Project Status
Based on public input and early technical information, project committees narrowed the range of alternatives for the Sunrise Project in 2006. Two "build" alternatives and one "no build" (or "do nothing") alternative were selected for thorough study in a Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). That work has been completed and the findings are being documented in a Supplement Draft Environmental Impact Statement document. There have been a few months of delay and the document will be released in Summer 2008 for public review.
Last year, environmental teams were in the field collecting information about soils, wetlands, trees, aesthetics, the location of businesses and homes, and more. The data is used to determine the potential positive and negative impacts of each alternative. These impacts will be documented in the Supplemental Draft EIS, allowing the partner agencies, the project committees, and the public to evaluate and compare the different alternatives. After public review in 2008, project committees will recommend a preferred alternative. The final or preferred alternative will best meet the purpose and need of the project while minimizing environmental, social, and economic impacts.
What are the alternatives?
While several alignments were considered, there is one remaining general alignment for the two build alternatives. This alignment parallels the existing Highway 212/224 on the north. There are three alternatives being studied.
- Build Alternative with Midpoint Interchange
- Build Alternative with NO Midpoint Interchange
- No Build
What’s Next?
During the Supplemental Draft EIS, we will study and evaluate the alternatives for the entire length of the project from I-205 to the Rock Creek Junction, but we will also look at different design options within particular "zones." The design options provide different ways to build the project, such as variation in the type of interchange or adjusting the road alignment. Each of the alternatives and design options will have its own advantages and challenges. The Supplemental Draft EIS will help document the differences. There will be a 45-day public comment period, including a public open house/public hearing, on the document after it has been released.
To find out more about public open houses or committees meetings, go to Public Meetings/Get Involved.
View the Project Purpose and Need and Goals and Objectives that was adopted by the PAC and PRC in 2004.