Action
Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
Summary
Through this NOI, FRA announces its intent to prepare an EIS for the Western Rail Yard Infrastructure Project (Project) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). WRY Tenant LLC (an affiliate of The Related Companies, LP) and the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) are partnering in a joint venture to seek Federal financial assistance through the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF) Program, which is administered by the Build America Bureau (Bureau). FRA is conducting the environmental analysis to ensure compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 and other applicable environmental laws. FRA invites the public and all interested parties to provide comments on the scope of the EIS, including the proposed purpose and need, the Proposed Action and alternatives, methodologies to be used to assess potential environmental impacts, and the approach for public and agency involvement. Due to the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency, and consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidance regarding large events and mass gatherings, FRA will conduct a virtual public scoping for the Project. FRA will also hold other Project meetings virtually, including Section 106 Consulting Party meetings, and encourages submission of scoping comments for the project and other documents electronically.