Prepared by:
Amy Jerome and Jennifer Donahue
Environmental Planning Group
4350 E. Camelback, G-200
Phoenix, AZ 85018

JANUARY 2002

Prepared for:
Arizona Department of Transportation
206 South 17th Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
in cooperation with
U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration

Abstract
The information we received from the DOTs surveyed included a variety of responses regarding the level of implementation of environmental justice (EJ) policies, procedures and programs. Even though the level of implementation varies among the DOTs, the basic principles of EJ evaluation and response are consistent. Below, we have provided a synopsis of what can be called "best practices" for implementing an effective EJ program. The two models have been utilized in differing degrees by many DOTs. At least three DOTs have implemented the two models. However, the macro-level model has not been in practice for a long period of time and therefore its effectiveness has not fully been measured. Neither has the success of the micro-level (project specific) action been determined.

Even though there appears to be no considerable evidence of legal challenges to the more basic approaches used by some DOTs, the utilization of the proposed "best practices" is warranted. Continuing interest and concern for EJ issues in Arizona, and the potential for increased public awareness suggest that methods that formalize ADOTs EJ policies and procedures in this manner should be continued and expanded were necessary.