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Project Information

Study Process

The intent of the PD&E Study process is to study each viable alternative to the level of detail necessary to accurately assess any potential impacts associated with the proposed improvements and to make a recommendation of the preferred alternative(s). This process is mandated by federal and state laws. The Port Manatee Connector PD&E Study will include an evaluation of all reasonable alternatives that meet the purpose and need established for the project. Interchange locations and concepts will also be evaluated during the PD&E Study. The level of documentation for the proposed improvements is expected to consist of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The EIS will fully document the purpose and need for the project, the development and evaluation of corridors, alignments and viable alternatives, potential environmental effects and the public involvement coordination conducted throughout the project. The EIS will be made available for public review and comment before finalizing. The preferred alternative(s) for the Port Manatee Connector will not be finalized until the alternatives analysis is complete and a public hearing has been conducted to provide an opportunity for public comment. Following the public hearing, a preferred alternative will be recommended by FDOT and Location and Design Concept Acceptance (LDCA) will be requested. As the lead federal agency, FHWA will review the LDCA recommendation and document the final determination in a Record of Decision. The PD&E Study is anticipated to be complete with a Record of Decision in 2012.