Port of Newport Dock Project

The Port of Newport has begun the process of a multi-phase project to correct an environmental problem created by the Port’s failing dock facilities. The support for the dock is formed by two ships that were scuttled in Yaquina Bay in 1948 for the purpose of creating the dock foundation. The ships contain petroleum and other potentially hazardous materials that could be released and pollute the bay.

The Port has owned the site since 1982. In 2001 operations ceased because of declining structural integrity of one of the ships, the Pasley, which continues to twist, crack, and list towards the bay.

DEQ is one of several state and federal agencies involved in overseeing the work and issuing permits. DEQ’s role is to review work plans and reports and provide technical assistance.

The cleanup in both ships is scheduled regardless of the new cargo dock design, which is not yet determined. The new design will depend on financial and environmental considerations.

Cleanup of hazardous substances in the ships will take place in two phases. The current proposal is for phase one, which will entail removing and treating oily water, removing contaminated sediments, and cleaning oily compartment walls that are accessible and not in contact with the bay.

A separate proposal will be made for cleaning the contaminants in the remaining compartments during construction of activities for the new cargo dock. Funding for cleanup activities comes from a loan from the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department.

DEQ is holding a public comment period through May 15th on the first phase of cleanup. Once all comments are address, the Port will develop a work plan and obtain the associated permits. It is anticipated that field work on the first phase will be conducted in the fall of 2009.

Supporting Documents

• ABCA Phase 1 Remedial Action Report April 2009 PDF
• ABCA Appendix A: Site Investigation/Assessment Laboratory Analytical Tables PDF
• ABCA Appendix B: Pasley Starboard Wing Ballast Tank Photographs PDF
• ABCA Appendix C: Additional Supporting Information PDF 1.3MB
• ABCA Figures PDF 6MB
• ABCA Tables PDF
• RAP Phase 1 Remedial Action Work Plan April 2009
• RAP Appendix A: Contaminant Media Management Plan PDF
• RAP Appendix B: Ship Reference Drawings PDF
• RAP Figures PDF 5.9MB
• RAP Tables PDF
• Response to Comments #1 PDF
• Response to Comments #2 PDF
• State Bulletin Request for Comments Notice PDF
   

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