September 2024

Rock Leaf Water Environmental prepared an EAW in compliance with Minnesota Rules 4410 for the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Hastings Campus located at 1200 18th Street E in Hastings, Minnesota. The proposed campus upgrade involves the construction of a new facility that will house 145 resident rooms and related support spaces followed by the demolition of five buildings (23, 24, 25 and cottages 1 & 2). Feasibility for the demolition of building 34 is also being considered. The upgrade will involve the decommissioning of the water tower to be replaced with City hookup and the renovation of building 30 (power plant). Geothermal and solar energy systems are integrated into the design, as well as conversion of land into a native prairie.

Public comments on this EAW are open from September 24, 2024 until October 24, 2024 at 4:00 pm. The EAW can be found at the link below or by visiting the Administration Building (50 Sherburne Ave, St. Paul, MN 55155). Please contact Emily Bolles if you would like to view the EAW in-person.

Comments may be directed to Emily Bolles at emily.bolles@state.mn.us.

The EAW and respective comments will be reviewed in accordance with Minnesota Rules 4410.1700 to determine if the project has the potential for significant environmental effects. Rock Leaf Water Environmental will prepare a Record of EIS Decision in collaboration with the Department of Administration. This document will include responses to comments received by the Minnesota Department of Administration, the Findings of Fact supporting the decision, and the Record of Decision determining the need for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).