Environmental Impact of F-35s

press release: Listening Session Scheduled for Wednesday, February 28th at 7 pm

In December 2017, Madison was selected by the National Guard, as one of two preferred sites, to be the home of a squadron of $100 million F-35 fighter jets. If selected, the first of the 18 planes would arrive at Truax Field on Madison’s North Side early in 2023 after an environmental impact study, required by federal law, and a public comment period. The environmental impact study will review noise impacts, study potential flight paths, address pollution prevention and environmental justice for minority and low income populations.

Truax Field, home of the 115th Fighter Wing, may be one of two preferred alternative locations for the new fighter jets, pending results of the environmental impact study. The National Guard Bureau has invited community members to attend an open house to share comments as part of their scoping process. The agency will host two sessions on March 8: 2pm - 4pm and 5pm - 8pm at the Crowne Plaza Madison Hotel, 4402 E Washington Avenue.

In anticipation of the of the sessions on March 8, six North and East Side Alders will host a listening session on Wednesday, February 28 from 7pm - 8:30 pm at the East Madison Community Center, 8 Straubel Cour..

This listening session will solicit community feedback and any other concerns regarding the environmental impact of housing the F-35s at Truax Field. Alders cordially invite residents to attend and express any opinions regarding the proposal. Questions and comments will be referred back to the National Guard for consideration.

Send written comments to Ms. Christel Johnson, NGB/A4AM, Sheppard Hall, 3501 Fetchet Avenue, Joint Base Andrews MD 20762-5157 or via the project website at http://www.ANGF35EIS.com .