NC Gov authorizes new NC Aquarium Pier

Gov. Bev Perdue has signed a bill authorizing the construction of the North Carolina Aquarium Pier at Nags Head. The project is expected to "create jobs and enhance tourism in one of North Carolina's most popular destinations," according to a news release.

Perdue is noted as saying, "The North Carolina Aquarium Pier is an important marker for North Carolina's coastline and for the North Carolina Aquarium. But more importantly, it will serve generations to come as a place of learning, recreation and further appreciation of the natural resources that bring so many....to our beautiful coast."

Formerly known as Jennette's Pier, the oldest fishing pier on the Outer Banks and a landmark for generations, the new NC Aquarium Pier will provide 555 on-site jobs and 1,250 off-site jobs -- a benefit of more that $14 million to North Carolina's economy.

Senate President Pro Tempore Marc Basnight, D- Dare expects "this legislation will help jump-start the economy." He says the Pier will be an "environmentally-friendly attraction" needed to boost NC's tourist economy.

Rep. Bill Owens, D-Pasquotank, is pleased with the pier's unanimous vote in the General Assembly.

The pier will be constructed using existing non-General Fund receipts of up to $25 Million, according to the news release. Additional funding will come from admission receipts and private funds.