Environmental Assessment for the Radar Tomography Range and Equipment Storage Facility, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio

Abstract : Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (AFB) is proposing to install a Tomography Range and Equipment Storage Facility to support the mission of AFRL/RY. The purpose of this action is to improve the efficiency of AFRL/RY tomography research and development activities. The need for this action is to consolidate the radar tomography research and development from Hanscom AFB, Massachusetts and Rome Research Site, New York to Wright-Patterson AFB because of the Base Realignment and Closure Act of 2005. The Proposed Action would have no impact to cultural resources, environmental justice/protection of children, soils, land use, noise, infrastructure, water resources, and visual resources. Temporary impacts that are not significant would occur to air quality and transportation. Adherence to regulations and best management practices would ensure no impacts related to biological resources, hazardous materials, waste management, and to health and safety. The area near Huffman Prairie would have impacts similar to the Proposed Action. Potential visual impacts to Huffman Prairie National Historic Landmark, Brick Quarters Historic District, or the driving range may require mitigation. The No Action alternative would have no impact. In accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, Wright-Patterson AFB consulted with and received concurrence from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with the determination of no effect to listed and candidate species. In addition, Wright-Patterson AFB consulted with and received concurrence from the State Historic Preservation Officer under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act with the determination of no adverse effect to historic properties. Wright-Patterson AFB notified and received authorization from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for construction activities within the buffer area around Landfill 2.