Environmental Process

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 provides a framework for environmental planning and decision-making by federal agencies. NEPA directs federal agencies to consider the potential environmental consequences of their proposals, document the analysis, and make this information available to the public for comment prior to implementation. The NEPA process includes input from the public as well as from other state and federal agencies so that all environmental issues, such as impacts to the natural, social, cultural, and economic environments, as well as other issues are addressed. In addition to evaluating the potential environmental effects, the transportation needs of the public are taken into account in reaching a decision that is in the best overall public interest.

There are three levels of environmental analysis and documentation that may be undertaken to satisfy the NEPA process for a proposed project or action. These include:

• Categorical Exclusion (CE)  
• Environmental Assessment (EA)
• Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)  

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One or more of these levels may be required for revive285 top end. The general process for completing each level of environmental analysis and documentation is described in the graphic above.

For more information on the NEPA environmental process, please visit the environment section of the FHWA Office of Planning, Environment, and Realty.