I-80 INTERCHANGE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

JBR Environmental Consultants, Inc. (JBR)  completed the final Environmental Assessment (EA) for a new interchange proposed to connect to Interstate 80 about 12 miles east of Sparks, Nevada. The new interchange serves a developing industrial park in Storey County and existing and planned commercial and industrial developments in Washoe and Storey Counties. The project also includes a new bridge over the Truckee River.

The EA was prepared to meet Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requirements and guidance contained in 23 Code of Federal Regulations Section 771, FHWA’s Environmental Guidebook, and other environmental statutes and orders.  

The EA addressed issues including the effects on wetlands, floodplains, water quality, and biological resources in the river and in floodplain habitats. The EA also included an analysis of cumulative effects of the project combined with effects from existing developments, a nearby planned interchange improvement, and future industrial and commercial development in the area. 

JBR’s responsibilities included coordinating the Notice of Intent to Study letter and public information meeting, assisting in formal Native American consultation, coordinating with a local archaeological firm to complete cultural resource studies to support Section 106 consultation, and preparation of the EA.  The Intent to Study meeting and initial draft of the EA were completed within four months of project start. Completion of the Native American consultation took approximately one year. 

JBR completed the final EA (for public and agency distribution) about two months after resolution of the Native American consultation process.

• Catherine Clark - Division Manager -