Preliminary environmental analysis of proposed Waukegan airport project available for review

A preliminary environmental analysis for the proposed Runway Safety Project at Waukegan National Airport is available on the project information tab at waukeganairport.com.

A public comment period to open at a future date will precede a public hearing on the environmental analysis.

An existing runway no longer is fully compliant with federal guidelines and a replacement runway to enhance safety and bring the airport into compliance needs to be built, officials say.

The project has been in discussion for years and originally called for the acquisition of 52 acres of Waukegan Savanna Forest Preserve, which generated criticism from grass-roots conservationists.

Due to changes in guidelines from the Federal Aviation Administration, the plan was revised and now require only a sliver of forest preserve property.

Public feedback or questions submitted before the published announcement of the formal public hearing and public comment period will not be included in the final record.