U.S. awards $81K grant for Dobbins study plan

The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded an $81,000 grant for the Joint Land Use Study implementation at Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta.

The grant requires a 10 percent local match, resulting in Cobb County’s contribution of $9,000, according to a county statement.

Matrix Design Group, a planning consulting firm specializing in military/civilian land use compatibility, has been awarded the contract to perform the work associated with this grant.

This project will develop three action items from the 2015 study:

• Development of a three-dimensional interface for an imagery model of the area's terrain that will be used to plan clear zones and potential accident zones.
• A light pollution study, affecting nighttime-vision training while maintaining outdoor lighting for public safety.
• Development of a community outreach program to educate and enlighten current and potential area residents regarding the standard of living around Dobbins ARB.

The study’s goals are to reduce potential conflicts between Dobbins and surrounding areas while accommodating new growth and economic development, sustaining economic vitality and protecting the public’s health and safety without compromising the operational missions of Dobbins.

Previous studies in other areas of the nation have proven to be effective through the successful implementation of actions, collaboration and civilian participation and understanding, the statement added.