The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has scheduled a second public hearing for September 15 to address a permit application submitted by Northrop Grumman. The request seeks authorization to release 24.9 tons of hazardous pollutants into the air annually in and around Waynesboro. The hearing is set to begin at 6 p.m. at Waynesboro High School.
According to the public notice for the event, participation is restricted to individuals who previously provided feedback during the initial review process. Specifically, only those who commented in person at the draft permit hearing or in writing during the public comment periods are permitted to speak.
The notice further stipulates that remarks must be limited to the DEQ’s documentation, and no new information will be accepted during the session.
Northrop Grumman, a company with a market capitalization of $78.1 billion, has announced plans for a $200 million manufacturing facility in Waynesboro. The permit request is part of the regulatory process for this proposed expansion. Local officials and residents have engaged with the DEQ regarding the environmental impact of the project, with previous hearings drawing significant public attention.
The DEQ’s decision on the permit will determine whether the company can proceed with the proposed emissions. The September 15 hearing serves as a final opportunity for prior commenters to reinforce their positions based on the existing record. No additional details regarding the final outcome of the permit application were provided in the notice.
