company focused not only on repairing structures but also on preserving the livelihoods of our workforce. Relief efforts were quickly organized, providing essential supplies and cleanup efforts to get the shipyard operational again.
Now, 19 years later, Ingalls stands as a symbol of resilience. East Bank has been transformed into a cutting-edge facility, featuring three 100,000 square foot manufacturing buildings, Berth Four for post-sea trials, and a dedicated training area. A highlight of the reconstruction is the covered slab areas (CSA) on the West Bank, which include elevated offices and shops designed to withstand 170-mile-per-hour winds, enhancing safety and durability.
The renovation also honors the shipyard’s history with preserved elements like bricks from a 1930s guardhouse and a concrete slab with founder Robert Ingalls Sr.’s initials. Over 100,000 tons of recycled concrete were used for new roadways, and modern LED lighting blends historical respect with contemporary technology. As Ingalls reflects on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the shipyard remains a powerful symbol of strength and renewal, steadfast in its mission to build ships that protect and defend our nation.
