Marshalls Creek, a rural village located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, faced increased growth pressures as it rapidly grew in popularity as both a resort area and an attractive bedroom community for New York City. As a result, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation needed to find a solution to very serious traffic congestion problems along SR 0209, SR 0402, and Creek Road while maintaining the environmental resources for which the Pocono region is known.

RETTEW evaluated the wildlife habitat, completed threatened and endangered species studies, and classified and delineated more than 100 wetlands in a 3,500-acre study. GIS maps of the data helped regulatory agencies and the public assess the impact of each traffic relief alternative. RETTEW prepared the final environmental impact statement and the integrated National Environmental Policy Act/404 process permit applications for the preferred alternative. The construction of 3.5 miles of new limited-access roadway was deemed the best way to meet the transportation and safety needs of the region while minimizing environmental impacts. RETTEW also prepared final designs and provided construction oversight for 3.19 acres of compensatory wetland habitat, stream and terrestrial habitats, and provided follow-up monitoring for their success.