Federal-Aid Process
Any transportation improvements that ultimately result from this study are likely to use Federal highway funds. Therefore, certain regulations and guidelines must be followed for conducting this study. Any federal-aid project (from bikeways to major roadways) must follow a 3-phase implementation process:
- Phase I – Environmental and Design Studies
- Phase II – Preparation of Contract Plans and ROW acquisition
- Phase III – Construction
The Phase I Environmental and Design Study for a project results in the preparation of one of the following documents:
- Project Development Report (PDR)
- Environmental Assessment (EA)
- Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
Which document is prepared is based upon the complexity and the level of impacts that may result from the project.
The Caton Farm – Bruce Road Study is considered a Phase I Environmental and Design Study.
Although it is not known for sure at this time, it is anticipated that this project may ultimately result in the preparation of an Environmental Assessment or an Environmental Impact Statement.
In addition, the Caton Farm-Bruce Road Phase I Study will follow the Concurrent NEPA/404 Processes for Transportation Projects which was developed jointly by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This will ensure that all the necessary cooperating agencies have an opportunity to provide input at the appropriate stage.
The Concurrent NEPA/404 Process generally follows the implementation procedures listed below:
- Data Collection & Analysis
- Systems Planning Process
- Scoping
- Project Purpose & Need
- Alternative Development
- Concurrence Point for Purpose & Need
- Alternatives Analysis & Screening
- Concurrence Point on Alternatives to be Carried Forwarded
- Draft NEPA Document Preparation & Review ←We Are Here
- Comment Responses and Pre-Final Preparation
- Concurrence Point on Selected Alternative
- Final Review
- Specific project implementation procedures can be viewed with the project Schedule.