An EIS is an informational document for a predefined geographic area that provides the City, public, agencies, and developers with environmental information to be considered when deciding on a preferred alternative. An EIS also allows the public, tribes, and government agencies to comment on proposals and alternatives. An EIS describes:
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proposed actions & alternatives
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existing conditions
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impacts that may occur if an alternative were implemented
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mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate adverse impacts
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potential significant, unavoidable, and adverse impacts.
Environmental topics proposed for review in the EIS include:
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natural environment (streams, wetlands, floodplain)
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land use (land use patterns, growth and socioeconomics, noise and air quality, compatibility)
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transportation
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stormwater
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public services (schools, parks, police, fire/emergency services), utilities (water and wastewater)
The EIS will also identify potential beneficial outcomes, where alternatives improve environmental characteristics (e.g., stormwater quality), and emphasize improved access and multimodal travel by transit, foot, and bike.