Letter to the Editor: Bedford Mothers Out Front Say “No” to Hanscom Hangar Project 

-Submitted by Carol Kelly

On behalf of Bedford Mothers Out Front, the chapter leadership team voted unanimously to oppose the proposed Hanscom Hangar Project during their February 13th meeting.  We share the environmental concerns voiced by Senator Barrett and Representative Gordon during the public zoom call hosted by MEPA on February 6th.  As mothers, we are deeply concerned about the effects on both health and climate of the increased fossil fuel emissions from more private jet traffic.  

This proposal is not simply a shift away from the congestion at Logan Airport but will result in substantially increased air traffic across eastern Massachusetts.  This is a step backward from the emission reduction goals passed by the state legislature.  Emissions from all forms of transportation, not just road vehicles, are responsible for about 40% of our current emissions.  Additional air traffic anywhere will only increase this percentage.  How can we meet state goals to reduce emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions by 2050 when we increase traffic here at Hanscom?

In addition to these critical climate concerns, we are also concerned about the increased risk of water contamination and the potentially damaging effects on the ecosystem of the planned development of open land.  Operation of such a facility will almost inevitably have adverse effects on the surrounding ecosystem.  As mothers and others who care passionately about the health and future of all children, we believe that the children across this region should not be further burdened by increasing environmental costs or health risks. We must protect the climate of their future and that of other vulnerable members of our society.  Therefore, for all these reasons, we oppose the Hanscom Hanger project.

Carol Kelly is a member of Bedford Mothers Out Front Chapter Leadership Team