What is a PD&E Study? In 1972 the federal government passed the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which mandates that prior to obtaining federal funding for a project a study must be prepared that evaluates impacts to the environment that may result from the proposed improvement.

The Project will follow the FDOT Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study process to define the most appropriate location and design for major transportation improvements on federal and state facilities in the state of Florida. The PD&E Study phase provides an interface between the Planning and Design Phases to evaluate and document solutions to transportation needs that are compatible with the human and natural environment. The PD&E Study determines if there is an engineering, socially acceptable, and environmentally feasible alternative to meet projected future travel demands.

The study process includes identifying potential project issues; the development of alternative locations and design concepts; and the analysis of potential social, economic, and environmental impacts. Engineering design concepts are developed and evaluated for environmental compatibility and satisfaction of transportation need.


How are PD&E Studies Elected? The St. Lucie County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) develops a Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) which identifies transportation improvements over the next 20 to 25 years. They also develop a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) that identifies and prioritizes the transportation projects to be implemented within a 10-year period. If one of those projects is funded by FDOT with Federal Gas Tax dollars, a PD&E Study is required to ensure that federal guidelines and processes are followed. Meeting the federal guidelines ensures that the project will qualify for federal funding.


What is "Public Involvement"? The PD&E process includes a Public Involvement Program (PIP) to inform and involve all interested parties in the development of the planned transportation project. The program for this project includes this web site, meetings and workshops with interested stakeholders, and newsletters. Public involvement starts at the beginning of the PD&E process to obtain input from citizens and agencies within the project area and continues through the duration of the project. Public input is an essential part of the PD&E Study. By the county and the public working together, transportation improvements can be provided that are beneficial to the community and minimize impacts to the environment.

When will the Public Hearing be held? The formal public hearing for the Lennard Road PD&E Study was held on June 28, 2007 at the Indian River Community College in Fort Pierce, Florida.