NSA Crane Joint Land Use Study

March 23, 2016

DSC_0727The second part of NSA Crane's Joint Land Use Study took place for three counties late February at WestGate Academy.

February 22, 2016- Greene, Daviess, and Martin county individuals attended the second NSA Crane Joint Land Use Study at WestGate Academy Conferencing & Training Center. All county citizens were invited to participate and learn more about regional growth trends, a baseline of existing incompatible land uses around installation, a detailed land use assessment for surrounding high-growth areas, and a plan to  assist surrounding communities with decision-making. The Joint Land Use Study is a 'cooperative land use planning effort conducted as a joint venture between an active military installation, surrounding jurisdictions, state and federal agencies, and other affected stakeholders.' According to the Fact Sheet #1 for the Joint Land Use Study, the study can 'directly benefit both NSA Crane and the surrounding region by protecting the health and safety of surrounding residents and workers, preserving long-term land use compatibility between NSA Crane and the surrounding communities, promoting community planning, and encouraging cooperation between the military installation and community officials.' Greene, Daviess, and Martin county residents took an active role in the second installment of NSA Crane's Joint Land Use Study. Residents marked what topics were pertinent to them and their communities. CEO of Radius Indiana and Chair of the Crane JLUS Policy Committee Becky Skillman says the level of public participation in the first-ever Joint Land Use Study with Crane is great. 'Local elected officials have provided financial assistance and pledged to consider the recommendations in the final report.  Hundreds of residents from neighboring communities have participated in public hearings.  Ultimately the JLUS is about being a good neighbor, allowing Crane to fulfill the mission of support for the warfighter while at the same time, allowing our communities to grow and prosper.' NSA Crane Community Planning Liaison Officer Todd A. Woods says the event is beneficial to Crane and the community. 'For Naval Support Activity Crane, the Joint Land Use Study is providing a vehicle for improved communications and collaborative planning with surrounding counties and other stakeholders for development in the region that is compatible with the Activity's missions.'