Environmental Assessment for Infrastructure Improvements in the Base Developed Area at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska

摘要

This EA has been prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Potentially affected environmental resources were identified through communication with state and federal agencies, and review of past documentation. Specific environmental resources addressed in this EA include; land use and visual resources, socioeconomics and environmental justice, cultural resources, infrastructure, physical resources, hazardous materials and waste management, biological resources, and air quality. Primary environmental concerns associated with the Proposed Action are related to asbestos abatement, lead-based paint removal, and remediation of soil and groundwater contaminated with petroleum fuels, lubricants, and solvents. Secondary environmental concerns include those associated with air quality and cultural resources (particularly architectural resources and historic districts within the BDA), as well as the cumulative effect of increasing impervious surfaces for base runoff within the BDA. The BDA provides no wildlife habitat and supports no protected species. Following strict inclusion criteria, mitigation through avoidance, remediation, and adherence to existing guidance will alleviate negative environmental consequences. Implementation of infrastructure projects within the BDA under the Proposed Action will increase abatement of asbestos materials and lead-based paint during renovation of aging facilities, remediation of contaminated soils during some excavation, and increase base safety through modernization.