Sierra Cape Cod “Tuesday Talks” – Joint Base Cape Cod
“Joint Base Cape Cod’s Future: What’s Up & What’s Next,” featuring Barnstable County Commissioner Mark Forest”
Tuesday, January 16, 7 to 8 pm
Sierra Cape Cod’s virtual speaker series kicks off the new year on Tuesday, January 16 at 7 pm with a talk by Barnstable County Commissioner Mark Forest addressing the current state of Joint Base Cape Cod (JBCC), proposed redevelopment activities, and the need for a new vision and integrated master plan engaging military commands and neighboring communities, including the Mashpee Wampanoag. This Zoom event is open to all; time will be reserved for audience Q&A.
JBCC’s existing master plan was created in 1998. JBCC officials recently advanced a proposal for affordable housing in the developed southern portion of the base and continue to advocate for a multi-purpose machine gun range on the protected northern portion, while County and town officials are exploring the siting of regional wastewater treatment and solid waste management infrastructure. In addition, major transportation projects have implications for JBCC and beyond, including South Coast Rail commuter service starting in 2024, bike trail development along the rail corridor in Bourne and Falmouth, and replacement of the Sagamore and Bourne bridges and approaches.
In his talk on January 16, Barnstable County Commissioner Mark Forest will review JBCC’s history, having been actively involved as an aide to former Congressman Bill Delahunt in developing the 1998 master plan, crafting base cleanup plans, and protecting the Upper Cape Water Supply Reserve. Mark also will provide perspective on JBCC re-development proposals, nearby transportation projects, and needs and opportunities associated with the new master planning process.
Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.8 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person’s right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action.
As part of Sierra Club’s Massachusetts Chapter, the Cape Cod & Islands Group represents members and supporters in Barnstable, Dukes, and Nantucket counties. For information, including videos of previous “3rd Tuesday” talks, visit https://www.sierraclub.org/massachusetts/cape-cod-islands-group.