Everett-Seattle Commuter Rail Environmental and Construction Permitting

In order to support the opening of a new commuter rail service in the Puget Sound Region, Anchor QEA prepared environmental permit applications, biological assessments, and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)/State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) re-evaluation documents for Sound Transit, covering over 100 miles of rail line.  Anchor QEA led the a multi-disciplinary consultant team that worked with Sound Transit to develop mitigation strategies, prepare permit applications, and negotiate permit agreements with federal, state, and local agencies, as well as tribal groups.  This effort involved facilitating a multi-agency task force through the evaluation of impacts and determining the appropriate mitigation for the project.

This work also included a comprehensive wetland survey for the 40-mile rail segment and preparation of a report that included wetland delineation and mapping data.  These efforts incorporated coordination with BNSF Railway and their design team on construction plans, construction methods, and field review of planned improvements.

Highlights of our services include:

• Wetland and Nearshore Habitat Impact Assessment and Mitigation Design
  
• Fisheries Impact Assessment
• Endangered Species Act (ESA) Documentation
• Environmental Permitting
• Tribal Coordination & Facilitation

For more information on rail corridor projects, contact Ann Costanza at acostanza@anchorqea.com.