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Groundbreaking Celebration

Join us as we break ground on the future of marine science, education, and community on the Olympic Coast.

On April 8, we’ll gather on the Port Angeles waterfront to celebrate the official launch of the Olympic Coast Exploration Center — a new, state-of-the-art marine education and discovery facility opening in 2028. This event also marks the public launch of our capital campaign.

EVENT DETAILS

Date: April 8, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Port Angeles Waterfront Center
Downtown Port Angeles, Washington

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • Ceremonial groundbreaking

  • First look at renderings of the new facility

  • Remarks from project leaders and partners

  • Community celebration with food, activities, and entertainment

  • A beautiful waterfront setting to gather and connect

FEATURED SPEAKERS

  • Melissa Williams, Executive Director, Feiro Marine Life Center

  • Kevin Grant, Superintendent, Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary

  • John Armor, Director, NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries

  • Frances Charles, Chairwoman, Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe

  • Mike Chapman, Washington State Senator, 24th District

  • Kate Dexter, Mayor of Port Angeles

  • Government officials, community leaders, and project partners

WHY THIS MATTERS

The Olympic Coast Exploration Center represents a major step forward for Feiro Marine Life Center and for the region. Together with the Field Arts & Events Hall and the planned Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Cultural Center, it will help shape a vibrant waterfront campus rooted in science, culture, and community.

The new center is expected to welcome approximately 75,000 visitors each year — creating new opportunities for learning, connection, and discovery along the Olympic Coast.