NEPA Q&A

1. E/A – B/A for projects on tribal land. Is it going to hurt the tribes?

   The environmental clearance processes have stalled some projects but the majority of projects get cleared in a reasonable time frame.

2. What is the interface between LRP public involvement and the NEPA process?

   The Long Range Planning process and public involvement plan do not specifically address environmental issues at this phase unless they are significant. The NEPA process is based on an individual project basis and is carried out after a project is programmed in the 5-Year Highway Construction Program and during the project development process.

3. NEPA process – what is the timeframe for review?

   Average time is two to three years, depending on the type of document required. An Environmental Impact Study (EIS) usually take longer than an Environmental Assessment (EA). Some tribes assist ADOT with the NEPA process.

4. Better coordination between NEPA and NHPA compliance process early on – public hearing meetings.

   ADOT provides assistance to the FHWA in complying with environmental law that includes the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) when projects are planned on tribal land. In 1999, the ADOT Environmental and Enhancement Group (EEG) developed and initiated a process and policy for tribal consultation early and fully at all stages of the Section 106 process and during project development. In particular the process ensures that tribal consultation occurs that affords the tribe a reasonable opportunity to identify its concerns, advise on the identification and evaluation of historic properties, articulate views on a project’s effect on properties, and participate in resolution of adverse effects. ADOT-EEG also serves to encourage public input, including comments on project design, location, and environmental and social impacts throughout all stages of project development. Further information can be obtained by contacting ADOT EEG at (602) 712-7760 and by checking the ADOT-EEG website at www.ADOTenvironmental.com