HomeMy WebLinkAboutNYS DOT's Environmental Initiative Jul-99
Why did NYSDOT institute an Environmental
Initiative?
Trle New York Slale Deportment of TranspOrlation
is Hie state's larqest pu blic works aljency As sucll.
llle Deparlmenl excels in building infrastruclure to
safely and efficiently move people alld pl"OeJucts
acmss the state.
--
Today tlOwever. it is evidentlhat the Department's
capabilities as a builcler should expand beyoneJ
traditional transportation to more broadly serve tile
ljoals of the resource agencies. communities. and
Hie ljeneral public.
Par1nerships wittl agencies and commulllties enable
oUlers to utilize NYSDOT capabilities
How does NYSDOT implement the
Environmental Initiative?
By communicating
and cooperating wittJ
environmental
resource agendes
\ and liJe public.
l!
By planning.
designing [>,
building environ-
m<alIY sound
tTans{JOltation
fadlmes.
F'"
~
--
~-Ti"":U'
- .. 1'1
,,;~~-
By induding
innovative
environmental
components in
our tTansporta-
non prqjeds.
NYSDOT is a Recognized Leader
III 1999. Hie Amencan AssoCIation of Slale
Itigtlway and Transportation Officials (AASllTO)
Judljed NYSDOT to be "llest in the Nation" for its
lnvironmental Initiative.
AASlllO awarded NYSDOT with ItS:
.
lnvllolllnental 8esl IJractices Award
AND
Ai\SllTO President's Award
.
r!ft:;,u 'liFo''''Jr QI.",.r.r;" ip'O;-J"r.o
J,\..\I.~\'\IJ 11 JJ~' l\~ l.)illjll~..a JrJ ~ . " ~'l1
I8mrreOIDfJ!ierJJt?l lFittf2tl\fE
NYSDOT has much that it can and
should do to protect. enhance and
restore the environment.
The Environmental Initiative is an ethic
that requires a public agency to do more
than simply minimize and mitigate
environmental damage.
It is DOT's effort to do its part
for a better environment.
hlto:/Iwww.dot.slale.nv.us/eab/envinit.hlml
JOSEPH H. BOARDMAN
Commissioner
GEORGE E. PATAKI
Governor
Through the cooperative development of environmental enhancements as an inexpensive. routine part of our normal work. we at
NYSDOT are acting in the spirit of environmental law. the wishes of our customers. and the values we hold as public servants.
PrqJect enhancements: prQiects can include added
I'eatures without adding significant costs.
Scenic averlooks.
recreational CJrliSings.
and wetland
improvements are
incorporated into
NYSIXJT prriJeds.
Cast -etroctNe
enhancements. such
asstreetsalpe
, amenities. become
pert of PfT!led
design.
4'\
Economies of scale: environmental elements or
I'acilities I'unded by ottlers (suCt1 as a community.
agency or envimnmental gmup) may be
incorporated inlo NYSDOT projects to deliver
enviromnental amenities at lower' costs.
At the request of
environmental agencies.
NYSIXJT protects a bird
sanctuary and the Lake
Ontario State Parkway
from shoreline erosion.
Community support and Involvement: by
consiclering cormnumty needs and encouraging
pulJlic involvement. ttle Department strives to
satisl'y all its custorner's.
Local garden dubs
plant bulbs and
wildl10wers along
NYSDOT tights-of-
way to add color and
beauty.
ScIloo/cJJildren
study New YO/1<
S1atehistrJry
dunng a NYSOOT
archeological dIg.
Quality of life Improvements: lnvtronmenlal
Initiative projects may enhance tile visual.
aestlletic. and natural cll&acter 01' an area and
pmvlde I'acllities for pedestr'ians and bicyclists.
AJtemative modes
of trallSportation
are encouraged by
providing multi-use
trails.
Habitat Improvements: transportation projects
provide opportunrties to impmve wetlands and fistl
and wllcJlil'e tlabital.
NYSOOT provides nesting
platforms fOr peregnne
falcons on a bfidge
OYelpas5.
Innovative solutions: NYSDOT explores
Innovative solutions to ensure a cleaner' and sal'er'
environment.
...
...
1l1is autrImatic
tiridge deidng spray
system may reduce
hazardous substance
use.
.-"'''=i
To: .------------~- New York State
! -
Department of EI
Transportation
ENGINEERING
, 99-026
i - INSTRUCTION
Title: Environmental Initiative Guidelines and Procedures
Distribution: Approved:
o Manufacturers (18) o Surveyors (33)
IIlI Main Office (30) IIlI Consultants (34) /s/ Paul T. Wells 07/21/99
o Local Gov!. (31) o Contractors (39) Paul T. Wells, Assistant Date
IIlI Regions/Agencies (32) 0 ( ) Commissioner
Office of Enoineerino
This Engineering Instruction (EI) does not supersede any previous issuances.
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This EI is effective immediately.
PURPOSE:
This Engineering Instruction (EI) provides guidelines and procedures for implementing the
Environmental Initiative. These materials will be incorporated into updates of various
Department manuals, such as the Design Procedures Manual, the Environmental Procedure
Manual, the Highway Design Manual, and the Department's Policy and Procedures Manual.
TRANSMITTED MATERIAL:
Three appendices are transmitted with this EI:
1. Examples of Environmental Initiative Practices, Features, Programs and Activities;
2. State Laws Authorizing Funding for Environmental Protection and Enhancement; and
3. FHWA Policies and Funding Programs Supporting Environmental Protection,
Mitigation, and Enhancements.
BACKGROUND:
As New York State's largest public works agency, the Department of Transportation (DOT)
has an obligation and responsibility to the people of New York to protect, improve and
enhance the environment. Strict regulatory compliance is only part of DOT's responsibility.
This Department can and should use its organizational strengths and its employees'
personal sense of environmental stewardship to contribute affirmatively to the State's
environment and to proactively partner with communities to improve the environment and
context sensitive design issues. Context sensitive design is the proactive approach to
design that looks at the project within the context of its site, and gathering and including the
public's input throughout the design process.
To that end, the Environmental Initiative is a Department-wide effort to:
EI 99-026 Page 2 of 7
. promote an environmental ethic throughout the Department,
. advance State and federal environmental policies and objectives, and
. strengthen relationships with environmental agencies and the public.
The Environmental Initiative was approved by the Department's Program Policy Committee
on April 7, 1998 and was publicly announced by Governor Pataki on October 20, 1998. The
DOT Environmental Initiative Statement is contained on the Department's Web-page.
NEPA and SEaR, and many other State and federal environmental regulations, require that
environmental considerations be addressed in transportation decision making, plans and
programs. Most transportation capital and maintenance projects have the potential to affect
natural and human-made resources in both positive and negative ways. The Department
must ensure full and objective consideration of all reasonable alternatives that avoid
adverse impacts to the environment and communities. Where adverse impacts are
unavoidable, the Department must identify the impacts and incorporate measures to
mitigate impacts to the maximum extent practicable.
GUIDELINES:
It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to ensure our
customers - those who live, work and travel in New York State -- have a safe, efficient,
balanced and environmentallv sound transportation system.
Within the context of the Department's mission and this initiative, it shall be the practice of
the Department of Transportation to:
. Coordinate and communicate closely with State and federal resource agencies to
identify opportunities to advance State and federal environmental policies, programs
and objectives.
. Ensure that all necessary steps are taken in planning, design, and construction to
avoid and minimize adverse effects of transportation projects and operations on
important elements of the environment and adjacent communities.
. Proactively plan, design, construct and maintain transportation projects in an
environmentally sound manner using context sensitive design to meet transportation
needs while at the same time protecting, conserving, restoring or enhancing
important natural and man-made resources.
. Incorporate into DOT capital and maintenance projects specific design features or
facilities to mitigate unavoidable adverse impacts to the environment.
. Consider and implement, as appropriate, measures to enhance natural and man-
made resources above and beyond project-specific permit and mitigation
requirements.
EI 99-026 Page 3 of 7
. Incorporate, where practicable, environmental projects funded by local agencies or
groups into ongoing DOT projects as "Environmental Betterments."
. Promote an environmental and context sensitive design ethic within all Department
organizations.
ROLES ANDS RESPONSIBILITIES:
Regional Directors and Main Office Division Directors are responsible for implementing the
Department's Environmental Initiative in their respective program areas.
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE EXAMPLES:
The Department already does an excellent job of providing project-specific avoidance,
minimization, and mitigation in transportation projects. In many instances, the Department
also provides important environmental enhancements through close coordination with
municipalities and State and federal resource agencies. However, a primary goal of this
initiative is to encourage proactive consideration and implementation of context sensitive
design and construction and maintenance practices beyond permit and mitigation
requirements. See "Appendix A" for examples of features, practices and programs that
should be incorporated into DOT capital and maintenance projects to improve DOTs
current environmental performance.
FUNDING:
A. State and federal highway funds shall continue to be used for project-specific
avoidance, minimization, mitigation and enhancement efforts. They may also be
used to advance this Environmental Initiative consistent with State and federal
funding programs.
. See "Appendix B" for State laws that support funding for environmental measures.
. See "Appendix e" for FHWA policies and funding programs that support
environmental protection, mitigation and enhancements actions.
B. Other State agencies, municipalities and non-governmental organizations should be
invited to provide funding for "Environmental Betterments" for inclusion in
Department transportation projects.
E199-026 Page 4 of 7
PROCEDURES:
A. ACTIONS TO IMPLEMENT THE ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE
All Region and Main Office program areas shall identify and implement specific actions in
their areas of responsibility to incorporate the Environmental Initiative into their operating
and business practices pursuant to the Deputy Commissioner and Chief Engineer's
memorandum on the Environmental Initiative, dated September 29, 1998. The
Environmental Analysis Bureau (EAB) has issued recommendations for model plans. EAB
is reviewing plans prepared by Region and Main Office units.
B. COORDINATION AND COMMUNICATION WITH OTHER AGENCIES
1. DOT Regional Directors shall meet quarterly with their counterpart DEC Regional
Directors to:
a) discuss progress under the Environmental Initiative,
b) review DOT's five-year capital construction and annual maintenance
program,
c) identify opportunities to improve resource protection and enhancement
practices, and
d) exchange lists of contact people.
2. DOT Regional Landscape/Environmental Managers shall meet monthly, or as
mutually agreed upon, with their DEC counterparts to:
a) discuss progress under the Environmental Initiative,
b) identify specific opportunities to include resource protection and
enhancement practices in DOT projects, and
c) update lists of contact people.
3. DOT Regions shall meet as needed with DEC to progress individual projects through
existing project development and permit review processes.
4. DOT Regions are encouraged to establish similar meetings with other State and
federal resource agencies, as appropriate, with coordination assistance by EAB.
)' C. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT ~
J;
\ DOT's Regional Planning and Program Management and Regional Design Groups shall
take leadership roles in expanding use of existing project planning and development
processes to communicate with, solicit and encourage input from municipalities,
environmental interest groups, citizens groups, corporations and the general public to
assure early and full consideration of environmental and community concerns and
innovative context sensitive solutions in transportation projects.
EI 99-026 Page 5 of 7
D. JOINT DEVELOPMENT
DOT Regional Design Groups should look for opportunities for joint development with
municipalities, other agencies, and private developers whereby design, construction, land
acquisition and maintenance responsibilities can be mutually and equitably shared. In
some instances, for example, a combined stormwater management facility (e.g., an
extended detention basin) might be sized and constructed to serve the stormwater needs of
both DOT (for highway drainage) and of an adjoining land owner, such as another State
agency, a municipality, or a corporate owner. DOT, for example, might cover the design
and construction costs if the public or private owner provides the land for the facility and
agrees to maintain it.
E. ENVIRONMENTAL BETTERMENTS
Specific environmental elements or facilities requested and funded by others (e.g.,
municipalities, other agencies, environmental groups) may, wherever practicable, be
incorporated in DOT capital and maintenance projects as "Environmental Betterments."
These elements or facilities may include, but not be limited to, landscaping, park amenities,
historic building preservation, noise barriers, created wetlands, stream restorations,
stormwater basins, habitat improvements, and new municipal sanitary sewer lines, storm
sewer lines and water mains that provide an environmental benefit.
These Environmental Betterments should benefit from the "economies of scale" possible on
large public works projects and could cost the sponsors less than individual projects
designed, constructed and let by themselves.
As part of the Department's proactive public outreach effort, DOT Regional Design should
invite local municipalities, environmental groups and agencies to combine their funded and
designed environmental elements or facilities with ongoing DOT projects. The Department
will provide added design services to assure that the "Environmental Betterment" work is
appropriately integrated into the transportation project plans and specifications. The
Department may provide contract letting and construction inspection of the Environmental
Betterment work at no charge to the municipality, other agency or environmental group.
F. CONTEXT SENSITIVE DESIGN
An essential element in the implementation of the Environmental Initiative is context
sensitive design. Context sensitive design strives to provide a product that is in harmony
with the community because it considers the environmental, scenic, historic and natural
resources of the area. Projects that recognize community goals, are designed, built and
maintained with a minimal disruption to the community, add value and are sustainable are
/1._context sensitive projects. The Design Division will be developing written guidance on /t-
L context sensitive design. ------1
EI 99-026 Page 6 of 7
G. PROGRAM UPDATE
The Environmental Initiative has been identified as a component of the Department's
Capital Program Update process. As of August 1998, Regional Planning and Program
Managers are required to include Environmental Initiative projects on their updated
program. Regions are requested to identify those projects that have environmental or
context sensitive design work which goes above and beyond regular mitigation or permit
requirements. Any external coordination that has occurred with outside agencies or
interested groups should also be identified. Regional Design shall provide appropriate
information for the annual updates.
H. PROJECT AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (P/PMIS)
Environmental Initiative projects will be identified and tracked using the Department's
Project and Program Management Information System (P/PMIS). Environmental Initiative
work will be identified as a project attribute in P/PMIS. Various work types will allow
environmental initiative projects to be grouped by a specific activity, (e.g., water quality
improvement, wetland mitigation).
Until P/PMIS access permissions are defined in the Regions, Regional Design shall provide
the appropriate information for data entry to the appropriate group. EAB shall regularly
generate management reports from P/PMIS, allowing the Department to track
Environmental Initiative projects and subsequent activities.
I. MASTER PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
The Environmental Initiative also plays a role in implementing the Department's 1998 State
Transportation Master Plan, "The Next Generation: Transportation Choices for the 21"
Century." For example, several needs were identified by Regional DOT offices that relate to
environmental processing, including better coordination with outside agencies, a proactive
approach to public outreach, and presenting a more positive image of the Department. The
initiative directly addresses these needs and will indirectly improve the Department's image,
while improving the quality of life for New York State residents.
J. INCLUSION INTO DEPARTMENT GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS
All Divisions and Bureaus shall incorporate into their respective manuals appropriate
guidance to support the Environmental Initiative.
For example, the Design Procedure Manual, Appendix B, already includes guidance on
documenting Environmental Initiative actions in the design approval documents. The
Environmental Analysis Bureau will incorporate portions of this EI into the Environmental
Procedures Manual and the Design Quality Assurance Bureau will incorporate appropriate
information in the Highway Design Manual and the Design Procedure Manual.
K. KEY RESULT AREAS
The Environmental Initiative will help the Department advance the following four Key Result
Areas. Office of Engineering Division staff shall support KRA reporting as appropriate.
EI 99-026 Page 7 of 7
. Public Involvement: The Department will use the Environmental Initiative to
encourage earlier involvement of municipal officials, environmental groups and the
general public in DOT project planning and development processes. This will help to
identify local community and environmental concerns, obtain timely input on project
alternatives, and identify opportunities for inclusion of local "Environmental
Betterments,"
. Economic Development: Improvements to public access and the aesthetic character
of transportation corridors will support eco-tourism, a growing and sustainable part of
New York State's economy.
. Public Sector Partnerships: Partnering under the initiative will enhance our positive
working relationship with municipalities, other State and federal resource agencies
and with environmental organizations.
. Continuous Improvement: The Department will use the initiative to improve the
quality of DOT delivered projects, programs and services through thoughtfully
managed and environmentally sound planning, design, construction and
maintenance actions.
CONTACT PERSON
Questions regarding this Engineering Instruction should be directed to Gary McVoy
or Mark Sengenberger at (518) 457-5672.
APPENDIX A
EXAMPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE
PRACTICES, FEATURES, PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
A. The following are examples of practices or features that should be incorporated
into DOT capital and maintenance projects, as appropriate:
. the practice of context sensitive design,
. street ambience enhancements (e.g., benches, decorative paving, bollards, period
lighting fixtures),
. restoration of historic highway related features (e.g., historic lighting fixtures, stone
walls, guiderails),
. measures to retain the integrity of historic parkways and bridges,
. increased wild flower plantings,
. additional landscaping to enhance the appearance of noise barriers,
. increased landscape plantings to improve roadside appearance and streetscapes,
. new or rehabilitated fishing access and trail head parking areas,
. new or rehabilitated boat and canoe launch sites,
. new or rehabilitated historic markers and interpretive signing,
. increased signing of important waterways and watersheds,
. new or rehabilitated scenic overlooks,
. retrofits of existing highway drainage systems with created wetlands and stormwater
management facilities,
. soil bio-engineered stream banks,
. plantings, boulders, deflectors and other techniques to improve fisheries habitat,
. culverts for wildlife crossings,
. new or rehabilitated wildlife viewing sites,
. wildlife habitat improvements,
. mitigation and enhancement for past wetland impacts,
. restored and enhanced wetlands,
. acquisition of endangered species habitat,
. acquisition for preservation of regionally important wetlands and upland habitat,
. acquisition of scenic easements,
. improvements to highway entrances of public parks, wildlife management areas, and
historic sites and
. replacement of fixed-time traffic signals with vehicle activated signals
B. The following are examples of some of the practices and programs that should be
considered to improve DOT's current environmental performance:
. continue to identify improved ways to use deicing materials and abrasives,
. improve efforts to sweep/collecVrecycle the roadside abrasives in the spring,
. continue efforts to reduce herbicide use,
. clean up wastes previously generated at DOT projects and facilities,
Page 1 of 2
EI 99-026
. encourage and implement Transportation Demand Management, Transportation
System Management' and Intelligent Traffic System practices,
. encourage alternatives to single occupancy vehicle commuting,
. expand Ozone Alert Day initiatives,
. promote alternative fueled vehicles,
. increase support for mass transit,
. pilot and promote the use of recycled tires in highway embankments; glass, plastics
and aggregate in pavements; and plastic, rubber and aggregate in noise walls,
. preserve historic structures and
. promote State bike routes and greenways
C. The following are some examples of technology transfer and data sharing activities
with other local, State and federal resource and highway agencies to advance
environmental stewardship in the transportation industry:
. provide and/or participate in joint training,
. share standard details, specifications, and best management practices,
. share guidance manuals and handbooks,
. conduct joint research and share results,
. exchange GIS data sets,
. identify agency points of contact and subject matter experts,
. exchange staff phone numbers and e-mail addresses and
. participate and present at relevant State and national conferences
Page 2 of 2
EI 99-026
APPENDIX B
STATE LAWS AUTHORIZING FUNDING FOR
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT
. State Highway Law Article 2 Section 21 - "The commissioner of transportation is
hereby authorized and empowered to acquire property for the restoration,
preservation and enhancement of natural or scenic beauty of areas traversed by
state highways, in order for the state to comply with any federal aid highway acts."
. State Highway Law Article 2 Section 22 - "The commissioner of transportation is
hereby authorized and empowered to acquire property in order to provide multi-use
areas adjacent to state highways and recreational, natural and scenic areas along,
but not necessarily contiguous to, state highways, except that the commissioner may
acquire property anywhere in the state for the purpose of constructing bikeways.
Such multi-use areas may be utilized for, but not limited to walking, hiking, bicycle,
trailbike, recreational vehicle and snowmobile trails and the installation of public
utilities. Such acquisitions shall constitute a state highway purpose. Property
acquired for multi-use areas shall be such as to complement the highway facilities by
providing the multi-use areas adjacent to the highway facilities. Property acquired for
recreational, natural and scenic areas along, but not necessarily contiguous to, state
highways shall consist of predominantly unimproved, natural or scenic areas suitable
to serve the recreational needs of the expanding population of the state, and shall
lend itself to restoration, preservation or enhancement as a recreational, natural or
scenic area or provides visual access from the highway to such area. The
commissioner is hereby authorized to undertake work of construction, improvement,
restoration, preservation or enhancement of such areas and the expense of such
work may be a proper charge against funds available for the construction,
restoration, improvement or maintenance of state highways....Such acquisitions and
work in recreational, natural or scenic areas may be undertaken in cooperation with
other state departments or agencies and provision shall be made for the funding of
such acquisitions and work."
. State Highway Law Article 3 Section 30.2 - "The commissioner of transportation, for
and in behalf of the people of the state of New York may acquire, pursuant to the
eminent domain procedure law any and all property necessary for the construction,
reconstruction and improvement of state highways and bridges or culverts on the
state highway system, including the appropriation of property for drains, ditches, spoil
banks, gravel pits and stone quarries."
APPENDIX C
Page 1 of 1
EI 99-026
FHWA POLICIES AND FUNDING PROGRAMS SUPPORTING
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, MITIGATION, AND ENHANCEMENTS
Eligibility of Federal-aid for Environmental Initiatives
It is the Federal Highway Administration's policy to-
1. Avoid, minimize, and mitigate to the fullest extent possible the adverse effects of
transportation programs and projects on the neighborhood, community, and natural
resources.
B. Seek opportunities to go beyond the traditional project mitigation efforts and
implement innovative enhancement measures to help the project fit harmoniously
within the community and natural environs.
C. Participate, to the fullest extent permitted by law, in funding mitigation and
enhancement activities required by Federal, State, and local statutes and regulations
for project related impacts to the natural environment, neighborhoods, and
communities.
Note that all activities that are approved
mitigation as a result of the project
development process under the National
Environmental Policy Act are eligible for
the class of federal-aid of the project.
Mitigation outside of the project limits is
encouraged when it is more cost effective
than mitigation on-site and serves the
same purpose.
Interstate Maintenance 1M 23 usc 119
National Highway System NHS 23 USC
103(1)
Surface Transportation Program STP 23 USC 133
Highway Bridge Replacement HBRR 23 USC 144
and Rehabilitation
Congestion Mitigation/Air Quality CMAQ 23 USC 149
Below is a table of environmental activities that go beyond required mitigation, and the
applicablCJ federal funding categories which can be used to fund these activities.
Note: the explanation of each work type follows the table.
Environmental Initiative Incidental to Stand CD
c.
construction Alone ~
of an federal- ~
otherwise aid 0
eligible project 3:
federal-aid
project
Eligible Categories Comments
Mitigation of Water Pollution Due to Highway Runoff All STP only NHS if maintaining 1
natural habitat or
wetland
Create Stormwater Management Structures All STP only 1
Page 1 of 7
El 99-026
Bio-engineered Streambanks All All Where needed to 1
protect the stability of
the highway
Specialized Waler Quality Inlet Structures such as All STPor As part of habitat 1
low flow fish channels NHS improvement
Create, Conserve, and Restore Wetlands or other All STPor 2
natural habitat NHS
Working with others to preserve important existing NA NA 2
wetland sites
Protect Fish and Wildlife Habitat All STPor 3
NHS
Boulders and Stone Weirs to improve fisheries habitat All STPor 3
NHS
Culverts for Wildlife Crossings STPor 3
NHS
Plantings for Wildlife Habitat All STPor 3
NHS
Bird nesting boxes or bat houses All No Could be eligible as 3
an incidental to a
stand alone project to
enhance wildlife
habitat or wetland
Environmentai Mitigation to reduce vehicle caused All STPor Only in the context of 3
wildlife mortality while maintaining habitat connectivity NHS safety for a stand
In5tal13t:on of fencing in critical wildlife crossing locations alone project, can use
Construction of wildlife underpasses, wall openings, or STP if an endangered
culverts
Construction of wildlife shelves under structures crossing species
streams
Lower or enlarge culverts for fish passage
Historic Preservation of publically owned sites to be STP only STP only Remember, this is not 4
converted to public use required mitigation.
Rehabilitation and Restoration of Historic All STP only Could use NHS for a 4
Transportation Structures stand alone project for
historic highways or
bridges and HBRR for
historic bridges
Rehabilitation of Historic Railroad Facilities, Canals, STP STP Could be NHS for 4
and Ferry Terminals ferry terminals
Archeological Planning and Research NA STP only Remember, this is not 4
required mitigation.
Establishment of Transportation-Related Museums NA STP only 5
Page 2 of 7
EI 99-026
Promote eco-tourism STP only STP only Must be on a 5
designated scenic
byway. Could use
other funds for other
eligible activities listed
in this table
New or Rehabilitated fishing access NHSor STP only 5
STP, 1M
only to
rehab.
Trail head parking areas All STP 5
Historic Markers and other interpretive signing All STP only STP as a stand along 5
only on designated
scenic byways
Promoting State bike routes and greenways NA None STP only on a 5
designated byway
Community friendly signals and signs All STPor Must conform to the 5,6
NHS MUTCD
Provision of facilities for bicycles and pedestrians All STP, 1M cannot be used to 6
Includes adding or improving bike lanes, NHS, or add a facility
adding or improving road shoulders, widening CMAQ
curb lanes, providing bike lockers, bike racks,
or other bike parking facilities at inter-modal
points
Safety and Educational Activities for Bicycles and STP, CMAQ STP, 5,6
Pedestrian CMAQ
Scenic or Historic Highway Programs, and Provision
of Tourist and Welcome Center Facilities
Installation of interpretive plaques, signs, All STP Could be 1M or NHS 5
aesthetic guiderails for guiderails
Restoration of historic highway-related All STPor Not NHS for stand 6
features such as lighting, sidewalks, retaining NHS alone project to install
walls, or historic markers historic markers
Construction of tourist and welcome centers All STPor For NHS, has to be 5
rel3ted to scenic or historical sites NHS linked to a safety rest
area
Development of scenic overlooks All STP or For NHS, has to be 5
NHS linked to a safety rest
area
Rc~orestation of slopes along a scenic/historic All STP,IM, 6
highway corridors NHS
Development of corridor management plans NA STP only 5
on ~ designated scenic byway
Acquisition of Scenic Easements All STP only 6
Page 3 of 7
EI 99-026
Landscaping and other Scenic beautification All STPor 6
Linear highway landscaping, landscaping at interchanges, NHS
noise barriers, reintroduction of native or endangered
plants, wildflower planting, fe-establishment of trees in
historic districts
Streetscape features including lighting, sidewalk All STP Can use NHS for a 6
pavers, benches, planting containers, decorative walls stand alone project for
and walkways, signs, public art, historical markers, pedestrian facilities
etc. and any incidentals to
that project such as
streetscape features
Parking Facilities for safety or community All STPor Must improve highway 6
development (Cff street parking) NHS or pedestrian
safety/operations
Preservation of Abandoned Railway Corridors, STP only STP only 6
including conversion and use for Pedestrian and
Bicycle Trails
Control and Removal of Outdoor Advertising 1M, NHS, or STP or Has to be a controlled 6
STP NHS Route, see your real
estate officer
Increase Maintenance on existing facilities NA NA See element specific
work for eligible
maintenance activities
using federal aid (EB
96-034)
Additional acquisitions to improve pedestrian All STPor 6
circulation NHS
Increase turf and plantings in median areas All No 6
Screen maintenance yards All STPor 6
NHS
Improve the appearance of construction related All NA 6
storage areas
Increase the use of recycled materials All NA 7
Use tires in highway embankments All NA 7
Use glass plastics and aggregate in pavements All NA 7
Use plastic rubber and aggregate in noise walls All NHSor If noise walls are 7
STP eligible, this activity is
also
Use salt and sand for highway deicing more STP only STP only 8
judiciously by utilizing other deicing agents which are
less environmentally damaging
Clean up wastes previously generated at DOT All No 8
projects and facilities
Improve air qU2'ity All CMAQ Possibility of eligibility 9
under other funding
Page 4 of 7
EI 99-026
Implement Transportation Demand Management All STP, 9
practices NHS,or
CMAO
Expand Ozone alert day initiatives CMAO only CMAO 9
only
Promote alternative fueled vehicles CMAO only CMAO 9
only
Support mass transit such as park-n-ride lots, bus All STP, 9
turnouts, ote... NHS, or
CMAO
Signal Conversion from fixed time to traffic actuated All STP, 9
NHS,or
CMAO
Parking Facilities: Intermodal/Demand management All STP, 6,9
such as fringe (transit) or corridor (car pool transit) NHSor
CMAO
Combine local enhancement projects with ongoing STP only STP only Could qualify for other any
DOT projects funds according to
this table
For any other Environmental Initiative not listed in the table, or for more information, please
contact the Federal Highway Administration's New York Division Office at (518) 431-4125,
Work Types in the above table which should be used to identify Environmental Initiative
project work:
1) {Water Quality} Improvements
2) {Wetlands} Creation, Restoration or Enhancement
3) {Fish and Wildlife} Habitat Improvements
4) {Historic/Cultural Resources} Preservation and Enhancement
5) {Eco-Tourism} and Public Access Improvements
6) {Corridor Enhancements} LandscapinglStreetscape Enhancements
7) {Rcc:;ycling and Reducing} materials and emissions
8) {Rcn.ediating} Contamination
9) {Air Quality} Improvements
Page 5 of 7
EI 99-026
1) Water Quality - Any project or work activity that improves existing or future biological
or chemical quality of a water resource, including streams, rivers, wetlands, drinking water
sources, and highway/stormwater runoff. Water quality can be improved by preventing or
removing sediments and pollutants; retrofitting highway drainage systems; installing
stormwater treatment facilities; preventing or reducing erosion through bioengineering, best
management practices (BMP's) use, or training in BMP's and facilities design and
installation.
2) Wetlands - Creating, restoring or enhancing wetland beyond the minimum required in
State and federal wetland permits. The creation of new wetland acreage is one form of
mitigation for past wetland impacts in which an upland area is converted, typically by
excavation or damming, to a flooded or moist soil condition where wetland vegetation, soil,
and hydrology will persist. Restoration and enhancement may include adjusting water flow or
level onsite, additional planting or seeding with wetland vegetation, improving habitats and
vegetation covertype diversity within the wetland, removing invasive plant species, or
acquiring regionally important wetland areas for preservation purposes.
3) Fish and Wildlife - Habitat enhancements made to improve the life of wildlife,
including planting specialized food and cover crops along highway corridors, protecting and
managing specific habitats deemed valuable to target wildlife species (endangered species),
providing wildlife crossings under highways and providing nest boxes and various refuge for
wildlife. Fisheries habitat can be enhanced by bioengineering of stream banks and placement
of in-stream structures such as boulders and weirs for diversity of cover and nesting sites.
4) Historic/Cultural Resources - An activity that preserves or enhances the historic or
cultural heritage of New York State. DOT is in a unique position to incorporate protection of
these resourcos into projects by preserving historic structures, acquiring or stabilizing
archaeological sites, supporting archaeological excavations, developing interpretive
programs for archaeological and cultural sites, providing street ambience enhancements
(such as period lighting fixtures, bollards, benches, and pavers) and adding additional historic
markers and interpretive signs.
5) Ecotourism - A project enhancement that promotes the use, enjoyment and
appreciation of the natural and man-made resources of the State. Ecotourism can be
encouraged in highway work projects by simply improving the appearance of roadsides and
entrances to n2Jural and cultural features. This can be accomplished by providing new or
rehabilitated Lshing and boating access and parking, promoting state bike routes and
greenways, improving trailhead parking and facilities, and upgrading scenic overlooks and
acquisition of scenic easements. Placement of landmark and interpretive signs or
identification of important waterways, watersheds and habitats are also potential
accomplishments toward increasing ecotourism in New York State.
Page 6 of 7
El 99-026
6) Corridor Enhancements - Any additions to DOT projects that enhance the visual,
aesthetic, and natural character of the roadside or streetscape. These enhancements may
include increasing wildflower and roadside plantings, constructing noise barriers, adding
landscaping to enhance the appearance of noise barriers, providing streetscape amenities
(such as benches, lighting fixtures, decorative pavers), re-establishing street trees,
rehabilitating comfort stations and rest areas, incorporating traffic calming features, as well
as promoting State bike routes and greenways.
7) Recycling and Reducing Waste/Emission - Any project that includes innovative ways
to utilize recycled materials, reduce waste generated by DOT, or reduce hazardous
substance use. In dealing with solid waste, DOT projects may promote the use of recycled
tires in highway embankments, recycled glass, plastics and aggregate in pavement mixes
and recycled plastic, rubber and aggregate in noise walls. DOT may minimize herbicide
applications and sweep roadsides better and more often and develop innovative use of
salt/sand and other ice removal substances.
8) Remediating Contamination - Any project that includes innovative ways to clean up
contamination, either previously generated by DOT projects or at DOT facilities or present
along DOT Right-ot-Way. Whenever possible, promote activities to support brownfield
development.
9) Air Quality - Project elements incorporated to reduce emission levels, resulting in
cleaner air. These project enhancements are aimed primarily at reducing single-occupancy
vehicles (SOV's). Initiatives that will reduce these emissions include support for mass
transit, expanding Ozone Alert Day initiatives, promoting the use of alternative fuel vehicles,
encouraging alternatives to SOV's, implementing Transportation Demand Management
practices, providing facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists, and replacing fixed-time traffic
signals with vehicle-actuated signals, when appropriate.
Page 7 of 7
EI 99-026
INTi ',ADOT. Environmental Analysis Bureau
http://intradotleab/eistate.html
NYSDOT Environmental Initiative Statement
1. DEDICATED ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFIT PROJECTS
2. ENVIRONMENTAL BETTERMENTS PROGRAM
3. STRENGTHEN NYSDOT'S ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE
It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to
ensure our customers -- those who live, work and travel in New York State
-- have a safe, efficient, balanced and environmentally sound
transportation system.
As part of this mission and as New York State's largest public works agency, the Department
of Transportation (NYSDOT) has an obligation and a responsibility to the people of New York
to enhance, improve and protect the environment in accordance with state policies and
objectives.
Under the leadership of Governor George E. Pataki, the New York State Department of
Transportation, has reviewed its own environmental performance and has determined that it is
time to become more proactive than reactive.
As a result, DOT has begun the an environmental initiative that has as its purpose and goals to:
. Advance State environmental policies and objectives
. Promote an environmental ethic throughout the Department
. Strengthen relationships with environmental agencies and groups
As an action-oriented agency, DOT can most effectively attain these goals by doing dedicated
environmental work in support of its corporate environmental ethic. This, in turn, will advance
a shift in attitudes. This will provide real environmental protection, assure staff that the agency
has a strong cnvironmental ethic and provide opportunities to engage the environmental
community in positive joint undertakings that will demonstrate the Department's commitment.
The Initiative has three separate approaches:
1 - DEDICATED ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFIT PROJECTS
NYSDOT \\'ill fund and implement a number of environmental benefit projects that are
well-suited (0 thc Department's mission and capabilities. To program environmental
enhancements on property owned by the New York State Department of Transportation will be
a simp Ie, straight rorward and visible demonstration of environmental commitment. These
projects \\'ill be designed to:
Improve water quality because studies done by the New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation (DEe) have shown that
non-point source runoff is now the major cause of water pollution.
r\clll-point source pollution enters a water body from diffuse origins on the
y;atcrshcd and does not result from discernible, confined or discrete
CCI1VCrC;2nccs such as a pipe or ditch. NYSDOT, with its extensive network
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INTRADOT - Environmental An~llysis Bureau
of state highways, is in an excellent position to assist in improving New
York's water quality.
Since, non-point source water pollution control is most practically achieved
through the construction of storm water control measures that NYSDOT
routinely incorporates into its projects. NYSDOT will also retrofit existing
l,'ghw;lv drainage systems by designing and building:
. created wetland and stormwater management structures;
. bioengineered streambanks; and,
. specialized water quality inlet structures.
Restore wetlands because the initial construction of New York State's
tr;lllsportation infrastructure caused negative impacts on wetland acreage,
f'lI1ction and value. During the last two decades, the New York State
T'ep;lrt,nent of Transportation has gained extensive experience both in
delineating state and federal wetlands and in avoiding, minimizing and
mitigating adverse impacts to wetlands.
NYSDOT will continue to use this new knowledge to go beyond regulatory
state and federal no-net-loss goals by helping to increase New York State's
\"ellanel aercClge and function by:
. i"l;Jroving or restoring wetlands affected by federal-aid highway
p '0 j eets that were done before regulatory mitigation was required;
. constructing additional wetland acreage in projects beyond that
rel[ uired for state and federal wetland permits;
. working cooperatively with The Nature Conservancy and the resource
agencies to preserve important existing wetland sites;
. creating new wetlands to control non-point source pollution as well as
to provide other wetland functions, such as wildlife habitat.
l'rotect fish and wildlife because fisheries habitat in New York State has
k'cn degraded by the channelization and siltation of state waterways, and
T )()T h,,; the capability to deliver restoration measures in an efficient and
rractic,,! maimer. The New York State Department of Transportation will
protect wildlife by planting specialized food and cover crops along state
high",,\' rights-of-way and by providing more and safer wildlife crossings
uncler sLlte and local highways. For example, NYSDOT will design and
install:
. bel' I(!ers and stone weirs to improve fisheries habitat;
. e 'J] 'outs for wildlife crossings; and,
r'J,ltings for wildlife habitat.
l'rolllotc ,'co-tourism because people travel on state highways. And,
1: ,:ough access to nature, people develop a deeper sense of why the
cn\'ironment warrants protection.
Eeo-tourism is a growing and sustainable part of New York State's
economy, Because a large part of the eco-tourism experience depends on
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INTRADOT - Environmental An:llysis B\\rcau
http://intradot/eab/eistate.html
the appearance of state roadsides as well as access to natural features, the
1\ew York State Department of Transportation will develop:
. new or rehabilitated fishing access and trailhead parking areas;
. historic markers and other interpretive signing;
. improved bikeway and pedestrian facilities; and,
. new scenic overlooks.
Enhance transportation corridors because as a state agency, the New
York State Department of Transportation's customers include the traveling
pblic alld the people who live and work in New York State's
transportation corridors. They deserve improvements in the quality of their
lives that can be achieved through:
. providing streetscape amenities;
. wilei nower plantings;
. landscaping to enhance the appearance of noise barriers;
. reestablishing street trees in historic districts; and,
. rehabilitating comfort stations and rest areas.
2 - ENVIRONMENTAL BETTERMENTS PROGRAM
This program ieientifies specific environmental projects that can be advanced as part of the
New York Slate Department of Transportation's capital construction program. Under this
program, environmc:l(al projects such as landscaping, park amenities, historic preservation,
noise barriers, wctlands, stormwater basins or wildlife plantings that are funded by local
agencies or grotTS \\ill be incorporated into NYSDOT projects.
These envlronmel;tal enhancements will therefore benefit from the economies of scale realized
by large pu bEc works projects. For example, if an enhancement can be accomplished with the
construction persOlmcl and equipment already on site for the larger project, the marginal cost
of incorporZlling that enhancement into the existing contract is far less than the cost of
constructing a st:llld-:l10ne dedicated enhancement project.
As part of the Now York State Department of Transportation's public outreach efforts,
municipal ~o\'Cr:lmC'lts as well as environmental groups and agencies are being invited to
combine the construction of their environmental enhancements with DOT construction
projects. l\YSDOT will assume all of the contracting and oversight work necessary for the
progression oCtlle local environmental enhancements at no cost to the sponsor. This initiative
will also encourage more broad-based and long-term public participation in NYSDOT project
developmCI'l.
Although 111:1I1Y groups in New York State, in addition to numerous local governments and
state and fc,(ler:il rcsource agencies have funds to do environmental enhancements, most have
neither the tcc'",ic"l expertise nor the wherewithal implement their management plans quickly
and effecti,c!)", ::\ ,'\hcr words, money may be available, often as private or public matching
funds, bu t L lIe ae 1101 i:l i strative and technical mechanisms for implementation may be lacking.
The New Ye,'k Stale Department of Transportation can bridge this gap by leveraging private
and public ["lleiS to do larger, more cost-effective and meaningful environmental
improvemcnts.
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INTRADOT - Environment~il Atulysis Bureau
http://intradotJeab/eistate.html
3 - STRENGTHEN NYSDOT'S ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE
The New Yark Stale Department of Transportation will continue to make every effort to:
Heduee environmental toxins by
. using salt and sand for highway anti-icing and de-icing as judiciously
as possible;
. sweeping roadsides better and more often;
. reclucing herbicide applications; and,
. cleaning up wastes previously generated on NYSDOT projects and at
l\YSDOT facilities.
Improyc air quality because up to half of the air pollutants emitted in
N cw York State are emitted by single occupancy vehicles; that is, by cars
wi:h only a driver. To reduce these emissions, the New York State
Department of Transportation will:
. impkment Transportation Demand Management practices;
. ellcourage alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle commuting;
. c.\p'''ld Ozone Alert Day initiatives;
. promote the use of alternative fueled vehicles;
. proyi Je facilities for pedestrians and bicyclists; and,
. support mass transit.
Increase the use of recycled materials because New York State's
environmental policy calls for recycling as the first choice in dealing with
solid WcS:C. As a leader in this policy initiative, the New York State
Depar' '~~c"l of Transportation will pilot and promote the use of recycled:
. tires in highway embankments;
. glass, plastics and aggregate in pavement mixes; and,
. pJast:e, rubber and aggregate in noise walls.
l':'esern and enhance our New York State heritage because our historic
<l!]d our n:\tural heritage belongs to all New Yorkers. Because of the nature
of :ts \\n,.k, NYSDOT is in a unique position to enhance this heritage by:
. preserving historic structures;
. promoting state bike routes and greenways;
. j Ilcreasing highway tree plantings and other landscaping;
. r:'ovicling streetscape amenities; and
. increasing roadside plantings and maintenance for aesthetic
il1';JrDvemcnt.
Through acti ve i:' te!!ration of environmental concerns into the Department's daily operations
and coorclill:tlion Ilith regulatory agencies, environmental groups, municipalities and
concerned citizens, the Initiative will attain the goals set forth above.
Last Revised: February 9,1999
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INTRADOT - Environmental Analysis Durenll
http://intradot/eab/eistate.html
EAB Home.: II r_llviro:D~!i.!L~l.~.!~ II EAB Administration II Air Qualitv II Hazardous Waste II Noise II Cultural Resource II Water/Ecology
PhonelE-Mail II Environ. Guidance 1\ Photo Library II Presentation Materials
NYS Department of r'r(lll\oortation
Environmental Ana/\'sis Dr/I.Call
Last Update: Novelllher 3, 1999
Email questions and comments to sjin
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*
MEMORANDUM
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
TO:
All Regional Directors, Region 1 - 11
FROM:
P.T. Wells, Office of Engineering, MC 0504
SUBJECT:
Excellence in Engineering - Context Sensitive Design Award
DATE:
February 9, 2000
Thank you for submitting your entry for the Context Sensitive Design Award. All
of the entries were reviewed by the CSD Award committee which consisted of
the members of the Design Division's Environmental Initiative TEAM and Phil
Clark, the Design Division Director.
It was a difficult exercise to choose one project for this award as the committee
was impressed by the quality of all of the projects submitted. It truly shows the
talent within this Department when we produce such quality projects.
This year's winning project comes from Region 10, the Route 25A Safety
Improvement Project. A copy of the entry is attached. The committee decided
this project is an excellent example of Context Sensitive Design as the designers
were able to meet the needs of the community without compromising the original
intent of the project. One paragraph summarizes this concept best:
"During the planning and design phases of this project, numerous public
information meetings were held. Through these meetings, an open line of
communication was developed with local officials and civic groups. The
culmination of this relationship resulted in a somewhat dramatic change to the
project as it was originally proposed, but one that maintained the original
objective of improving safety."
The project is a success with the community as seen in the comments from a
member of the Concerned Citizens for Route 25A, Jean Thatcher:
"...a decade of dedicated citizen involvement that has resulted in a project which
enhances safety of the roadway, but preserves the scenic, environmental and
historic aspects of the area."
The committee and I feel this project serves as an excellent example of Context
Sensitive Design. Region 10 will be recognized with a plaque during the
Excellence in Engineering Award ceremony which will be held in Albany on
February 17.
Excellence in Engineering - Context Sensitive Design Award
February 9, 2000
Page Two
As mentioned in the call memo, all of the entries will be placed in a color portfolio
to recognize the work of all the Regions. This portfolio will be reproduced and
distributed throughout the Department as a means of sharing best practices in
Context Sensitive Design.
PTW:PCC:pmm
cc: F. Hiffa, Office of Regional Affairs, MC0514
M. Fleischer, Office of Public Affairs, MC0524
P. J. Clark, Design Division, MC0748
G. R. McVoy, Environmental Analysis Bureau, MC0473
EXCELLENCE IN ENGINEERING-CONTEXT
SENSITIVE DESIGN AWARD ENTRY
JANUARY 31,2000
D257874 (PIN 0327.75)
NY 25A SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS
COLDSP~NGROADTONY1~
NASSAU AND SUFFOLK COUNTIES
NEW YORK STATE
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
REGION 10
PROJECT NAME: D 257874 (PIN 0327.75)
NY 25A SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS
COLD SPRING ROAD TO NY 108
NASSAU AND SUFFOLK COUNTIES
This 6.7 million dollar project involved the reconstruction of NY Route 25A between Cold
Spring Road and NY Route 108. This 1.1 mile section of NY 25A is located in the Towns of
Oyster Bay and Huntington and in the Incorporated Village of Laurel Hollow (see attached
Location Maps). The project was let on November 19, 1998 and completed ahead of schedule
in late summer of 1999.
The project as originally proposed in September 1993 included the improvement of several
nonstandard horizontal curves, lowering of the roadway to improve sight distance, additional
traffic signals and travel lanes to provide smoother traffic flow, pavement resurfacing and
remarking.
The improvements to some of these features would have had an adverse effect on the
areas' environmental features. The horizontal curve correction in the area of Moores Hill Road
required the filling of freshwater wetlands. The widening for additional travel lanes required the
replacement of the twin box culvert over Cold Spring Brook and filling of approximately a two-
tenths acre of tidal wetland.
During the planning and design phases of this project, numerous public information
meetings were held. Through these meetings, an open line of communication was developed
with local officials and civic groups. The culmination of this relationship resulted in a somewhat
dramatic change to the project as it was originally proposed, but one that maintained the original
objective of improving safety.
The main concern of local officials and civic groups (most notably the Concerned Citizens
for Route 25A - "CC25A") was to protect the historic and environmentally sensitive nature of Cold
Spring Harbor and its vicinity.
The major objection to the project as proposed was filling into the freshwater and tidal
wetlands. The cause for the fill was a proposed traffic signal at the intersection of Bungtown
Road and NY 25A. Bungtown Road is the primary point of ingress and egress for a large number
of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory employees. In the interest of safety providing a traffic signal
here was a primary objective. However, a signal here was undesirable due to the steep grade
and poor sight distance on the western approach and the potential for traffic backups if additional
lanes were not provided.
This situation was rectified by an innovative design of separating the eastbound through
traffic from the traffic exiting Bungtown Road with a raised island. This allowed eastbound traffic
to proceed through the intersection without stopping. Without stopped vehicles, sight distance
was no longer a concern and the curve correction into the wetland was not necessary.
A small amount of widening for an eastbound thru lane was achieved through the use of
a reinforced earth retaining wall system. This is a natural looking system which allows vegetation
to grow on its almost vertical slopes. This system eliminated the need of any widening into the
tidal wetlands while maintaining natural looking slopes. The elimination of any permanent wetland
disturbance was a major outcome of the community involvement in the project planning.
Some of the lesser issues, but still important in preserving the rural nature of the area,
were to use paved gutters rather than urban looking concrete curbs to control runoff, new traffic
signal poles and guide railing were painted brown to better blend into the surroundings and a
natural stone retaining wall was used at one resident's driveway. The face of the bridge/culvert
was cast with a stone pattern and the large raised island at Cold Spring Road was planted with
numerous shrubs and flowering plants and all of the smaller islands were given a red brick
texturing.
The partnership between the various groups which had developed during the planning and
design phases continued through the construction phase. Weekly meetings were held with the
Engineer-in- charge, the contractor, and representatives of CC25A. Activities such as proposed
tree removals were presented and discussed until all were satisfied the work was needed and
would be done in the most logical manner.
The final outcome has been a project which has fulfilled the primary safety concerns while
addressing all of the major concerns over impacts to the environmental, historic, and rural nature
of the area. The local governments, community, and civic groups have expressed appreciation
for the chance to participate in bringing this project to a conclusion satisfactory to all.
Some of the comments that were received post-construction:
"The Department of Transportation project on 25A in our Village went quite well for the
most part and your various staff members have been most cooperative."
E. Richard Droesch, Mayor
Inc. Village of Laurel Hollow
"As a resident of Oyster Bay who daily travels 25A from Cove Road to Syosset-Cold spring
Road, may I congratulate you and your staff for the wonderful planning and execution that went
into the improvements you have just completed. The area is more attractive and much safer as
the result of your project. I now make the turn west onto 25A from Syosset Road without the
apprehension that I experienced for years.
It was an important job and it is well done."
Charles F. Dolan
CEO, Cablevision
"My wife and I live in Oyster Bay Cove and frequently drive past Route 25A and Cold
spring Harbor Road. It has always been treacherous and on a number of occasions there have
been near collisions. Now that the modifications have been completed it feels comfortable and
safe to drive through that intersection.
Just wanted to say thanks for a job well planned and executed."
Robert Yaffe
"We are extremely gratified that a decade of dedicated citizen involvement has resulted
in a project which enhances safety of the roadway, but preserves the scenic, environmental and
historic aspects of the area. On behalf of its thousands of supporters, Concerned Citizens for
25A commends DOT for the ability to implement an acceptable construction plan and forge a
working relationship with the community. CC25A also thanks to Senator Carl Marcellino for his
critical help in bringing the community, DOT and various other parties together to discuss and
resolve differences."
Jean Thatcher,
Chairman, Concerned
Citizens for 25A (CC25A)
"I pass through 'Fish Hatchery Hill' twice a day on my way to work and remember only two
times during the whole period of reconstruction that I was delayed for any length of time.
It was with continuous amazement that I noted the incredible construction progress each
day. Your crews accomplished a major job at a major intersection with efficiency, planning,
obvious hard work, and great consideration for the motorists."
Carol Vandermaas
"Local residents spoke against the state's initial plans to rebuild the road. And this time
DOT officials listened to their objections. As a result, the construction just completed has
produced a safer road, which preserves scenic and environmental values - especially wetlands
along the route."
Presented by Peter Kohler
Vice President of Editorial Services
News 12 - Long Island
New York State Department ofTrans...on - Environmental Analysis Bureau
http://www.dot.state.ny.us/eab/aashtoaw.htm 1
STATE OF NEW YORK
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER
GEORGE E. PAT AKI, GOVERNOR
DOT'S Environmental Initiative
Judged
to be Nation's Best
October 7,1999
GOVERNOR: New York's
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFORTS
WIN
TWO NATIONAL AWARDS
Governor George E. Pataki announced today that the New York State Department of
Transportation (DOT) has won two prestigious national awards for implementation of its new
policy to incorporate environmental enhancements into its capital projects and daily operations.
"DOT, under its new environmental initiative, is playing an increasingly important role in our
efforts to protect and preserve New York's environment, and I am pleased that the rest of the
nation is looking to follow our lead," Governor Pataki said. "From helping to provide a new
park along the Harlem River, to installing nesting boxes for migratory birds, DOT's new policy
is helping to provide a cleaner environment and improved access to recreation areas around the
state. "
The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the
organization of the nation's 50 state DOTs, has formally recognized New York State for its
outstanding contribution to environmental stewardship, and endorsed its groundbreaking
approach to improving the environment. This year NYSDOT won both of the AASHTO
environment awards for its Environmental Initiative, and thus, gained an unprecedented
endorsement as the nation's leader in the delivery of environmentally sound transportation
services. New York State won AASHTO's first Environmental Best Practices Competition, as
well as AASHTO's President's Award.
Applications for the Best Practices award were reviewed by an expert panel that consisted of
environmental groups, the Environmental Protection Agency, other state Departments of
Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration, respected research organizations, and
AASHTO staff. An environmental peer review group made the final selections. In this
competition, NYSDOT competed against some 44 other nominations from around the country.
The AASHTO President's A ward for the Environment was also awarded to NYSDOT. This
coveted award is given to an individual or team from one of the fifty state DOTs for exemplary
performance. NYSDOT's selection for this prestigious award demonstrates that its
Environmental Initiative is gaining recognition as model for the nation, or in AASHTO's words,
"the best of the best."
In the fall of 1998, NYSDOT implemented an Environmental Initiative to foster a new ethic in
the Department. NYSDOT has moved from a policy of simple regulatory compliance to one
where DOT is now using its engineering and construction capabilities to become an important
part of the State's efforts to enhance its environment. As a result of the initiative, DOT now
incorporates major contributions to the improvement of New York's environment as a part of its
normal work, often with little or no additional dollar cost.
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New York State Department ofTrans...on - Environmental Analysis Bureau
http://www .dol.5Iale.ny. u5/eab/aashloaw .hlml
.
"The Governor directed me to have DOT playa role in the continuing efforts to improve the
State's environment, and we are doing just that," NYSDOT Commissioner Joseph H. Boardman
said. "As a result of the initiative, DOT is exploring alternatives to herbicides, using
cleaner-running vehicles in its fleet, and improving access to fishing and recreational areas."
As part of the initiative, DOT recently issued an Engineering Instruction that provides
guidelines and procedures for implementing the Environmental Initiative. The Engineering
Instruction institutionalizes the new ethic and is being incorporated into updates of various
Department manuals, such as the Design Procedures Manual, the Environmental Procedure
Manual, the Highway Design Manual, and the Department's Policy and Procedures Manual.
"The Engineering Instruction formalizes the environmental initiative effort and directs our
engineers to pro-actively look for ways to incorporate environmental and community
improvements into our projects," Commissioner Boardman said.
The Engineering Instruction states as official policy that it shall be the practice of the
Department of Transportation to:
. Promote an environmental ethic within all Department organizations.
. Seek opportunities to contribute to the advancement of State and federal environmental
policies, programs and objectives through close coordination and communication with
State and federal resource agencies.
. Pro-actively plan, design, construct and maintain transportation projects in an
environmentally sound manner so as to protect, conserve, restore, and enhance important
natural and man-made resources.
. Assist others with their environmental projects by allowing them to include their work
into DOT projects whenever possible so that investments by others can benefit from the
economies of scale associated with major DOT contracts.
Examples of practices or features that are being incorporated into DOT capital and maintenance
projects, include:
. street enhancements (e.g., benches, decorative paving, period lighting fixtures);
. restoration of historic highway features (e.g., historic lighting fixtures, stone walls, guide
rails);
. landscape plantings to improve roadside appearance and streetscapes;
. new or rehabilitated fishing access and trail head parking areas;
. retrofits of existing highway drainage systems with created wetlands and storm water
management facilities;
. plantings, boulders, deflectors and other techniques to improve fisheries habitat;
. new or rehabilitated wildlife viewing sites;
. wildlife habitat improvements;
. improvements to highway entrances of public parks, wildlife management areas, and
historic sites;
. trail development; and
. environmental research and development in cooperation with environmental agencies and
groups.
I!IEl
Last Update: October 26, 1999
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New York State Department ofTrans...on - Environmental Analysis Bureau
http://www.dot.state.ny.us/eab/bmp.htm I
~."A
New York State Department of Transportation to Evaluate Best Management
Practices and Products for the Control of Highway Runoff
The New York State Department of Transportation is initiating a 12 month field and
laboratory study to evaluate the performance, constructability and maintenance issues
associated with stormwater Best Management Practices. A Request For Proposals was
issued in October, 1999 asking interested parties to submit information on any practice or
product that may effectively control non-point source pollution from highway runoff. A
selection of these practices or products will then be tested by NYSDOT research staff or
through universities in NYS who participate in the Transportation Infrastructure Research
Consortium (TIRe). NYSDOT will consider the future use of those practices and products
that prove to provide effective pollution control.
For further information, click on the following links:
. NYSDOT BMP's Request For Proposals
. BMP Meetinl! Announcement - Poul!hkeepsie. NY. December 9. 9am -12pm
I!IEJ
Last Update: December 7. /999
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REGULATION, LAW & ECONOMICS
considering entering the aggregation services business
aswell.
The financial institution remains "eager to work with
the aggregators. . . . [Wle are just trying to make sure
they do it right," Wellborn said. .
Edmund Aycock. senior vice president and regula-
tory counsel for the North Carolina Bankers Associa-
tion, told BNA that, although "all the banks in North
Carolina are concerned about their customers' pri-
vacy," he aware of no other financial institutions with a
policy as demanding as First Union's.
"Apparently, First Union is on the cutting edge on
establishing privacy guidelines as well as procedures
dealing with aggregations," according to Aycock.
"I commend First Union for taking these steps to
protect their customers' privacy. ... (E)ven with per-
mission, the banks should be circumsPect," he said.
By ANDREW M. BAUARl>
Transportation i ,,\:
State DOTs Tout Environmental Successes
At Transportation Research Board Meeting
Transportation projects are starting to look much
greener thanks to a new environmental ethic per-
colating through state transportation departments,
state officials told their tranSportation colleagues at the
79'. annual meeting of the Transportation Research
Board.
State tranSPOrtation departments are finding that ef-
forts to integrate environmental enhancements and
community concerns into transportation planning and
constrUction reap benefits, not only in terms of regula-
tory compliance, but in terms of public and political
support for transportation.
-
\ Take the New York State DOT, for example. After
the state's governor questioned the meaning behind the
"environmentally sound" element of the DOT's mission
statement, department officials set about finding ways
to integrate environmental improvements into transpor-
tation projects, Gary McVoy, director of the NYSDOT's
Environmental Analysis Bureau, told a TRB audience.
The result: a new approach in which state DOT staff
consult with local municipalities and environmental
agencies on a regu1ar basis to determine which environ-
mental enhancements can and should be incorporated
into the department'S work.
'Ifs OK III Be Green.' As part of NYSDOT's award-
winning environmental initiative, DOT managers held
environmental awareness sessions, drafted action
plans, and directed their employees to impletnent envi-
ronmental projects as part of their responsibilities.
McVoy showed the audience photos of constrUction
engineers and their environmental projects: planting
wildflowers, constrUcting and preserving a wetland,
building pedestrian bridges, building boat launches,
building sidewalks and bicycle paths.
These guys \mow how to build stuff, McVoy said. "If
you want a bird house," he said, "they'll build you a
bird house." He showed photos of state highway engi-
neers using heavy constrUction equipment to mount a
nesting box the size of a dog house beneath a Hudson
OAIL Y REPORT FOR EXECUTIVES ISSN 014&8155
(No. ill
A.13
River Bridge-soon to beCOme the home of a peregrine
falcon.
After seeing the results of their efforts and the corre-
sponding public support their work engendered, the
state DOT employees started to get excited about It, Mc-
Voy said. Even some initial skeptics of the new initiative
now feel "It's OK to be green," he said.
1m"""'" ...........ps. The department also has of-
fered to incorporate its constrUction expertise into
projects funded by local governments, agencies, and en-
vironmental groups.
"If an enhancement can be accomplished with the
{DOT) constrUction personnel and equipment already
on .site for the larget project, the marginal cost of incor-
porating that enhancement into the existing contract is
far less than the cost of constrUcting a stand-alone dedi-
cated enhancement project," according to a summary
of the state's initiative.
Such enhancements might include landscaping, park
amenities, historic building preservation, noise barriers,
created wetlands, habitat improvements, and new
sewer lines or water mains.
This attitude shift has changed the way the depart-
ment does business and has created a new public ser-
vice ethic. The department has demonstrated how a
public agency can use Its massive constrUction re-
sources to enhance and protect the natUral environ-
ment, McVoy said, and "has taken what was an envi-
ronmental problem and turned it into an environmental
solution. U
As an added benefit, relationships have improved
with the environmental agencies because "we are work-
ing toward a common goal," McVoy said. Improved re-
lationships "have avoided costs by reducing delay, liti-
gation, frustrating do-overs and wasted effort arguing
contentious issueS. It
''We've got credibility now, that's the real key," he
said.
CanlUt.s..1IitIve DesIIJI. The NYSDOT initiative also
touts the use of context-sensitive design, a concept in
which projects are designed, built, and maintained with
minimal disrUption to the community and actUally add
value to the community. To achieve such results, plan-
ners must consider not only environmental and natural
resource effects, but also aesthetic, historic, and other
cultural impacts on the affected community.
Also \mown as ''thinking beyond the pavement,"
context sensitive design was the subject of a day-long
series of presentations at the TRB meeting, including
presentations from five states undertaking pilot efforts
to institutionalize the concept into their day-to-day
practices.
Representatives from each of the five state transpor-
tation agencies - including Maryland, Kentucky, Con-
necticut, Utah, and Minnesota - described their efforts
to translate context sensitive design from theory to
practice.
The states described workshops, awareness ses-
sions, case stUdies of successful projects, and manuals
being. coinpiled on context sensitive design. Common
themes for successfu1ly incorporating the idea into state
processes included a need for high-level support from
within the state government, comprehensive training
programs. committed and highly skilled project manag-
ers. and effective tools for public communication.
BNA 1.1&00