TagSAMP(650)

This September 2025 Environmental Assessment evaluates three alternatives for near-term development projects at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, comparing a No Action scenario against a Proposed Action and a Hybrid Terminal Option through analysis years 2032 and 2037. The study finds that while both action alternatives would increase aircraft operations to approximately 475,655 by 2032 and 509,892 by 2037, resulting in higher emissions and some biological resource impacts, none of the increases are considered significant. Mitigation measures, where warranted, include post-construction stormwater controls and nest protection protocols during construction activities.

The Des Moines, Washington City Council Airport Advisory Committee held its inaugural meeting on August 11, 2025, covering organizational matters such as member introductions and the selection of a Chair and Vice Chair. The agenda also included briefings on the Port of Seattle's StART (Sea-Tac Airport Roundtable) community engagement program and the Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP), both of which relate to managing the impacts of Sea-Tac Airport on surrounding communities. The committee also discussed selecting a StART representative and reviewed meeting policies, reflecting Des Moines' active role in regional airport noise and development oversight.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) issued a Biological Opinion on July 28, 2025, in response to a Federal Aviation Administration consultation request regarding near-term construction projects outlined in the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Sustainable Airport Master Plan. The opinion evaluates potential effects of these projects on endangered species and critical fish habitat under the Endangered Species Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. NMFS reviewed and independently verified analyses from the FAA's Biological Evaluation, incorporating findings related to the proposed action area, species status, and effects on critical habitat.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) issued a Biological Opinion on July 28, 2025, in response to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) consultation request regarding the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Sustainable Airport Master Plan Near-Term Projects. The opinion evaluates potential effects of the planned airport projects on endangered species and critical fish habitat under the Endangered Species Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The review drew on a Final Biological Evaluation prepared by the FAA to assess impacts on species status, critical habitat, and the surrounding environment.

The Des Moines, WA City Council is considering Resolution 25-034 to formally establish an ad-hoc Airport Advisory Committee focused on Sea-Tac Airport issues, including review of the Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP), interlocal agreements with airport partners, and the city's strategy with the Port of Seattle. The five-member committee would include the city's existing StART (Seattle-Tacoma Airport Roundtable) representative Joe Dusenbury and four mayoral appointees — Jeffrey Bogen, Barton DeLacy, Todd Downing, and Steve Reagin — each serving terms through December 31, 2027. The committee will act in an advisory capacity to the City Council, ensuring community involvement in decisions related to airport noise, expansion, and related environmental and policy matters.