CLARKSTON, Wash. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Walla Walla District is inviting public comments on an environmental assessment (EA) for a Confluence Project lease for artwork installation at Chief Timothy Park. Comments on the EA and an associated draft Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) are due by Dec. 10.
The Corps proposes to issue a park and recreation term lease for up to 25 years to the Confluence Project for installation of an artwork project on Silcott Island within Chief Timothy Park, about six miles west of Clarkston, Wash. The lease would authorize the construction and ongoing maintenance of an artwork and event site comprised of an amphitheater, also referred to as a “Listening Circle,” designed by artist Maya Lin. Its purpose would be to enhance recreation opportunities at the park.
The Corps reviews proposals for projects on Corps-managed public lands within a well-established Corps environmental review process. National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance includes consideration of submitted public comments. Several other federal laws and other policies also apply to the Corps’ review. The Corps is proposing that an environmental impact statement (EIS) is not necessary. NEPA compliance will be achieved with signing of a final Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), if one is determined to be appropriate.
The Environmental Assessment and draft FONSI are available for review at www.nww.usace.army.mil/Missions/Projects/ConfluenceProjectEA.aspx.
Public comments must be submitted no later than Monday, Dec. 10, 2012, to be considered. They can be emailed to Sandy.L.Shelin@usace.army.mil.If being sent via U.S. Mail, comments must be postmarked no later than Dec. 10 and sent to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District, CENWW-PD-EC, ATTN: Sandy Shelin, 201 North Third Avenue, Walla Walla, WA 99362-1876.
The EA describes the proposed project and evaluates effects of the alternatives on both the natural and human environment. Installation, operation and maintenance of the Listening Circle is not expected to have any significant direct, indirect, or cumulative effects. People with disabilities will be able to access the site.
The Corps is consulting with area tribal nations regarding the project. The site will be monitored for cultural resources during construction. A 2009 archaeological survey and cultural report submitted to the Corps found no prehistoric or cultural historic material in the project area, although no subsurface investigation was conducted. The Corps is also consulting with the Washington state historic preservation office.
Additional EA information also may be obtained from Ms. Sandy Shelin at 509-527-7265.
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