What is a Draft Environmental Impact Statement and how long does it take to produce?
An EIS is the often-lengthy document that federal, state or local agencies use to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of its proposed major projects under the National Environmental Policy Act. State regulations also require the preparation of an EIS under the State Environmental Policy Act. A team of experts prepares a Draft EIS that includes: • A description of the proposed action and why it is necessary; • The environment that would be affected; • Potential benefits and impacts of the proposed project alternatives; and • Potential measures to mitigate adverse impacts. Sound Transit is committed to preparing an EIS that contains sound analysis. The EIS for a major project such as East Link typically takes about three years or more.
