Port of Newport Lures Government Research Fleet Away From Seattle

By Tom Banse | Aug. 4, 2009 2:45 p.m. | Olympia, WA

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The Port of Newport Tuesday won a fierce competition to homeport the federal government's West Coast research and survey fleet for the next 20 years.

But two U.S. Senators have already signaled they will seek Congressional review of the proposed move from the current homeport in Seattle. Correspondent Tom Banse reports.

Newport beat out Seattle, Bellingham and Port Angeles for the valuable marine operation.

 NOAA Seattle
 NOAA's current facilities on Lake Union in Seattle

Seattle officials immediately complained about the subsidies Oregon offered.

The Port of Newport and the State of Oregon plan to sell bonds to build a new $44 million facility.

Capt. Michelle Bullock commands the Pacific fleet of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

She says her agency was open to moving because the lease at its fire-damaged docks in Seattle expires next year.

Michelle Bullock: “I'm optimistic that this is a bright future for us. We'll be in a new facility and I think that will make us a more efficient operation. I think it will be the best value to the taxpayer.”

The homeport brings with it about 175 jobs, four large research vessels, and port calls from additional ships.

In separate statements, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray of Washington said they're extremely disappointed with the proposed move and will seek reconsideration.

© 2009 KUOW

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