The Coast Guard released a request for proposal on Dec. 10 for the design and production of up to six special purpose craft — heavy weather generation II boats to replace the service’s previous fleet of 52-foot special purpose heavy weather, which have been retired.

One of the future heavy weather boats would be moored at Station Grays Harbor in Westport. Three other deepwater ports would also gain the new boats: Station Cape Disappointment, Station Yaquina Bay and Station Coos Bay, Oregon

The Coast Guard plans to deploy the new generation boats from Coast Guard stations in the Pacific Northwest to conduct search and rescue missions in extreme weather conditions, including surf and extreme seas, and to tow large fishing vessels in distress. Other secondary missions will include ports, waterways and coastal security and law enforcement.

The 52-foot boats were built in the 1950s, became increasingly difficult to maintain and have been retired.

The proposal includes actively operating four vessels while maintaining two as maintenance relief hulls, each with an operational lifespan of 25 years.

The request is available for public review through Jan. 20, 2025. Agencies and the public are encouraged to submit written comments to help evaluate the final assessment.

The proposal can be reviewed at Westport Timberland Library, 101 E Harms Dr., Westport.

The Coast Guard’s decision to implement the proposed action will follow the conclusion of the public comment period.