Action
Notice and request for comments.
Summary
The FHWA jointly with the FTA proposes a nationwide programmatic Section 4(f) evaluation (programmatic evaluation) for use in certain federally assisted or direct Federal transportation improvement projects where the use of land from a Section 4(f) park, recreation area, wildlife or waterfowl refuge, or historic property will result in a net benefit to the Section 4(f) property. The use of such a programmatic evaluation is intended to promote environmental stewardship and streamline the Section 4(f) process by reducing the time necessary to prepare an evaluation that satisfies Section 4(f) requirements. This programmatic evaluation would provide an additional procedural option for demonstrating compliance with the requirements of Section 4(f). It would supplement existing nationwide Section 4(f) evaluations all of which would remain in effect. The FHWA and the FTA solicit comments on this proposed nationwide programmatic Section 4(f) evaluation that could be used in certain instances where the effects of a proposed transportation project result in a net benefit to a Section 4(f) property.