[Federal Register Volume 65, Number 34 (Friday, February 18, 2000)]
[Notices]
[Page 8470]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 00-3970]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Highway Administration


Environmental Impact Statement Withdrawal: Wexford, Grand 
Traverse, and Kalkaska Counties: MI

AGENCY: Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of intent withdrawal.

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SUMMARY: On April 14, 1995, the Federal Highway Administration issued a 
Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for 
the proposed construction of a new US-131 freeway from north of Manton 
to north of Kalkaska in Kalkaska County. The proposed project involved 
study of corridors for a new freeway to replace the existing roadway. 
The Federal Highway Administration is issuing this Notice to withdraw 
it's original Notice Of Intent dated April 14, 1995.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:  Preliminary scoping studies were undertaken 
which resulted in several alternative alignments. Public meetings were 
held to garner information and help shape the alternatives. An economic 
study was prepared. This study concluded that while the region could 
benefit from the proposed new highway, the state as a whole would not. 
It was, therefore, determined that the proposed highway project would 
not be an efficient statewide economic expenditure. This study in 
conjunction with the Michigan Department of Transportation's increased 
emphasis on system preservation rather than expansion had caused a 
change in priorities. As a result, the Federal Highway Administration 
has determined that an environmental impact statement is no longer 
needed. In lieu of an EIS, the Federal Highway Administration and the 
Michigan Department of Transportation are undertaking preservation 
projects coupled with spot improvements to existing roadways in the 
area. Should it be determined during this process that an EIS is needed 
for a proposed project, one will be prepared following a new Notice Of 
Intent.

    Issued on: February 1, 2000.
Norman R. Stoner,
Asst. Division Administrator Lansing, Michigan.
[FR Doc. 00-3970 Filed 2-17-00; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-22-M