As I am sure many of you will agree, Branford is a wonderful place to live, work, and play.

I’m also sure many of you are aware of the years-long efforts by Tweed New Haven Airport to expand its current terminal as they look to become an outsized entity in our small community, with little benefit to our neighborhoods.

To date, more than 1,500 residents have petitioned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to create and implement a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), so experts can assess any effect an increase in the number of daily flights of larger Boeing 737 passenger airplanes, with their increased jet fuel exhaust, 90+ decibel sound events, traffic concerns, etc. will have on us and our town.

Branford will not incur any cost if the request for an EIS is granted, and there is no downside, as it will simply allow true experts to assess the entire situation and determine what mitigation methods may be necessary.

After attending the local Representative Town Meeting (RTM) meeting two weeks ago, I learned that the Tweed Airport conversation had become a political issue, so I would like all Branford residents to please think about the potential ramifications. You can be for or against the expansion and still request an EIS.

To help protect our health, wellness, and our property values, please write to the FAA and request a full EIS, as it will only help protect us now and far into the future. Again, there is no downside to requesting a full EIS.

For more information, visit flytweedfacts.org or Facebook and search Save Our Shoreline Connecticut.

Ken Engelman

Branford