Army helicopter training plan could worsen noise

The Army (JBLM) proposes to establish three off base and one mountain helicopter training area withing the state. The proposal, called a “Scoping Document,” is seeking public comments.

Low level military helicopter flights at many local civilian airports, including flying over nearby residential homes, are not specifically identified, but may be involved as part of the en route air traffic pattern. The training areas would be available for use day and night, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the exception of federal holidays.

Numerous complaints regarding low level helicopter flights at night over residential homes have been lodged in the past. It is feared by some that these proposed additional helicopter flights will add to the unresolved military-noise abuse that already exists.

The opportunity for citizens to provide their comments on this proposal ends Nov. 3. For further information or to submit comments, send an email to usarmy.jblm.imcom.list.dpw-eis@mail.mil, or mail comments to: Department of the Army, Directorate of Public Works, Attn: Environmental Division, 2012 Liggett Ave., Box 339500 MS 17, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wa. 98433-9500.

This story was originally published September 23, 2015 at 3:05 PM with the headline "Army helicopter training plan could worsen noise."