Environmental Studies
The
Record of Decision – an environmental document that records the selected designs and explains why the N.C. Department of Transportation chose those alternatives – was completed in September 2014. The selection, which encompasses both the Military Cutoff Road Extension and the nearby U.S. 17 Hampstead Bypass projects, was based on the analysis and evaluation contained in the
July 2014 Final Environmental Impact Statement and after careful consideration of all social, economic and environmental factors as well as input from the public.
Early Development
Project development and environmental studies for the projects began in 2005 to identify the alternative that best meets the purpose and need of the project while minimizing impact to the environment.
The U.S. 17 Corridor Study Team, a team of representatives from NCDOT and other state and federal agencies, also considered public input and followed the NEPA/404 Merger Process – a method used to reach an agreement at critical milestones related to project development and permitting.
Public Involvement
NCDOT held a meeting on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2017, in Hampstead. department representatives provided an update on the portion of the project from the Wilmington Bypass (now known as N.C. 140) to north of Hampstead in Pender County. Public comment was taken until Nov. 20, 2017.