Clatsop Community College
1653 Jerome, Astoria OR 97103
For immediate release
Contact: Nadine Faith (503) 338-2306

CCC’s Patriot and Towler Halls Labeled “High Risk” by State Geologists

In a seismic susceptibility report issued today, the Oregon Department of Geology has identified Clatsop Community College’s Patriot and Towler Halls as having “Very High” or “100 percent” potential for collapse in a seismic event.

Nearly 2,000 public buildings throughout the state were analyzed in the report. In Clatsop County, the buildings included the public schools, community college, police and fire departments and hospitals. Of these, only CCC’s Patriot and Towler Halls were identified in the “Very High” risk category. Statewide, only 10 percent of the public buildings were labeled at that risk level.

“The Board has been aware for some time that Patriot and Towler Halls cannot feasibly be retrofitted to meet earthquake safety standards,” says CCC Board Chair, Rosemary Baker-Monaghan. “It is one of the multiple issues we continue to try to address as well as bring to the public’s attention. This report, however, provides us with actual risk information which we did not have before and which will help inform our ongoing deliberations about facilities options.”

To see the report, go to: www.oregongeology.com/sub/projects/rvs/default.htm.