FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions – Jan 2 2012
The following is an initial list of questions that have been identified to date. These will be expanded and the list updated to include other questions as the study progresses.
Why has an Environmental Assessment been initiated for the Ottawa Road 174/County Road 17 road link to Rockland?
A formal Environmental Assessment is a mandatory requirement in the Province of Ontario for any road project initiated that has the potential to have environmental effects. Completing the EA ensures that all reasonable alternatives and the environmental effects are considered in defining the future project. This project is being planned as a Schedule C project under the Municipal Class EA. A Schedule C undertaking commits the proponent to mandatory public consultation and provides an opportunity for the public to object to the project through a Part II order request to the Minister of the Environment at the completion of the Study.
Has the Ministry of Environment been engaged in defining the planning process?
The Ministry of Environment has been consulted to ensure that the planning and design process for the upcoming EA study will fulfill the requirements of Ontario’s Environmental Assessment process.
When will the EA study be initiated?
The EA study is expected to be initiated in 2012, following the selection of a consulting team who will be responsible for undertaking the EA study. The selection process for the consulting team has been initiated and a draft Scope of Work will be presented to the City of Ottawa and United Counties of Prescott and Russell.
Who is the Proponent of the Study?
The United Counties of Prescott and Russell will be the proponent for the study. The County will be the lead proponent as defined in the Class EA where multiple jurisdictions are involved. Completing the EA for the entire study (from east of Rockland to the Queensway/Highway 417 Split) ensures that the project is not “piece-mealed” into smaller sections, and that the need, planning and environmental effects are considered for the overall project in both the City of Ottawa and County of Prescott and Russell.
Who will construct the Project?
The project will be defined by the EA study. The EA will define the location, functional design and commitments for environmental protection. The City of Ottawa and United Counties of Prescott and Russell will implement the project in their respective jurisdictions at a future date subject to availability of funding and municipal priorities. While the EA is a mandatory requirement to construct a project it does not obligate the proponents to proceed.
Who is funding the EA Study?
The Province of Ontario has provided funding to the County to support the planning and design process.
How long will it take to complete the EA study?
The EA study process and the consultation program will be defined as one of the initial phases of the study. The study consultant will present a draft Study Design for the public and agencies to review and provide comments. As part of this consultation process a study schedule will be defined. It is expected that this EA study will be completed by 2015.
How can I be informed of the study initiation?
Register today on the study website and you will be notified via email of all study milestones.