Mobile Chamber opposes potential dismantling of USS Enterprise at port

A proposal to dismantle the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft at the Port of Mobile has drawn opposition from the Mobile Chamber.

The opposition is in response to an announcement last week that NorthStar Maritime Dismantlement Services and Modern American Recycling and Radiological Services announced they have formed a team to pursue dismantlement of decommissioned Navy nuclear aircraft carriers at the Port of Mobile. NorthStar Maritime is a subsidiary of NorthStar Group Services; MARRS is a subsidiary of Modern American Recycling Services

According to a news release from the NorthStar Group, the NorthStar/MARS team will initially compete to win the Navy contract for dismantling the historic USS Enterprise, the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The ship served the Navy for more than 55 years before its decommissioning in 2017.

However, the Mobile Chamber said the proposed project would threaten the budding growth along the city’s waterfront and downtown.

“Downtown Mobile is experiencing significant growth, attracting new businesses, tourism and a thriving arts and entertainment scene, all of which contribute to our local economy and quality of life,” the chamber said in a statement Monday. “In just the next 12 months, we’ll see the start of construction of the new Civic Center and the new I-10 River Bridge and Bayway, the completion of Heroes Plaza, and the groundbreaking of the new River Walk Hotel. These projects will transform downtown for generations to come.

“Bringing a large-scale nuclear dismantlement operation to our downtown waterfront, risks undermining these efforts and creating a public perception issue, which could harm our city’s reputation as a vibrant, growing community.”

NorthStar is a New York-based company with large-scale facility decommissioning and demolition operations. Recent projects include decommissioning the Vermont Yankee and Crystal River Unit 3 nuclear power plants, large refineries, and complex urban facilities including skyscrapers.

MARS, a 53-year-old ship recycling and decommissioning company based in Louisiana, owns and operates five facilities on the Gulf Coast, including Mobile, and in Europe.

“Working with MARS, the most experienced maritime recycler in the U.S., competitively positions NorthStar for the opportunity to dismantle the ex-Enterprise,” said CEO Scott E. State. “We look forward to applying our well-honed commercial industry practices to this first-of-a-kind project and look forward to a long relationship with MARS and the Mobile community.”

Among the project highlights are:

Environmental Responsibility: The NorthStar/MARS team is committed to the highest standards of safety and environmental protection throughout the dismantling process. The nuclear fuel was already removed from the reactors and sent to storage in 2017. All removal of other radioactive and hazardous materials will be conducted in fully-enclosed areas to eliminate any possible contact with the public or the environment. Comprehensive safety protocols and advanced recycling techniques will be employed for the responsible management and off-site disposal of all materials.
Community Engagement: The NorthStar/MARS team will work closely with local authorities and community stakeholders to ensure transparency and address any concerns throughout the project.
Economic Impact: The project will create jobs in the Mobile area, boosting the local economy and providing valuable opportunities for skilled workers. The presence of the Enterprise on the waterfront in the Port of Mobile is also likely to create a unique opportunity for folks to visit Mobile wanting to see this noteworthy ship one last time.

“MARS is excited to partner with NorthStar on this historic endeavor,” said Dwight “Butch” Caton Sr., CEO and President of MARS. “Together, we will ensure that the legacy of the ex-Enterprise is honored through a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible dismantling process.”

However, the Chamber said the operation is “incompatible with our vision for a dynamic and sustainable downtown.

“The Mobile Chamber remains committed to supporting growth initiatives that align with our strategic objectives for economic development, environmental health and a vibrant downtown.”