Friday, February 24, 2012

Public hearings scheduled for upcoming F-35 debate

BOISE, Idaho - The Air Force is considering a training base for the F-35 at Gowen Field.

But that proposal is sparking some concerns over the amount of noise those jets will create.

The military says it would bring jobs to the area, however, neighbors say it will make their lives miserable.

The U.S. Air Force will present the public with results of an environmental impact study.

Citizens who are against the proposal say it would expand the not so suitable residential use zone from 142 people to more than 10,000 people.

"That means that the Federal Aeronotics Administration based on studies they've done over the last 20 years indicate if you see that much noise that loud for hat many times a day it's not suitable for residential use," said Monty Mericle, a concerned citizen.

"Thats a matter of opinion and we want to hear those opinions," Col. Tim Marsano with the Idaho National Guard. "Certainly the F-35 is a louder aircraft from what's being flown right now out of Gowen Field which is the A-10 which is about as quiet as a small commercial jet liner. The F-35 is a fifth generation high performance aircraft and it is a bit louder than the A-10."

The Air Force is considering three different proposals for basing the F-35 at Gowen Field. They include having 24, 48, or 72 F-35s stationed at the base.

You can see what the Air Force says will be the areas affected by the increased noise levels for the different proposals here.

There will be three upcoming public hearings on the matter.

Feb. 27

Capitol City Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 63.
8931 W. Ardene Street
Boise, Idaho 83709

Feb. 28

Boise Hotel and Conference Center - Cascade Room
3300 Vista Avenue
Boise, Idaho 83705

Feb. 29

Marsing American Legion Community Hall
126 N. Old Bruneau Highway
Marsing, Idaho 83639

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