|
|
Caltrans Study Moving Forward
About the Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment:
Among the many requirements for building or improving an interstate highway, environmental studies must be performed to conform with state (CEQA) and federal (NEPA) laws. For the I-5 Gateway Improvement Project, the state requires an environmental impact report (EIR); the federal requirement in this case is completion of an environmental assessment (EA).
These studies are required to ensure that the project’s impact on the environment is known and minimized. The costs in time and dollars are substantial, and, in part, explain why highway infrastructure projects take so long and cost so much. Air, water and soil impacts are assessed. Traffic volume and noise levels are projected. Biological studies are done to see if flora and fauna are affected. Impacts on historical/cultural sites, if any, are considered. Mitigation measures to be taken, if needed, are specified.
Public input is required at the beginning of the study process (June 2007 Scoping Meeting) and when the study is completed. The final public input phase in the process took place at a public meeting in Santa Clarita (February 2009), conducted by Caltrans, where the draft study documents and exhibits were made available for public review. At both sessions, community support for the project was overwhelming, particularly in light of the significant benefits offered — traffic congestion relief, cleaner air, improved roadway safety and expedited goods movement. Some residents expressed a potential need for noise mitigation, and Caltrans is working with them to address their concerns.
Caltrans will consider all comments, and respond to them. The final decision on sufficiency of the studies and impact mitigation measures will be published in the Federal Register, likely in the fall.
Media Coverage
|
