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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is this study being done?
A: The Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration
and the Colorado Department of Transportation have commissioned
an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to determine the effect
that adding various transportation improvements along I-25 will
have on the lives of residents and commuters in the area.
Q: How does this study differ from previous studies?
A: This study will build on the findings of the previously completed
North Front Range Transportation Alternatives Feasibility Study,
which was a Major Investment Study completed in 2000. This EIS
is the next step in planning for transportation improvements along
the I-25 corridor.
Q: What is the difference between a Major Investment Study (MIS)
and an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)?
A: Major Investment Studies (MIS) and Environmental Impact Statements
are both steps in the long-range process for finding alternatives
to current and future challenges in a given area. The North Front
Range Transportation Alternatives Feasibility Study (TAFS), an
MIS, was completed in 2000 and examined regional solutions to safety
problems, traffic congestion, air quality issues and mobility problems
between the Northern Colorado population centers and metropolitan
Denver. The North I-25 EIS, currently underway in the region, is
a federal requirement set forth in the National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA). The EIS is a more in-depth study to determine the purpose
and need of future transportation improvements in the same area;
identify alternatives to be developed; and document the anticipated
impacts of those alternatives. The North I-25 EIS is the next step
in identifying alternatives for transportation issues.
Q: Why does this study encompass such a large area?
A: Recent transportation studies indicate communities in the north
I-25 Front Range corridor can expect an estimated 43 percent increase
in population and 36 percent increase in employment by the year
2020. A population gain exceeding employment gain means residents
will have to travel to and from work on an already congested roadway.
The EIS will explore regional transportation options mainly on
I-25 in Northern Colorado, and perhaps also US 85 and US 287. The
eastern boundary of the study area will be the US 85 corridor,
and the western boundary will be the US 287 corridor.
Q: How long will the study take to complete?
A: About five years. We expect to complete the final Environmental
Impact Statement in Fall 2009.
Q: How will public input influence the statement?
A: Public input will help those conducting the study learn how
residents and travelers in the area feel about existing and future
transportation needs, alternatives that should be examined, and
issues to address.
Q: How soon after the study is complete can we expect to see construction
activity?
A: This process will determine whether transportation infrastructure
improvements are necessary. If improvements are found to be necessary,
the start of construction may be years away, dependant on many
factors including the allocation of state and federal funding.
However, this process must be completed before funds can be allocated
and construction can begin.
Q: Are public meetings the only opportunity to comment?
A: Public input is not limited to public meetings.
The team will accept input in all forms including letters, comments
submitted
to the Web site, and comment cards completed at public events and
small meetings with civic, business and community groups. If you
would like a presentation at a civic, business or community group,
please contact George Hayward Public Involvement Manager (970) 352-5455
or GHayward@vladimirjones.com.
Q: How can I provide comments/feedback if I can't
attend one of the public meetings?
A: You are welcome to use the contact
form on our Web site.
call the project hotline at:
(970) 352-5455 or (303) 779-3384
write a letter to:
North I-25 EIS
CDOT Region 4
1420 2nd Street
Greeley, CO 80631; or
fill out a comment card at our public displays or small group
meetings.
Q: Is rail transportation being considered in this study?
A: Yes. The study will look at several options for the corridor
including High Occupancy Vehicle lanes, Tolled Express Lanes/High Occupancy
Toll lanes, bus rapid transit, intercity bus service, general purpose
lanes and possible routes and station locations for commuter rail
from Denver Union Station to Fort Collins and points
between.
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