The Navy SEALs are looking to expand their training regimen and infrastructure – and that has some concerned about an environmental impact, as NBC 7’s Bridget Naso reports on July 28, 2014.
The Navy is looking to expand where our top warriors, the Navy SEALs, train in San Diego.
But not everyone is happy.
The changes are proposed for the area between Coronado and Imperial Beach. While the elite Navy SEALs have trained there for decades, it has been in the last 10 to 12 years that their role in the U.S. military has expanded.
And with that growth comes the need for a training complex to grow, too.
Some of the proposed changes to the SEAL training complex, released in a recent environmental impact statement, would include adding more buildings and improving current infrastructure and a possible gate expansion.
The concerns for the cities of Coronado and Imperial Beach are increased traffic, noise and visual impacts, such as a lack of ocean views.
The mayor of Imperial Beach said they are working with the Navy as much as possible, but have some concerns.
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"We’re more concerned about traffic impacts in Imperial Beach (and) maintaining our classic Southern California feel. I believe the IS addresses those issues with traffic. We know that right now that the only gate is through the city of Imperial Beach and that will not be able to handle the traffic,” said Mayor Jim Janney.
Brooks Mason rides his bike frequently down the silver strand.
“My concern would be the environment, the sensitive coastal environment and also the pollution from the traffic,” he said.
There will be two public meetings: one on Aug. 13 in Imperial Beach at the Marina Vista Community Center and a second on Aug. 14 at 640 Orange Ave. Both meetings are from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The deadline for all public comment is Sept. 22.
