Two permit modification requests submitted by the Blue Grass Army Depot in support of Blue Grass plant operations are open for public comment until Feb. 15.

“One of the requests allows substitution of four Vertical Rocket Cutting Machines for the two existing rocket cutting machines in the main plant. It also includes technology to evaluate M55 rockets for chemical agent liquid leaks prior to processing in the new cutting machines,” said John McArthur, environmental manager, Bechtel Parsons Blue Grass. “The second modification adds to the existing Part B permit the processing of M55 rockets containing VX in the main plant.”

Permit modification requests are standard activities as the agent destruction campaigns progress, McArthur said. Blue Grass plant and depot personnel work hand-in-hand with the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection as the plant progresses through changes like these.

“One important part of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act permit modification process is the opportunity for the public to review and comment upon the modification requests,” McArthur said. “We encourage the community to be informed about the plant and its permitting actions.”

No public meeting will be held regarding these permit modification requests due to federal, state and local guidelines for social distancing because of the COVID-19 pandemic. For access to the environmental documents and information on how to comment, please follow this link. Comments will be accepted through Feb. 15.