This case study presents the results and conclusions of an investigation of painted steel piles at a marine commerce terminal in coastal New England, including a review of relevant engineering specifications and other documents, an on-site field investigation, and laboratory analysis of samples collected. A review of specifications showed that the specifications approved for the paint system were inadequate for long term service without using cathodic protection. No cathodic protection was placed on the back side of piles and should be extended to back side for corrosive soil exposure. After five years, the paint coating looks good in non-repaired areas. No corrosion or blisters were observed in non-repaired areas in the atmospheric zone or in areas where there is no mechanical damage or barnacles. Maintenance/repair coating of the previously repaired and mechanically damaged areas and cathodic protection monitoring can take care of problems. No corrosion or accelerated corrosion in blisters was observed due to cathodic protection and high pH. Indications are that barnacles contributed and may have caused the blisters.