7 Nov 2008

Comments to draft Environmental Assessmental and Finding of No Significant Impact (FNSI) were sent to Fort Belvoir DPW today. This is a 67 page document so it may take time to download.

30 Oct 2008

Fort Belvoir held a public information meeting on 30 Oct. Ted Cummings and Ron Snyder attended for Concerned MWR Patrons. The most significant finding was that the Army in 2007 made the decision that "27 holes were enough". All planning documents released on 9 October were based on impacts on only 27 holes and did not consider restoration to the current 36 hole configuration. In March, the Fort Belvoir MWR expressed concern and in May the MWR started action to restore the courses to 36 holes using NAF funding. However, there is "NO" Army commitment to 36 holes. Comments to the draft EA/FNSI will be based on our Position Paper.

9 Oct 2008

Fort Belvoir published a Draft Finding of No Significant Impact (FNSI) supported by a Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for construction and operation of the NMUSA. Concerned MWR Patrons Study Group is reviewing the documents and will submit written comments before 7 November. Documents can be reviewed by clicking on:- draft EA;- draft FNSI.

17 Sep 2008

FMWRCommand is conducting a Project Validation Assessment on the Fort Belvoir request for replacement holes. They contracted with ICF International to do a Market Analysis and Feasibility Study. Your representatives attended the Focus Groups on 16 Sep which discussed the South 9, need for 36 holes at the North Facilities, and the Army Museum. In addition to the Focus Group coordinators, the contractor has 2 members from the National Golf Foundation who are surveying the area golf courses. We would expect that the contractor would validate the Impact Study prepared by Concerned MWR Patrons and therefore, the need to retain 36 holes and replacement of the South 9.

10 Sep 2008

Environmental Assessment should be published for 30 day review later this month.

Fort Belvoir Eagle article on status of National Museum of the US Army can be seen at http://www.belvoireagle.com/index.php/news-articles/environmental_assessment_underway_for_army_museum// . Enviornmental Assessment has been delayed until mid-August.

Museum Support Center contract award announced in Mt Vernon Gazette and design contract for National Museum award announced in Army Times. Environmental Assessment on NMUSA expected this month with decision for final location to be made in September or October.

Happy 4th of July. We remain optimistic that there will be "replacement" of holes "displaced" to the NMUSA.

DC Examiner article of 22 June. Although there were some misquotes, the key phrase is "Both sides say they’re working together toward a mutually beneficial resolution that could involve moving the lost 9 holes at Gunston to an adjacent spot." We look forward to the draft Environmental Assessment.

Ted Cummings and Ron Snyder briefed Staffers from Armed Services Committee on Impact Study