VAN NUYS : Public Input Sought on Airport Report

The Los Angeles Department of Airports is seeking public comment on the background report for the Van Nuys Airport Master Plan, officials said.

The plan describes land use and conditions that affect airport operations and airport neighbors. It was developed by consultant Engineering Technology Inc.

“It’s basically a compilation of existing information and conditions at and around Van Nuys Airport,” said Stacy Geere, the airport’s spokeswoman. “This is one step and phase one of the Master Plan preparation.”

Geere said the background report has been in the works since December, 1992. Officials have not set a deadline for completing the plan, she said.

The airport’s neighbors had asked for a Master Plan in hopes of reining in new hangar space, increases in the number of planes, and excessive noise. Airport tenants had also asked for information on how the airport might be used in the future to better make their own plans, they said.

The same groups had also requested a building moratorium until the Master Plan was drafted. Geere said the department will hold a series of meetings for community response after the 30-day public review period.

Free copies of the report are available at the Van Nuys Airport Administration Office, 16461 Sherman Way, Suite 300, Van Nuys, and the Department of Airports Administration Office, 1 World Way, Room 208, Los Angeles. Copies are also available at some city libraries in the Van Nuys area.