Brooklyn-Queens Expressway Rehabilitation

Sam Schwartz was a key member of the consultant team retained by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to prepare the alternatives analysis, environmental impact statement, and design development for the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, between Atlantic Avenue and Sands Street, including the complex triple-cantilever structure. Considered to be one of the most unique and complex roadway structures in New York State, the one-mile triple-cantilever section of the BQE is more than 50 years old and supports the historic Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

Sam Schwartz team members led the project and served as the lead planner for alternatives analysis, environmental review, and the Agency Coordination and Public Involvement Plan, as well as lead traffic engineer. The planning process conformed to regulatory and procedural requirements, including SAFETEA-LU, NEPA, SEQRA, NYSDOT Project Development Manual, and the NYSDOT Environmental Manual. In addition to the lead agencies—Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and NYSDOT—the project involved multiple federal, state and municipal agencies, and diverse public and civic stakeholder engagement. Alternatives considered included the rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement of this segment of the BQE.

Markets / Transportation / Services / Environmental Planning