The Southern Loop, a cross-country highway through Jackson County, has entered the planning phase. The planning phase could take five to 10 years, or even longer.

“We have just started to assess this project. We have just pulled it out and said ‘OK here’s what we need to do,’” said Teresa Hart with the Department of Transportation project development unit in Raleigh.

Here are some of the steps the planning phase entails:

• Select routes to study.

• Select alternatives to building a new highway, if any, to study.

• Assess the pros and cons of each route or alternative.

• Conduct environmental survey for endangered species, wetlands, impact to creeks and rivers, wildlife habitat, etc.

• Conduct survey of archaeological sites and historic properties that could be affected by construction.

• Conduct engineering assessment for getting through mountainous terrain and building bridges over the Tuckasegee River.

• Develop road designs.

• Estimate costs of right of way and construction.

• Hold public hearings, workshops and generally solicit public comment.