Japan Press Weekly

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2011 July 20 - 26 [US FORCES]

DM plans to build 385 housing units for US forces

The Defense Ministry on July 20 announced a plan to build 385 housing units for U.S. military personnel and their families in the Ikego Forest, stretching between Zushi and Yokohama cities in Kanagawa Prefecture.

The plan, submitted to the two cities on the same day, was compiled in accordance with agreements reached at the Japan-U.S. Joint Committee meeting in September 2010.

In addition to the 385 three-story units in 51 housing complexes, the plan includes the construction of clinics, libraries, schools, and other public facilities.

Japanese Communist Party Yokohama City Assembly member Onuki Norio said, “The plan destroys the natural environment, goes against efforts to curb global warming, and leads to strengthening and perpetuating U.S. bases in Japan. We will develop further cooperation with residents to achieve the withdrawal of the plan and the early return of the base sites to local communities.”