The public has an opportunity to weigh in on Washington state’s updated guide for airport land use compatibility planning.
Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) Airports and Compatible Land Use Guidebook is available for review online during a 10-day public-comment period from Oct. 27 to Nov. 9.
Anyone can submit comments via e-mail to [email protected]; by phone at 360-651-6312; by fax at 360-651-6319; or by mail to WSDOT Aviation, 18204 59th Dr NE, Suite B, Arlington, Wash., 98223.
Effective and proactive land-use planning is critical for managing development around airports, WSDOT officials said, noting the agency updated the guidebook to highlight the importance of airport and land-use compatibility planning and to streamline the process for airport sponsors and local jurisdictions.
The guidebook does not change land-use requirements. It is intended to serve as a better tool with reader-friendly graphics and visual aids to communicate concepts and effective practices, officials said. It includes a six-step planning process with tools, worksheets and reference materials to assist local jurisdictions, planners and airports in making informed land-use compatibility decisions
The guidebook was released previously for a 30-day public comment period on May 10. WSDOT reviewed and incorporated feedback from that comment period into the latest draft. WSDOT plans to publish the final version of the Airports and Compatible Land Use Guidebook early next year.
