GSA releases draft Environmental Assessment, announces public hearing in support of Porthill port in Northern Idaho

January 03, 2024

TACOMA, Wash. – In compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) will host a public hearing regarding the expansion and modernization of the Porthill Land Port of Entry on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 6 p.m. PST. The hearing will give the public an opportunity to comment on the recently-published draft Environmental Assessment, which analyzes the potential social, economic and environmental impacts resulting from the proposed project at the Idaho port. The draft Environmental Assessment and the link to register for the public hearing are available at www.GSA.gov/Porthill. 

After 55 years of continuous operation, the Porthill LPOE no longer meets the operational needs of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Customs and Border Protection. Additionally, traffic flow through the port is susceptible to congestion and delays. The port expansion project, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will enhance the Porthill land port’s operational efficiency and capability. The new, modern and energy-efficient facilities will meet the government’s mission requirements and improve the travelers’ crossing experience.

The public is encouraged to provide comments on the Environmental Assessment. All comments must be postmarked or submitted by February 6, 2024, and can be provided using the following methods:

• Virtual Public Hearing: Attend the virtual public hearing and provide verbal comments or written comments during the hearing. Register for the meeting at www.GSA.gov/Porthill.
• Comment Form: Submit written comments throughout the comment period. While not required, a comment form is available on the project website: www.GSA.gov/Porthill. Comment forms or other written comments can be sent via mail to the following address: U.S. General Services Administration, Attention: Melissa Hibray, Capital Project Manager, 1301 A Street Suite 610, Tacoma, WA 98402.
• Email: Submit written comments via email to PorthillLPOE@gsa.gov. Include Porthill LPOE Draft EA in the subject line of the message.

Project information, including a video recording of this public hearing, will be available at: www.GSA.gov/Porthill.