Indiana Major Moves: US 31 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.html Latest update from the US 31 website Etomite RSSFeed-2.0 Snippet ian@n-vent.com webmaster@us31plysb.com en-us Copyright us31plysb.com http://backend.userland.com/rssFri, 04 Apr 2008 13:00:47 -0500 Environment http://www.us31plysb.com/environment.html <p><img style="WIDTH: 423px; HEIGHT: 236px" alt="1034_Indiana_watershed_map.JPG" src="assets/images/1034_Indiana_watershed_map.JPG" /></p> <p>Wetland Mitigation<br /><strong><br />INDOT Purchases 334 acres for wetland mitigation in LaPorte County</strong><br />To receive federal matching grants from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), INDOT must mitigate (replace) all wetlands affected by transportation projects. For the US 31 Plymouth to South Bend project, approximately&nbsp;30 acres of wetlands are impacted.<br /><br />By law, this mitigation must be performed at a ratio ranging from 2:1 to 4:1, and be located within the same watershed. For the US 31 Plymouth to South Bend project, there are two watersheds affected: the St. Joseph watershed and the Kankakee watershed.<br /><br />In December, INDOT made an offer to purchase 334 acres of suitable land in LaPorte County to mitigate the impact in the Kankakee watershed. The site will satisfy and exceed all the projected wetland, forest and stream mitigation needs. <br /><br />Information about impacts to the St. Joseph watershed will be available later in 2008. <br /><br /><strong>Why protect the wetlands?</strong><br />Approximately 50 percent of our nation's wetlands have been lost in the last 200 years. <br /><br />Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, directs federal agencies to avoid and reduce the impacts to wetlands, if possible. Other Federal programs designed to conserve and protect wetlands include the Emergency Wetlands Protection Resources Act of 1986, the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and the Wetlands Reserve Program. <br /><br />When selecting the alternative for the US 31 Plymouth to South Bend corridor, the impact to wetlands was a major factor in INDOT and FHWA’s decision. <br />&nbsp;</p>Fri, 04 Apr 2008 13:00:47 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=92 E-newsletter http://www.us31plysb.com/enews.html <h1> E-Newsletter</h1><p>Do you want to stay informed? We will be sending out an e-newsletter with updates. Please complete the brief form below and have the latest news on construction timelines, events and more sent directly to your inbox.</p><p>





</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h1>View the past newsletters:&nbsp;</h1><p>&nbsp;</p>Fri, 04 Jan 2008 07:58:24 -0600 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=90 News http://www.us31plysb.com/83.html <h2>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</h2> <p>May 5, 2008</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Public open houses for US 31 Plymouth to South Bend project scheduled for May</h2> <p>&nbsp;<span class="filelink"><a href="assets/May%20open%20houses.pdf"><img class="fileimg" src="manager/media/xinha/plugins/InsertFile/img/ext/pdf_small.gif" border="0" />May open houses.pdf</a> <span class="filesize">11.78 KB</span></span><br /></p> <p>Indianapolis - The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) will be in Marshall and St. Joseph counties later this month to update residents about the US 31 Plymouth to South Bend project.</p> <p>At these open houses, the team will answer questions and present Stage 1 design plans, which include preliminary drainage design, right of way lines, interchange design and roadway design.</p> <p>What:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; New US 31 Plymouth to South Bend project update</p> <p>When/Where:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Monday, May 19, 4 to 7 p.m.</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jackson Intermediate Center</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 5001 S. Miami Rd, South Bend</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tuesday, May 20, 4 to 7 p.m.</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newton Center</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 601 N. Michigan Ave, Lakeville</p> <p>Once complete, 20 miles of US 31 will be upgraded to freeway standards from US 30 in Marshall County to the US 20 Bypass in St. Joseph County. Additional information about the project is available at <a>www.us31plysb.com</a>.</p> <p>Governor Mitch Daniels' Major Moves highway program will invest more than $1 billion to upgrade US 31 between Indianapolis and South Bend, with new construction in Marshall, St. Joseph, Howard and Hamilton counties. It represents the largest investment of Major Moves funds in the entire construction program.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p align="center">###</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Media contacts:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Erin Pipkin, <a href="mailto:erin.pipkin@borshoff.biz">erin.pipkin@borshoff.biz</a>, 317.631.6400</p> <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Andy Dietrick, INDOT Office of Communications, 317.232.5503</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><u>ARCHIVE</u></strong></p> <p>August 9, 2007</p> <h2>INDOT Launches New Web Site for US 31 Plymouth to South Bend Project</h2> <p><span class="filelink"><a href="assets/press_release/us31_website_openhouse_release.pdf"><img class="fileimg" src="manager/media/xinha/plugins/InsertFile/img/ext/pdf_small.gif" border="0" />us31_website_openhouse_release.pdf</a> <span class="filesize">201.48 KB</span></span></p> <h1></h1>Thu, 09 Aug 2007 08:26:53 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=83 Public Records http://www.us31plysb.com/public-records.html<p>DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS - You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 6 or greater to view the PDF files available on this page. Older versions may not be able to properly view these documents.</p> <p>Due to the large file sizes of these documents a broadband connection is recommended for download.</p> <h1>RECORD OF DECISION (July 5, 2006)</h1> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/ROD_TOC.pdf">Table of Contents</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/ROD_Chapter01.pdf">Chapter 1 - Decision</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/ROD_Chapter02.pdf">Chapter 2 - Alternatives Considered</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/ROD_Chapter03.pdf">Chapter 3 - Measures to Minimize Harm</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/ROD_Chapter04.pdf">Chapter 4 - Monitoring and Reporting</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/ROD_Chapter05.pdf">Chapter 5 - Comments on the Final EIS</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/ROD_Chapter06.pdf">Chapter 6 - Record of Decision</a></li> </ul> <h3>Exhibits</h3> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/Exhibit01.pdf">Exhibit 1</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/Exhibit02.pdf">Exhibit 2</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/Exhibit03.pdf">Exhibit 3</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/ROD/Exhibit04.pdf">Exhibit 4</a></li> </ul> <!-- end --> <h1>FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (April 13, 2006)</h1> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary.pdf">Executive Summary (PDF – 638 KB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_01.pdf">ES.1 Introduction</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_02.pdf">ES.2 Project Description</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_03.pdf">ES.3 Purpose and Need</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_04.pdf">ES.4 Alternatives</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_05.pdf">ES.5 Summary of Impacts and Selection of Preferred Alternative</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_06.pdf">ES.6 Local Road Improvement Projects</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_07.pdf">ES.7 Mitigation Measures</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_08.pdf">ES.8 Major Issues Raised in Agency and Public Comments</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Summary_09.pdf">ES.9 Other Federal Actions Required for the Proposed Action</a> </li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter01.pdf">Chapter 1 - Project Introduction (PDF – 362 KB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter01_1.pdf">1.1 Project Description </a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter01_2.pdf">1.2 Transportation Planning History</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter01_3.pdf">1.3 Project History</a> </li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter02.pdf">Chapter 2 - Purpose and Need (PDF – 215 KB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter02_1.pdf">2.1 Project Purpose and Need Statement</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter02_2.pdf">2.2 Traffic Congestion</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter02_3.pdf">2.3 Safety</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter02_4.pdf">2.4 Consistency with Transportation Plans </a></li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter03.pdf">Chapter 3 - Alternatives (PDF – 3.11 MB )</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter03_1.pdf">3.1 Preliminary Alternatives Analysis and Screening</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter03_2.pdf">3.2 Modifications of Alternatives Recommended For Further Analysis</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter03_3.pdf">3.3 Description of the Alternatives Selected for Detailed Study</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter03_4.pdf">3.4 Identification of Alternatives Studied Further</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter03_5.pdf">3.5 Local Road Improvements</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter03_6.pdf">3.6 Selection of the Preferred Alternative</a></li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04.pdf">Chapter 4 - Affected Environment (PDF – 2.69 MB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_01.pdf">4.1 Traffic and Transportation</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_02.pdf">4.2 Pedestrian and Bicyclist Access</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_03.pdf">4.3 Socio-economic Environment</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_04.pdf">4.4 Community Facilities and Services</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_05.pdf">4.5 Farmland</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_06.pdf">4.6 Historic and Archaeological Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_07.pdf">4.7 Air Quality</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_08.pdf">4.8 Highway Noise</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_09.pdf">4.9 Natural Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_10.pdf">4.10 Water Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_11.pdf">4.11 Floodplains</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_12.pdf">4.12 Wetlands</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_13.pdf">4.13 Visual and Aesthetic Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter04_14.pdf">4.14 Hazardous Material Sites</a> </li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05.pdf">Chapter 5 - Environmental Consequences (PDF – 2.72 MB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_01.pdf">5.1 Traffic and Transportation</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_02.pdf">5.2 Pedestrian and Bicyclist Access</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_03.pdf">5.3 Social/Economic Impacts</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_04.pdf">5.4 Community Facilities and Services</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_05.pdf">5.5 Farmland</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_06.pdf">5.6 Historic and Archaeological Resources</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_07.pdf">5.7 Air Quality Impacts</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_08.pdf">5.8 Highway Noise</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_09.pdf">5.9 Natural Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_10.pdf">5.10 Water Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_11.pdf">5.11 Floodplains</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_12.pdf">5.12 Wetlands</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_13.pdf">5.13 Visual and Aesthetic Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_14.pdf">5.14 Hazardous Materials Sites</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_15.pdf">5.15 Energy Impacts</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_16.pdf">5.16 Construction Impacts</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_17.pdf">5.17 Permits</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_18.pdf">5.18 Short Term Uses of Environment Versus Long Term Productivity</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_19.pdf">5.19 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter05_20.pdf">5.20 Indirect and Cumulative Impacts</a> </li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06.pdf">Chapter 6 – Mitigation (PDF – 1.16 MB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_01.pdf">6.1 Relocation Assistance</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_02.pdf">6.2 Historic and Archaeological Resources Mitigation</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_03.pdf">6.3 Air Quality</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_04.pdf">6.4 Noise Impacts</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_05.pdf">6.5 Farmland</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_06.pdf">6.6 Wetland Mitigation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_07.pdf">6.7 Mitigation of Visual Impacts and Aesthetics</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_08.pdf">6.8 Construction</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_09.pdf">6.9 Design</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_10.pdf">6.10 Ecosystem Impacts</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_11.pdf">6.11 Threatened &amp; Endangered Species Impact</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter06_12.pdf">6.12 Hazardous Material Site Mitigation</a></li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter07.pdf">Chapter 7 - Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation (PDF – 557 KB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter07_01.pdf">7.1 Introduction</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter07_02.pdf">7.2 Potential Section 4(f) Resources – Parks, Recreation Areas, and Wildlife Refuges</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter07_03.pdf">7.3 Potential Section 4(f) Resources – Historic and Archaeological Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter07_03.pdf">7.4 Section 6(f) Resources</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter07_05.pdf">7.5 Conclusion</a></li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter08.pdf">Chapter 8 - Public Outreach, Comments and Coordination (PDF – 229 KB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter08_01.pdf">8.1 Public Involvement</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter08_02.pdf">8.2 Project Milestones and Associated Public Outreach Program</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter08_03.pdf">8.3 Public Involvement Conclusion</a></li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter09.pdf">Chapter 9 - List of Preparers (PDF – 43 KB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter10.pdf">Chapter 10 - List of Acronyms (PDF – 229 KB)</a> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter10_01.pdf">10.1 Terms</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter10_02.pdf">10.2 Agencies</a></li> </ul></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter11.pdf">Chapter 11 - Glossary (PDF – 61 KB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter12.pdf">Chapter 12 - Index (PDF – 46 KB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/US31_FEIS_Chapter13.pdf">Chapter 13 - Literature Cited (PDF – 229 KB)</a></li> </ul> <h3>Appendices</h3> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_A.pdf">Appendix A - Alternative Route Maps (2002 Aerial Photographs) (PDF -24.3 MB) </a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_B.pdf">Appendix B - Distribution of the DEIS (PDF – 25KB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_C.pdf">Appendix C - Agency Correspondence (PDF – 25.6 MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_D.pdf">Appendix D - Soils Information (PDF -219 KB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_E.pdf">Appendix E - Plants Identified Along US 31 Alternatives (PDF – 128 KB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_F.pdf">Appendix F - Plants, Fishes, Reptiles, Amphibians, Mammals, Birds, Reported in St. Joseph and Marshall Counties (PDF – 20 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_G.pdf">Appendix G - Wetland, Habitat, &amp; Trophic Response Guilds for Vertebrates in Indiana (PDF – 10.3 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_H.pdf">Appendix H - Wetland Memorandum of Understanding (PDF – 1.39 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_I.pdf">Appendix I - Archaeological Records Check and Phase 1a Field Reconnaissance (PDF – 23 MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_J.pdf">Appendix J - Traffic Noise Analysis (PDF – 3.5 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_K.pdf">Appendix K - AD 1006 and NRCS-CPA-106 Farmland Conversion Impact Rating Forms (PDF – 1.03 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_L.pdf">Appendix L - DEIS Comments &amp; Responses (PDF – 617 KB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_M.pdf">Appendix M - Aquatic Data Sheets (PDF – 170 KB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_N.pdf">Appendix N - Conceptual Wetland Mitigation Plan (PDF – 2.37 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_O.pdf">Appendix O - Survey of Bats Along Route 31 Marshall/St. Joseph Counties, Indiana (PDF – 1.15 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_P.pdf">Appendix P - Section 106 Documentation (PDF – 3.18 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_Q.pdf">Appendix Q - Cost Estimate (PDF – 2.41 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_R.pdf">Appendix R - Preliminary Muck and Peat Soils Information (PDF – 1.7 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_S.pdf">Appendix S - US 20/US 31 Interchange for Preferred Alternative G-Es (PDF – 3.02 MB)</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_T.pdf">Appendix T - Section 404(b) (1) (LEDPA) Consistency Analysis (PDF – 687 KB) </a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_U.pdf">Appendix U - Floodplain Risk Assessment Forms (PDF – 1.83 MB)</a></li> </ul> <!-- end --> <h1>PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE MITIGATION PACKAGE</h1> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_TOC.pdf">Table of Contents (PDF - 98K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_Chapter01.pdf">Chapter 1 - Introduction (PDF - 206K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_Chapter02.pdf">Chapter 2 - Description of Non-Preferred Alternaitves (PDF - 721K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_Chapter03.pdf">Chapter 3 - Description of Preferred Alternatives (PDF - 956K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_Chapter04.pdf">Chapter 4 - Summary of Comments (PDF - 136K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_Chapter05.pdf">Chapter 5 - Permits (PDF - 56K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_Chapter06.pdf">Chapter 6 - Summary of Proposed Mitigation (PDF -104K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/US31_PAMP_Chapter07.pdf">Chapter 7 - Conclusion (PDF -45K)</a></li> </ul> <h3>Appendices</h3> <ul><li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/PAMP/Appendix_A.pdf">Appendix A - (PDF - 4.8MB)</a></li></ul> <!-- end --> <h1>DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT</h1> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/TOC.pdf">Table of Contents (PDF - 98K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Summary.pdf">Executive Summary (PDF - 256K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter01.pdf">Chapter 1 - Project Introduction (PDF - 215K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter02.pdf">Chapter 2 - Purpose and Need (PDF - 48K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter03.pdf">Chapter 3 - Alternatives&nbsp; (PDF - 1.7MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter04.pdf">Chapter 4 - Affected Environment (PDF - 2.6MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter05.pdf">Chapter 5 - Environmental Consequences (PDF - 2.1MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter06.pdf">Chapter 6 - Mitigation (PDF -111K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter07.pdf">Chapter 7 - Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation (PDF -355K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter08.pdf">Chapter 8 - Public Outreach, Comments and Coordination (PDF -106K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter09.pdf">Chapter 9 - List of Preparers (PDF -59K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter10.pdf">Chapter 10 - List of Acronyms (PDF -40K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter11.pdf">Chapter 11 - Glossary (PDF -84K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter12.pdf">Chapter 12 - Index (PDF -70K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/US31_Chapter13.pdf">Chapter 13 - Literature Cited (PDF -65K)</a></li> </ul> <h3>Appendices </h3> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20A.pdf">Appendix A (PDF - 1.2 MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20B.pdf">Appendix B (PDF - 325K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20C.pdf">Appendix C (PDF - 4.3MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20D.pdf">Appendix D (PDF - 121K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20E.pdf">Appendix E (PDF - 204K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20F.pdf">Appendix F ( PDF - 2.2MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20G.pdf">Appendix G (PDF - 737K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20H.pdf">Appendix H (PDF - 68K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20I.pdf">Appendix I (PDF - 1.5MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/FEIS/Appendix_J.pdf">Appendix J (PDF - 1.2MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/DEIS/Appendix%20K.pdf">Appendix K (PDF - 372K)</a></li> </ul> <!-- end --> <h1>PRELIMINARY ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS AND SCREENING REPORT (08/19/03)</h1> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/Executive_Summary.pdf">Executive Summary (PDF - 395K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/chap01_introduction.pdf">Chapter 1 - Introduction (PDF - 694K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/chap02_screeningmeasures.pdf">Chapter 2 - Screening Measures (PDF - 48K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/chap03_development.pdf">Chapter 3 - Development of Corridor Alternatives (PDF - 146K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/chap04_alternativescreening.pdf">Chapter 4 - Screening of Alternatives (PDF - 2MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/chap05_eliminatedalts.pdf">Chapter 5 - Preliminary Alternatives Eliminated from Further Consideration (PDF - 176K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/chap06_carriedfurtheralts.pdf">Chapter 6 - Preliminary Alternatives to be Carried Forward for Further Analysis in DEIS (PDF -163K)</a></li> </ul> <h3>Appendices</h3> <ul> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/Appendic_A.pdf">Appendix A - (PDF - 1.1MB)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/Appendic_B.pdf">Appendix B - (PDF - 128K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/Appendic_C.pdf">Appendix C - (PDF - 122K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/Appendic_D.pdf">Appendix D - (PDF - 691K)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/Screening_Report/Appendic_E.pdf">Appendix E - (PDF - 308K)</a></li> </ul> <!-- end --> <h1>PURPOSE AND NEED STATEMENT</h1> <p><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Links/PrelimP&N_033103.pdf">Purpose and Need Statement (PDF - 34K)</a></p> <h1>NOTICE OF INTENT</h1> <p><a href="http://www.in.gov/indot/div/projects/us31/study/Documents/NOI/NOI.pdf">Notice of Intent (PDF - 31K)</a></p> <h1>LIST OF MEETINGS</h1> <ul> <li><h2>Initial Scoping Meetings</h2> <ul><li>Community Advisory Committee Meeting - March 21, 2002</li><li>Public Information Meeting - March 21, 2002</li> </ul></li> <li><h2>Purpose and Need/Preliminary Alternatives</h2> <ul><li>Community Advisory Committee Meeting - April 10, 2003</li> <li>Public Information Meeting - April 10, 2003</li> <li>Interagency Review Meeting and Project Tour - May 15, 2003</li> </ul></li> <li><h2>Preliminary Alternatives Analysis and Screening Report</h2> <ul><li>Community Advisory Committee Meeting - September 4, 2003</li> <li>Public Information Meeting - September 4, 2003</li> <li>Interagency Review Meeting - September 30, 2003</li> </ul></li> <li><h2>Section 106 – Historic and Archaeological Resource Process</h2> <ul><li>Consulting Party Meeting - Resource Identification - June 6, 2003</li> <li>Consulting Party Meeting - Eligibility Determination - September 4, 2003</li> </ul></li></ul>Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:41:05 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=62 Contact http://www.us31plysb.com/contact.html <p>For general inquires, please complete the form below. All messages will be directed to Rickie Clark, INDOT US 31 Project Facilitator.</p>
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Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:37:31 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=61 Frequently Asked Questions http://www.us31plysb.com/faq.html <h1>Why is this project needed?</h1> <p>The Indiana General Assembly directed the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) to study the transportation corridor between Indianapolis and South Bend. Currently, INDOT is developing three sections of this corridor, including the upgrade of US 31 in Hamilton County, Howard County, and Marshall and St. Joseph counties.</p> <p>Based on traffic counts from 2000, significant congestion exists along US 31 through La Paz and from Lakeville to the US 20 Bypass. The Level of Service (LOS) – the level at which a roadway allows the flow of vehicles – falls below “C” for rural areas and “D” for urban areas. (LOS is rated by grades, with A representing the least amount of congestion and F representing the most. LOS C and D are the lowest accepted levels for rural and urban environments, respectively.) In addition, three of four signalized intersections and three of six non-signalized intersections operate at an unacceptable LOS. By 2030, without the proposed improvements, nearly all intersections would operate at an unacceptable LOS.</p> <p>Further, upgrading US 31 to freeway standards will greatly improve the safety of the corridor – reducing the number of crashes and rear-end collisions caused through turning movements and increased traffic – especially between Lakeville and South Bend.</p> <h1>Why can't you just follow the existing route and upgrade it?</h1> <p>A full range of freeway alternatives, including the No-Build Alternative, was investigated as part of the Environmental Impact Study (EIS). The freeway alternative is the only alternative that met the purpose and need of the project – reduce congestion, improve safety and align with state and local transportation plans.</p> <h1>What is the time line for each stretch/phase?</h1> <p>This 20-mile corridor will be divided into smaller segments for design and construction. Construction on two overpasses – Lilac Road and Plymouth-Goshen Trail – is expected to begin early in fiscal year 2009. Construction of the mainline may begin as early as 2009, with completion of the final segment tentatively scheduled for 2015.</p> <h1>What is the time line for the entire north stretch of US 31 from Indianapolis to South Bend?</h1> <p>INDOT’s Long Range Transportation Plan includes projects 25 years in the future. The US 31 segments through Hamilton County, Howard County (Kokomo), and Marshall and St. Joseph counties will be completed during this time period. Other segments will be determined as the Long Range Plan is updated.</p> <h1>Why don’t we use this money to develop another form of transit, like rail?</h1> <p>Mass transit alternatives were studied as part of the EIS. The research revealed that motorists were not starting from and ending at concentrated common areas and that there would not be enough riders to pay for the transit operating costs. Further, it was found that the only alternative that met the purpose and need of the project – reduce congestion, improve safety and align with state and local transportation plans – was the freeway alternative.</p> <h1>How will the money for the upgrades be funded?</h1> <p>Projects such as this are funded through federal and state transportation dollars.</p> <h1>How much safer will this project make the route? Will fewer accidents occur?</h1> <p>The accident rate for a freeway is lower than that for a non-freeway facility, such as the existing US 31 corridor. By diverting traffic onto the new US 31 freeway, there will be a decline in the number of crashes in the corridor.</p> <h1>What will the speed limit be?</h1> <p>The facility is being designed per federal and INDOT standards. Specific speed limits will be determined closer to construction.</p> <h1>Where will interchanges be? Which county roads will have over/underpasses?</h1> <p>INDOT worked with Marshall and St. Joseph county officials to determine the best locations for overpasses and interchanges. Currently, interchanges will be located at Pierce Road/S.R. 4, Kern Road, U.S. 6 and 7th Road (when 7th Road is extended east to Linden). Over/underpasses will be located at the existing US 31 intersection, Roosevelt Road, Kenilworth Road, Linden Road, Lake Trail, Miller Road, Johnson Road, New Road, Plymouth-Goshen Trail, Lilac Road/West 6th, West 4A, West 3A, East 1st and Tyler Road.</p> <h1>Are a lot of the existing roads going to become dead-ends when the freeway is built?</h1> <p>Bridges will be constructed to allow the free flow of traffic over or under the new US 31 alignment for many existing roadways. For all other roadways, they will be reconstructed as cul-de-sacs or relocated.</p> <h1>How will this affect wetlands?<br /></h1> <p>The selected alternative has the lowest environmental impacts to wetlands and forests. Wetland mitigation is estimated to be approximately 110 acres. Wetland mitigation ratios range from 2:1 to 4:1 depending on the type of wetland impacted, and will be determined at the final design and permitting stage.<br />&nbsp; <br /></p> <h1>How will hazardous material sites be affected by the new route?</h1> <p>INDOT conducts reviews of properties affected by highway projects to determine whether hazardous or regulated materials are present that could affect the project. Standard procedures are put in place to protect public health and worker safety. Any contaminated materials that must be removed from the site will be managed in consultation with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) and disposed of appropriately at a licensed facility.</p> <h1>How much will noise levels along the new route increase? What will be done to mitigate that?</h1> <p>Noise levels in the general area are predicted to range from the low 60 decibel range to as much as 72 decibels. Preliminary analysis recommends noise barriers along the northern portion of the corridor, which is expected to decrease the impact by 5 to 12 decibels. A detailed assessment about noise barrier walls will be conducted during the final design phase of the project.</p> <h1>What is the predicted economic impact on small towns such as Lakeville and La Paz?</h1> <p>A business needs survey was sent to local businesses that were potentially affected by the project. According to those surveys, 65 percent would relocate their businesses as close as possible to their exiting site, 15 percent would relocate away from the immediate area, 12 percent would terminate their business and 8 percent were unsure of their course of action. In addition to the 80 percent who would remain open, investing in infrastructure regularly increases the amount of businesses investing in an area.</p> <h1>Will emergency responders be able to appropriately and timely respond to all sections of the route?</h1> <p>Throughout the study, design and construction, INDOT will work closely with local emergency responders to ensure a local access plan is in place to accommodate emergency vehicles.</p> <h1>Will children be on the school bus longer?</h1> <p>INDOT will work closely with local transportation planners to identify roads affected or potentially blocked by the new corridor. There is a chance that some bus routes will take longer, but INDOT will work with local officials to keep these impacts to a minimum.</p> <h1>What attention will be given to historical landmarks?</h1> <p>Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana and the South Bend and St. Joseph County Historic Preservation Commission both submitted lists of properties of concern to those organizations. All properties on both lists were fully evaluated for potential listing in the National Register of Historic Places and the selected alternative minimized impacts to those parcels. INDOT will continue to work with preservation groups as design is finalized and construction begins.</p> <h1>What accommodations will be made for bicyclists, pedestrians or mass transit alternatives?</h1> <p>Bicyclists and pedestrians are prohibited from traveling on limited access roadways; however, shoulders on both sides of roads intersecting the freeway will be wide enough to accommodate bicycle and pedestrian access.</p> <h1>How will you compensate farmers whose land is divided? Will they have access? Is there monetary compensation for farm land bought and the future value of crops?</h1> <p>The design will determine whether access could be provided to a landlocked parcel or whether the landlocked parcel should be purchased by the state. The appraisal will consider whether there is a loss in value to the two tracts that were separated. According to state and federal guidelines, property owners are only reimbursed for property purchased and damages to the resident, not potential income that could be derived from that parcel.</p> <h1>How is &quot;fair market value&quot; calculated? Are homeowners going to be compensated for only their property, or also the cost of moving and taking time off work?</h1> <p>All property acquired by INDOT follows the guidelines of the Uniform Act and appraisal industry requirements (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice). Government programs designed to benefit the public as a whole often result in acquisition of private property, which prompted the passage of the Uniform Act in 1971.</p> <p>“Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970” contains important protections and assistance for people affected by federally funded projects. This law ensures that people whose real property is acquired, or who move as a result of projects receiving federal funds, will be treated fairly and equitably and will receive assistance in moving from the property they occupy.</p> <p>Homeowners are compensated for the cost of moving, but not for time taken off work to relocate.</p> <h1>How will we be compensated if you don't purchase our land, but our property values decrease?</h1> <p>INDOT complies with the Uniform Act when purchasing right of way for its projects. There is no compensation unless the property is located within the right of way or reasonable access to the property cannot be maintained. Damages are paid only for a property if the proposed right of way takes a portion of the property, causing that parcel to lose value. Those property owners who did not have all or a portion of their parcels purchased will not receive compensation.</p> <h1>When will the state notify homeowners if it's taking their property?</h1> <p>Final decisions on land acquisition will be made during the final design period. Surveyors are currently assessing land now; and then appraisers will analyze property. Offers might be extended as early as 2008, though the land acquisition process will precede each phase of construction by approximately 1 year. Right of way requirements may be further revised during the design phase when more detailed engineering decisions are made.</p> <h1>What happens to the existing US 31?</h1> <p>Ownership will be transferred to the local agency.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h1 align="center">Submitted February 4, 2008</h1> <h1>I represent a group/organization and have questions regarding the project. Can the US 31 project team speak to my group? </h1> <p>Yes. The US 31 project team is happy to meet with or speak to any group/organization at any time. Please feel free to contact Erin Pipkin or Rickie Clark for more information.<br /><br /></p> <h1>What is driving the construction timeline?</h1> <p>There are four components driving the construction timeline: <br />1)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Engineering for peat deposits - The engineer’s report and the original environmental document (FEIS) for this project stated that the most prudent place to start construction was in the areas of peat to allow the soil sufficient time for settlement prior to placing pavement on that ground.<br />2)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Environmental permitting - The environmental permits from state and federal agencies require a feasible plan for mitigation of wetland impacts prior to major construction. The permitting process can take approximately one year from the time it begins. To begin the permit process for the entire corridor, it was necessary to coordinate with the resource agencies on a suitable site for the wetland mitigation. That site has been purchased and the permit process will begin by Feb. 2008. In the interim, we have found a few likely sites for construction where the environmental impacts are relatively minimal.<br />3)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Right of way acquisition - The right of way acquisition process is the single most significant factor driving the construction phasing of the project. This process has the longest timeline in the project. If relocation is required, an even longer timeline may be expected due to required settlement in the legal system. (For details about the right of way acquisition please click here.) <br />4)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Funding - The Major Moves program is allowing unprecedented funding for many of Indiana’s most needed projects. To realize all of these projects while maximizing the Federal and Toll Road Lease proceeds, the projects are funded in specific years with specific dollar amounts. The US 31 project is funded in the 2009-2013 fiscal years.<br /><br /></p> <h1>What happens if someone won’t sell his/her property? Can they stop the project?</h1> <p>While we hope this situation will not arise, statutes allow for legal remedies to keep this project moving forward. So, while they may slightly slow the process, they cannot stop the project itself.<br /><br /></p> <h1>How is this project going to affect me during construction and after completion?</h1> <p>Traffic patterns will be changed temporarily during construction and, in some cases, after construction is completed. Each contract will have unique impacts during construction. For information regarding permanent road closures and over/underpasses along the corridor, click here.<br /><br /></p> <h1>How will people between Kern and Roosevelt get into the city?</h1> <p>That depends on the destination and/or preferred route; going to the new Kern Road interchange and heading north is one option that should provide the quickest access to Ireland Road, but it is possible that motorists will choose to use the existing Kern Road connection between US 31 and Miami Road. <br /><br /></p> <h1>What will be done to improve local streets affected by this?</h1> <p>INDOT’s scope of construction was outlined in the US 31 ROD; there will be a few new connections across US 20/US 31 to facilitate local connectivity and emergency services access to the neighborhoods located directly south of US 20. Those connections are at Scott, Fellows and Jackson. In other areas, as can be seen in the ROD, there will be minor re-alignment of existing local streets such as Main street north of Kern Road or at the west end of the new Johnson Road overpass at the existing grade.<br /></p> <p>The project team is keeping local officials informed of all construction plans to better facilitate their local improvement plans’ preparation for this project.<br /><br /></p> <h1>What is the timeline for the Jackson, Johnson, Scott and Fellows bridges?</h1> <p>The timeline has not been set, but the construction of these bridges will most likely precede the construction of mainline US 31, in order have them open prior to construction of mainline US 31 between Kern Road and US 20. This will facilitate maximum access for residents in the area while the mainline road is reconstructed.<br /><br /></p> <h1>Are there alternate traffic route plans during construction; if so, what are they?</h1> <p>Alternate traffic route plans are developed during the design process. Once we enter that phase of the project, those will be communicated to motorists and residents in the area, as well as emergency responders.<br /><br /></p> <h1>If the alternate route bridges mentioned above are going to be in place prior to construction start of phase four, then what is the timeline for communicating with the people affected by those changes?</h1> <p>Communication will be an ongoing process throughout the project development. Specific information for that area will not be known until 2011-2012.<br /><br /></p> <h1>What will be the emergency routes for police, fire and health equipment?</h1> <p>The project team meeting regularly with emergency responders to plan for access during construction. Specific emergency routes will not be determined until closer to construction.<br /><br /></p> <h1>Who will coordinate access during construction – the state, county, township or city? Are all the players on the same page?</h1> <p>INDOT will coordinate all of the projects identified in the ROD. While outside of INDOT’s scope of work on this project, if there are projects that will be undertaken by local municipalities in the area, the project team will work with the responsible agency to ensure efficient and accurate preparation, as requested.<br /><br /></p>Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:35:04 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=60 Get Involved http://www.us31plysb.com/get-involved.html <p>The project team will be in the area May 19 and 20. Come view updated maps and bring your questions.<br /><br /><p>Monday, May 19, 4 to 7 p.m.</p><p>Jackson Intermediate Center</p><p>5001 S. Miami</p><p>South Bend, IN 46614</p><p> </p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Tuesday, May 20, 4 to 7 p.m.</p><p>Newton Center</p><p>601 N. Michigan St.</p><p>Lakeville, IN 46536</p></p><br /><br /><p>&nbsp;</p>Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:34:15 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=59 For Property Owners http://www.us31plysb.com/property-owners.html <p>Final design is underway for the upgrade and realignment of US 31 from US 30 in Plymouth to the US 20 bypass in South Bend. Approximately 15 miles of the 20-mile corridor will be built on new terrain. Final design will reveal the bridges and overpasses, interchanges and right of way lines.</p> <h1>Land acquisition</h1> <p>Surveyors are currently out assessing land now; and appraisers will analyze property after them. Some offers have already been extended, though the land acquisition process will precede each phase of construction by approximately&nbsp;one year.</p> <p>Click for more information on <a href="http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/realestate/realprop/index.html">land acquisition</a> and <a href="http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/realestate/rights/index.html">relocation</a>.</p> <h1>Public meetings</h1> <p>If you would like to host an information meeting at your place of business, please let us know. We will try to accommodate several requests each year. You can do so by <a href="%5B~61~%5D">e-mailing the outreach coordinator</a>.</p> <h1>Newsletter&nbsp;</h1> <p>Do you want to stay informed? We will be sending out an e-newsletter with updates. <a href="enews.html">Join the list</a> and have the latest news on construction timelines, events and more sent directly to your inbox.</p><br />Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:31:20 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=57 Maps http://www.us31plysb.com/maps.html <h3>Click on a rectangle to view an enlargement of that sector.</h3> <p>As we design the lines will be refined.</p>
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Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:28:52 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=56 Schedule http://www.us31plysb.com/schedule.html<p> Preliminary</p><p><img alt="phase map" src="assets/maps/phase_map.jpg" /></p>Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:18:34 -0500 http://www.us31plysb.com/index.php?id=55