KEY WEST, Florida (15 May 2009) — Project organizers announced May 27 would be the earliest date for sinking the 530-ft Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg, a retired missile-tracking ship. Key West City Manager, Jim Scholl, said the target date could change depending on weather and other factors. "There are factors that could delay the scuttling, including weather and other unforeseen circumstances," Scholl said. Tugboats towed the Vandenberg into Key West on April 22 and are standing by to tow the ship to a site located about seven miles south of Key West. If all goes according to plan, the ship will settle upright on the sea bottom at a depth of 43 meters (140 feet). Authorities told CDNN more than two thirds of the project cost of $8.6 million was spent on removing asbestos and other contaminants from the vessel. The U.S. Coast Guard said only authorized vessels and aircraft will be permitted within a one-mile perimeter to be enforced for the sinking. After the Vandenberg is scuttled and officials confirm that it has settled properly on the bottom, divers working for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will install mooring buoys. After the buoys are installed, the Vandenberg will be officially open for business as Florida's newest scuba diving attraction. | 
