NEPA Compliance Documentation Definition

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) was enacted in 1969 to assist federal agencies in making decisions based a clear understanding of environmental consequences of a proposed project. Public disclosure and input are also essential. SmithGroup JJR has been responsible for all three levels of federal environmental documentation, each requiring progressively more detailed analyses: Categorical Exclusion, Environmental Assessment and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The documentation requires the evaluation of alternatives and their potential impacts to the natural and built environment. SmithGroup JJR has also been active in obtaining clearances through a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or Records of Decision (ROD).

Natural Features Inventory Definition

Natural features inventories and tree surveys identify ecosystems, plants, animals, and physical features of a site or regional area. Individuals and populations may be categorized for frequency of occurrence, floristic quality and wetness ranking. Through site planning that is sensitive to natural features, our clients can make informed decisions to achieve their goals for development, aesthetics, environmental compliance and public disclosure.

Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis Definition

The indirect and cumulative effects of a proposed action must be considered in environmental documentation, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Council On Environmental Quality (CEQ). An indirect and cumulative effects analysis must consider effects that are caused by the action but will occur after the project has occurred, along with incremental effects of the project when considered in conjunction with other past, present and future projects or actions, such as infrastructure improvements or private developments. This analysis often requires interviews with individuals or groups within the government and public to establish a framework for the analysis.

Environmental Justice Study Definition

Environmental Justice has evolved from the federal government’s policy on nondiscrimination in all federally funded activities. Further guidance was provided in 1994 under Executive Order 12898: Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-Income Populations. The goal in conducting such investigations is to sure identify and avoid disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects on minority and low-income populations.

Noise and Air Quality Evaluation Definition

In the evaluation of many new transportation projects, Noise and Air Quality Evaluations are completed to determine what impact a change in vehicular traffic volume will have on a given (usually residential) area. Computer models are used to determine the noise or pollutant levels associated with a level of vehicular traffic for a given roadway alignment. The calculated levels are then compared with national standards of acceptance to determine whether mitigation or redesign of the roadway is necessary.

Streetscape Planning and Design Definition

SmithGroup JJR designs aesthetic enhancements for road corridors to create pleasing pedestrian and motoring environments. These enhancements can include canopy trees and other plant material, ornamental fencing and lighting, decorative paving and street furnishings, such as benches and planters. Our design work has included downtown environments, where the improvements complement an urban setting and focus on enhancing pedestrians' experiences, as well as corridors that are more heavily influenced by automobiles, where the setting may dictate that improvements be focused more toward those who view them from their vehicle. In either case, streetscape design improves the setting and creates a "sense of place" for those who use the corridor.

Scenic Corridor Planning and Management Definition

Scenic corridor management plans document key natural and built features adjoining highway corridors from which specific recommendations are made to maintain or enhance scenic quality along the roadway. The plans are typically prepared to satisfy state or federal guidelines and, if so designated, may be eligible for funding of specific elements of the management plan. The process of designation is best if inclusive of all interests, where the more effective programs include participation of adjoining communities, landowners and special interests groups.

Roadway Design and Engineering Definition

Roadway design and engineering is essential to almost every transportation project. Detailed construction plans need to be developed according to applicable state and federal standards of acceptance in order to bring the proposed project to reality. Integrating existing infrastructure conditions with the proposed design intent is the primary challenge that needs to be overcome in producing a safe, comfortable travel experience.

Context Sensitive Design Definition

Implementing transportation projects often provides an opportunity to work collaboratively with interested parties during planning and design. During these early phases, input from local communities and neighborhoods, affected business partners, and other interested parties can help establish the most appropriate ‘context’ for a new project. Project implementation can positively reflect design solutions that help successfully integrate the transportation system into the affected community accounting for influences in both the natural and built environment.

Public Involvement Definition

Effective communication conveys project information, while providing opportunities for individuals to engage in the decision-making process and to establish an active dialogue among project participants. Any number of communication techniques can be employed to ensure that project information is conveyed, including: newsletters, pamphlets, handouts, visual listening exercises, mass mailings, and telephone hotlines. More active involvement might extent to visioning exercises, stakeholder outreach, citizen advisory groups, community and neighborhood workshops, partnering, advisory boards, and public hearings. These techniques can resolve project disputes and turn ideas into action.