Residents of Brevard County will have an opportunity to weigh in on a major proposal that could reshape the environmental and acoustic landscape of Florida’s Space Coast. A virtual public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to solicit input on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for SpaceX’s proposed redevelopment of Space Launch Complex 37 (SLC-37) at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS).
- Advertisement -
The project would support the launch and landing of SpaceX’s Starship-Super Heavy system, potentially resulting in up to 76 launches and 152 landings per year. The proposal involves coordination between the U.S. Department of the Air Force (DAF), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and SpaceX.
Public comments are being accepted through July 28.
- Advertisement -
Proposed Actions and Scope
Under the proposed action, SpaceX would repurpose and upgrade the existing SLC-37 infrastructure, as well as modify several roads, including Phillips Parkway and Old Road A1A, to accommodate the transportation of launch components.
Environmental and Wildlife Concerns
A significant portion of the public discourse is expected to focus on environmental impacts, especially in relation to the Indian River Lagoon and nearby protected habitats.
- Advertisement -
According to the Draft EIS, the affected area supports numerous threatened and endangered species, including the Loggerhead and Green Sea Turtles, West Indian Manatee, Florida Scrub-Jay, and Southeastern Beach Mouse.
Noise and Sonic Boom Impacts
The Draft EIS notes that Starship-Super Heavy launches and landings will generate higher levels of noise than previous missions at CCSFS, including sonic booms that may be felt beyond the base boundaries.
Cultural and Historical Preservation
In addition to natural resources, the proposal may affect cultural and historical landmarks. The EIS acknowledges the presence of historic structures such as the Launch Control Center (Blockhouse), potential archaeological sites, and Native American cultural properties.
FAA Licensing and Oversight
The FAA must approve the project through its commercial launch licensing process, which requires completion of the environmental review. Approval would also include associated airspace closures for public safety during launch and landing events.
Public Comment Process
All comments submitted—whether oral, written, or electronic—will be considered equally and made part of the public record.
According to the project timeline, the Final EIS will be released in Fall 2025, followed by the formal Record of Decision. The public hearing on July 15 is one of the final opportunities for community members to voice support, raise concerns, or propose mitigation before decisions are finalized.
