What is difference between project level and program level processes?
The program level environmental process is a broad review process aimed at addressing the cumulative impacts of the HSR system statewide. It’s based on general alignment choices and assumptions, and does not look at detailed location-specific impacts. In contrast, the project level environmental process examines site-specific impacts of the preferred alignments, station locations, and HSR operations between San Francisco and San Jose, and will identify specific measures to mitigate any environmental impacts identified. The project level process will lead to decisions establishing the specific track alignment for each section. The draft project level EIR/EIS is currently anticipated for release in December 2010.
The program level environmental process is a broad review process aimed at addressing the cumulative impacts of the HSR system statewide. It’s based on general alignment choices and assumptions, and does not look at detailed location-specific impacts. In contrast, the project level environmental process examines site-specific impacts of the preferred alignments, station locations, and HSR operations between San Francisco and San Jose, and will identify specific measures to mitigate any environmental impacts identified. The project level process will lead to decisions establishing the specific track alignment for each section. The draft project level EIR/EIS is currently anticipated for release in March 2011.
