Based on the decision made last October to advance IL 47 in combination with B2, B5, and No Build alternatives for further study, the environmental research teams went to work.  Surveys of environmental conditions in the two corridors were conducted during the fall and winter months, and will continue during the spring and summer.  The surveys verified existing conditions, plus checked for previous unidentified constraints that could affect the location of the project.

The surveys assessed wetlands, soils, streams and rivers, threatened and endangered species, and historic and cultural sites.  These surveys required a significant amount of field investigations, looking for species and various types of wetlands, checking soils and water flows, taking photos, and documenting the findings.

Using these environmental survey results, the project engineers varied the roadway location, height, width, curves, bridges, entrances and exits to minimize environmental impacts.  As was noted in the beginning of this study, IDOT was not tied to using the previously recorded corridor.  In fact, many proposed changes have occurred based on the environmental surveys, engineering analysis, and public input.  Several of the proposed changes were in response to sensitive areas near waterways.  A significant example is the Prairie Parkway crossing of the Fox River.  Environmental surveys identified a sensitive site near the Fox River.  The Study Team worked closely with environmental agencies and took special field tests to assure that a new location of the Prairie Parkway would not impact the sensitive area.  With that assurance, further geological surveys are underway.

The natural environment isnt the only factor being considered.  The project engineers are also sensitive to the built environment and varied the roadway location to minimize impacts on buildings and facilities. Other important factors, such as planned developments and future population and employment were also updated and reviewed.  With rapidly developing areas, like Kendall and Kane Counties, keeping track of the various municipalities and their new developments can be almost a full time job.  Each of these developments, whether its a new subdivision, shopping center, warehouse or factory, brings people to the area and the need for convenient, safe travel. 

Population and employment are also affected by new transportation facilities.  Communities that offer good transportation accessibility will draw new businesses and residents, affecting the population and employment conditions and in the end, the transportation network.  Preparing for these changes requires a repetitive process of estimating population and employment, assessing the impact of the new growth, and adjusting the transportation network to respond to the new demand.  Comments received about this issue have resulted in a segment of the Prairie Parkway much closer to Yorkville where the development is expected and farther from the open space and farmland near IL 52.