Interstate 30 Planning and Environmental Linkages Study
Study area includes I-30 from I-40 in the north to I-530 in the south, including the Arkansas River Bridge, as well as I-40 from JFK Boulevard east to U.S. 67
What is the Interstate 30 Planning and Environmental Linkages Study?
The Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) is dedicated to working with our community to provide safe and reliable transportation solutions for Arkansas. As part of this mission, we are continuing the community discussion and visioning process for transportation improvements along I-30 in central Arkansas. The study area includes I-30 from I-40 in the north to I-530 in the south, including the Arkansas River Bridge, as well as I-40 from JFK Boulevard east to U.S. 67. The Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) process was followed for the I-30 study and identifies and documents the transportation needs and potential improvements for the study area.
Click here to view the I-30 PEL study map
What is the PEL process?
The PEL process was established by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to provide a more efficient process of evaluating a full range of transportation concepts and identifying the preferred improvements. This process allows early, planning-level decisions to be carried forward to accelerate future National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) activities.
What are the benefits of the PEL process?
In addition to informing and expediting the NEPA process, the PEL process provides an opportunity for early coordination with the public as well as local, state, and federal agencies in a transparent and collaborative environment. By working together, alternatives and avoidance measures can be developed at a local level.
How long will the PEL process take?
The I-30 PEL study began in April 2014 and was completed in June 2015. A report was prepared to document the PEL process and recommended solutions.
Why is the PEL process needed for the I-30 improvements?
A feasibility study prepared jointly by AHTD and Metroplan in 2003 identified the need for transportation improvements for crossings of the Arkansas River. Some of the challenges identified include:
- Increasing traffic congestion and travel times
- Inadequate roadway capacity
- Roadway safety and operational concerns
- Structural and functional roadway and bridge deficiencies
The PEL study will recommends a proposed solution or series of solutions to these challenges, as well as potential funding options.
How can the public get involved?
We understand that any proposed solution to the region's transportation needs must address issues and concerns from many stakeholders. Our process includes continuous outreach to engage the community throughout the study. AHTD hosted public meetings at locations that were convenient to attendees from the study area. The public meetings were held to provide project information and gather input from all those interested in the I-30 PEL Study.
To learn more or to request a presentation, contact:
Connecting Arkansas Program
4701 Northshore Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118
Email: info@ConnectingArkansasProgram.com
Phone: 501-255-1519
Web: ConnectingArkansasProgram.com
