Possible Uses OKd for Northrop

The City Council unanimously gave tentative approval to five possible land uses for the current Northrop-Grumman site, including a theme park or a large mall.

The plan for the 235-acre site, which will return for a final vote next month, includes the options of mixed commercial and industrial use, a reduced aerospace facility and warehouse distribution. The council approved the plans on a 5-0 vote.

Northrop-Grumman has announced that the giant plant where the B-1 bomber was built will close in 1999.

“This planning process is important because we have to be positioned to move to new uses immediately,” said City Manager Dennis Courtemarche. “We are losing $200 million assessed valuation off the tax rolls.”