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Home My WebLink About2012-03-00-rpt (The State of Hanscom)THE STATE OF HANSCOM MASSACHUSETTS PORT AUTHORITY The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is the owner and operator of Laurence G. Hanscom Field. Massport also operates Boston Logan International Airport, Worcester Regional Airport and the Port of Boston's Conley Container Terminal and Black Falcon Cruise Ship Terminal. These facilities provide safe, secure, and efficient transportation resources for travelers and businesses and enable Massachusetts and New England to compete successfully in the global marketplace. Massport receives no state tax funding and is governed by a seven member Board appointed by the Governor. Massport's facilities are essential to the citizens of the Commonwealth and provide economic benefits throughout the region. At the same time, Massport recognizes that its facilities may have an impact on its host communities. Massport is diligent in abiding by all environmental regulations while voluntarily participating in other environmental initiatives. Massport implements and participates in outreach programs that encourage an open and timely exchange of information and ideas. It is Massport's goal to understand and integrate the concerns of the community into its projects and plans whenever and wherever possible. HANSCOM FIELD BACKGROUND In 1941, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts purchased land northwest of Boston to build an airport, and the State Senate and House of Representatives passed resolutions "...relative to the designation of the proposed Boston Auxiliary Airport as Laurence G. Hanscom Field, Boston Auxiliary Airport at Bedford ". Control of Hanscom passed to a number of different agencies, including the Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission, until 1956, when the legislature placed Hanscom Field under Massport's jurisdiction. Although the land was always controlled by the state, the airfield was leased and maintained by the military until 1974. Hanscom Field is the region's premier full- service general aviation airport, and it plays a critical role in New England's regional aviation system as a corporate reliever for Logan International Airport. Aircraft operations at Hanscom have traditionally included commuter, business, charter, cargo, personal aircraft, air taxi, medical, and flight school activity. Hanscom Field serves the diverse flying needs of the region's high technology corporations and educational institutions and is an important resource for Hanscom Air Force Base (HAFB), a research and development facility abutting the airfield. The State of Hanscom is presented annually to the Hanscom Field Advisory Commission (HFAC), a legislatively created body comprised of representatives from the surrounding residential communities, the aviation community, and area -wide organizations. State elected officials, and representatives from HAFB, the Federal Aviation Administration, Minute Man National Historical Park, and Massport serve as resources to the commission. In presenting The State of Hanscom, Massport provides an opportunity for a wide range of interested parties to discuss the airport's role in the regional transportation system and to discuss Massport's objectives for the facility. The State of Hanscom presents the airport's operational 2 activity, financial performance, and economic benefits. It discusses Massport's 2011 accomplishments at Hanscom, as well as its plans for 2012. SECTION I - AIRCRAFT ACTIVITY Table 1 shows total aircraft activity levels at Hanscom Field for 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. operations in 2010 and 2011 based on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) tower counts, fleet mix data, and estimates. The 2011 data are preliminary and will be thoroughly reviewed before publication of the 2011 noise report. TABLE 1 Hanscom Field Aircraft Activity 2010 FROM FAA TOWER REPORTS & ESTIMATES (7 A.M. -11 P.M) - a" WJ �URBQ - IlI III Ii M11 l ;q , aII� II°II ,u4NI ,1� ;lul ,[� I� I � ulllll January 4265 2940 268 380 2063 579 49 10,544 February 3481 2219 249 321 1944 522 81 8,817 March 4470 3643 286 412 2493 583 98 11,985 April 5579 4809 301 528 2431 565 161 14,374 May 6547 5169 264 473 2358 580 238 15,629 June 6260 4482 321 536 2347 564 139 14,649 July 6964 4935 321 471 2085 573 260 15,609 August 6953 5458 333 565 2042 573 251 16,175 September 5702 4568 322 547 2312 563 161 14,175 October 5561 4791 281 531 2414 579 123 14,280 November 5724 5199 257 507 2638 561 96 14,982 December 4532 4418 248 433 2166 583 138 12,518 TOTAL 66,038 52,631 3,451 5,704 27,293 6,825 1,795 163,737 TO DATE 56,059 3,542 6,886 27,838 6,987 1,419 162,999 2011 FROM FAA TOWER REPORTS & ESTIMATES (7 A.M. -11 P.M) - '10�IIuI.n d1111fihl�fi�llllll�u� •° .:,II, CiN�L =1pi� `i II�I��I�u1N�ll'�I�'.r -` � IIINIr�) L,.N"1�19NIIPIIIIIIIIm {� MI[I"r�lll, I�H - ' dll j Vl a Ilpt ,� &1NGLESI N IN � RK = I I F- I k �� N i' � �IIPISTONa � W: k' v I it January 4395 3507 235 382 2065 580 150 11,314 February 3746 3095 217 407 2149 531 107 10,252 March 4883 5436 267 421 2533 583 138 14,261 April 4805 5731 266 552 2576 569 155 14,654 May 5305 4711 309 677 2821 585 196 14,604 June 5713 5797 332 683 2500 565 153 15,743 July 6111 6446 292 601 1969 578 177 16,174 August 5594 5172 376 719 2057 575 153 14,646 September 4981 4096 318 629 2490 560 49 13,123 October 4603 4206 334 685 2381 636 61 12,906 November 4944 4209 326 597 2317 614 41 13,048 December 5188 3653 270 533 1980 611 39 12,274 TOTAL 60,268 56,059 3,542 6,886 27,838 6,987 1,419 162,999 Note: The 2011 figures are preliminary. All 2011 data will be reviewed before publication of the 2011 annual noise report. The FAA tower counts are traditionally used to report the official number of operations for an airport; at Hanscom they do not include nighttime operations between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when the FAA Tower is closed. In addition to the 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. aircraft activity, there were 1,828 nighttime operations in 2011, a decrease from 1,830 in 2010. The airport's activity levels have historically been closely aligned with the economic health of the high technology industry in Boston's Routes 128/95 and 495 areas and have generally mirrored national trends. The data in Table 1 show 162,999 operations for 2011. This indicates a 0.5 percent decrease as compared to 2010. Although total operations have been below 200,000 in 16 out of the past 19 years, they were well above 200,000 for the 30 years prior to 1993, and they exceeded 300,000 in 1970. Consistent with experience for more than 25 years, the civilian portion of the 2011 aircraft operations comprised approximately 99 percent of the total aviation activity. The largest component of the total activity, 71.4 percent, consisted of single engine piston (SEP) operations ( "Local" plus "Singles" in Table 1). The 116,327 estimated SEP flights indicate that their activity decreased 2 percent as compared to 2010. This included an 8.7 percent decrease in touch and go /local traffic and a 6.5 percent increase in non - touch - and -go /local operations by SEPs. Touch - and -go /local activity comprised 52 percent of the SEP operations. Each touch - and -go consists of a practice landing and take -off and is counted as two operations. Touch - and -goes are not allowed in aircraft over 12,500 pounds at Hanscom; they are most commonly conducted by flight schools using SEP aircraft. The 3,542 estimated twin engine piston operations indicate an increase of 2.6 percent as compared to 2010. They represented 2.2 percent of the 2011 operations. The 6,987 estimated helicopter operations indicate an increase of 2.4 percent as compared to 2010, and they represented 4.3 percent of the total. Estimated turboprop aircraft activity, representing 4.2 percent of the 2011 total activity, increased 20.7 percent. The 27,838 civilian jet operations that were conducted in 2011 represented 17 percent of the total activity and indicate a 2 percent increase in jet activity, as compared to 2010. This is the third year that Hanscom's annual business jet activity did not exceed 30,000 operations since the events of September 11, 2001; it peaked at 34,522 operations in 2007. All of the 2011 data used to create Table 1 will be reviewed for the 2011 annual noise report, which will be prepared later in the year and presented to HFAC. The noise report will include a more detailed analysis of operations and trends as well as a full analysis of noise exposure using EXP, a metric developed to track changes in Hanscom's noise environment. 4 SECTION lI - FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2011 Massport continues its commitment to operating a first class facility while striving to improve Hanscom's financial performance. Massport's fiscal year (FY) begins on July 1 and ends on June 30. Table 2 demonstrates the fluctuations in revenues and expenses over the last five years. Comparing FYI to FYI 0, operating revenues increased 0.7 percent and expenses increased 5.8 percent, leaving Hanscom with an operating surplus of over $600 thousand. Amortization remained stable, exceeding $2.0 million both years, resulting in a $1.7 million deficit in FYI 1. Projections for FY12, made in the spring of 2011, included a decrease in revenues, an increase in expenses and amortization remaining stable at over $2 million. The projected deficit is $2.1 million. Massport recognizes that controlling Hanscom's deficit requires an aggressive multi- faceted approach. On the cost side, every expenditure and project is carefully scrutinized for its financial implications, and cost - saving measures continue to be explored. On the revenue side, a regular review of rates and charges, followed by appropriate adjustments, has been adopted. Expanding sources of revenue through development, as discussed later in this report, is another avenue for controlling the deficit. Massport also recognizes that commercial and /or air taxi services generate revenue and are allowed activities under federal law. While Massport may not actively solicit scheduled air service, it will accept and appropriately process applications for such service from entities that may seek to operate such air service at Hanscom Field. Table 2 Hanscom Field Five Year Financial Summary Fiscal Years (FY) 08 -12 IIIIIIIIIIIIII' �I IIIIRIII F.rrilll!IP� � �l �fii III REVEMUES'IIIII IIII =�I IIIIIar'4� I�Ilfl ��6 Itl4. it ry I �rl i111I1^k� ' �ullllal' al�ullilllllFllllYRIIIIIII�II'm I � � ; { � r� +Iii': FY09_ - I �tIIY'1fi � a - � .. .�`_ IFY'12 xar RENTALS Terminal 334,331 245,699 234,860 278,132 236,172 Non - Terminal 2,149,330 2,053,837 2,148,376 2,113,981 2,296,431 Ground 1,913,572 1,742,935 1,845,708 1,896,441 2,040,178 Tie Downs 152,972 142,285 131,253 124,531 132,000 Utilities 167,275 156,282 135,952 144,096 164,902 4,717,480 4,341,039 4,496,149 4,557,181 4,869,683 SUBTOTAL FEES Landing Fees 955,553 826,645 840,227 841,798 815,580 Customs Fees 869,215 783,029 668,251 552,955 684,000 Night Field Use Fees 600,132 523,046 534,234 520,918 425,000 Parking Fees 156,211 182,780 174,030 173,880 180,000 Other 788,713 528,790 617,436 560,602 469,400 3,369 824 2,844,291 2,834178 2,650,153 2,573,980 SUBTOTAL COMMISSIONS Rental Cars 156,394 150,753 173,797 158,782 123,000 Flight Schools 34,210 24,437 28,473 24,822 24,721 Ground Servicing 210,775 164,318 171,395 192,696 159,135 Fuel Flowage 1,232,910 1,103,413 1,190,213 1,334,293 1,206,458 Other 411,455 460,011 475,420 513,502 457,622 2,045,744 1,902,931 2,039,297 2,224,095 1,970,936 SUBTOTAL r� I T�TA��2�V�ENOES � I��II� III I�fl��31u 041111 °�II�I`. I IIIIIIIIIII .� IIIIIIIIIIIIIr I �III�I�IIII1088��I211I� "'1111111'- � ,,I axIIIIII,IIIII �I��I��9 "�III�II19 °hl�lI�6124�1� (IIIIIIIIIII d.. .„ Illu °- ��9�411I311 � -. Inl 4211'��' � III r h9l�gllu�,�ll��lllllll� IIII „!1111111 r +,�'II "I, IIII 1Q1I1 uluuuE,�III�911��III��1��1�IE IIPIIEIINS11E�111I "muililhu�11�111�'u dI11��11„ �� - _ _ Admin, Maintenance, Security Staff 4,983,777 3,625,871 3,516,411 3,931,426 3,672,148 Supplies & Materials 377,574 280,355 207,313 260,800 335,690 Reparis 391,608 444,870 368,539 522,782 368,784 Services 1,476,397 2,194,474 2,086,848 1,989,698 2,517,651 Utilities 419,681 353,004 305,250 360,988 344,112 Insurance 334,627 457,383 282,234 250,449 254,020 Miscellaneous 674,441 647,923 742,723 577,720 769,734 General & Administration 713,782 757,139 793,344 892,390 911,781 TI{)L'IIFERING;'iIEXPIIEN55 .r3$119,ii10,12611 `:$;Z86;I'll °III�'i III =11 7iIII�IlI9ilI�- 11101111,. �' yyiIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII- II?'IIIIIy VIII (IIIIIIII 'IIIIII 4'ry IINIIIIIIIII1111 I1w %y1141 11�. =� „(IIIIIIII'IIIIIIIIII ICI q�I � �° OPE'R -j a SII! 1 bL�Sl�lEF IIII �T III IIII ^ Iri yIr I IIII !I uII��I�l161u4 III1II�� IIII F� �� IA r4.�c� -.�, I 1' I II i�` � 1 �PdICIIIIIIIO ,I�. 2q�� 1 �S f �i I[ III 11111IIIIIII � 066 91f21,1 1 r� �,.� h1 11llrfl645�'t �y _;- h a�4 l�Nlo'IZ(ll `� 398'6'IIIIIIIu �Ih�I�I'IIIII 1i' 2,398;1113ii1IlIIU NINE II11in '12'11111'1111183161GIIIII I��I._ _ II 'lull "3$ as °'IIIIIIIIIII : �11�lllll��1 '�pi�IItlII�I�1111111V11 IIII �"�".if�f��pUry�, �Nf •�,llli �`- - �ar!h111 =- _ f1I I�� ^ I I1iulII1 I"Ir 1 I VIII IIII gllul� 1111 IIIIIIII 11�- 1111111 I IIII (IIIIIIII VIII 1 1 IIII IIII IIIIII :�� 1 SECTION III - ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF HANSCOM ACTIVITY Massport's facilities enable the region's residents and leading industries to make connections with new markets, products, customers, family, and friends. In just about every aspect of life in Massachusetts, Massport is helping the local economy grow. Located off Route 128/95, Hanscom Field has been a vital link to domestic and international destinations for individual pilots, commuter airlines and local employers, including high technology corporations, research and development firms, and educational institutions. Businesses look for accessible air travel when deciding where to locate, and Hanscom provides local businesses with easy access to corporate travel opportunities. In FY11, Massport invested $3.7 million in airfield, terminal, equipment and other facility improvements required to maintain the airport. Past and future investments ensure that Hanscom will continue to be prepared to support future economic growth by serving the diverse needs of users who operate a wide variety of aircraft. Periodically, there is an examination of the economic impacts of Massport's facilities. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation conducted an economic impact study for 2010 activity levels at Massachusetts' airports. It was determined that there were 1,551 full -time equivalent jobs related to Hanscom Airfield activity. Annual wages for those workers whose employment is directly related to airport activity are over $75 million. Hanscom generated estimated economic benefits of $250 million when all the direct, indirect and induced economic benefits of the airport were considered. Estimated economic benefits described above do not include economic benefits generated by Hanscom Air Force Base. SECTION IV - 2011 ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND 2012 OBJECTIVES Massport's primary responsibility at Hanscom Field is to maintain a safe, secure, and efficient regional airport while minimizing the environmental impact of its operations. Improvements are made in accordance with these guiding principles. While Massport is committed to maintaining Hanscom as a first class, full service airport, maintenance and improvements at the airport are consistently coupled with a variety of environmental initiatives, programs, and policies. Maintain and Improve Airfield— Annual Airfield Improvement Program Many projects at Hanscom are part of maintaining a safe and efficient airfield, and these may be eligible for full or partial federal funding under the FAA's Airfield Improvement Program (AIP). Because AIP funding is contingent on providing scheduled commercial passenger service and exceeding 9,999 enplanements, the loss of commuter service at Hanscom impacted Hanscom's ability to get AIP funds in Fiscal Year 2011. In 2011, there was one AIP eligible project completed at Hanscom. Airfield Pavement Maintenance: There is an on -going program for reconstructing pavement on the airfield. 7 In 2011: Massport completed a project to reconstruct Taxiway Sierra and a portion of the west ramp. In 2012: Massport will be evaluating the next pavement project, and the design work may be initiated. Construction will not be pursued in 2012 unless FAA funding becomes available, which is considered unlikely. Safety and Security on and off the Airfield Safety and security are the two most critical components of operating an airport, and there is a continual multi -level emphasis on both at Hanscom. Massport's commitment to operating a safe and secure airport helps safeguard its host communities as well as those who use the airport. 1. Obstruction Removal: A high priority for Massport is maintaining compliance with FAA certification and safety requirements regarding obstructions within runway approach and departure surfaces. Massport uses aerial photogrammetric mapping of those surfaces to identify vegetation that is penetrating, or close to penetrating, them. The state identified vegetation removal guidelines in the Generic Environmental Impact Report (GEIR) for Vegetation Removal at Public Use Airports and the 1999 GEIR/Generic Environmental Notification Form Update. Historically, a vegetation removal project has been required every five years at Hanscom. Hanscom's 2003 -2008 Five Year Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) Using the State's GEIR Guidelines: In 1999, Massport conducted an obstruction analysis that identified vegetation that was penetrating or near penetrating Hanscom's runway approach and departure surfaces. After finalizing a five year VMP and obtaining all the necessary permits for removing the airspace obstructions, vegetation was removed in all identified areas except off - airport in Bedford. A maintenance program was implemented to minimize the need for future large -scale cutting in those areas. The 1999 obstruction analysis used a 34:1 approach surface for the Runway 23 end, as required by the FAA, and identified numerous penetrations in Bedford's Hartwell Town Forest and Jordan Conservation Area (JCA). In response to internal and community concerns regarding the extent of vegetation removal required in conservation areas, Massport worked with the FAA and prepared a 20:1 approach surface analysis. The 20:1 approach surface maintained safety margins, while reducing the impact on the JCA and eliminating any impact on the Hartwell Town Forest. Hanscom's 2009 -2013 Five Year VMP Using the State's GEIR Guidelines: In 2007, Massport performed a new obstruction analysis for the airport as part of its five year VMP update. The 2007 aerial photogrammetric mapping of the approach and departure surfaces for all four runway ends demonstrated the following: ➢ the first Five Year VMP had minimized the need for additional vegetation removal in the areas that were cut in 2004. ➢ vegetation removal was required in areas that were not part of the first five year VMP. 8 ➢ using the FAA approved 20:1 approach surfaces for Runway 23, there were obstructions in Bedford's JCA; there were no obstructions in the Bedford Hartwell Town Forest. These findings were used to develop the second Five Year VMP for Hanscom. In 2008, this VMP was submitted to the four towns' Conservation Commissions along with Notices of Intent for the required vegetation removal in wetland areas that are on Massport property. By early 2009, Massport had received Orders of Conditions for vegetation removal in wetland areas from all four towns' Conservation Commissions, and vegetation removal began in upland and wetland areas, mostly on Massport property, during the winter months. Although the VMP identified obstructions in Bedford's JCA, specific details for obstruction removal were not included. Throughout 2009, Massport met with Bedford officials to discuss the importance of this safety related project and the need for a mutually agreeable process that would allow the removal of the obstructions. This included a formal process with the Bedford Conservation Commission. Massport submitted a supplement to the 2009 -2013 VMP, a wildlife study, and a comprehensive Notice of Intent (NOI), all specific to the JCA. In late 2009, the Commission closed the NOI hearing. Concurrent with the NOI process, Massport met with Town officials to develop a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that identified the process that Massport and the Town would use for implementation of all future vegetation management in the JCA. In 2010, According to the Orders of Conditions from the four towns, wetland work required frozen or dry ground conditions. Because of an early thaw in the winter of 2009, followed by a wet summer, some of the wetland work on and off the airport was completed during the winter of 2010. An Order of Conditions for the JCA was issued by the Bedford Conservation Commission in January of 2010. Additionally, the Bedford Conservation Commission, Massport and the Bedford Selectmen signed a MOA that allows Massport to periodically access the JCA for this and future such projects, subject to the Commission's review under the Wetlands Protection Act. The term of the MOA is 50 years, which shall renew automatically for an additional 50 years at the conclusion of the first 50 year period, subject to the provisions of the MOA. With all the permits and agreements in place, Massport began removing vegetation in the JCA in February 2010. By the end of 2010, all vegetation obstructions had been removed from all four runway ends except for some trees in Concord. Massport worked with the Concord Land Trust and submitted a NOI for vegetation removal to Concord Natural Resources before the end of the year. In 2011: In January, Massport received an Order of Conditions from Concord for vegetation removal in the wetlands. Massport removed vegetation obstructions on Concord properties owned by the Concord Land Trust and by an office park in February. Massport also removed seven obsolete light poles that were at the Runway 23 end both on and off Massport property. Of the 10 original light poles, the three furthest from the airport were left in place, but all equipment was removed from them. These three light poles are not obstructions. In February, Massport received confirmation from its consultant that all obstructions identified in the 2007 Hanscom Airspace Analysis had been removed. As part of the MOA with the town of Bedford, Massport worked with the towns of Bedford and Concord to develop access to a trail system on two Massport-owned parcels. A trail connection between Bedford conservation land and Concord open space parcels was also completed. Massport officially opened the trails in September. In 2012: Massport will continue maintenance of the vegetation removal areas and the trail system throughout 2012, and perform aerial photogrammetric mapping of the airport as part of its five year VMP update. 2. Annual Emergency Exercise: One of Hanscom's FAA Part 139 certification requirements is to conduct an annual exercise to ensure an effective response in the event of an aircraft emergency. A table -top exercise is conducted two out of every three years. On the third year, a simulated emergency is conducted on the airport. In 2011: The triennial full -scale emergency exercise was held at Hanscom on June 7. The exercise focused on communication protocols, unified command, airport emergency familiarization and family assistance. Approximately 30 federal, state and local agencies participated in the exercise. In 2012: Massport will conduct a table -top emergency exercise as part of its program to facilitate an effective response in the event of an aircraft emergency. 3. Wildlife Control: Wildlife on an airfield can be a serious safety hazard for aircraft. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regularly conducts field visits at Hanscom to monitor and evaluate wildlife on the airfield, with a particular focus on assisting Massport in minimizing wildlife strike hazards. In response to an FAA recommendation, Massport, through the USDA, completed a wildlife assessment in 2008. It included twelve months of observation and data collection to identify types and patterns of wildlife observed on the airfield, plus recommendations for the future control of wildlife. During 2009, beaver dams in the JCA caused flooding that impacted areas of the Runway 23 safety area. With assistance from the USDA, Massport submitted a Notice of Intent to the Bedford Conservation Commission to install leveling pipes in the dams. Massport and the USDA also determined that additional fencing was advisable to further reduce wildlife access to the airfield. In January 2010, Massport received an Order of Conditions to install leveling pipes in two JCA beaver dams. The installation was completed during the summer, but new beaver dams were built, and Massport requested permission to extend the leveling pipes. The Bedford Conservation Commission asked its consultant to study the issue, and the consultant recommended that beaver trapping should be approved and implemented in order to address the ongoing flooding issues. The Bedford Conservation Commission decided to monitor the water levels and beaver activity during the winter before determining next steps. 10 In 2011: During the spring and summer, Massport received permits from the towns of Bedford and Concord to remove beavers at the runways 23 and 11 ends. By the end of August, water levels had been significantly reduced. In 2012: Massport and the USDA will continue to closely monitor the areas for potential flooding. 4. Security: There was an increased emphasis placed on security after the events of September 11, 2001. Before the end of 2002, installation of enhanced security fencing was initiated and an ID badging program was developed. Today, anyone requiring unescorted access to the airfield must undergo a background security check in order to obtain a badge, and badges must be displayed at all times on the airfield. A variety of other measures have been adopted since 2002 as the result of an on -going process of evaluating and implementing new security programs, as appropriate. In 2011: Massport began installation of a new Access Control System for the Civil Air Terminal and various airfield gates. The new system enhances security by incorporating physical controls and electronic surveillance. The transition to the new system included issuing new security badges to over 1,700 badge holders. In 2012: Massport completed implementation of the new Access Control System. Massport will continue to refine the new system and complete the transition to the new security badge. 5. Safety Inspections and Meetings: In addition to the FAA's annual inspection, Massport's Safety Office staff conducts regular safety inspections, and safety meetings are held with tenants and the FAA tower personnel to facilitate the identification of safety concerns. Every year, Massport reviews its snow removal plan with the FAA tower staff and Hanscom tenants to ensure effective communication and coordination during snow removal operations. Maintain and Improve Facilities Hanscom's critical role in the regional transportation system demands appropriate maintenance programs and responsible development of airport facilities. Anticipating future needs and meeting the needs of existing users of Hanscom Field create challenges that require careful analysis and flexibility. Massport makes adjustments to its projects based on local demand and changes in the aviation industry. Massport Controlled Facilities: In addition to the airfield, Massport owns and manages the Civil Air Terminal, a number of corporate hangars that are leased, t- hangars and tie -down spots for owners of small aircraft, the central parking lot, and the entrance areas to the airfield. There is a continual process of maintaining and upgrading these facilities and areas. The Civil Air Terminal is home to a number of aviation businesses, including Hanscom's flight schools and a scheduled charter service. In 2011: Massport completed the installation of a new roofing system for the Civil Air Terminal, which included 222 photovoltaic solar module panels. Testing and commissioning of the system is expected to be completed in 2012. Massport also replaced HVAC units in 11 the Civil Air Terminal. Installation of the new, more energy efficient units was completed in August. Repairs to the Pine Hill T- hangar roofs and removal of above ground storage tanks at Hangar 10 were also completed in the month of August. In 2012: Massport will complete signage and landscape improvements along the airport entrance as well as rehabilitate portions of pavement in that area. 2. Third Party Development: Massport solicits third party development and management for new aviation - related facilities that support Hanscom's role in the regional transportation system as a full service general aviation airport. Most of Hanscom's hangars, with associated office space, are owned or leased by tenants who are responsible for maintaining the facilities. Potential development sites are identified and analyzed in Hanscom's Environmental Status and Planning Reports (ESPRs), which serve as planning tools when considering future development at Hanscom. Massport is pursuing development at the following sites: Hangar 24 Site: Hangar 24, on the southwest side of the airfield, was vacated in 2001. In subsequent years, Massport solicited and received proposals for third party redevelopment of the Hangar 24 site. Developers were interested in demolishing the old hangar and constructing a new facility. Due to issues of historical significance and a legal appeal, the project did not move forward until recently when these issues were resolved. In 2011: Massport issued an RFP for demolition of the Hangar and a separate RFP for development of Fixed Base Operator (FBO) facilities at Hanscom and Worcester Regional Airport. Massport received three responses for development by the December 8 deadline. In 2012: In January, the Massport Board approved a developer for the FBO facilities at Hanscom and Worcester. In March, Massport obtained required permits and began demolition of the Hangar 24 facility. Massport anticipates construction of the new FBO facility to commence in the summer of 2012. East Ramp: The East Ramp, located on the southeast side of the airfield, was identified in the ESPR as a potential site for corporate hangars. The ramp area is an impervious surface that is used for storage and movement of aircraft. In 2008, Massport completed a utility study of the East Ramp to identify utility needs for future hangars. Noise and air quality analyses, based on hangar development in this area, were conducted. These analyses were included with a letter to the FAA requesting a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for building hangars on the East Ramp. The FAA considered the cumulative impacts of East Ramp development and Hangar 24 redevelopment, and ultimately determined that hangar development on the East Ramp is a categorically excluded project. This means that there are no further environmental approvals required by the FAA before hangars can be built in this area. 12 In 2012: Massport will continue to explore third party development on the East Ramp. • Pine Hill Site: The Pine Hill site is located on the southwest side of the airfield and currently is undeveloped. It can support two small hangars. Massport has had discussions with the two Hanscom flight schools regarding their potential use of this site. In 2012: Massport will continue to explore appropriate development proposals for this currently undeveloped parcel. Massachusetts Air and Space Museum: In 2007, the Massachusetts Aviation Historical Society (MAHS) contacted Massport about developing an air and space museum that would offer a comprehensive view of Massachusetts' important contributions to the advancement of aviation and aerospace science, activities, and education. The concept includes locating the museum at an airport with aircraft ramp access, as well as good access for visitor traffic. In 2010, Massport identified a 17 acre site at the entrance to the airport, a portion of which could potentially be used for a museum. In 2011: Massport approved the proposed Massachusetts Air and Space Museum development on the designated parcel. In 2012: MASM representatives will engage in outreach efforts and present their conceptual design to interested parties. MASM representatives met with HFAC and HATS in the month of January. 3. Property North of the Airfield: There are two parcels of land north of Runway 05/23 in Bedford that abut the airfield and have been vacated. One of these parcels is owned by the U.S. Navy and was used by Raytheon until 2000. The other is owned by Massport but, until recently, was leased by the U.S. Air Force. • The Navy facilities include a hangar, supporting structures, and a ramp area that abuts the airfield; an office building is on a hill overlooking the airport. Massport's interest is in the future disposition and redevelopment of the hangar area. • The Massport parcel was used by the Air Force for a trailer park. In 2008, the Air Force decided to close the trailer park, and in 2009, all of the structures were removed. In 2010, the Air Force had all utility poles removed and ensured that the site was environmentally acceptable for return to Massport. In 2011: The Air Force lease terminated and the parcel was returned to Massport. The parcel consists of areas above and below Hartwell Road. In May, Massport issued an RFP for non - aviation development of the parcel above Hartwell Road. Massport chose Edge Sports as the future developer of the site. In 2012: Edge Sports plans to construct two turf athletic fields on the Hartwell Road parcel. 13 Massport filed an application with the GSA and FAA for acquisition of the Navy parcel, formerly occupied by Raytheon. 4. Jet Aviation: In 2011, Jet Aviation submitted a proposal to replace Hangar 17 with a modern hangar and associated ramp to accommodate the size and needs of the future business jet fleet. In 2012: In January, the Massport Board approved Jet Aviation's proposal. Jet Aviation will commence planning and design efforts for the proposed development. Monitor and Respond to Environmental Issues Massport has consistently maintained high environmental standards while complying with state and federal environmental regulations. In addition to complying with mandated requirements, Massport has elected to participate in programs that use environmentally friendly technologies and innovations to minimize operational impacts. There is a continual effort to extend and improve Hanscom's environmental performance. 1. Environmental Programs and Audits: In 2001, Massport brought its environmental commitment to a new level when Hanscom Field became the first U.S. airport to attain ISO 14001 certification. To become certified, Massport developed and implemented an Environmental Management System (EMS) that meets international performance standards. The EMS provides a framework that fosters the use of environmentally sustainable practices for operating the field and creates an auditable system for tracking, managing, and improving environmental performance. The EMS facilitates environmental compliance, encourages strategic environmental thinking during business and planning processes, and promotes environmental awareness. Massport meets its environmental commitments using a series of programs that include monitoring and auditing activities at Hanscom to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and the use of pollution prevention practices. Ongoing practices include: • Using the EMS to track, manage and improve environmental compliance and performance; updating targets as target dates are reached or when opportunities arise for improving the EMS framework; • Participating in the Massachusetts State Sustainability Program (Executive Order No. 438) to promote environmentally sustainable practices and in the Massachusetts' Leading By Example Program — Clean Energy and Efficient Buildings (Executive Order No. 484); • Inspecting Massport and tenant facilities to ensure environmental compliance; • Reviewing and updating the Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan, which outlines steps to be taken by Massport employees in the event of a spill of fuel or other hazardous materials; • Conducting monthly inspections of materials in the Field Maintenance garage that are used to control spills of fuel or other hazardous materials; • Implementing and encouraging tenants to utilize Best Management Practices (BMPs) as 14 discussed in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) multi - sector permit for stormwater discharges at Hanscom Field; • Conducting periodic water quality inspections at Massport's stormwater outfall locations; • Participating in an aggressive mixed paper and cardboard recycling program for tenant and Massport offices, which expanded to single stream recycling in 2009; • Identifying opportunities during Massport capital program project design development to reduce stormwater runoff and peak flows; • Identifying opportunities for development projects to control stormwater runoff. For example, if a project results in an increase in impervious surface, Massport requires compensatory storage for stormwater in order to avoid increasing peak stormwater run- off rates. This policy is incorporated into all Hanscom Field development. In 2009, Massport published its Sustainable Design Guidelines and Standards for use by architects, engineers, and planners when working on capital projects at any Massport facility. These Standards apply to projects of any square footage or monetary value, and are intended to ensure that sustainable measures are incorporated into each project, to the maximum extent feasible. In 2010, In compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Stormwater Multi - Sector General Permit, Massport updated its Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) to include best management practices for stormwater management and snow removal. All programs and audits were implemented during the year. In 2011: In celebration of Earth Day, Hanscom conducted a hazardous waste collection event in May. The event was a success with over 8,000 pounds of hazardous materials collected. Massport plans to schedule a similar event in 2012. In 2012: Massport will continue to comply with all of its environmental programs and audits. This will include compliance with the existing SWPPP, which includes best management practices for stormwater management and snow removal 2. DEP Shawsheen Watershed Initiative: Massport has been working cooperatively with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the United States Air Force to improve the flow characteristics and profile of stormwater discharges into the Shawsheen River. Massport has removed pavement to decrease impermeable areas on the airfield and has incorporated water quality and water quantity improvements into ongoing projects using Low Impact Development technologies. In 2011: Massport continued joint discussions with the Air Force and DEP regarding the Shawsheen Watershed Initiative. Massport received internal approval to proceed with a plan for future improvements to the Shawsheen River headwaters, to be completed jointly by Massport and the Air Force. With approval from Massachusetts DEP, Massport and the Air Force are jointly developing a new, more comprehensive, computer model to assess how various stormwater recharge structures and/or best management practices could improve base flow. This model will be used to guide the future implementation of stormwater best management practices at both Hanscom Field and Hanscom Air Force Base. 15 In 2012: Massport will continue to work with the Air Force on the development of a computer model and best management practices to improve the flow characteristics and profile of stormwater discharges into the Shawsheen River. 3. Protection of Rare and Endangered Species: Two grassland bird species protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) have been observed at Hanscom Field: the Upland Sandpiper and the Grasshopper Sparrow. In cooperation with the Massachusetts Audubon Society, Massport has traditionally managed airfield vegetation in a manner that maintains aviation safety while protecting the grassland nesting areas of these species. As part of its commitment to help protect the Upland Sandpiper and other listed grassland species, Massport completed a Grassland Management Program in 2004 that manages selected grassland areas while minimizing risks associated with hazardous wildlife species on the airfield. As part of this effort, Massport suspends mowing activities in some areas (excluding runway safety areas) during the critical nesting season of these birds. At the same time, Massport must ensure that birds at Hanscom do not pose a bird strike hazard. As mentioned earlier in this document, the USDA assists Massport in this endeavor. 4. Environmental Status and Planning Reports (ESPRs): In 1978, Massport prepared the Hanscom Field Master Plan and Environmental Impact Statement, which triggered the adoption of General Rules and Regulations for Laurence G. Hanscom Field, effective July 31, 1980. Since 1985, Massport has prepared a series of increasingly comprehensive environmental assessments for Hanscom Field that identify the environmental effects of current conditions and activity at the airport, compare these conditions to historical data, and present and evaluate the potential cumulative environmental effects of several future scenarios. These studies serve as planning tools for future development. Massport's first Generic Environmental Impact Report (GEIR) for Hanscom Field evaluated the environmental impacts for 1985 conditions and looked at the potential impacts for 1990. In 1997, a GEIR Update was completed, using 1995 as the base data year and evaluating potential impacts for 2000 and 2010. Subsequently, the name of the study was changed from a GEIR to an Environmental Status and Planning Report (ESPR) because it was determined that this title better characterized the study. The first ESPR analyzed the environmental effects for 2000 and compared the results to the data in the 1995 GEIR Update. In addition, potential environmental effects for 2005 and 2015 were analyzed based on a range of aviation forecasts, and on the development needed to support that activity. The second ESPR analyzed the environmental effects for 2005 and compared the results to the data in the 2000 ESPR. Again, future environmental effects were analyzed based on potential aviation forecasts, and on the development needed to support that activity. Each year that the GEIR/ESPR documents were completed, they were submitted to the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) offices, and the certificates issued by MEPA found them to adequately and properly comply with the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. The 2005 ESPR is the most current document and is used as a comprehensive resource for background information on the airport and for evaluations of Hanscom's current and potential future environmental effects. In addition, potential 16 environmental effects for 2010 and 2020 were analyzed based on a range of aviation forecasts, and the development needed to support those forecasts. In 2012: Massport filed the proposed scope for the 2012 ESPR with MEPA on February 29 and a 45 day public comment period commenced on March 7 and will end on April 20. Massport has issued an RFQ to solicit qualified firms to assist in the preparation of the next ESPR, which will analyze the environmental effects for 2012, as well as potential effects for 2020 and 2030, based on aviation forecasts for those years. Massport anticipates that the ESPR will be completed in the fall of 2013. Community Outreach Massport strives to build positive community relations and public confidence by maintaining open communications and by supporting programs that assist in addressing the concerns of Hanscom's stakeholders and host communities. 1. Community Meetings: Massport staff regularly attend monthly community meetings to inform the public of airport planning and policy developments. Massport also sponsors informational meetings with the communities and other interested parties when appropriate. Massport staff regularly attend the following monthly meetings: • The Hanscom Field Advisory Commission (HFAC): The HFAC was established by the legislature in 1980. It includes representatives from the aviation and residential communities as well as advisory members who represent the National Park, Hanscom Air Force Base, the FAA, and Massport. Massport staff members provide HFAC with information regarding Massport's goals, policies and plans for the airport. Additionally, staff members prepare and present monthly activity and noise reports, the annual State of Hanscom report, and the annual noise report. • The Hanscom Area Towns Committee (HATS): The four towns that are contiguous to Hanscom Field and Hanscom Air Force Base created the Hanscom Area Towns Committee (HATS). One selectman from each town serves on HATS along with planning board and at- large members from the towns. Massport staff members attend the HATS meetings to address Massport- related agenda items, participate in discussions, and respond to questions relating to Hanscom Field and Massport. 2. Noise Metrics and Noise Abatement/Mitigation: Aircraft noise is a concern for many Hanscom area residents and Minute Man National Historical Park. Massport recognizes the importance of pro - actively addressing this issue and is committed to continuing its current noise - related programs while exploring appropriate new initiatives. In response to the residential community's aircraft noise and operational concerns, Massport adopted regulations (Part F of the General Rules and Regulations for Laurence G. Hanscom Field) in 1980. Most of these programs could not be duplicated or changed under current federal law. They include: 17 • A nighttime field use fee to help discourage activity between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. • A restriction on scheduled commercial air carrier service to aircraft with no more than 60 seats. • Restrictions on touch - and -go activity by weight of aircraft and time of day. Touch -and- goes are aircraft operations conducted to repeatedly and consecutively practice landing and departing techniques. • A phase out of most Stage 1 aircraft at Hanscom. Stage 1 aircraft are some of the noisiest aircraft in the U.S. fleet. • Limitations on Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) and Ground Power Unit (GPU) use. Although Massport began supporting the use of the National Business Aviation Association's (NBAA's) noise abatement procedures for jet aircraft in the mid- 1980s, the Fly Friendly program at Hanscom provided an opportunity to broaden such efforts. Massport expanded its support of quiet arrival and departure techniques by also publicizing the Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association's (AOPA's) noise abatement procedures for piston aircraft (videos that discuss the AOPA concepts were mailed to all based pilots of piston aircraft in 2001); and by developing and publicizing quiet flying procedures for helicopters. Part of this effort included the development of a multi- faceted publicity program that results in pilots being exposed and re- exposed to the importance and understanding of the quiet -flying techniques, as follows: • Inserts for pilot manuals outlining the procedures are distributed at the FBOs, the flight schools, and in Massport's Hanscom offices. • Framed posters describing noise abatement procedures are located in the flight schools' offices, Massport's offices, and the fixed base operators' facilities. • Videos describing the techniques for both jet and piston aircraft are incorporated into the training required to qualify for a Hanscom security badge. • Descriptions of these quiet flying procedures are posted on Massport's website. • Signage on the airfield provides a last minute reminder to departing pilots to use quiet flying techniques. • Signage on the airport reminds pilots to limit their use of APUs and GPUs. In late 2009 and early 2010, Massport staff began using flight track data created by the new noise monitoring system to identify potential opportunities for reducing touch - and -go traffic over the Hartwell Tavern area in the Minute Man National Historical Park. Massport also initiated communications with the FAA and the Hanscom flight schools to identify practical recommendations and help create an implementation program. By working together, touch - and-go patterns for each runway were devised to safely increase the number of flights that fly over the airport, which inherently minimizes aircraft noise for the park's visitors. An aggressive publicity program was implemented, including the display of framed posters, mailings, and meetings with pilots and flight instructors, as well as local press coverage. The result was a decrease in the percent of aircraft that flew over the Hartwell Tavern area: -15% on Runway 11/29 and -19% on Runway 05/23 when comparing June, July and August 2010 to the same months in 2009. In 2011: Massport staff continued to work with local pilots and the FAA to reduce the number of flights over the MMT,1HP. Flight track data is examined on a daily basis and 18 reported quarterly. Results of the touch and go program are shared with pilots, certified flight instructors, the FAA and MMNHP staff. Massport also communicates MMNHP schedules and special events to local pilots and encourages the flying community to review Hanscom's Fly Friendly recommendations. In 2012: Massport will continue to track and share touch and go data as well as continue proactive outreach efforts to maintain the success of the program. 3. Sound Initiative: The Airport Noise and Capacity Act of 1990 required the phase out of noisier Stage 1 and 2 aircraft' weighing over 75,000 pounds. In 2005, Massport joined Sound Initiative, a coalition that was formed to encourage the extension the 1990 Airport Noise and Capacity Act to phase out Stage 1 and 2 aircraft weighing 75,000 pounds or less that were exempt from the original act. The effort was promoted by a group of airport managers and neighbors at corporate airports where older aircraft accounted for an inordinate number of noise complaints. In 2011: Massport continued working with Sound Initiative and the Massachusetts federal delegation in its effort to phase out some of the noisiest aircraft operating in the U.S. In 2012: Congress passed the FAA Modernization and Reform Act, which included the phase out of all non -stage 3 aircraft by December 31, 2015. Section 506 of the Act prohibits the operation, within the 48 contiguous states, of jets weighing 75,000 pounds or less that do not comply with Stage 3 noise levels. Noise Monitoring System: To facilitate the understanding of noise impacts on the communities neighboring Hanscom, Massport installed a noise monitoring system at Hanscom in the early 1990s. The system includes six microphones —one off each of the runway ends in each of the four contiguous towns and two others on the airfield at the ends of Runway 11/29. Data from the system are shared with the communities on a monthly basis. In 2011: Massport transitioned to a database system that uses the noise system data for the EXP calculation, thus increasing efficiency while producing comparable results. The data received from the noise system is comparable to the flight strip data that was formerly hand entered into a database system that creates EXP, the noise metric that Massport uses at Hanscom to track changes in noise levels. Due to FAA regulations, the flight strip data was held for 45 days, which delayed monthly reporting. The new database allows Massport to report statistics in a timely manner. In 2012: Massport staff will continue to work with ITT on development of a user - friendly, interactive website that can be used to research a noise event or flight, log a noise disturbance, and track correspondence related to a logged noise disturbance. 1 Stage 1 and 2 aircraft were manufactured before today's stringent noise standards were adopted for new airplanes. The use of Stage 1 and 2 aircraft weighing over 75,000 pounds was phased out nationally by 2000, but most of Hanscom's jets weigh less than 75,000 pounds. 19 5. Community Contributions: Massport's Charitable Contribution, Scholarship, and Community Summer Jobs Programs benefit organizations located in communities that host its facilities. The organizations serve a diverse constituency and a variety of worthwhile purposes. In 2011: Massport contributed $7,000 to educational, scholarship, and youth programs in the Hanscom area. Additionally, Massport provided approximately $12,000 to sponsor summer internship positions at various municipal departments in the four Hanscom towns and $24,000 for the salaries of local college students that worked directly for Massport. SECTION V — CAPITAL PROJECTS FOR FY12 THROUGH FY16 Each year, capital projects for Hanscom Field are evaluated for funding. Table 3 outlines the projects that have been identified for FY12 through FY16. It includes proposed projects that may or may not be addressed during the next five years but have been identified as desirable. The list does not include projects that have already been completed in FY12. Most of the projects focus on safety, security and maintenance. Estimated project costs are included. The capital programs list is fluid and gets adjusted periodically. Circumstances may change the year in which a project is started or completed, the estimated amount to be expended, or whether a project is ultimately implemented. TABLE 3 Hanscom Field FY12 to FY16 Capital Projects a PR�QECT I Fund�ecand I ro osed Fndn tthp -FYI 6 OU+�s I F- Demolition of Hangar 24 FY12 $2,876 Rehab Landside Roadways FY12 -14 $667 Improve Airport Entry Plaza FY12 -FY13 $300 Rehab Old T -Han ar Pavement FY13 -FY16 $1,129 Relocate Portions of Perimeter Road - FAA Required FY13 -FY14 $300 Replace Perimeter Security Fence, Runway 5 Approach FY13 -FY14 $100 Replace Windows and HVAC Units First Floor of CAT FY13 -FY14 $100 Rehab Pine Hill T -Han ar Pavement FY14 -FY15 $1,000 Salt Storage Enclosure FY14 -FY15 $250 Heavy Equipment Cold Storage FY16 $714 Airfield GIS and eALP - FAA Required FY16 $400 Equipment Contin enc FY12 -FY16 Annually: $90 Runway 5 Safety Area & Golf Taxiway Pending AIP Funds