NEWPORT BEACH : Overhaul of Police Shooting Range OKd

The Police Department’s shooting range will be upgraded so that officers can take their marksmanship qualifications in the city each month rather than spend two hours of paid time every other month to qualify elsewhere.

The City Council on Monday authorized the department to advertise for bids on the overhaul of its shooting range, which is expected to cost about $172,000. The range was closed in November, 1993, because of a failing air circulation system and concern over possible excessive lead exposure to users and employees.

Newport Beach officers have been going to Fountain Valley every other month to qualify with their handguns, rather than qualifying monthly in their own station, which was the previous standard for the department.

Modifications to the shooting range will include shortening it by seven feet and lowering its ceiling to eliminate some of the surface area where lead dust can collect and allow more fresh air to be piped in behind the shooting positions. Modifications will also be made to the electrical system.