Community Impact Assessment Handbook

“Transportation projects can have major social and economic effects —both positive and negative. Analysis of community impacts provides insight into ways projects can be improved or redefined to reduce adverse impacts and increase overall project benefits. Historically, much of the attention in environmental impact assessment has been placed on the natural environment, rather than on how transportation projects affect people and communities. This handbook provides method s and indicators that practitioners can use to identify and evaluate the community impacts of transportation projects, and strategies for reducing adverse impacts. The handbook expands upon Community Impact Assessment: A Quick Reference for Transportation , which was produced by the Federal Highway Administration in 1996, and draws upon the Guidelines and Principles for Social Impact Assessment, produced by the U.S. Department of Commerce. This handbook is intended to serve as a reference tool for the Florida Department of Transportation during planning and project development, to supplement the FDOT Project Development and Environment Manual (PD&E Manual). It is also intended as a resource guide for metropolitan planning organizations, local governments, and other agencies seeking more effective ways to integrate transportation projects into the fabric of our communities. The project was supported by a research grant from the Florida Department of Transportation, Environmental Management Office.” + Read more