ANNOUNCEMENT: Notice of Availability of a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) Infrastructure Improvements at the Yap International Airport and the Yap Seaport

A public meeting will be held on April 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM at the Small Business Development Center

Conference Room

In accordance with the Compact of Free Association (CoFA), the U.S. Department of War (DoW) will publish a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for infrastructure improvements at the Yap International Airport and Yap Seaport on April 14, 2026 (YAPT), initiating a 45-day public comment period. Public comments on the Draft EIS will be accepted through May 29, 2026 (YAPT). Comments related to historic properties as defined by the National Historic Preservation Act will also be considered as part of the cultural resources consultation process. The Draft EIS explains the purpose and need for the project, describes alternatives that were considered, and studies the potential impacts of making improvements to the Airport and Seaport and the means to minimize those impacts.

The Proposed Action includes:

• Yap International Airport Improvements

• Yap Seaport Wharf Improvements

• Colonia Harbor and Waneday Channel Dredging and Widening

• Waneday Channel Aids to Navigation (ATON) Improvements

• Airport-to-Seaport Connector Road Improvements

• Post-Construction Training

The improvements are intended to enhance Airport and Seaport functionality, extend their serviceable life, and enable joint use by the Yap State and the U.S. DoW, including the ability to conduct training exercises in accordance with the CoFA. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2027 and continue through 2035.

Public Comment Period

The 45-day Draft EIS public comment period begins on April 14, 2026 and ends on May 29, 2026 (YAPT).

The Draft EIS will be made available for review at the Yap State Library and on the project website: www.nepa.navy.mil/yapeis.

All interested persons, agencies, and organizations are encouraged to attend the public meeting(s), review the Draft EIS, and submit comments. The public will also be able to submit comments on potential effects to historic properties and cultural resources.

(For more information visit their website: www.nepa.navy.mil/yapeis )