(Corpus Christi, Texas)- A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was signed by John Wessels, Director of the Intermountain Region, National Park Service. The FONSI allows for an annual reduction of the speed limit to 15 mph from March 1 through Labor Day on the Gulf of Mexico beach at Padre Island National Seashore. This action is scheduled for immediate implementation.
Lowering the beach speed limit from 25 mph to 15 mph, will increase safety and provide a more enjoyable beach experience for visitors during the busy spring and summer months. It will also improve protection for natural resources, including the increasing numbers of nesting Kemp's ridley sea turtles and decrease the risk of injury to those turtles.
In June 2011, in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, Padre Island National Seashore prepared the
"Beach Vehicle Environmental Assessment". The study analyzed the impacts that would likely result from implementation of any changes to beach speed limits. Various alternatives for addressing the purpose and need for action to increase safety and protect natural resources were evaluated. The Environmental Assessment was available for a 30-day public comment period. Public comments that were received were used in preparation of the FONSI. After careful consideration, Alternative 3, Longer Seasonal Restrictions (the Preferred Alternative) was chosen.
If you would like to review the FONSI, Environmental Assessment, or other supporting documents for this project, please visit the National Park Service's Planning, Environment and Public Comment site at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
