Completing the NEPA Process for CatEx Projects: Part 3 to CE Closeout

NEPA Decision Documents Environmental Impact Statement :  Record of Decision (ROD) Environmental Assessment:  Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) Categorical Exclusion:  CE Closeout

Categorical Exclusions (CE) Start: Part 3 Environmental Surveys/Permits End: CE Closeout

Part 3 of the Prospectus Role  Project Classification (EIS, EA, CE)  Documentation Requirements Components  Narrative  Checklist Type of Projects  “c” and “d” list

Q: So, are we done with NEPA? A: Not even close!

CE Closeout Role:  Confirms Project Classification (EIS, EA, CE)  Includes Required Documentation  Verifies Type of CE (“c” or “d” list)  Signifies completion of NEPA process Should also include:  Changes in project scope  Avoidance and minimization measures  Environmental commitments

Programmatic CE No significant environmental impacts No unusual circumstances Does not involve:  More than minor amounts of R/W  Residential or commercial displacement  Adverse effect of historic resource  Coast Guard permit or individual Corps permit  Work encroaching on floodway or affecting 100-year flood elevation Does not involve:  Work in or adjacent to Wild and Scenic River  More than minor wetland impacts  Change in access control  Use of temporary road, detour or ramp closure  Known hazmat site  Goal exception Conforms with Air Quality State Implementation Plan Consistent with Oregon Coastal Zone Management Plan Does not involve federally-listed T&E species or critical habitat

CE Approvals Categorical Exclusion:  REC  ODOT Environmental Manager  FHWA Environmental Program Mgr. Programmatic Categorical Exclusion:  REC  ODOT Environmental Manager Once these documents are signed, NEPA has been completed.

When is the CE Closeout Needed? Prior to start of right of way process (if federal funds are used) Prior to approval of construction funds

Things to remember: Include copies of all required environmental documents, such as:  No Effect memo or BO  Section 106 documents  4(f) documentation Include a copy of the Part 3 Include a project location map

For more information: ftp://ftp.odot.state.or.us/techserv/Geo-Environmental/ Environmental/Procedural%20Manuals/ Region%20Environmental%20Coordination/ ce_closeout_guidance.doc