A critical first step in the EIS process is scoping. Scoping is the process by which the lead agency for preparation of the EIS seeks comment and input from the public, stakeholders, members of local, state, and federal agencies, and others on the range of studies and issues to be addressed in the Draft EIS (DEIS). Through the scoping process for the EIS for the Goethals Bridge Replacement, the Coast Guard received comment and input on the purpose and need and related goals for the proposed bridge replacement; the studies to be conducted; the types of alternatives to be considered; and the significant project-related issues to be addressed in the Draft EIS (DEIS).

The Coast Guard initiated scoping with publication of a Notice of Intent to prepare the EIS for the Goethals Bridge Replacement.

Following publication of the DEIS, the document will be available for agency and public review and comment. The Coast Guard will issue a Notice of Availability (NOA) in the Federal Register to announce that the DEIS is available for review; identify the period during which comments should be submitted; and provide information about public hearing dates and locations. At the public hearings and during the DEIS comment period, the Coast Guard will receive agency and public comments on the DEIS.

Finally, the Coast Guard will assess and consider all comments on the DEIS, and will respond to the comments in a Final EIS (FEIS). All substantive comments received on the DEIS will be addressed in the FEIS, and the FEIS will identify the Coast Guard’s selected alternative. View the EIS Process