Oregon Coast organizations have received $1,109,761 in competitive grants from Travel Oregon to fund accessible and inclusive tourism projects in the region; the Oregon Coast Aquarium (OCAq) is among the recipients, having received $100,000 to transform its touch pool.
The touch pool transformation is at the center of the Aquarium’s Rocky Coast–previously Rocky Shores–gallery renovation; the surrounding space will feature updated habitats and signage highlighting some of Oregon’s most unique species. The new touch pool will drastically improve access to hands-on learning; its design prioritizes accessibility, making it easier for guests of all ages and abilities to reach in and shake hands with sea stars, get hugged by urchins, and connect with Oregon’s unique tidepool animals.
The new touch pool will open to the public in mid-2024, once the Rocky Coast gallery renovation is complete.
