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CNMI leaders push Tinian as backup airfield for Air Force
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Posted on Nov 13 2011
During the last meeting of the CNMI Military Integration Management Committee, majority conceded that Tinian was the preferred location for the U.S. Air Force divert field location.
The reasons given were:
-The airport is 1.5 miles from the closest residential development, thereby eliminating any noise pollution.
-The Tinian port has a deep-water harbor, is close to the airport, and is underutilized.
-The development of Tinian will enhance other military buildup related activities, such as the firing range proposed.
-Existing runways can easily be expanded at the current Tinian airport.
-All land in question is already public land, thereby making their acquisition uncomplicated.
-Over 95 percent of people living on Tinian welcome this initiative and will be extremely supportive.
The one thing MIMC wants make clear is that the USAF is only looking at Federal Aviation Administration-certified airports, making Tinian’s North Field not an option.
In attendance was Tinian Mayor Dela Cruz, who strongly recommended the island of Tinian as did Sen. Jude Hofschneider who was not in attendance.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial welcomes the initiative on any of the islands in the CNMI and is in agreement that Tinian would be the ideal location as well.
The purpose of the upcoming Environmental Impact Study is to ensure a divert field (alternative location to Anderson Air force base) exists that can support emergency divert requirement, military training and exercises, and humanitarian relief operations within reasonable distance to AAFB and the Philippine Sea.
Based on the results of the study, which should be available by November 2012, followed by the record of decision that is expected to be released by December 2012, a location would be chosen.
If the public has any questions concerning the EIS, contact Tom Linden of the Military Integration Office at (670) 664-2276.[I] (Office of the Governor)[/I]
