Environmental Assessment: Installation Development at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas

The 82nd Training Wing at Sheppard Air Force Base (AFB), Texas, proposes to implement installation development projects based on the current Capital Improvements Program (CIP) and the requirements of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) program as it relates to Sheppard AFB. The components of the current CIP include new building construction and alteration, replacement of old buildings, and demolition of some existing facilities. The proposed action is necessary at this time because there is a lack of available adequate facilities on Sheppard AFB. The proposed action would provide the necessary facilities to accomplish the mission of the 82nd Training Wing. No construction or demolition is associated with the BRAC program-related projects. One action alternative is presented, which establishes and evaluates a potential development capability of Sheppard AFB. Implementation of this alternative would include developing Sheppard AFB facilities to the maximum capability of the installation increasing the number of assigned personnel to the base's potential capability, and conducting flying operations at maximum sustainable levels. Resources considered in the impact analysis were noise, airspace management and air traffic control, land use, earth resources, water resources, hazardous materials and waste, biological resources, utilities and infrastructure, socioeconomics and environmental justice, air quality, and cultural resources. Appendix B includes Final Capablity Analysis from March 2007.