WAUKESHA – The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has made a preliminary determination that Victory International Fellowship’s proposed development of relocated church facility grounds will not have an adverse impact on the environment. Although an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will not be required, the DNR’s determination is not a final decision. The Environmental Assessment (EA) provides background information for evaluation of project permit evaluations. The EA and application materials are used to determine whether specific standards for granting permits can be met.
The proposed development will be located in Menomonee Falls, WI on the northeast intersection of Pilgrim and Lisbon Roads. This property is an abandoned, former drive-in theater site. The project involves grading and the creation of a stormwater pond filling the three wetlands that formed on the west side of the site (0.19 acres) along the old drive-in theater roads and parking lots, and removing a waterway from an enclosure and relocating the enclosed portion of the waterway near the center of the property, creating a 0.89 - acre of meandering stream and stream bed. When the project is complete, the design will hopefully protect the sensitive higher quality wetlands to the east and restore a natural channel and stream character to the area.
The development site has a number of environmental and topographical design challenges, including an enclosed stream in the central portion of the site; a wetland on the east side with significant ecological value; a number of smaller wetlands bordering the drive-in theater roads; and a significant elevation grade from Pilgrim Road to the former drive-in theater gravel pad. There is also floodplain on the southeast corner of the site that is undevelopable.
In making the preliminary determination, the DNR prepared an Environmental Assessment [pursuant to Chapter NR 150, Wisconsin Administrative Code] and reviewed the company’s application for Chapter 30 coverage and water quality certification. Copies of the Environmental Assessment that led to the DNR's preliminary determination can be obtained from Andrew Hudak, Water Management Specialist, 141 NW Barstow St., Rm 180, Waukesha, WI 53188, 262-574-2172 or at Andrew.hudak@wisconsin.gov.
Public comments, either written or oral, on the environmental assessment are welcome and must be submitted to Andrew Hudak no later than 4:30 p.m. Monday, March 9, 2009.
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