PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPENS ON LENS PEDESTAL LOAN

Date: July 27, 2006
Contact: Outer Banks Group, [phone]

A partnership between Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras Village could result in the restoration of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse’s Fresnel lens pedestal and the reuniting of the lens system as it is known to exist today. The Museum already displays a large portion of the 1854 lens in its original framework on loan from the National Park Service. The Seashore is now proposing to loan the Museum the pedestal and several additional sections of the upper catadioptric panels where they can be properly restored, reunited with the pieces of the 1854 lens already on display there, and interpreted for the visiting public. This would enhance preservation of the pedestal and panels, restore the integrity of the entire lens/pedestal assembly, and make the assembly accessible to the public.

This project is currently planned to take place from October 10-23, 2006. It will include the removal of the pedestal from the upper levels of the lighthouse. The USCG will continue with the existing lighting in place as an active aid-to-navigation. Also, the lens panels currently displayed in the Cape Hatteras Visitor Center will be removed and sent to the Museum.

First, however, the National Park Service needs to have feedback from the public. Therefore, the Seashore has opened up a public comment period until August 31, 2006 regarding this project. To comment, go to https://parkplanning.nps.gov/, choose Cape Hatteras NS then click on “Removal Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Lens Pedestal” or you can write to: Superintendent, Outer Banks Group, 1401 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954.