Navy Carrier Potential Move Controversial
The Virginian-Pilot reported that the Navy’s preference to base a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier at Mayport Naval Station reignited the political rivalry between Florida and Virginia for Navy ships, sailors and the economic activity associated with them.
The move would cost $426 million and could divert 3,200 sailors and civilian personnel from Virginia to Florida and take at least six years to prepare for. A final decision by Secretary of the Navy Donald Winter is expected by the end the year. Virginia officials immediately criticized the decision as costly, inefficient and politically motivated. They vowed to fight the proposal.
(Source: The Virginian-Pilot)