How is this project different from previous US 301 studies?
During the previous US 301 studies within the Waldorf area, several environmental review and regulatory agencies had expressed concern about the potential impacts of the bypass alternatives on several environmental features, especially Mattawoman Creek. During those studies, the agencies expressed a preference for the US 301 upgrade alternatives as a way to avoid these impacts. Since then, SHA has worked with the agencies as part of this US 301 Waldorf Area Transportation Improvements Project to address their concerns about the effects of the bypass corridors on the natural environment, and we have made several significant changes to the bypass alternatives. These changes include a commitment to bridging the entire floodplain at major wetland and stream crossings. SHA is still considering all three corridors (east, west, and upgrade) as part of this project, and no corridors were dismissed by SHA as part of the previous US 301 studies. SHA recognizes that each of the three corridors has its own unique challenges, and we will work with the environmental agencies and other stakeholders to develop effective solutions for each corridor.
Throughout the development of this project, SHA is working closely with an interagency committee comprised of representatives from federal, state and local environmental and planning agencies and organizations. This group is involved in decision making and project development at each milestone to ensure environmental concerns are receiving the proper attention.
