PORT ANGELES — The Port Angeles Planning Commission unanimously approved a permit Wednesday that would allow up to six submarine escort boats to be stationed at the Port Angeles Boat Haven.
The permit authorizes the construction of a security gate on the A/B float located at the south end of the marina and modifications to a building on the east jetty.
The port expects a lease agreement with the Navy to be signed this fall.
Mike Nimmo, port marine facilities marketing manager, said the armed boats are owned and operated by the Coast Guard.
The “fast-response boats,” which carry firearms, are 71 feet long, he said.
They help protect the Navy submarines, which by international law must remain at the surface while passing through the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Nimmo said the Coast Guard also contracts with Hornbeck Offshore Services for sub security. Hornbeck’s ships frequently can be seen in the harbor, he said.
Port staff have said the Navy wants to relocate the boats from Bangor to the marina at 832 Boat Haven Drive to reduce travel time.
Jesse Waknitz, port permit technician, told the Planning Commission the Navy is considering Port Angeles to be a temporary location for the boats while it considers a permanent move.
He said the lease may last between two to five years.
Nimmo said he expects four boats to be stationed at the marina.
He said there is enough space on the floats to accommodate the boats and existing tenants.
Additional information on the boats was not immediately available from the Navy.
A Coast Guard spokesman referred all questions to Navy public affairs.
________
Reporter Tom Callis can be reached at 360-417-3532 or at tom.callis@peninsuladailynews.com.
