Schofield Plant Would Back Up Field Station Kunia, More

The U.S. Army is collecting public input on the draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for the construction and operation of a 50-megawatt biofuel-capable power generation plant at Schofield Barracks.

The plant would serve as a backup power source for Schofield Barracks, Wheeler Army Airfield and Field Station Kunia, and use renewable biofuels to help reach the Army and state’s renewable energy goals.

The DEIS evaluates the impacts of the proposed action and “no action” regarding land use, airspace use, visual resources, air quality, noise, traffic, water resources, geology, biological resources, cultural resources, hazardous and toxic substances, socioe-conomics, environmental justice, and utilities and infrastructure. Impacts would be less than significant for all resources, and beneficial effects would be expected for some resources.

The DEIS and additional information are online at garrison.hawaii.army.mil/sch ofieldplant. Copies of the DEIS are available at Pearl City Regional Library.

The 45-day public comment period continues through June 8, and the community can participate in public meetings and submit written comments. Public meetings are being held at 6:30 p.m. May 20 at Mililani Mauka Elementary School, and at 6:30 p.m. May 21 at Wahiawa District Park Recreation Center.

Meetings will start with informational displays, followed by an overview presentation at 7 p.m., and an oral comment period from 7:30 to 9.

Send comments to sgsp-comments@tetratech.com or to Department of the Army, Directorate of Public Works, U.S. Army Garrison- Hawaii ATTN: IMHW-PWE (L. Graham), 947 Wright Ave., Wheeler Army Airfield, Schofield Barracks, HI 96857-5013.

All comments must be postmarked no later than June 8.

For more information, call U.S. Army Garrison-Hawaii Public Affairs at 656-3158 or 656-3160.