The U.S. Department of Transportation recently released a draft of the proposed Washington D.C. to Baltimore Loop Project’s environmental assessment.
The assessment was conducted to determine whether the project will have significant environmental impacts. The evaluation is the first step in the permit process.
“The publication of a draft environmental assessment for this unique project demonstrates the Department’s commitment to preparing for the future of transportation across all modes,” U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao said.
The proposed project would transport passengers between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore through two, 35-mile-long underground tunnels. Terminals would be located northwest of Union Station in Washington and the Camden Yards area in downtown Baltimore.
The tunnels would partially run under the Baltimore Washington Parkway. It would be a privately-funded project by California-based Boring Co.
The Federal Highway Administration and the Maryland Department of Transportation, also acting on behalf of the District of Columbia, will now seek public feedback on the project. The public comment period will last 45 days.
Feedback received during the comment period will affect the final approval of the project as well as any project modifications.
The project’s design details, engineering, and operational safety issues will be examined in future studies.