The study process for this project will meet state and federal requirements meant to integrate environmental values and public interaction into transportation improvements. These requirements include the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21), the National Historic Preservation Act, Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Context Sensitive Solutions (CSS), among others.

Any transportation project involving the potential use of Federal funds must follow a project development process consisting of three phases. A Phase I or Preliminary Engineering Study defines transportation needs, identifies and evaluates alternatives and selects a preferred alternative. This process is accomplished through extensive stakeholder involvement and technical analysis.

After a preferred alternative is approved, Phase II Engineering (Contract Plans) and Right-of-Way Acquisition would begin. During this phase, detailed construction plans would be developed and any necessary land would be acquired for the project. Phase III is the physical construction of the project.

Phase I Engineering for the North DuSable Lake Shore Drive Project is being funded by Governor Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now Program. Phases II and III are not currently included in IDOT's FY 2023-2028 Proposed Highway Improvement Program.