FASEB Campus Trees recognized by State of Maryland

Recently FASEB was visited by volunteers of the State of Maryland’s “Big Tree Program”. As a result of that visit, FASEB has been identified as having three trees worthy of mention in the state’s program.

Our Eastern Hemlock, Purple Beech and American Holly were within the top five for each of the species in the state. In addition, each of the three trees have been acknowledged as being the largest in Montgomery County.

Each tree is evaluated based on its circumference, height and crown spread. The Eastern Hemlock and Purple Beech are located just across the driveway from the East Wing lobby and the American Holly is located near Beaumont House. The Big Tree Program is sponsored by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Congratulations to the staff of Building and Grounds for maintaining these and the rest of the beautiful grounds on campus.

FASEB Campus Construction Update

Construction activity is picking up on campus as many planned projects are getting under way. Projects currently being worked on include:

• space renovation in wing 5, level 5 for AAI expansion
• New air handler system installation in wing 5, level 5
• Fire alarm consolidation project throughout Lee building
• Mechanical upgrades to Elevator #1 (closet to parking garage)
• Limited demolition in preparation of Exercise Facility construction

We would like to thank everyone on campus for their continued cooperation and patience as we address many of the physical plant enhancements. - Rick Dunn

Faye Blanche:  March 31st, 2008,  FASEB’ s Dues & Subscriptions Department Jean Lash:  April 10th, 2008, FASEB’s Office of Scientific Meetings and Conferences Geri Swindle:  April 11th, 2008, FASEB’s Office of Scientific Meetings and Conferences

BRAC Final Environmental Impact Statement Released

The Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) was released on April 4 and addresses many of the concerns expressed by local government, community associations and businesses. The report addresses issues resulting from the expansion of the Naval Medical Center on Rockville Pike, with one of the primary issues being traffic on our local roads.

Improvements to local roads include the feasibility of an additional lane of traffic in each direction on Rockville Pike between Cedar Lane and Jones Bridge Road, new traffic light studies along Rockville Pike at North Wood Rd and at the NIH Commercial Vehicle Inspection Station, additional turn lanes on Rockville Pike into the Medical Center, and eliminating parking along the eastern side of Cedar Lane.

The publication of the FEIS in the Federal Register begins a required Wait Period of thirty days before the Record of Decision can be signed. The BRAC law mandates that the facility be completed by September 15, 2011.

The full report can be viewed at http://www.bethesda.med.navy.mil/Professional/Public_Affairs/BRAC/eis.aspx

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