How can you balance the need for a highway project with environmental impact?

1 Identify the purpose and need

The first step in any highway project is to identify the purpose and need of the project, which defines the transportation problem to be solved and the objectives to be achieved. This step is crucial for establishing the scope, alternatives, and evaluation criteria of the project. The purpose and need should be based on data, analysis, and stakeholder input, and should consider the existing and future conditions of the transportation system, the land use, and the environmental resources.

2 Develop and screen alternatives

The next step is to develop and screen alternatives that can address the purpose and need of the project. Alternatives can include different alignments, modes, designs, or strategies that can meet the transportation objectives. The screening process involves comparing the alternatives based on their feasibility, performance, cost, and environmental impact, and eliminating those that are not reasonable or practicable. The screening process should be transparent, consistent, and documented, and should involve public and agency participation.

3 Conduct environmental impact assessment

The third step is to conduct an environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the remaining alternatives, which is a systematic process of identifying, predicting, evaluating, and mitigating the potential environmental effects of the project. The EIA should cover a range of environmental aspects, such as air quality, noise, water quality, wildlife, vegetation, cultural resources, social and economic impacts, and cumulative effects. The EIA should follow the relevant laws, regulations, and standards, such as the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and should involve public and agency consultation and review.

4 Select the preferred alternative

The fourth step is to select the preferred alternative, which is the alternative that best meets the purpose and need of the project while minimizing the environmental impact. The selection process should consider the results of the EIA, the public and agency comments, and the technical and financial feasibility of the alternatives. The selection process should also document the rationale, the mitigation measures, and the commitments for the preferred alternative.