Office of Planning, Environment, & Realty (HEP)
Planning • Environment • Real Estate
EJ concerns and goals should be considered throughout all public engagement efforts, from project planning through construction and operation. This includes public outreach conducted during transportation planning and the environmental reviews required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Engaging members of low-income and minority communities early in the project development process can help to avoid, minimize, or mitigate any potential disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects that could arise.
In order to create infrastructure that meets the needs of the community, the DOT is committed to public outreach and meaningful opportunities for public engagement, including participation by minority and low-income communities.
DOT has incorporated EJ goals into the departmental programs, policies, and activities. An Internal Order on EJ was published in 1997 to establish guidelines for identifying and addressing disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effects of DOT programs, policies and activities on low-income and minority populations.
DOT has recently revised the Environmental Justice Strategy. You can provide ideas and other feedback by e-mailing EJ@dot.gov.
