State seeks input for civilian-military compatibility plan

Published 1:30 am Friday, October 12, 2018

Washington State Department of Commerce says it is drafting a Washington State Guidebook on Military and Community Compatibility as a technical resource for local governments to use in planning for development near military installations.

A survey is available online to gather opinions and comments from communities.

The Department of Commerce is teaming with MAKERS Architecture and Urban Design LLP to draft the guidebook, due for final publication in June 2019.

The guidebook is intended to foster awareness and understanding around the topic of civilian-military land use compatibility, provide technical guidance to planning professionals and offer useful tools to help community members, local governments and the military work together on local planning, according to the Department of Commerce.

“The military and defense sector is an important driver of Washington’s economy, supporting over 111,000 jobs and $12.3 billion in economic impact throughout the state,” Commerce Director Brian Bonlender said in a press release.

“Robust public engagement is crucial to ensure that growth and development in and around U.S. Department of Defense and state military installations takes place in a manner that benefits communities for years to come.”

Naval Air Station Whidbey, Outlying Field Coupeville, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Fairchild Air Force Base, Naval Station Everett, Manchester Fuel Depot, Naval Magazine Indian Island and other locations are noted in the survey.

The guidebook will introduce the concept of compatible use for a large audience, followed by in-depth technical guidance on civilian-military compatibility for planning professionals.

The Department of Commerce is seeking broad input with the survey at this stage in development. A draft guidebook will be published for formal public comment in early spring 2019.

• The program webpage is at http://bit.ly/2pu0Nxb