2026-02-24 PRESS RELEASE

Updated: 2/24/2026 @ 3:30 PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 24, 2026

CITY AND BOROUGH OF WRANGELL & JAG MARINE GROUP EXPAND PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP TO ADVANCE NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART SHIPYARD FOR ALASKA

Wrangell, Alaska — The City and Borough of Wrangell and JAG Marine Group today announced the expansion of their public-private partnership to advance development of a new, state-of-the-art large vessel shipyard at Wrangell’s deep-water port.

On January 28, the Borough and JAG Marine Group formally executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing the framework for collaboration on the proposed shipyard. On February 10, the Wrangell Assembly approved moving forward with jointly funding 30% design, detailed cost estimates, and feasibility analysis for the project — a critical step in positioning the shipyard for State and Federal investment.

The proposed facility will significantly expand Alaska’s shipbuilding, fabrication, repair, and maintenance capacity for large commercial and government vessels. It is designed to support the evolving operational needs of the United States Coast Guard, whose expanding Arctic and Pacific presence demands reliable, high-capacity maintenance infrastructure in the region.

Recently designated a “Coast Guard City” by Resolution of the Borough Assembly, Wrangell is uniquely positioned to serve as a strategic maritime hub between Seattle and Anchorage. This new partnership builds upon that designation and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening national security while growing Alaska’s industrial base.

“This is about Alaska stepping into its role as a maritime powerhouse,” said Mason Villarma, Borough Manager for the City and Borough of Wrangell. “By advancing 30% design and feasibility, we are demonstrating to our State and Federal partners that this project is real, actionable, and aligned with both economic development and national security priorities. Wrangell is ready.”

JAG Marine Group, which operates the Ketchikan Shipyard, brings proven shipyard management expertise and a deep understanding of Alaska’s maritime industry. The company believes that a new facility in Wrangell would complement—not compete with—existing operations in Ketchikan and elsewhere in the state.

“Alaska has an opportunity to capture a greater share of fabrication and maintenance work that too often leaves the state,” said Doug Huff, President and Co-owner of Jag Marine Group. “A Wrangell shipyard strengthens the entire maritime ecosystem. Together with Ketchikan, we can expand capacity, support federal assets operating in the Arctic, and create high-quality jobs for Alaska’s workforce.”

The 30% design phase will refine site planning, engineering concepts, infrastructure requirements, and cost projections. These deliverables will enhance ongoing discussions with State and Federal agencies and support future appropriation requests and grant funding necessary to make the shipyard a reality.

The project is expected to:

• Expand in-state shipbuilding and repair capacity for large vessels
• Support U.S. Coast Guard and Federal and State Arctic operations
• Increase fabrication and industrial capabilities in Alaska
• Create and sustain high-wage maritime and skilled trade jobs
• Strengthen Southeast Alaska’s role in national maritime strategy

Wrangell and JAG Marine Group remain committed to a collaborative process as the project advances. Community engagement, stakeholder coordination, and continued partnership with State and Federal leaders will remain central to the effort.

“This is not just a Wrangell project,” Villarma added. “This is an Alaska project. It is about ensuring our state has the infrastructure, workforce, and capability to serve both commercial industry and our nation’s security needs—right here at home.”

For more information, please contact:

City and Borough of Wrangell
Office of the Borough Manager
(907) 874-2381

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