Highway Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

Burns & McDonnell was selected to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the relocation and upgrading to four-lane of U.S. Highway 59 between Ottawa and Lawrence. Burns & McDonnell served as the environmental subcontractor in determining potential alignments for U.S. Highway 59.

The new roadway will be a freeway on new alignment to replace the existing two-lane U.S. Highway 59 with Interstate Highway 35 east of Ottawa, Kan. Burns & McDonnell initially prepared an analysis for the alignments to identify existing environmental constraints and to aid in the selection of a roadway alignment that would avoid sensitive resources.

This 18-mile section will be upgraded to a controlled access, four-lane, divided highway. Important issues in the project area include land use, endangered species, relocation of homes, cultural resources and wetlands. Burns & McDonnell examined alignments and incorporated information on air quality, noise, natural resources, socioeconomic issues, hazardous waste, solid waste, and energy use. More than 17 alignments were assessed in the EIS, which included a detailed alternatives analysis and proposed mitigation measures.

After distribution and review of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), Burns & McDonnell participated in a public hearing. They gathered input from the public and interested regulatory agencies. Using this input the DEIS was revised and a Final EIS and Record of Decision was prepared.