Challenging the Erie Bayfront Parkway Project

PennDOT’s pre-selected project design prioritizes cross-city commuters over the health, safety and bayfront access of downtown residents. The project further segments historically marginalized and environmental justice communities that reside within the project area in Erie’s downtown.

Clients

Regional Office / Program

Case Overview

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP – Erie Unit) and Citizens for Pennsylvania’s Future (PennFuture), represented by Earthjustice, filed a lawsuit challenging the Federal Highway Administration’s approval of the Categorical Exclusion for the Erie Bayfront Parkway Project.

The decision violates the National Environmental Policy Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, and the Federal Aid Highway Act. PennDOT failed to examine the project’s potentially significant impacts, including harms to water and air quality, which would fall primarily on neighbors living near the road.

The Erie Bayfront Parkway Project would involve drastic changes to three major intersections in downtown Erie. Erie residents have protested and expressed their opposition during city council hearings detailing their concern with the project’s design that prioritizes vehicles over pedestrians.

The lawsuit, filed with the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, seeks a full environmental analysis, as well as adequate and documented public review of alternative parkway project designs before expanding the Bayfront Parkway.

Aerial satellite map view of Bayfront Parkway in Erie, Penn.
Aerial satellite map view of Bayfront Parkway, a major road that runs through Erie, Penn.’s waterfront. ((c) 2021 Maxar / Microsoft Bing Maps)

Case Updates

August 29, 2022 document

Erie Bayfront Parkway Case: Motion for Preliminary Injunction

In light of PennDOT’s plan to begin construction during active lawsuit, Earthjustice and clients ask court for a motion for preliminary injunction calling for a pause.

August 29, 2022 Press Release

Earthjustice Asks For Preliminary Injunction in the Erie Bayfront Parkway Lawsuit

In light of PennDOT’s plan to begin construction during active lawsuit, Earthjustice and clients filed a motion for a preliminary injunction calling for a pause

February 10, 2021 In the News: Erie Reader

Erie's Highway Timeline