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Navy proposes to extend and modernize Kilo Wharf
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Posted on Aug 24 2005
SANTA RITA, Guam—The Navy proposes to extend and modernize Kilo Wharf in Apra Harbor to accommodate a new class of Navy Combat Logistics Force ships that will support U.S. naval fleet operations in the Western Pacific region.
The T-AKE class of dry cargo/ammunition ships will replace the T-AE class of ammunition ships that are permanently forward deployed at Apra Harbor. The new ships are anticipated to be in service by mid-2009. The extension will also allow visiting ships to be berthed more efficiently at the wharf.
In addition, the proposed extension will benefit Guam by helping ensure the island’s continued strategic importance in the Western Pacific region as well as creating employment opportunities, stimulating the economy and keeping Guam’s support establishment current with the Navy’s operational needs.
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, the Navy is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement to evaluate potential environmental effects of the proposed extension and alternatives. A draft EIS is anticipated to be available for public review in the middle of next year.
Public scoping for the draft EIS commenced last month and will continue until Sept. 9. During this time, the public is invited to comment on the proposed extension and associated potential environmental issues for consideration in the preparation of the draft EIS. Public scoping meetings will be held at the Hilton Guam Resort and Spa Aug. 30 from 6-9 p.m. and the Santa Rita community center Aug. 31 from 6-9 p.m. During these meetings, public comments will be received. Written comments may also be submitted to:
Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific
258 Makalapa Drive, Suite 100
Pearl Harbor, Hawaii 96860-3134
Attention: Ms. Nora Macariola-See, NM
All comments must be received by Sept. 9.
Kilo Wharf, which was constructed in 1989, is located on Naval Base Guam. The wharf is the U.S. Department of Defense’s only ammunition wharf in the Western Pacific. (PR)
