Project Overview

Study Purpose

The purpose of the PD&E Study is to develop and evaluate viable alternatives that will improve goods movement and traffic flow between I-75 and Port Manatee, which are both designated on Florida’s Strategic Intermodal System (SIS) plan. The objective of this PD&E Study is to provide the information necessary to reach a decision on the type, design, and location of the Port Manatee Connector in an effort to enhance regional connectivity, system linkage, mobility, accommodate expected traffic needs, support economic development and provide an additional evacuation route for the surrounding community.

Background

The Port Manatee Connector Feasibility Study was completed in October 2006 to provide a preliminary evaluation of the purpose and need for the proposed facility and to document the feasibility of viable alignments for the proposed connector. During the Feasibility Study, six corridor alternatives were identified and evaluated. As a result of the Feasibility Study, three of the six corridor alternatives were determined to be viable options. The Port Manatee Connector PD&E Study will follow prescribed Federal processes associated with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This will require a very deliberate consideration, evaluation and documentation of project corridors and alternatives. As such, the PD&E Study Team will utilize information from the Feasibility Study and re-evaluate the project study area to develop appropriate analyses and documentation that will comply with FHWA requirements. The study will proceed with no pre-determined solution(s) while allowing opportunities for input from all stakeholders including local governments; local, state and Federal agencies; property owners and interested parties.

Planning, Design, Right-of-Way and Construction

The PD&E Study is scheduled for completion in mid-2011. Design, Right of Way acquisition and Construction are not funded in the FDOT's Tentative Five-Year Work Program.