Does a project coordination plan have to contain a project schedule?
The language in SAFETEA-LU (23 U.S.C. 139(g)(1)) encourages, but does not require, the inclusion of a project schedule in the coordination plan. CEQ regulations (40 CFR 1501.8) also strongly encourage the establishment of timeframes. The FHWA assumes that a schedule will be used on all EA and EIS projects processed under the Environmental Review Process. If the non-Federal lead agency believes that a schedule is not needed, then the non-Federal lead agency will be expected to consult with the FHWA about how the project will proceed. The joint lead agencies must reach agreement on whether to include a schedule in the project coordination plan. When the lead agencies include a project schedule in the coordination plan, that schedule must be prepared in consultation with each participating agency, the project sponsor (if not a lead agency), and the State (if serving as a joint lead agency). Concurrence in the schedule by the participating agencies is not required. The schedule should incl
