What is a Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study?
A Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study is a formal process that the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) uses to ensure that consideration is given to environmental and social impacts, public input, engineering design, and project costs, when evaluating the preferred type, design and location of improvements for transportation projects.
This process is mandated by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and State law. It represents a combined effort by technical professionals who analyze information and document the best alternative for a community’s transportation needs.
What is the purpose of this PD&E Study?
The primary purpose of this Study is to establish the location and design concepts for the rehabilitation or replacement of the existing New River CSX Railroad Bascule Bridge in Broward County, Florida. The no-build alternative (no-action) has also been thoroughly evaluated.
Why is this project needed?
The New River CSX Railroad Bascule Bridge was constructed in the late 1920’s. This bridge has been inspected and determined to be structurally deficient. In addition, measures have been implemented in order to stabilize the bridge which have reduced the horizontal clearance of the waterway restricting navigation.
Which environmental factors were evaluated?
Amount and quality of wetlands potentially affected, endangered species habitat encroachment, noise impacts, air quality impacts, identification of historic and archaeological sites, recreation/conservation areas, floodplain encroachment, and identification of potentially contaminated sites were evaluated as part of this Study.
What public involvement activities occurred relative to this project?
The FDOT embarked on a Public Involvement Program as part of this PD&E Study. The public involvement began in July 2009 with a Project Kick-off Meeting and culminates with the Public Hearing, to be held on January 25, 2011. Over the past 18 months, other public meetings have been held for the purposes of providing information about the project and seeking input from the affected parties. The goal of the Public Hearing is to present the preferred alternative that has been selected by the project team as a result of the PD&E analysis process and to obtain additional comments and feedback from the affected community. FDOT will continue to seek input from the affected community as the project proceeds to the design and construction phases.
