Overview & Planning Subject Areas

Overview

(Case studies of successful examples of LPN in practice are also included on the Case Studies page of this training.) This section goes step by step through a typical corridor or area transportation planning process to show how each of the main planning subject areas (goals, alternatives, public involvement, etc) can be enhanced with NEPA-level data. The information from these subject areas can then be used more effectively during the NEPA process. Considering transportation needs and potential improvements within a larger context of information at the planning level will also lead to more informed decision-making. More information and guidance on Linking Planning and NEPA is available from CDOT Environmental Programs Branch ("Linking Planning and the National Environmental Policy Act Guidance," March 2007.)

Planning Subject Areas

The degree to which transportation planning studies, analyses, or conclusions can be incorporated into the project-level NEPA environmental review depends on how well these studies meet standards established by NEPA regulations and guidance. While much of the work conducted during planning already meets these standards, others may require modification.

Figure 1 lists typical subject areas that are evaluated during the transportation planning process.

Figure 2 shows the components of a NEPA planning process.

While these subject areas are similar, there are differences in level of analysis, timing, and use of the information, depending on the regulations and specifics of either the planning process or the project at hand.

The next few pages describe the Planning Subject Areas and their relationship to NEPA in more detail.