Final Environmental Assessment for Installation Development at Little Rock Air Force Base Arkansas

Abstract : The Proposed Action includes implementation of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission final recommendations, as well as other installation development at Little Rock Air Force Base (AFB). Components of the BRAC program for Little Rock AFB include: increase of full-time military population by up to 600 personnel; increase of the C-130 fleet by up to 12 aircraft; increase of night-time flying operations by up to 10 percent; and increase construction projects. Additionally, under the Proposed Action, Little Rock AFB proposes to implement their five-year Capital Improvements Program (CIP) (through 2011) in support of installation development. The components of the CIP will include new building construction and alteration, replacement of old buildings, and demolition of some existing facilities. Under this alternative, there will be approximately 720,000 square feet (SF) of construction, including new facilities and pavements. An environmental assessment (EA) was completed and is attached and incorporated by reference. It analyzed the Proposed Action, a Potential Development Alternative, and the No Action Alternative. Direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts regarding earth resources, water resources, biological resources, air quality, airspace management and air traffic control, noise, land use and visual resources, socioeconomics and environmental justice, cultural resources, safety, infrastructure, and solid and hazardous materials and wastes were analyzed. There are no significant impacts anticipated as a result of implementation of the Proposed Action, the Alternative Action, or the No Action Alternative. An estimated 16.4 acres will be disturbed as a result of construction and pavements activities associated with the Proposed Action, with an increase of approximately 13.4 acres of impervious surface. Best management practices (BMPs) will be implemented to ensure that erosion and impacts to water resources are minimized.