Defenders of Highline Forest Defenders of Highline Forest

SAMP Update: Your Voice Will Matter in the Weeks Ahead

The Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) from the Port of Seattle is nearing an important public comment period. To recap, the SAMP proposes significant airport expansion– resulting in dramatically more noise, pollution and tree destruction in airport adjacent communities. This is the moment when community voices can have any influence.

 Stay tuned for the timeframe to submit public comments, which will be coming soon.

 With the federal review finished, the Port is now preparing for the state‑level SEPA process (State Environmental Policy Act)—where public comments must be formally reviewed and addressed. A strong response from supporters will be essential.

Quick Timeline
• FAA approval finalized — Federal review is complete.
• 17 conditions issued — Including major transportation requirements.
• SEPA review beginning — A deeper, community‑focused environmental study.
• Public comment period approaching — The most important chance to be heard.

Call to Action
This phase of the process is all about preparation, transparency, and community involvement. No new construction decisions are being made right now. Instead, the Port is laying the groundwork for the next round of environmental review—one where public voices will play a role. Your continued attention and engagement ensure that community priorities remain front and center as the planning process moves forward. Start spreading the word, prepare your networks, and be ready to submit comments as soon as the window opens. We’ll share dates and guidance the moment they’re announced—as always, we hope that our participation will make a real difference

SAMP at a Glance: What Defenders of Highline Forest Should Know

FAA’s 17 Conditions

The FAA approved the Port’s federal review with 17 required conditions that fall into four key areas.  These are the MINIMUM protections although the Port has indicated they were already committed to meeting the environmental and construction requirements.  The only truly new requirements are the transportation improvements and 26 area intersections. Therefore, the upcoming SEPA public comment period is the time and place where our community can push for stronger protections, deeper analysis, and more accountability. This is the moment when your voice can shape stronger safeguards to our community and guides what happens next:

  • Environmental Protections
    Safeguards for wetlands, waterways, wildlife habitat, and stormwater.

  • Air Quality & Noise Controls
    Limits on dust, emissions, and construction noise, plus required monitoring.

  • Community & Transportation Requirements
    Major traffic mitigation, including improvements at 26 intersections at a cost of $40 million.

  • Accountability Measures
    Ongoing reporting and proof of compliance throughout construction.

 Read in detail about the SAMP environmental review here:  https://www.airportprojects.net/sampntpenvironmentalreview/

 

 

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