Final environmental impact statement available for the Mendenhall Improvement Project

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Friday, May 12th, 2023 12:00pm

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Juneau, Alaska (KINY) - The Forest Service released its draft decision and final environmental impact statement for the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Improvements Project. This starts a 45-day objection period for people who have previously submitted comments on the project.

The agency will make a final decision following the objection period and resolution of any objections it receives.

The project proposes to expand the current facilities and provide improved access with a 16,000-square-foot Welcome Center, an outdoor plaza with amphitheater, and the enlargement of three main parking areas.

It also adds three new trailhead parking lots and includes up to five new public rental cabins.

“The preferred alternative includes changes intended to accommodate the needs and desires of the local community, as well as the hundreds of thousands of visitors we receive every year,” said Tongass National Forest Supervisor Frank Sherman. “We collected hundreds of comments over five different public engagements during this process, and those comments influenced my decision.”

The effort seeks to increase visitor capacity, safety, and enjoyment while protecting natural resources at Mendenhall Glacier, an internationally renowned attraction that welcomes about 700,000 visits each year.

The preferred alternative within the final environmental impact statement and draft decision can be found on the project website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=53780.  

Objections to the draft decision can be submitted in several ways during the May 12 to Jun. 26 objection period:  
•    Electronically at: https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=53780
•    Fax to 907-586-8808
•    Mail or hand deliver to 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road, Juneau, Alaska, 99801. Hand delivery can only be accepted during weekday business hours, between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., excluding holidays.

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