Navy Relocation: Transfer of the Naval Explosives Development Engineering Department
Abstract
In May 1987 the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) announced its decision to transfer NEDED from Yorktown to Indian Head. Navy officials advised us that cost savings were not the primary reason for the transfer. They explained that the rationale for the transfer was a desire to (1) consolidate business lines and improve leadership and supervision at NEDED, (2) eliminate activities that did not contribute to the primary mission of the Navy's coastal weapons stations, and (3) use the same facilities for explosive and propellant materials engineering. The move was to be accomplished in two steps: an administrative transfer in October 1987 and a physical move 5 years later. However, because of questions raised by affected personnel and subsequent congressional interest, the administrative transfer was delayed to allow time for (1) NAVSEA to prepare studies and (2) the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the Navy to consider the proposed move. The Navy's studies concluded that (1) the proposed move was feasible, although several concerns needed to be resolved, (2) there would be no significant or controversial environmental impact, and (3) the transfer to Indian Head would result in potential savings of $10.3 million over 30 years. Short term savings would be generated by canceling three military construction projects at Yorktown and reducing planned capital equipment purchases. Savings over the remaining years (years 6-30) would be realized through increased productivity and a reduction in personnel and base operating costs. To effect these savings, the Navy expects to incur near-term building renovation and moving costs of about $2.3 million.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- AD1174467
Entities
People
- Charles A. Schuler
- Hugh E. Brady
- James E. Lewis
- James K. Mahaffey
- Martin M. Ferber
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office