ST. CLAIR COUNTY TRANSIT IMPROVEMENTS
CONSTRUCTION COST: $400,000,000
COMPLETION DATE: 1994
CLIENT: EAST WEST GATEWAY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS

Evaluation of alternative routes and environmental impacts for a 25-mile extension of the St. Louis Metro Link light rail system from East St. Louis to the new Mid-America Airport.

Alternatives Analysis Alternative modes studied include busways, expressways and light rail. Three alternative routes and over thirty station locations were evaluated including two routes following abandoned rail lines and one following Interstate 64. Significant analysis was completed for capital costs, operating / maintenance costs and cost effectiveness of various alternatives.

Draft Environmental Impact Statement Environmental, social and economic impacts of the new lines were studied and a draft EIS was produced. Because the alternatives utilized existing corridors, ecological impacts were minor. Social and economic impacts of major transportation improvements regarding accessibility, jobs and development were studied.

Public Involvement Oates Associates participated in a public scoping meeting, a series of public informational meetings and a formal public hearing.