A Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study is used to determine and document direct, secondary, and cumulative impacts of transportation facility improvements on the natural, physical, and social environment. This study satisfies the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) through the consideration of various alternatives and ultimate selection of a preferred alternative, which successfully balances the project needs with impacts to the environment. The PD&E process aims to avoid, minimize, or mitigate the project impacts. The levels of detail, and length of time to complete, vary based on the magnitude of the project while the "No Build" option remains a viable alternative throughout the length of the study.