Marine Corps proposes increased training at Cherry Point Range Complex

The North Carolina Division of Coastal Management will host a public hearing on September 29 to gather feedback regarding a federal proposal to update training activities at the Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Range Complex in Carteret County.

The proposal seeks to add and increase various training operations, including aircraft, unmanned systems, and watercraft activities. While the overall size of the range complex and existing special-use airspace would remain unchanged, the plan includes expanding restricted water areas near Bombing Targets-9 and 11. This expansion would feature a permanent 500-foot safety buffer around Bombing Target-11.

The public hearing is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Carteret Community College in Morehead City. Additionally, the division will accept written comments regarding the federal consistency determination request through October 15. The review process aims to determine if the proposed updates align with the enforceable policies of the state’s Coastal Management Program.