Notice Draft Environmental Assessment and Opportunity for a Public Hearing - US 281 (Future I-69C)
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Notice Draft Environmental Assessment and Opportunity for a Public Hearing - US 281 (Future I-69C)

 

Purpose:

The purpose of this notice is to advise the public that a draft environmental assessment is available for public review and that TxDOT is affording an opportunity for a public hearing on the proposed project US 281 (the future I-69C) from SH 186/FM 1017 to FM 3066 in Hidalgo and Brooks Counties, Texas. Requests for a public hearing must be submitted in writing on or before Sunday, June 13, 2021.

Description:

The proposed project would include widening 43.9 miles of US 281 from a four-lane divided roadway to a six-lane divided (three main lanes each direction) urban freeway and two-lane discontinuous frontage roads in each direction. Additionally, 11 overpasses, spaced three to five miles apart, and turnarounds at various intersections are being proposed. The interim proposed roadway will consist of constructing four lanes divided (two main lanes each direction) and two-lane frontage roads. The ultimate section, to be constructed as needed to meet future mobility demands, would add an additional two main lanes (one lane each direction). Other unique features proposed as part of this effort is four wildlife crossings. The purpose of the proposed project would be to enhance mobility, safety, and improve traffic operations along the US 281 future I-69 Corridor.

The proposed alternative would require additional right of way and potentially displace two residences and two commercial buildings. The proposed project also impacts one other structure and a barn/outbuilding. None of the potentially displaced facilities exhibit unique needs, which would preclude them from relocating in the area. Relocation assistance is available for displaced persons and businesses. Information about the TxDOT Relocation Assistance Program and services and benefits for those displaced and other affected property owners, as well as information about the tentative schedule for right-of-way acquisition and construction, can be obtained from the TxDOT Pharr District Office by calling Horacio Elizondo at (956) 702-6350. The proposed alternative would also require impact to one residential property with no displacement or relocation necessary.

Some areas of the proposed project are located within a Federal Emergency Management Agency-designated 100-year floodplain. The hydraulic design for the proposed project would be in accordance with current FHWA and TxDOT design policies.

The draft EA, maps and drawings showing the project location and design, tentative construction schedules, and other information regarding the proposed project are available online. If you do not have internet access, you may call (956) 702-6181 to ask questions about the project or request to set up an in-person appointment to review project information.

Any interested person may request a public hearing covering the social, economic and environmental effects of the proposed location and design for this project. Requests for a public hearing must be submitted in writing to:

TxDOT Pharr District Office
US 281 (future I-69C) Project Manager
600 West Interstate 2
Pharr, Texas 78577

A hearing will be held if 10 or more individuals submit timely written requests for a hearing, or if an agency with jurisdiction over the project submits a timely written request for a hearing that is supported by reasons why a hearing will be helpful. Additionally, any comments on the draft EA can be submitted to the address included above. If you have any general questions or concerns regarding the proposed project, please contact TxDOT Pharr Project by phone at (956) 702-6181 or by email.

Special Accommodations:

The project materials are written in English. If you need an interpreter or document translator because English is not your primary language or you have difficulty communicating effectively in English, one will be provided to you. If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs. If you need interpretation or translation services or you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to review the project materials or submit information, please contact TxDOT Pharr District at 956-702-6161 no later than 4 p.m. CT, at least three business days before the date on which you would like to review the project materials or submit information. Please be aware that advance notice is required as some services and accommodations may require time for TxDOT to arrange.

Memorandum of Understanding:

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried-out by TxDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated Dec. 9, 2019, and executed by FHWA and TxDOT.

Contact:

TxDOT Pharr District
600 W. I-2
Pharr, TX 78577

(956) 702-6181

Email

Posted May 11, 2021