HOYT LAKES – BABBITT CONNECTION PROJECT Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the goal of the project? To develop a more direct and efficient roadway connection between Hoyt Lakes and Babbitt and to improve connectivity across the broader East Iron Range region. Q: Why do we need a study? The Hoyt Lakes – Babbitt Connection project has been proposed for a number of reasons. An extensive road network covers North St Louis County, but a noticeable gap exists between the cities of Hoyt Lakes and Babbitt. These two communities are just over 16 miles apart on the map, yet the shortest route between them covers 36 miles and can take over an hour to travel. The County’s economic base is defined by mining, logging, and recreation and efficient transportation is a critical component in sustaining the region and improving its quality of life. Recognizing these factors, both St. Louis County and the Federal government, through the efforts of Representative Jim Oberstar, have identified priority funding to plan and design a new roadway corridor between Hoyt Lakes and Babbitt. Detailed needs and benefit statements are currently being developed for the project's Scoping Document and should be available early 2008. Q: What are the potential benefits of this project? • • • Reduced travel time and improved connectivity between East Iron Range communities Economic Development Recreation and Tourism, including connections to the Superior National Forest Scenic Byway and the Mesabi Trail
Q: What are the potential constraints of this project? • • • Mining and Mineral Rights & Interests Wetland Impacts Wildlife and Natural Resource Management
Q: What about other amenities like pedestrian/bicycle paths and/or ATV trails?
Page 1 of 4
Pedestrian/bicyclist and ATV improvements will be considered as the roadway alternatives are developed and analyzed. The amount and type of improvements will be dependent upon the need, the impacts to the environment, and costs. Q: How will the potential impacts of a new roadway be analyzed and accounted for? The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Minnesota Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) require completion of an environmental impact document for projects that have the potential to cause adverse effects on the study area’s social, natural, and built environments. The level of environmental review is dependent on the scope and scale of the project. The specific scope of the Hoyt Lakes – Babbitt Connection project will be identified during a yearlong “scoping” process. This process will identify the alternatives to be studied further, the key environmental issues, and whether there is the potential for significant effects. In turn, this information will be used to decide what level of environmental document will be required to address the Federal and State environmental regulations. Q: How much will the project cost? Preliminary cost estimates will be prepared after the alignment alternatives are defined. The initial cost estimates will be used to assist in screening the options and selecting the Preferred Alternative. More detailed cost estimates will be prepared as the design of the Preferred Alternative proceeds. Q: What is the project schedule? The project schedule listed below is anticipated only. The actual duration of the environmental review for the project will depend largely on the number of alternatives evaluated and the number of environmentally sensitive areas identified during the process. No funding for construction has been identified at this time. A summary of the schedule is as follows: Scoping Process Complete Environmental Document Complete Final EIS and Design Construction Early 2008 Early 2009 Late 2009 Potentially 2010 (depending on funding)
Q: When will I know if the project will affect my home or business?
Page 2 of 4
Throughout the environmental review process, St. Louis County will consider the project’s impact on residences and businesses. These impacts will be addressed for all the alternatives and in greater detail when a Preferred Alternative is identified. Through the ongoing public involvement process, property owners will be updated on the project status and any potential plans for acquisition of property. All right of way acquisition and relocation must be done in accordance with procedures set by federal and state law. St. Louis County relocation advisors will help develop individual relocation plans. Q: Who else is involved in this project? An Agency Coordinating Committee (ACC) has been established that consists of representatives from the agencies with potential permitting and approval authority who will assist in guiding the project through the technical, permitting, and statutory requirements of the Project. Important responsibilities of the ACC include: • Provide two-way communication with the Project Team; • Provide information and communication regarding resource/regulatory issues; and • Review and comment on project materials. A Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) has been established that consists of staff members from transportation authorities in the project area. The TAC will provide input (primarily on technical and design issues) to the Project Team. Important responsibilities of the TAC include: • Provide two-way communication with the Project Team on technical activities; • Communicate issues and concerns or constituents and agencies; • Review and comment on technical products; and • Provide input and direction for Project Team. A Local Advisory Committee (LAC) has been established that brings together diverse public interest representatives. The will help solicit comments regarding the proposed project and incorporate a balanced public interest into the development of the project. Important responsibilities of the LAC include: • Provide two-way communication with the Project Team regarding local planning and policy issues • Communicate issues and concerns of constituents • Review and comment on project deliverables • Serve as project advocates Q: How can I get involved in this project?
Page 3 of 4
• •
•
Check this website (www.hoytlakestobabbitt.com) regularly for updated information. Come to the open houses to learn about the alternatives and their associated impacts. St. Louis County will hold open houses throughout the project development process. Watch for news releases on upcoming open houses & public meetings. Send your comments and concerns to the St. Louis County Project Manager (see below).
Q: Who can I contact to get more information? Individuals interested in obtaining additional information are encouraged to call or e-mail any of the following project representatives. Pete Eakman County Project Manager St. Louis County Public Works (218) 625-3841 EakmanP@co.st-louis.mn.us Jack Forslund Consultant Project Manager WSB & Associates (763) 287-8532 jforslund@wsbeng.com Kimberly Sannes Public Involvement Manager Compass Rose, Inc. (218) 260-9017 ksannes@compassrose-inc.com
Page 4 of 4