Scott Air Force Base/MidAmerica St. Louis Airport
Joint Land Use Study
What is a Joint Land Use Study?
The Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) is a cooperative planning effort among the Air Force, MidAmerica St. Louis Airport and the surrounding communities to examine growth issues around the installation and airfield. Incompatible development that is too close to airfield operations exposes people to noise and air safety risks and can compromise the ability of the military to fulfill its mission. The study’s purpose is to maintain the effectiveness of military and airport operations, safeguard the safety and welfare of nearby residents, and accommodate compatible local growth.
The goals of the study are to:
• Clarify land use compatibility guidance and develop effective tools for assessing development around the base and Airport
• Increase communication among the military, the Airport and surrounding communities
•Evaluate the potential impacts of current and future military and airport operations on surrounding communities
• Evaluate the potential impacts of community growth on the long-term viability of Scott AFB and MidAmerica St. Louis Airport
•Recommend action items to reduce encroachment and facilitate future collaboration
What Does the JLUS Recommend?
The JLUS is an advisory document that summarizes best practices for minimizing land use conflicts between Scott Air Force Base, MidAmerica St. Louis Airport and the surrounding communities of O’Fallon, Mascoutah, Lebanon, the Village of Shiloh and St. Clair County. The recommendations are the result of a thorough and good-faith effort to protect the military mission and the viability of airport operations.
All of the partners have the prerogative of evaluating the recommended tools and adopting those measures appropriate for their local context.
The study recommendations are: creation of a Regional Advisory Board to coordinate on land use decisions; updated zoning to promote compatibility around the base and airfield; outdoor lighting standards; height restrictions in approach and departure zones; sound attenuation for new construction in high noise areas; and real estate disclosure for properties in proximity to aviation activity.
Why is the JLUS Important?
Due to 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) activities, Scott AFB will add over 1,000 new personnel and receive 12 new KC-135R aircraft and a Mobility Logistics Support Center. BRAC will also co-locate the Surface Deployment and Distribution Command from Newport News, Virginia with the existing Air Force Mobility Command and TRANSCOM on Scott AFB. The JLUS seeks to protect this important economic engine for the region.
How can I participate?
Though the study phase is complete, the JLUS effort will continue with the implementation of recommendations. Please look for information on meetings in your community.
You can also follow implementation progress and submit comments by visiting the study web site at: www.co.st-clair.il.us and click on “Joint Land Use Study” under the letter J or contact Liz Drake at 404-870-5339 or liz.drake@edaw.com
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