What is the JLUS?
The Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) is studying the planned land uses in the areas that surround the Range, and the military training needs of the armed forces to determine their compatibility. The study is designed to protect public health, safety and welfare while safeguarding the ability of the military services and homeland security agencies to provide needed training on the Range.
Military operations can be loud and can present safety concerns for civilian communities. Conversely, urban development near the perimeter of military ranges can impact the viability of the installation and its mission. Development can be affected by low level flight patterns in military operating areas and required clear zones for airport runway approaches. The purpose of the JLUS is to protect the health, safety and welfare of the civilian communities relative to aircraft approach and departure routes, and discourage incompatible development in high noise areas and accident potential zones. The JLUS will also study how to protect the Range’s ability to conduct effective training of homeland security, public safety, and military personnel.
Purpose & Goals
- Protect the health, safety, and welfare of residents living or working near the Avon Park Range
- Preserve long-term land use compatibility between the APAFR and the surrounding community
- Promote comprehensive community planning
- Encourage cooperation between Avon Park Air Force Range and local community officials
- Coordinate the local jurisdiction’s comprehensive plans with APAFR’s comprehensive plans
Study Area
The Study Area focuses on the land surface area and surrounding airspace which comprise Avon Park Air Force Range, as well as the four counties and three cities that approve development that could impact or be impacted by military training activities. Compatible air and ground space is essential to separate military from civilian activities and to identify where certain military activities can be conducted.
Organization
The Central Florida Regional Planning Council was the JLUS Study Sponsor and responsible for leadership, coordination, and management of all study activities. CFRPC also provided public information and identified opportunities for effective coordination between the Range, affected local government, and stakeholders. A Policy Committee of public officials and state agency representatives was established to guide the study process and make recommendations for coordination between APAFR and local governments. A working group of planners and agencies from local jurisdictions and the military services coordinate the land use planning information with the Study team.
Funding
Funding for the JLUS has been provided by grants from the Department of Defense / Office of Economic Adjustment and from Enterprise Florida, Inc.
Policy Committee
The JLUS Policy Committee reviews information developed over the course of the study about the land uses and military and civilian training needs housed at the Avon Park Air Force Range.
View Agendas, Meeting Summaries and Presentations on the Documents Page
Public Participation & Information
The JLUS Study included an active public outreach program to inform the public about the Study and the military training activities at the Range. Public outreach activities included workshops, meetings with stakeholders and local governments, brochures, and media advisories. The website provided up to date information on the progress of the JLUS Study, public meetings, and workshops.