Project Evaluation Report

(1) Unless otherwise determined by the Department, the planning information required for projects receiving financial assistance pursuant to 310 CMR 45.00 shall be contained in a Project Evaluation Report. (2) The Department will determine the required scope of a Project Evaluation Report based on the nature and duration of the proposed project. Unless otherwise determined by the Department, a complete Project Evaluation Report generally must include: (a) A description of the proposed project; (b) An analysis of the cost-effectiveness of the project and the alternatives considered; (c) For the selected alternative, a concise description which addresses, at a minimum, the following areas: 1. the relevant design parameters for the project; 2. the estimated capital construction and operation and maintenance costs of the project (identifying possible federal, state, local, and other shares), and a description of the manner in which costs will be financed; 3. the cost impacts on users of the system; and 4. the institutional, financial, legal and management arrangements necessary for successful implementation of the project. (d) A public participation program that includes, at a minimum: 1. a public informational meeting to discuss the project alternatives and their environmental impact; and 2. a subsequent public hearing on the selected proposed project, including its environmental impact.