Environmental assessments (EA) are underway for a number of areas, among them Dixie and Mississauga roads.

With respect to the latter, the EA will consider improvements on Mississauga Road, from Bovaird Drive to Mayfield Road.

Mississauga Road is currently a two-lane rural road.

Peel's Long Range Transportation Plan, drafted in September 2005, identified the need to widen this section of Mississauga Road, officials said.

The study will examine the need and feasibility for widening and improvements on Mississauga Road to address short and long term issues related to planned future growth.

In addition, it will look at operational and servicing deficiencies; standard intersection geometrics; road link capacity limitations and storm drainage deficiencies.

Peel staff will also review opportunities for pedestrian and bicycle access and need and feasibility of a grade separation at the Canadian National Railway (CNR) crossing.

Another area where an EA has been commenced is Dixie Road (Regional Road 4) from Queen Street to Mayfield Road.

Dixie Road is currently a four-lane road up to Countryside Drive and a two-lane rural road from Countryside Drive to Mayfield Road.

In addition to road improvements, the study will review opportunities to beef up public transit, as well as increase the capacity for bicycle traffic and pedestrian movement.

Officials said the EA process will include public review and agency consultation, an evaluation of road improvement alternatives, an assessment of the potential environmental effects of the proposed improvements, and identification of reasonable measures to address any adverse impacts that may result.

Upon completion of the study, an Environmental Study Report will be submitted to the Ministry of the Environment and made available for public review for a period of one month.

"Public consultation is vital to the success of this study," said Hitesh Topiwala, Peel project manager. "We want to ensure that anyone interested in this study has the opportunity to get involved and provide input."

The region plans to hold two Public Information Centres (PIC) during the study.

The "PICs" will provide background information on the study, comparative analysis of various alternatives and the technically preferred alternative.

For updates on the various projects visit online at www. www.peelregion.ca/pw/roads/environ-assess/.