A Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study is conducted to meet the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act. During the study, we determine the location and conceptual design of feasible build alternatives for roadway improvements and their social, economic, and environmental effects. A PD&E study is finalized when the Federal Highway Administration, reviews the documentation and recommendations then provides a Location and Design Concept Acceptance.

Five Steps in the Transportation Development Process

1. Long Range Planning: The FDOT and local governments conduct long-range transportation planning on an ongoing basis to identify and prioritize individual projects.
2. Project Development and Environment Study (PD&E): During this step, design options and their social and environmental effects are examined.
3. Design: During design, detailed construction plans are prepared.
4. Right-Of-Way Acquisition: This phase entails acquisition of necessary right-of-way, based on the construction plans.
5. Construction: The roadway is built during this phase.

The I-275/SR 93 project is in the PD&E study phase of the FDOT’s 5-step highway development process. A PD&E study assists the FDOT in determining the location, conceptual design and social, economic and environmental effects of the proposed improvement. During the PD&E study process, feasible alternatives are developed for roadway improvement projects. These “Build” alternatives are evaluated based on environmental, engineering and socioeconomic conditions, safety needs and public input. The need for additional right-of-way for stormwater and environmental mitigation is also evaluated during the PD&E study phase. The “No Build” alternative is considered to be a viable alternative and will remain so for the duration of the study.

If the study results in a “Build” alternative being selected, the project may proceed to the next phase, which is the Project Design phase.

What is a Design Change Re-evaluation?

A Design Change Re-evaluation is the process used to document compliance with federal laws and to identify any changes to the PD&E Study that may have occurred since the approval of the original final environmental document. The re-evaluation is needed for the purpose of updating the 1996 study, documenting changes in the current design standards, reassessing socio-economic and environmental impacts, and comparing any new alternative options with the previously approved roadway improvement.