Western Rail Yard Infrastructure Project 

Draft Environmental Impact Statement and 

Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation 

Prepared by: 

US Department of Transportation –

Federal Railroad Administration 

Submitted Pursuant To: 

National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. § 4321 et seq.) and the Council 

on Environmental Quality Implementing Regulations for NEPA (40 CFR Parts 1500-1508); 

Department of Transportation Environmental Impact and Related Procedures (23 CFR Part 771) 

Efficient Environmental Reviews for Project Decision making (23 U.S.C. § 139); 

Section 4(f) of the United States Department of Transportation Act of 1966 (49 U.S.C. § 303) 

and FRA’s implementing regulations at 23 CFR part 774; 

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966 (54 U.S.C. § 306101); 

the Clean Air Act of 1970, as amended (42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.); 

the Clean Water Act of 1972 (33 U.S.C. § 1251-1387); and the 

Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. § 1531-1544). 

__________________________________________________ June 1, 2021_________ 

Paul Nissenbaum Date of Approval 

Associate Administrator for Railroad Policy and Development 

Federal Railroad Administration 
The following individual may be contacted for additional information concerning this document: 

Andrea Poole 

Environmental Protection Specialist 

USDOT Federal Railroad Administration 

Environment and Project Engineering Division 

1200 New Jersey Ave SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

wryproject@dot.gov 

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has prepared this Draft Environmental Impact 

Statement (DEIS) and Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation for the Western Rail Yard Infrastructure 

Project in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 and other 

applicable environmental laws. The Project is subject to Section 106 of the National Historic 

Preservation Act (NHPA). 

WRY Tenant LLC and Amtrak have partnered in a Joint Venture to apply for Federal financial 

assistance for the construction of a Platform and Tunnel Encasement at the Western Rail Yard 

site, located between West 30th and West 33rd Streets and Eleventh and Twelfth Avenues in 

Manhattan. The purpose of the Project is to cover and protect the active railroad tracks and 

LIRR support facilities in the Western Rail Yard that house critical railroad infrastructure; to 

preserve a right-of-way through the Western Rail Yard to support the future construction of a 

trans-Hudson passenger rail crossing into New York Penn Station; and to provide additional 

new capacity for real estate development. 

This DEIS documents the evaluation of the reasonably foreseeable potential beneficial and 

adverse environmental impacts of implementing the Project, including a No Build Alternative 

and Preferred Alternative. FRA has also prepared a Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation for the 

Western Rail Yard Infrastructure Project in compliance with Section 4(f) of the United States 

Department of Transportation Act of 1966. 

FRA is seeking input from the public on the DEIS and Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation which are 

being made available to the public in accordance with NEPA and NHPA, and are available at 

the Project website: http://www.westernrailyardinfrastructure.com. 

For the most up to date information visit http://www.westernrailyardinfrastructure.com. If 

additional assistance is required to review the DEIS, please send an email to 

wryproject@dot.gov. DOT is committed to ensuring that information is available in appropriate 

alternative formats to meet the requirements of persons who have a disability. If you require an 

alternative version of files provided on this page, please contact the Section 508 Contact for 

FRA: Eric Lovett via email at Erik.Lovett@dot.gov, or (202) 400-0388. 

The 45-day comment period will run from June 11 to July 26, 2021. You can comment by filling 

out a form directly at Regulations.gov, Docket Number: FRA-2020-0039 or via a link to the 

Docket at the Project’s website. Send written comments by mail to the following address: 
WRYIP, c/o FHI Studio, 416 Asylum Street, Hartford, CT 06103. You can also leave comments 

via telephone at 929-229-5220. All comments will receive equal consideration and will be 

available at Regulations.gov. 
Draft Environmental Impact Statement 

And Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation 

Addressing the Construction and Operation of 

the 

Western Rail Yard Infrastructure Project 

New York, New York 

June 2021 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents 

Executive Summary ...................................................................... S-1 

Chapter 1: Introduction ................................................................ 1-1 

1.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1-1 

1.2 Regulatory Framework ................................................................................................. 1-2 

1.3 Nepa Process ............................................................................................................... 1-3 

1.3.1 Roles and Responsibilities .................................................................................... 1-3 

1.3.2 Environmental Review Process............................................................................. 1-4 

1.3.3 Prior Environmental Reviews ................................................................................ 1-4 

Chapter 2: Purpose and Need........................................................ 2-1 

2.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 2-1 

2.2 Description of the Proposed Action .............................................................................. 2-1 

2.3 Purpose for the Proposed Action.................................................................................. 2-1 

2.4 Need for the Proposed Action ...................................................................................... 2-2 

2.5 Objectives ..................................................................................................................... 2-3 

Chapter 3: Alternatives ................................................................. 3-1 

3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 3-1 

3.1.1 Project Site Background........................................................................................ 3-1 

3.1.2 Pre-Nepa Planning Process.................................................................................. 3-2 

3.2 Development of Proposed Action ................................................................................. 3-3 

3.2.1 Safety and Security ............................................................................................... 3-3 

3.2.2 Design Process ..................................................................................................... 3-4 

3.3 Alternatives Analysis..................................................................................................... 3-5 

3.3.1 Platform ................................................................................................................. 3-5 

3.3.2 Tunnel Encasement .............................................................................................. 3-7 

3.3.3 Alternatives Evaluation Conclusions ..................................................................... 3-9 

3.4 Eis Alternatives ............................................................................................................. 3-9 

3.4.1 No Action Alternative............................................................................................. 3-9 

3.4.2 Preferred Alternative ........................................................................................... 3-10 

3.4.3 Relationship of Overbuild to Preferred Alternative.............................................. 3-11 

3.5 Preferred Alternative Operation and Maintenance ..................................................... 3-12 

3.5.1 Platform ............................................................................................................... 3-12 

3.5.2 Tunnel Encasement ............................................................................................ 3-12 

3.6 Construction Methods, Activities, and Sequencing .................................................... 3-12 

3.6.1 Platform Construction.......................................................................................... 3-12 

3.6.2 Tunnel Encasement Construction ....................................................................... 3-14 

Chapter 4: Analysis Framework .................................................... 4-1 

4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 4-1 

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4.2 Scope of Environmental Analysis .................................................................................4-1 

4.2.1 Alternatives for Analysis ........................................................................................4-1 

4.2.2 Project Site and Study Area...................................................................................4-2 

4.3 Approach for Environmental Analysis ...........................................................................4-2 

4.3.1 Transportation and Infrastructure Projects ............................................................4-2 

4.3.2 Development Projects............................................................................................4-7 

4.3.3 Evaluation of Impacts ............................................................................................4-7 

4.3.4 Measures to Avoid, Minimize, or Mitigate Impacts ................................................4-9 

4.4 Format of This EIS ........................................................................................................4-9 

Chapter 5: Land Use, Land Planning, and Property ....................... 5-1 

5.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................5-1 

5.2 Regulatory Context .......................................................................................................5-1 

5.3 Analysis Methodology ...................................................................................................5-1 

5.4 Study Area.....................................................................................................................5-1 

5.5 Affected Environment....................................................................................................5-2 

5.5.1 Land Use....................................................................................................................5-2 

5.5.2 Land Planning, Zoning, and Policy ............................................................................5-3 

5.5.3 Property .....................................................................................................................5-8 

5.6 Environmental Consequences ......................................................................................5-8 

5.6.1 No Action Alternative .................................................................................................5-8 

5.6.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative .....................................................5-9 

5.6.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative...................................................5-12 

5.7 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures....................................................5-12 

Chapter 6: Transportation............................................................. 6-1 

6.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................6-1 

6.2 Regulatory Context .......................................................................................................6-1 

6.3 Analysis Methodology ...................................................................................................6-2 

6.3.1 Transportation Planning Factors ...........................................................................6-2 

6.4 Affected Environment....................................................................................................6-2 

6.4.1 Intersection Capacity Analysis...............................................................................6-3 

6.4.2 On- and Off-Street Parking....................................................................................6-3 

6.4.3 Bicycle Infrastructure .............................................................................................6-3 

6.4.4 Bus and Subway Transit Services.........................................................................6-3 

6.4.5 Pedestrian Conditions On Sidewalks and Crosswalks Near the Project Site .......6-3 

6.4.6 Affected Environment Future Conditions...............................................................6-3 

6.5 Environmental Consequences ......................................................................................6-4 

6.5.1 No Action Alternative .............................................................................................6-4 

6.5.2 Preferred Alternative..............................................................................................6-4 

6.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures......................................................6-6 

6.6.1 Maintenance and Protection of Traffic...................................................................6-6 

Chapter 7: Air Quality, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Resilience 7-1 

7.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................7-1 

7.2 Regulatory Framework..................................................................................................7-1 

7.2.1 Criteria Pollutants.......................................................................................................7-1 

7.3 Analysis Methodology ...................................................................................................7-2 

7.3.1 Operational Air Quality...............................................................................................7-3 

7.3.2 Construction Air Quality .............................................................................................7-4 

7.3.3 Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Resiliency .............................................................7-6 

7.4 Affected Environment....................................................................................................7-6 

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7.4.1 Air Quality .................................................................................................................. 7-6 

7.4.2 Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Resiliency ............................................................. 7-7 

7.5 Environmental Consequences.................................................................................... 7-10 

7.5.1 No Action Alternative............................................................................................... 7-10 

7.5.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative.................................................... 7-11 

7.5.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative .................................................. 7-12 

7.5.4 Conformity with State Implementation Plan ............................................................ 7-13 

7.5.5 Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Resiliency ........................................................... 7-13 

7.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ................................................... 7-16 

Chapter 8: Noise and Vibration ..................................................... 8-1 

8.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 8-1 

8.2 Regulatory Context....................................................................................................... 8-1 

8.3 Analysis Methodology................................................................................................... 8-2 

8.4 Affected Environment ................................................................................................... 8-2 

8.4.1 Selection of Noise Receptor Locations ..................................................................... 8-2 

8.4.2 Measured Noise Levels............................................................................................. 8-3 

8.5 Environmental Consequences...................................................................................... 8-4 

8.5.1 No Action Alternative................................................................................................. 8-4 

8.5.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative...................................................... 8-4 

8.5.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative .................................................... 8-5 

8.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ................................................... 8-15 

Chapter 9: Cultural Resources....................................................... 9-1 

9.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 9-1 

9.2 Regulatory Context....................................................................................................... 9-1 

9.2.1 Consultation............................................................................................................... 9-2 

9.3 Analysis Methodology................................................................................................... 9-2 

9.4 Affected Environment ................................................................................................... 9-2 

9.4.1 Archaeological Resources......................................................................................... 9-2 

9.4.2 Architectural Resources ............................................................................................ 9-3 

9.5 Environmental Consequences...................................................................................... 9-4 

9.5.1 No Action Alternative................................................................................................. 9-4 

9.5.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative...................................................... 9-5 

9.5.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative .................................................... 9-6 

9.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ..................................................... 9-8 

Chapter 10: Parks and Recreation Areas..................................... 10-1 

10.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 10-1 

10.2 Regulatory Context..................................................................................................... 10-1 

10.3 Analysis Methodology................................................................................................. 10-1 

10.4 Affected Environment ................................................................................................. 10-2 

10.5 Environmental Consequences.................................................................................... 10-5 

10.5.1 No Action Alternative ............................................................................................ 10-5 

10.5.2 Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ..................................................................... 10-6 

10.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ................................................... 10-9 

Chapter 11: Aesthetics and Visual Quality .................................. 11-1 

11.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 11-1 

11.2 Regulatory Context..................................................................................................... 11-1 

11.3 Analysis Methodology................................................................................................. 11-1 

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11.4 Area of Visual Effect....................................................................................................11-1 

11.5 Affected Environment..................................................................................................11-2 

11.5.1 Visual Character and Key Views ...........................................................................11-2 

11.5.2 Affected Population and View Sensitivity ..............................................................11-5 

11.6 Environmental Consequences ....................................................................................11-6 

11.6.1 No Action Alternative .............................................................................................11-6 

11.6.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ..................................................11-6 

11.6.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative.................................................11-7 

11.7 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures....................................................11-7 

Chapter 12: Contaminated Materials............................................12-1 

12.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................12-1 

12.2 Regulatory Context .....................................................................................................12-2 

12.3 Analysis Methodology .................................................................................................12-2 

12.3.1 Study Area .............................................................................................................12-2 

12.3.2 Data Sources .........................................................................................................12-2 

12.3.3 Analysis Techniques..............................................................................................12-2 

12.4 Affected Environment..................................................................................................12-4 

12.4.1 2004 Phase I ESA .................................................................................................12-4 

12.4.2 2004 Subsurface Investigation Results .................................................................12-4 

12.4.3 2009 Phase I ESA .................................................................................................12-6 

12.4.4 2020 Hazardous Materials Screening ...................................................................12-7 

12.4.5 2020 Phase I ESA .................................................................................................12-7 

12.5 Environmental Consequences ....................................................................................12-9 

12.5.1 No Action Alternative .............................................................................................12-9 

12.5.2 Preferred Alternative..............................................................................................12-9 

12.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures..................................................12-10 

12.6.1 Further Investigations ..........................................................................................12-10 

12.6.2 Existing Structures...............................................................................................12-11 

12.6.3 Subsurface Disturbance ......................................................................................12-11 

Chapter 13: Utilities and Energy ..................................................13-1 

13.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................13-1 

13.2 Regulatory Context .....................................................................................................13-1 

13.3 Analysis Methodology .................................................................................................13-1 

13.4 Affected Environment..................................................................................................13-2 

13.4.1 Water Supply .........................................................................................................13-2 

13.4.2 Wastewater............................................................................................................13-2 

13.4.3 Stormwater.............................................................................................................13-3 

13.4.4 Solid Waste and Sanitation Services.....................................................................13-4 

13.4.5 Energy....................................................................................................................13-6 

13.5 Environmental Consequences ....................................................................................13-6 

13.5.1 No Action Alternative .............................................................................................13-6 

13.5.2 Permanent Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ...................................................13-8 

13.5.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative...............................................13-12 

13.6 Mitigation/Commitments............................................................................................13-12 

Chapter 14: Soils and Geology .....................................................14-1 

14.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................14-1 

14.2 Regulatory Context .....................................................................................................14-1 

14.3 Analysis Methodology .................................................................................................14-1 

14.4 Affected Environment..................................................................................................14-2 

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14.4.1 Geology ................................................................................................................. 14-2 

14.4.2 Seismic Activity and Faults.................................................................................... 14-2 

14.4.3 Soil......................................................................................................................... 14-2 

14.4.4 Groundwater and Aquifers .................................................................................... 14-2 

14.5 Environmental Consequences.................................................................................... 14-3 

14.5.1 No Action Alternative............................................................................................. 14-3 

14.5.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative.................................................. 14-3 

14.5.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ................................................ 14-4 

14.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ................................................... 14-6 

14.6.1 Fugitive Dust Control Plan..................................................................................... 14-7 

14.6.2 Dewatering Plan .................................................................................................... 14-7 

14.6.3 Noise Mitigation Plan............................................................................................. 14-7 

14.6.4 LIRR/MTA Coordination ........................................................................................ 14-7 

14.6.5 Utility Protection..................................................................................................... 14-8 

Chapter 15: Water and Natural Resources .................................. 15-1 

15.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 15-1 

15.2 Regulatory Context and Methodology ........................................................................ 15-1 

15.2.1 Study Area............................................................................................................. 15-1 

15.2.2 Federal Regulations .............................................................................................. 15-1 

15.3 Affected Environment ................................................................................................. 15-2 

15.3.1 Floodplains ............................................................................................................ 15-4 

15.3.2 Wetlands................................................................................................................ 15-4 

15.3.3 Groundwater.......................................................................................................... 15-5 

15.3.4 Terrestrial Resources ............................................................................................ 15-5 

15.3.5 Threatened and Endangered Species .................................................................. 15-6 

15.3.6 Aquatic Resources ................................................................................................ 15-7 

15.4 Environmental Consequences.................................................................................. 15-10 

15.4.1 No Action Alternative........................................................................................... 15-10 

15.4.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative................................................ 15-10 

15.4.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative .............................................. 15-12 

15.5 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ................................................. 15-14 

15.5.1 Groundwater........................................................................................................ 15-14 

15.5.2 Wetlands.............................................................................................................. 15-15 

15.5.3 Aquatic Resources .............................................................................................. 15-15 

Chapter 16: Coastal Zone Consistency ........................................ 16-1 

16.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 16-1 

16.2 Regulatory Context..................................................................................................... 16-1 

16.3 Analysis Methodology................................................................................................. 16-1 

16.4 New York Coastal Zone Consistency Assessment of the No Action Alternative ....... 16-1 

16.5 New York Coastal Zone Consistency Assessment of the Preferred Alternative........ 16-2 

16.5.1 Overview................................................................................................................ 16-2 

16.5.2 New York City Waterfront Revitalization Program Policies................................... 16-2 

16.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ................................................. 16-13 

Chapter 17: Socioeconomics ....................................................... 17-1 

17.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 17-1 

17.2 Regulatory Context..................................................................................................... 17-1 

17.3 Analysis Methodology................................................................................................. 17-1 

17.3.1 Study Area............................................................................................................. 17-1 

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17.3.2 Data Sources .........................................................................................................17-2 

17.3.3 Analysis Techniques..............................................................................................17-2 

17.4 Affected Environment..................................................................................................17-3 

17.4.1 Demographic and Socioeconomic Conditions.......................................................17-3 

17.4.2 Economic Characteristics ......................................................................................17-8 

17.4.3 Community Facilities and Services......................................................................17-10 

17.5 Environmental Consequences..................................................................................17-16 

17.5.1 No Action Alternative ...........................................................................................17-16 

17.5.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ...............................................17-16 

17.5.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative...............................................17-17 

17.6 Displacements and Relocation Requirements..........................................................17-20 

17.7 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures..................................................17-20 

Chapter 18: Public Health ............................................................18-1 

18.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................18-1 

18.2 Regulatory Context .....................................................................................................18-1 

18.3 Analysis Methodology .................................................................................................18-1 

18.4 Affected Environment..................................................................................................18-2 

18.4.1 Air Quality ..............................................................................................................18-2 

18.4.2 Noise and Vibration ...............................................................................................18-2 

18.4.3 Contaminated Materials.........................................................................................18-2 

18.4.4 Water Quality .........................................................................................................18-2 

18.5 Environmental Consequences ....................................................................................18-3 

18.5.1 No Action Alternative .............................................................................................18-3 

18.5.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ..................................................18-3 

18.5.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative.................................................18-4 

18.6 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures....................................................18-7 

Chapter 19: Environmental Justice ..............................................19-1 

19.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................19-1 

19.2 Regulatory Context .....................................................................................................19-1 

19.3 Analysis Methodology .................................................................................................19-1 

19.4 Delineation of Study Area ...........................................................................................19-2 

19.5 Identification of Environmental Justice Populations within the Study Area ................19-2 

19.6 Potential Adverse Impacts on Minority and Low-Income Populations........................19-4 

19.6.1 No Action Alternative .............................................................................................19-4 

19.6.2 Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ..................................................19-4 

19.6.3 Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative.................................................19-4 

19.7 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures....................................................19-6 

19.8 Potential for Disproportionately High and Adverse Effects .........................................19-6 

19.9 Environmental Justice Conclusions ............................................................................19-7 

19.10 Public Participation .....................................................................................................19-7 

Chapter 20: Indirect, Cumulative, and Other Impacts..................20-1 

20.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................20-1 

20.2 Affected Environment..................................................................................................20-2 

20.2.1 Overbuild Construction Methods and Activities .....................................................20-2 

20.3 Indirect Impacts of the Preferred Alternative...............................................................20-3 

20.3.1 Indirect Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative .....................................20-4 

20.3.2 Indirect Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative..................................20-17 

20.4 Cumulative Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ......................................................20-24 

20.4.1 Cumulative Operational Impacts of the Preferred Alternative .............................20-26 

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20.4.2 Cumulative Construction Impacts of the Preferred Alternative ........................... 20-27 

20.5 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources ......................................... 20-28 

20.6 Relationship Between Short-Term Uses of the Environment and the Maintenance and 

Enhancement of Long-Term Productivity ........................................................................... 20-29 

20.6.1 Short-Term Uses ................................................................................................. 20-29 

20.6.2 Long-Term Productivity ....................................................................................... 20-29 

20.6.3 Short-Term Uses Versus Long-Term Productivity .............................................. 20-29 

Chapter 21: Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation ................................... 21-1 

21.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 21-1 

21.2 Regulatory Context..................................................................................................... 21-1 

21.3 Identification of Section 4(f) Properties....................................................................... 21-1 

21.3.1 Wildlife or Waterfowl Refuges ............................................................................... 21-2 

21.3.2 Park and Recreational Resources......................................................................... 21-2 

21.3.3 Historic Sites.......................................................................................................... 21-4 

21.4 Potential Use of Section 4(f) Properties ..................................................................... 21-5 

21.4.1 High Line ............................................................................................................... 21-5 

21.4.2 North River Tunnel ................................................................................................ 21-8 

21.4.3 Hudson River Park ................................................................................................ 21-9 

21.5 Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures ................................................ 21-11 

21.6 Coordination and Public Involvement ....................................................................... 21-12 

21.7 Conclusion ................................................................................................................ 21-12 

Chapter 22: Mitigation Measures and Project Commitments ....... 22-1 

22.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 22-1 

22.2 Prior Environmental Reviews...................................................................................... 22-1 

22.2.1 2009 SEQRA/CEQR FEIS .................................................................................... 22-1 

22.2.2 2013 EA and 2014 SEA NEPA FONSIs................................................................ 22-2 

22.3 Construction Commitments ........................................................................................ 22-3 

22.3.1 Construction Health and Safety Plan (CHASP) .................................................... 22-3 

22.3.2 Emission Reduction Program................................................................................ 22-3 

22.3.3 Fugitive Dust Control Plan..................................................................................... 22-3 

22.3.4 Soil Erosion and Sediment Control Plan ............................................................... 22-4 

22.3.5 Dewatering Plan .................................................................................................... 22-4 

22.3.6 Noise Mitigation Plan............................................................................................. 22-5 

22.3.7 Construction Protection Plan (CPP)...................................................................... 22-5 

22.3.8 Pest Management Plan ......................................................................................... 22-5 

22.3.9 Maintenance and Protection of Traffic (MPT) Plan ............................................... 22-6 

22.4 Summary of Project Commitments and Mitigation Measures .................................... 22-6 

Chapter 23: Public Involvement and Agency Coordination.......... 23-1 

23.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 23-1 

23.2 Regulatory Process .................................................................................................... 23-1 

23.2.1 National Environmental Policy Act ........................................................................ 23-1 

23.2.2 Section 106 Consultation ...................................................................................... 23-2 

23.2.3 Section 4(f) Consultation....................................................................................... 23-2 

23.2.4 Environmental Justice Outreach ........................................................................... 23-3 

23.2.5 Other Permits and Approvals ................................................................................ 23-3 

23.3 Agency Coordination .................................................................................................. 23-5 

23.3.1 List of Agencies, Roles, and Responsibilities........................................................ 23-5 

23.3.2 Section 106 Consultation ...................................................................................... 23-8 

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23.3.3 Environmental Justice Outreach............................................................................23-9 

23.4 Public Involvement......................................................................................................23-9 

23.4.1 Public Scoping Process .......................................................................................23-11 

23.4.2 Public Review and Comment on DEIS................................................................23-11 

23.5 FRA Contact..............................................................................................................23-11 

Chapter 24: Distribution of DEIS..................................................24-1 

24.1 Federal Agencies ........................................................................................................24-1 

24.2 State Agencies ............................................................................................................24-1 

24.3 Local Agencies............................................................................................................24-2 

24.4 Elected Officials ..........................................................................................................24-2 

24.5 Other Section 106 Consulting Parties.........................................................................24-2 

24.6 DEIS Document Availability Locations........................................................................24-3 

Chapter 25: References................................................................25-1 

25.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................25-1 

25.2 Purpose and Need ......................................................................................................25-2 

25.3 Alternatives..................................................................................................................25-3 

25.4 Analysis Framework....................................................................................................25-3 

25.5 Land Use, Land Planning, and Property .....................................................................25-4 

25.6 Transportation .............................................................................................................25-5 

25.7 Air Quality, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Resilience...........................................25-5 

25.8 Noise and Vibration.....................................................................................................25-7 

25.9 Cultural Resources......................................................................................................25-7 

25.10 Parks and Recreation Areas .......................................................................................25-8 

25.11 Aesthetics and Visual Quality......................................................................................25-8 

25.12 Contaminated Materials ..............................................................................................25-8 

25.13 Utilities and Energy .....................................................................................................25-9 

25.14 Soils and Geology .......................................................................................................25-9 

25.15 Water and Natural Resources...................................................................................25-10 

25.16 Coastal Zone Consistency ........................................................................................25-12 

25.17 Socioeconomics ........................................................................................................25-13 

25.18 Public Health .............................................................................................................25-13 

25.19 Environmental Justice...............................................................................................25-13 

25.20 Indirect, Cumulative, and Other Impacts...................................................................25-14 

25.21 Draft Section 4(f) Evaluation .....................................................................................25-14 

25.22 Mitigation Measures and Project Commitments .......................................................25-15 

25.23 Public Involvement and Agency Coordination ..........................................................25-15 

Chapter 26: Glossary and Acronyms ............................................26-1 

26.1 Acronym and Terms List ...........................................................................................26-16 

26.1.1 Chapter 1: Introduction..................................................................................26-17 

26.1.2 Chapter 2: Purpose and Need.......................................................................26-17 

26.1.3 Chapter 3: Alternatives..................................................................................26-18 

26.1.4 Chapter 4: Analysis Framework ....................................................................26-18 

26.1.5 Chapter 5: Land Use, Land Planning, and Property .....................................26-18 

26.1.6 Chapter 6: Transportation .............................................................................26-19 

26.1.7 Chapter 7: Air Quality, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Resilience ...........26-19 

26.1.8 Chapter 8: Noise and Vibration .....................................................................26-19 

26.1.9 Chapter 9: Cultural Resources......................................................................26-20 

26.1.10 Chapter 10: Parks and Recreation Area .......................................................26-20 

26.1.11 Chapter 11: Aesthetics and Visual Quality....................................................26-20 

June 2021 TOC-8 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26.1.12 Chapter 12: Contaminated Materials ............................................................ 26-21 

26.1.13 Chapter 13: Utilities and Energy ................................................................... 26-21 

26.1.14 Chapter 14:Soils and Geology...................................................................... 26-22 

26.1.15 Chapter 15: Water and Natural Resources................................................... 26-22 

26.1.16 Chapter 16: Coastal Zone Consistency ........................................................ 26-22 

26.1.17 Chapter 17: Socioeconomics........................................................................ 26-22 

26.1.18 Chapter 18: Public Health............................................................................. 26-22 

26.1.19 Chapter 19: Environmental Justice............................................................... 26-23 

26.1.20 Chapter 20: Indirect, Cumulative, and Other Effects .................................... 26-23 

26.1.21 Chapter 21: Section 4(F) Evaluation............................................................. 26-23 

26.1.22 Chapter 22: Mitigation Measures and Project Commitments ....................... 26-23 

26.1.23 Chapter 23: Public Involvement and Agency Coordination .......................... 26-23 

Chapter 27: List of Preparers ...................................................... 27-1 

27.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 27-1 

27.2 Federal Railroad Administration (Lead Agency)......................................................... 27-1 

27.3 Consultant, AKRF, Inc. (Overall Preparation of the DEIS) ......................................... 27-2 

27.4 Subconsultant, WSP USA, Inc. .................................................................................. 27-3 

27.5 Subconsultant, FHI Studio.......................................................................................... 27-3 

TOC-9 June 2021 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents 

Appendices 

Appendix A Analysis Framework 

Appendix B Methodology Report 

Appendix B1 Methodology Report Addendum 

Appendix B2 Methodology Report 

Appendix C Transportation 

Appendix C1 Transportation 

Appendix C2 Construction Trip-Generation and Screening Analyses 

Appendix D Air Quality, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Resilience 

Appendix E Noise and Vibration 

Appendix F Section 106 Consultation 

Appendix F1 Consulting Parties Correspondence 

Appendix F2 Historic Architectural Resources Background Study/Effects Assessment 

Appendix F3 State Historic Preservation Officer Correspondence 

Appendix G Parks and Recreation Areas 

Appendix H Aesthetics and Visual Quality 

Appendix I Phase I Environmental Site Assessment 

Appendix J Soils and Geology 

Appendix J1 Geotechnical Report Platform 

Appendix J2 Geotechnical Report Terra Firma 

Appendix J3 Site-Specific Seismic Study 

Appendix K Natural Resources Correspondence 

Appendix L Coastal Zone Management Determination 

Appendix M Socioeconomics 

Appendix N Indirect and Cumulative Impacts 

Appendix O Mitigation Measures and Project Commitments 

Appendix O1 2014 Restrictive Declaration 

Appendix O2 2010 Letter of Resolution 

Appendix P Public Involvement and Agency Coordination 

Appendix P1 Public and Agency Coordination Plan 

Appendix P2 Public Outreach Materials 

June 2021 TOC-10 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

List of Tables 

4-1 Affected Environment – Transportation and Infrastructure Projects.............................. 4-6 

4-2 Affected Environment – Development Projects ............................................................ 4-8 

5-1 Land Uses in the Study Area – Affected Environment................................................... 5-3 

5-2 Special Zoning Districts ................................................................................................. 5-5 

5-3 Local and Regional Plans and Policies.......................................................................... 5-7 

5-4 No Action Alternative – Local and Regional Plans and Policies.................................... 5-9 

5-5 Land Uses in the Study Area – Affected Environment and Preferred Alternative ....... 5-10 

5-6 Preferred Alternative – Local and Regional Plans and Policies .................................. 5-11 

7-1 Attainment Status in New York City............................................................................... 7-2 

7-2 Stack Parameters and Emission Rates ......................................................................... 7-4 

7-3 CEQR Technical Manual De Minimis Thresholds.......................................................... 7-5 

7-4 Representative Monitored Ambient Air Quality Data ..................................................... 7-7 

7-5 Projected Potential 1-Percent Annual Probability Flood Elevations Locations within the 

Study Area (feet NAVD88).................................................................................................. 7-9 

7-6 Projected Precipitation Increases, High Scenario........................................................ 7-10 

7-7 Maximum Pollutant Concentrations from Platform Ventilation Systems...................... 7-11 

7-8 Maximum Pollutant Incremental Concentrations from Platform Ventilation Systems.. 7-11 

7-9 Maximum Pollutant Concentrations from Peak Construction Period........................... 7-12 

7-10 Maximum Pollutant Incremental Concentrations from Peak Construction Period....... 7-12 

7-11 Mesoscale Emissions from Construction Activities (ton/yr) ......................................... 7-13 

7-12 GHG Emissions from Construction (Metric Tons CO2e).............................................. 7-13 

8-1 Noise Receptor Locations.............................................................................................. 8-3 

8-2 Measured Existing Noise Levels in dB(A)...................................................................... 8-4 

8-3 Preferred Alternative Noise Levels in dB(A) .................................................................. 8-5 

8-4 Worst-Case Construction Noise Levels in dB(A) ........................................................... 8-7 

8-5 Worst-Case Tunnel Encasement Construction Noise Levels in dB(A).......................... 8-8 

8-6 Worst-Case Construction Noise Levels and Impact Summary...................................... 8-8 

9-1 Historic Properties in the Area of Potential Effects (APE) ............................................. 9-4 

10-1 Parks and Recreational Facilities in the Study Area.................................................... 10-4 

13-1 No Action Alternative Water Consumption and Sanitary Sewage ............................... 13-7 

13-2 No Action Alternative Energy Consumption................................................................. 13-8 

13-3 Preferred Alternative Water Consumption and Sanitary Sewage................................ 13-9 

13-4 Preferred Alternative Energy Consumption ............................................................... 13-12 

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Table of Contents 

15-1 Birds Documented by the New York State Breeding Bird Atlas in Block 5751D..........15-6 

15-2 Essential Fish Habitat Designated Species in the Vicinity of the Study Area ..............15-9 

17-1 Socioeconomic Conditions Data Sources ....................................................................17-2 

17-2 Residential Population..................................................................................................17-3 

17-3 Mutually Exclusive Race/Hispanic Origin (2018) .........................................................17-4 

17-4 Housing Units (2010–2018)..........................................................................................17-4 

17-5 Median Gross Rent (2010–2018).................................................................................17-5 

17-6 Average Household Income (2010–2018)....................................................................17-5 

17-7 Poverty Status in 2018 .................................................................................................17-6 

17-8 People with Disabilities (2018) .....................................................................................17-6 

17-9 Civilian Labor Force Trends (2010–2018)....................................................................17-7 

17-10 Industry Sectors for Employed Civilian Population 16 Years and Over (2018)............17-7 

17-11 Study Area Business and Jobs by Industry Sector (2019)...........................................17-8 

17-12 Jobs by Industry Sector Study Area, Manhattan, and New York City (2019) ..............17-9 

17-13 Public Schools in the Study Area Enrollment and Capacity Data, 2018–2019 School 

Year .................................................................................................................................17-10 

17-14 Private Schools, Colleges, and Universities in the Study Area..................................17-11 

17-15 Publicly Funded Child Care Facilities in the Study Area............................................17-12 

17-16 Outpatient Facilities Serving the Study Area..............................................................17-12 

17-17 Fire and EMS Services within the Study Area............................................................17-13 

17-18 Police Precincts within or near the Study Area ..........................................................17-13 

17-19 Shelters within the Study Area ...................................................................................17-14 

17-20 Community Centers Located within the Study Area...................................................17-14 

17-21 Religious and Cultural Facilities Serving the Study Area...........................................17-15 

17-22 Economic Benefits from Construction of the Preferred Alternative............................17-19 

19-1 Minority and Low-Income Characteristics of Study Area .............................................19-3 

20-1 Projects Included in the Cumulative Assessment ......................................................20-26 

21-1 Section 4(f) Properties in the Study Area.....................................................................21-2 

22-1 Summary of Mitigation Measures and Project Commitments ......................................22-7 

23-1 Permits and Approvals Required for the Preferred Alternative ....................................23-4 

23-2 Lead and Invited Participating Agencies ......................................................................23-6 

23-3 Project Document Repositories..................................................................................23-10 

23-4 Public Scoping Notice Publications ............................................................................23-10 

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List of Figures 

Following page: 

S-1 Project Location .............................................................................................................S-2 

S-2 Project Site.....................................................................................................................S-2 

S-3 Platform..........................................................................................................................S-4 

S-4 Tunnel Encasement .......................................................................................................S-6 

1-1 Project Location ............................................................................................................. 1-2 

1-2 Existing Zoning in Study Area........................................................................................ 1-2 

1-3 Project Site..................................................................................................................... 1-2 

1-4 Platform.......................................................................................................................... 1-2 

1-5 Tunnel Encasement ....................................................................................................... 1-2 

3-1 Project Location ............................................................................................................. 3-8 

3-2 Platform........................................................................................................................ 3-10 

3-3 Typical Platform Section: Ventilation, Fire Protection, and Lighting for the Yard ........ 3-12 

3-4 Tunnel Encasement ..................................................................................................... 3-12 

3-5 Construction Schedules ............................................................................................... 3-12 

3-6 Construction Platform Phasing .................................................................................... 3-14 

4-1 Transportation and Infrastructure Projects .................................................................... 4-2 

4-2 Development Projects in the Affected Environment ...................................................... 4-8 

5-1 Land Use, Zoning, and Public Policy Study Area .......................................................... 5-2 

5-2 Project Site Existing Conditions ..................................................................................... 5-2 

5-3 Project Site Existing Conditions ..................................................................................... 5-2 

5-4 Project Site Existing Conditions ..................................................................................... 5-2 

5-5 Land Use in the Study Area: Affected Environment ...................................................... 5-2 

5-6 Existing Zoning in Study Area........................................................................................ 5-4 

5-7 Land Use in the Study Area: Preferred Alternative...................................................... 5-10 

6-1 Traffic and Parking Study Area...................................................................................... 6-4 

7-1 Air Quality Source and Receptor Locations................................................................... 7-4 

8-1 Noise Receptor and Monitoring Locations..................................................................... 8-2 

8-2 Worst-Case Construction Noise Levels at the High Line............................................. 8-10 

9-1 Location of Historic Properties ....................................................................................... 9-4 

10-1 Parks and Open Space Resources.............................................................................. 10-2 

11-1 Aesthetics and Visual Quality Project Location and Area of Visual Effect................... 11-2 

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Table of Contents 

14-1 Bedrock Map ................................................................................................................14-2 

14-2 1865 Viele Map.............................................................................................................14-2 

15-1 FEMA Preliminary FIRM...............................................................................................15-4 

16-1 NYC Coastal Zone Boundary .......................................................................................16-2 

17-1 Socioeconomics Study Area ........................................................................................17-2 

17-2 Publicly Funded Community Facilities and Services and Private Schools in the Study 

Area ............................................................................................................................17-10 

17-3 Other Community Facilities and Services in the Study Area......................................17-14 

19-1 Environmental Justice Populations within the Study Area ...........................................19-2 

20-1 Ongoing Projects Included in the Cumulative Assessment........................................20-26 

21-1 Section 4(f) Properties..................................................................................................21-2 

21-2 High Line Structure Underpinning – Existing and Proposed Typical Sections.............21-6 

21-3 Caissons Adjacent to North River Tunnel ....................................................................21-8 

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June 2021 TOC-14