In September 1999, the Yellowstone Regional Airport Joint Powers Board retained Leigh Fisher Associates to prepare an environmental assessment of the rehabilitation of Runway 4-22, implementation of ARC D-III geometric criteria, and other airfield improvements at Yellowstone Regional Airport. The proposed rehabilitation of Runway 4-22 and associ-ated airfield improvements would enable the Airport to:

• Maintain its role as a nonhub primary airport
• Provide facilities that meet FAA design criteria for the aircraft currently operating, and expected to operate, at the Airport (current airfield dimensions do not meet certain design criteria)

Concurrently, Leigh Fisher Associates was asked to prepare a land use plan to ensure the compatibility of future development in the vicinity of the Airport with anticipated aviation activity.

Leigh Fisher Associates assessed the environmental consequences of the proposed action and a no-action alternative for 25 environmental categories, including potential aircraft noise impacts on existing and future land uses.

The Draft Environmental Assessment has been distributed for public review. Preliminary indications are that the proposed airfield improve- ments would have no significant adverse effects on any of the 25 environmental categories. Construction of the proposed improvements could have short-term effects on noise, air quality, and surface traffic, but no long-term effects would be expected. It is anticipated that the FAA will issue a Finding of No Significant Impact for the proposed project.

Leigh Fisher Associates is also developing a land use plan that, in conjunction with local zoning ordinances, will ensure compatible development in the Airport environs.

Client
Yellowstone Regional Airport Joint Powers Board

Services
-Environmental Planning