National Oceanic and Atmospheric Agency (NOAA) recently reconfirmed the plan to relocate Pacific Fleet Headquarters to Yaquina Bay at Newport from Seattle. Much speculation has occurred since NOAA’s plan was announced in the Fall of 2009 as to the suitability of the Newport site. After review by the General Accounting Office the Newport site was confirmed as the ideal and most cost effective location. Read an extended discussion in the Newport News Times. Additional documentation related to the the move can be read on the Marine Operations Center website.
Architect's rendering of the future Marine Operations Center - Pacific
NOAA’s move is a major benefit to the Lincoln County community, with Newport as County seat. Once the political wrangling dies away, the Oregon Coast will be the beneficiary of a major new employer and at the same time reduce the tax burden, all the while promoting ocean sciences. It’s really a win-win all around. The construction site is on the Bay side from OSU’s Hatfield Marine Science Center and North of the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
The Hatfield and the Aquarium are two wonderful places to visit during your next trip to the Coast, especially if it’s blowing and rainy enough to keep you off the beach.
