EB buys former Macy’s as part of Conn. expansion

"We are delighted to expand our footprint in Southeastern Connecticut," said Mark Rayha, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat. "Over the past two years, we successfully worked with the Navy, Congress and the administration to secure funds that enable us to increase wages for the nuclear-powered vessel workforce and allow for significant additional investments in capacity, shipyard processes and systems. This acquisition is another example of effectively leveraging those funds to move important support functions out of the shipyard and maximize the production value of our waterfront footprint."

"The acquisition of the Waterford location and other recent property acquisitions by our nation's largest submarine builder underscore the pivotal role our state plays in strengthening America's national security," U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2nd District, said. "This new enterprise, focused on leading-edge Naval architecture, is another example of Electric Boat positioning itself to meet the Navy's and Congress' long-term commitment to our future submarine fleet."

Waterford expansion

The transaction of the Waterford location provides Electric Boat with space to expand its engineering, training and laboratory work in support of Columbia- and Virginia-class submarine production.

Approximately 700 Electric Boat employees are expected to work at this Waterford location. The 121,000-square-foot building sits on a 7.4-acre plot of land and is connected to the Crystal Mall on Route 85 and is approximately 5.5 miles from Electric Boat's shipyard in Groton.

Electric Boat will refurbish the location to provide space for a range of functions related to its submarine production, including engineering, training and laboratories. It is anticipated that employees will start working in this location as early as March 2027.

"Electric Boat looks forward to partnering with the local community to support our critical mission to build nuclear submarines. The Navy and our nation are counting on us," added Rayha.

"The Town of Waterford is thrilled to welcome Electric Boat," said Waterford First Selectman Rob Brule. "Electric Boat's expansion to our town is a significant investment that reinforces our strong maritime history and our commitment to economic development for our community."

Other recent expansions

Recent real estate activity for Electric Boat has included:

• Land purchase in North Stonington to build a 480,000-square-foot warehouse (January 2025)
• Commercial lot at 435 Thames Street in Groton (May 2025)
• The former Garbo Lobster property at 415 Thames Street, Groton (May 2025)