HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The U.S. Air Force announces the availability of a draft Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact for changing the 24-hour access gate designation from the Ruiz Gate to the Sartain Gate here.
The 66th Security Forces Squadron at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, operates the installation’s entry control points to protect people, land, resources, infrastructure and the Air Force mission.
The purpose of the proposed action is to provide 24-hour base access through an entry control point that best meets the 66 SFS mission. The preferred alternative involves changing the 24-hour access gate designation from Ruiz Gate, formerly known as Hartwell Gate, to the Sartain Gate, formerly known as the Vandenberg Gate.
The EA, prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, Council on Environmental Quality regulations and Air Force instructions implementing NEPA, evaluates potential impacts of the Proposed Action and alternatives on the environment including the No Action Alternative.
Based on this analysis, the Air Force has prepared a proposed FONSI. The Air Force seeks public comments on the draft EA and draft FONSI and will consider all input received before reaching a final decision.
Copies of the draft EA and draft FONSI are available for review and download.
Civil engineering officials recommend individuals without internet access visit a local library or city hall for assistance in downloading the document. Requests for hardcopies will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The Air Force is aware of the potential impact of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic on the usual methods of access to information and ability to communicate, such as the closure of local public libraries and challenges with internet access. The Air Force seeks to implement appropriate measures to ensure that the public and all interested stakeholders have the opportunity to participate fully in this Environmental Assessment process. Accordingly, do not hesitate to contact civil engineers directly at the email address or telephone number provided. Officials are available to discuss and help resolve issues involving access to the draft EA and proposed FONSI, or the ability to comment.
For further information, contact the Environmental Office at Hanscom AFB at 978-835-5895.
Written comments will be received through May 17, and may be either emailed to Taylor O’Brien at taylor.obrien@us.af.mil or mailed to: 66 ABG/CEIE; 120 Grenier Street; Hanscom AFB, MA 01731-1910.