SILVERDALE — Two public meetings are scheduled in the area regarding the U.S. Navy’s plans to build new security structures and extend its service pier on Naval Base Kitsap – Bangor.

The Navy has prepared a draft environmental impact statement on the potential environmental impacts from the proposed Land-Water Interface and Service Pier Extension.

According to the Navy, the public meetings are being presented to inform the public about the Navy’s proposed actions and alternatives under consideration, and to provide an opportunity for the public to comment on the adequacy and accuracy of the environmental analysis in the draft EIS. The public meetings will include an open house information session starting at 5 p.m. During this time, Navy representatives will provide information and answer questions about the proposed actions and draft EIS. A short presentation by the Navy will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by a verbal comment session. Written comments will be accepted throughout the public meeting.

Meetings are scheduled March 3 at Chimacum High School Commons, 91 W. Valley Road, Chimacum; and March 4, North Kitsap High School Commons, 1780 NE Hostmark St.Poulsbo.

Individuals requiring reasonable accommodations should contact Silvia Klatman, Naval Base Kitsap public affairs officer, at 360-627-4031 or silvia.klatman@navy.mil.

The draft EIS is available for public review online at www.nbkeis.com/lwi and at the following libraries:

— Bremerton (Sylvan Way)
— Port Hadlock
— Port Townsend
— Poulsbo
— Seattle Central
— Silverdale

The Navy is accepting comments through April 13. All comments must be postmarked or received online by April 13 for consideration in the final EIS.

Written comments may be submitted via the project website at www.nbkeis.com/lwi, at the public meetings, or by mail to:

Naval Facilities Engineering Command Northwest
Attention: Mr. Thomas Dildine
LWI/SPE EIS Project Manager
1101 Tautog Circle, Suite 203
Silverdale, WA 98315-1101