Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), is preparing the environmental documents for review by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The FHWA is the Federal Agency responsible for final approval of the environmental document. This study and the supporting environmental documents will be governed by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and state regulatory requirements. Opportunities exist for the public to provide input into the alternatives and project-related environmental impacts.

NEPA guides federally funded projects and projects that require a Federal permit to lessen potential damges to the environment. IDOT is required to evaluate alternative ways of accomplishing and meeting study needs. They will assess the natural, built, and human environment to determine the extent of impacts that may arise from constructing and operating a project. Environmental factors such as air quality, wildlife, vegetation, water quality, wetlands, geology, neighborhoods, park/recreation areas, utilities, visual quality, and cultural resources will be assessed. Public comments that are received during the alternative analysis phase are considered in the draft environmental document. Following NEPA guidelines, a document called an Environmental Assessment will be prepared. The process calls for continuous environmental evaluations as alternatives are analyzed. If impacts are defined that may have significant consequences, then an Environmental Impact Statement is prepared.

The development of the Environmental Assessment will be directed throughout the following phases:

• Develop Purpose and Need
• Alternatives Analysis & Environmental Studies
• Draft Environmental Assessment
• Select Preferred Alternative & Mitigation Commitments
• Prepare Final Environmental Assessment
• Request to IDOT to initiate design phase

Project Phases

Alternatives Analysis

• Identify Goals and Objectives
• Develop Alternatives
• Evaluate Alternatives

Environmental Assessment Report

• Evaluate Alternatives
• Prepare Draft of Environmental Assessment
• Receive Formal Public Comment
• Select a Preferred Alternative
• Prepare Final EA/Approve Project
  

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