I-535 Blatnik Bridge

Documents

Finding of No Significant Impact

The FHWA has determined the proposed improvements, as described in the Environmental Assessment (EA) will have no significant impacts to the human or natural environment. This Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) is based upon the September 2023 EA/EAW, which has been independently evaluated by FHWA and determined to adequately discuss the need, environmental issues, and impacts of the proposed project and appropriate mitigation measures. The EA/EAW provides sufficient evidence and analysis for determining that an Environmental Impact Statement is not required. Materials that support this decision are provided below.

Appendix E contains the Findings of Fact and Conclusions (FOFC). Through the FOFC, MnDOT has determined that the project will not result in significant environmental impacts, and that the project does not require the preparation of an environmental impact statement per Minnesota Rules. Attachment D of this document provides responses to Agency and Public comments received during the EA/EAW comment period.

• Blatnik Bridge FONSI (PDF)
• Appendix A: Summary of Potential Impacts and Mitigation Commitments (PDF)
• Appendix B: Draft Section 106 Programmatic Agreement (PDF)
• Appendix C: Section 4(f) Concurrence Letters (PDF)
• Appendix D: Correspondence with Coastal Management Zone Program Administrators (PDF)
• Appendix E: Blatnik Finding of Fact (PDF)

Environment Assessment documents

MnDOT published the Environmental Assessment/Environmental Assessment Worksheet for the Blatnik Bridge replacement project to the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board for public comment from Sept. 19-Oct. 19, 2023. Comments made during this period have been added to the project administrative record and will be considered by the project team for a determination as to the adequacy of the environmental documentation. A summary of all comments received and how they have been considered will be prepared in a Findings of Facts and Conclusion Document, which will be distributed in early 2024. A public hearing was also held on Oct. 3, and a presentation on the materials can be viewed below

• Blatnik Bridge Replacement Project EA-EAW_20230912
• Appendix A. Build Alternative Layouts
• Appendix B. Agency Correspondence
• Appendix C. Draft Section 106 Programmatic Agreement
• Appendix D. De Minimus Notice
• Appendix E. Purpose and Need Statement Technical Memo
• Appendix F. Alternatives Development Report
• Appendix G. Wetland 2-Part Finding
• Appendix H. Visual Impact Assessment
• Appendix I. Interstate Access Modification Request NEPA Policy Points
• Appendix J. Environmental Justice Standard Attachment
• Appendix K. Right-of-Way Impact Maps and Relocation Plan

Watch a presentation on the materials.