Environmental Assessment Stockbridge Research Facility
Abstract
The Air Force Research Laboratory/Rome Research Site (AFRL/RRS) proposes to install a Tactical Network Improvement Project (TNIP) within the boundaries of the Stockbridge Research Facility (SRF). The purpose of the Proposed Action is to upgrade the communications infrastructure of the facility to advance the testing capabilities for missions conducted at the site. The proposed system configuration consists of towers, concrete pads with antennae, and an underground network of fiber optic and power cables inter-connected to form the TNIP. The Proposed Action is needed to provide test beds for various undefined equipment configurations and components. The AFRL/RRS has conducted an Environmental Assessment (EA) to identify and evaluate potential effects of the Proposed Action at the SRF. Four Technical Alternatives for completing the Proposed Action were considered: Alternative 1 - No Action Alternative, or no construction at all; Alternative 2 - constructing the TNIP using underground fiber optic and power cable placement connecting concrete pads meant for antennae mounting; Alternative 3 - constructing the TNIP using a wireless system; and Alternative 4 - constructing the TNIP using an aboveground cable system. Alternatives 1, 3 and 4 were considered unreasonable, because they do not allow for future technological advancement oft he facility and/or do not achieve the required testing capabilities without physical obstacles, logistical complications, or more costly configurations. Alternative 2 meets Proposed Action requirements as it is considered reasonable to construct without substantial adverse impacts to the human and natural environment and because it meets all project criteria for TNIP system requirements. Alternative 2 is therefore the Preferred Technical Alternative for the Proposed Action.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA614314
Entities
People
- Anthony P. Lee
- Calvin Sprague
- Charles J. Gartland
- Erwin J. Roemer
- Melanie A. Pershing
- William Brain