An Environmental Assessment (EA) is a study that captures the effect a proposed project will have on the area's people and environment. Most major road construction projects undertaken by the City of Brampton require the completion of an EA in accordance with the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process.
EAs are conducted , not only to study a proposed project's impact on an area, but to solicit feedback from the public. As detailed in the study phases below, input from local residents and businesses is essential and accepted throughout the EA process. Other stakeholders like conservation authorities, government agencies, and neighbouring municipalities are also consulted.
Municipal Class Environmental Assessments
The Municipal Class EA is an approved process that municipalities must follow under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. Class EA projects are classified in terms of schedules (A, A+, B or C) depending on the degree of impact to the environment.
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Schedule A projects include normal or emergency operational and maintenance activities. Environmental impacts of these projects are usually minimal and; therefore, they are considered pre-approved.
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Schedule A+ projects are pre-approved. However, the public will be advised prior to the project's implementation. The manner in which the public is advised is determined by the City.
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Schedule B projects involve improvements and minor expansions to existing facilities. There is some potential for adverse environmental impacts and; therefore, these projects go through a screening process including public consultation.
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Schedule C projects involve the construction of new facilities and major expansions to existing facilities. These projects must go through the entire EA planning process.
Based on the schedule classification, Environmental Assessments in Brampton follow a set of standardized project phases.
