Appendix E: Coastal Resources – FAA CZMP Negative Determination Letter

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Negative Determination in July 2024, concluding that planned near-term construction and equipment relocation projects at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) are not reasonably likely to cause effects on Washington State's coastal zone. The 31 Near-Term Projects, which include taxiway extensions, blast pad expansions, and relocation of navigational aids, are part of the airport's Sustainable Airport Master Plan and are scheduled to begin construction in 2026. The FAA requested written concurrence from the Washington State Department of Ecology, while the Port of Seattle remains responsible for separate consistency certification for any projects requiring Clean Water Act permits.

Notes

FAA Northwest Mountain Region Denver Airports District Office letter dated July 2, 2024, to Loreé Randall, Federal Consistency Coordinator, Washington Department of Ecology, documenting a Negative Determination under 15 CFR Part 930.35 (Coastal Zone Management Act) for the Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) Near-Term Projects (NTPs) at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). FAA determined 31 NTPs are not reasonably likely to result in coastal effects. Four airfield projects involve FAA actions: A01 Taxiway A/B Extension (relocation of Runway 34R glideslope antenna, PAPI adjustment, flight procedure amendments), A02 Runway 16R/34L Blast Pads (navigational aids relocation 200 feet north), A04 Taxiway B 500-foot Separation (navigational aids relocation), and A06 Runway 34L High Speed Exit (multilateration remote unit relocation). All FAA actions occur in upland areas within the General Study Area. Construction spans six years starting 2026. Port of Seattle responsible for Clean Water Act Consistency Certification. Cites CZMA, 15 CFR Part 930 Subpart C and Subpart D.

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