NC aquarium agency closer to bidding on pier

NAGS HEAD, N.C. -- The head of North Carolina's aquarium agency says he hopes a rebuilt pier on the Outer Banks will be open for use by 2010.

The Virginian-Pilot of Norfolk reported Monday that North Carolina Aquariums director David Griffin said the agency will begin seeking bids this week on the Jennette's Pier project.

The $15 million project would rebuild the pier to 1,000 feet and design it to withstand hurricanes of 130 mph. The pier would include alternative energy generators and a 200-seat meeting area.

Jennette's Pier was demolished this year to clear the way for the new project. The original pier was built in 1939 and lost about 540 feet of length during Hurricane Isabel in 2003.

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