Residents of Angoon, Alaska, could have new transportation options if a land-based airport is constructed near their community, and the FAA is preparing an environmental impact statement on just such a project.
Currently, Angoon is one of a handful of Alaska communities served only by seaplane, but state transportation officials hope to create new options by constructing a land-based airport nearby. The proposed airport would cover approximately 270 acres and include a 3,300-foot runway, with the option to extend the runway to 4,000 feet in the future.
The FAA is preparing an environmental impact statement on the proposed project and seeking input from those who will be affected. Because part of the proposed site is located in the Admiralty Island National Monument and falls within United States jurisdictional waters, the FAA has asked the U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assist in developing the environmental statement. Details of the plan are available online.
Scoping meetings have been set for Oct. 27 in Anchorage, Oct. 29 in Juneau, and Oct. 31 in Angoon, and those who would be affected by the plan are urged to attend. The public also can file written comments either by e-mail or by letter directed to Leslie A. Grey, Environmental Protection Specialist AAL-614, Federal Aviation Administration, Alaskan Region, Airports Division, 222 W. 7th Avenue, 14, Anchorage, AK 99513-7587. The comment deadline is Nov. 10.
