Definition of Alternatives Retained for Detailed Study

The information collected from the public and environmental resource agencies during the Scoping phase is used to identify, consider, and analyze types of transit (modes) and routes (alignments) for both the Red Line and the Green Line that are reasonable, feasible, and practical from a technical and economic standpoint.

The MTA held open houses in the fall 2004 to receive input on selected alternatives that will be studied in greater detail. The MTA is also required by the Federal Transit Administration to study a "no-build" alternative, which compares the proposed new transit alternatives to the option of not building a new transit project.

Preliminary alternatives are currently being developed. Once this is completed, the MTA will conduct a series of workshops and community meetings to present alternatives and receive input. Public meetings will be held in spring 2005 to receive input on which alternatives should be further studied in the DEIS.

Preliminary Engineering

Further analysis of design options, project costs, benefits and impacts.

Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS)

The Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) identifies a preferred alternative, responds to comments received on the DEIS, shows compliance with related environmental statutes such as the National Historic Preservation Act, and identifies commitments made to mitigate impacts of the project.