MCNEIL ISLAND

• Latitude: 47.1968
• Longitude: -122.655
• US West Coast
• Port in US

Location: Steilacoom WA US

McNeil Island is located in the Puget Sound region of Washington State, USA. Historically, it has been known for its federal penitentiary, which later became a state prison before closing in 2011. The island now mostly serves as home to the Special Commitment Center, which houses civilly committed sex offenders.

Given its specialized nature and limited public access, McNeil Island does not operate as a commercial marine port. Instead, it has facilities primarily used for transporting personnel, supplies, and residents associated with the state's correctional and civil commitment operations.

Here is a general overview and specification of the maritime facilities associated with McNeil Island:

General Description:

1. Location: In the southern part of Puget Sound, near Steilacoom and Anderson Island.
2. Coordinates: Approximately 47.2014° N latitude and 122.6763° W longitude.
3. Access: Restricted due to the island’s use for secure facilities; not accessible for public or commercial maritime traffic.

Maritime Specifications:

1. Dock Facilities:

   • The primary dock facilities are designed to accommodate ferries and service vessels that transport personnel and materials necessary for the island’s operations.
   • These docks are not built to handle large commercial shipping vessels or heavy cargo operations.

2. Types of Vessels:

   • Ferries: Used for the transport of staff, residents, and limited visitors associated with the island’s facilities.
   • Service Boats: Various smaller utility boats used for maintenance, supply, and emergency services.

3. Navigational Aids:

   • Basic navigational aids are present to assist in the safe docking of ferries and service boats, but extensive commercial-grade infrastructure is not in place.

4. Restrictions:

   • Due to the presence of secure facilities, access to the island and its maritime facilities is highly restricted.
   • Commercial activities and public visitation are not permitted without specific authorization.

5. Support Facilities:

   • Limited on-island storage and supply facilities exist to support the operational needs of the correctional and civil commitment facilities.
   • No significant warehousing, heavy machinery, or commercial support structures are present.

6. Environmental Considerations:

   • Being in Puget Sound, the waters around McNeil Island are subject to environmental protections.
   • Operations are likely to take into account local wildlife and marine ecosystems, adhering to state and federal regulations.

While McNeil Island is historically and operationally significant, it does not function as a general-purpose marine port. It primarily serves the specific, governmental needs related to its correctional facilities and associated logistical requirements.