The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Hawaii says a Pearl Harbor submarine wharf has been upgraded to accommodate the Navy’s new Virginia-class submarines.

The command awarded a $10.6 million contract for the repairs to Healy Tibbits Builders last year. Federal economic stimulus funds paid for the project.

Workers fixed the existing concrete deck, beams and curbs.

They also replaced nearly 20,000 square feet of the pier with a new full-depth deck that was cast-in-place.

Navy officials said Tuesday the concrete mixture used is designed to reduce cracking which should make the wharf stronger and last longer.

The contractor recycled the old concrete and steel it removed from the pier, keeping the materials out of Oahu’s landfills, Navy officials said.