HomeMy WebLinkAbout20110916 Ver 1_Environmental Assessment_20091109Carver Street Extension
From Danube Lane (SR 1648)
To the Intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634)
Durham County
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
State Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant Impact
City of Durham
Document Prepared for the City of Durham by AECOM
APPROVED:
f l g tq
Date Ms. Kathryn b, PE
Director of Public Works
City of Durham
Date Mr. Eddie McFalls, PE
AECOM Technical Services of North Carolina SEAL
Raleigh, North Carolina a
6
Carver Street Extension
From Danube Lane (SR 1648)
To the Intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634)
Durham County
SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTMENTS
Impacts to water quality will be minimized through the implementation of best management practices
outlined in the Division of Water Quality's Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual (July,
2007). Additionally, in the 1999 petition establishing the project, the City of Durham Council committed
to utilizing best management practices for the protection of high quality waters.
Improvements to Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) will be achieved by holding the existing edge of the travel
lane along the east side of the road, so the Catsburg Store building and baseball field will not be
disturbed. However, some work beyond the edge of pavement may be required to install curb and gutter
and guardrail (since the building lies within the clear zone for the roadway).
During final design, additional hydraulic studies will be conducted to determine whether or not a larger
structure is needed under Danube Lane to compensate for any changes in the proposed roadway grade that
may be required if curb and gutter is extended to the existing three-lane section north of the creek. A No-
Rise certification will be pursued, as appropriate. During final design, extending the curb and gutter from
the existing three-lane section on Danube Lane to the proposed roundabout will be investigated in
conjunction with hydraulic studies and design. The presence of the floodplain and floodway may
preclude the installation of curb and gutter across the floodplain.
Although no impacts to the smooth coneflower and Michaux's sumac are currently anticipated, because
habitat exists along the project corridor, additional surveys should be conducted just prior to the initiation
of the construction phase of the project.
Carver Street Extension
From Danube Lane to the intersection of
Old Oxford Road and Hamlin Road
Durham County
SUMMARY
1. Type of Action -
This document is a State Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant Impact.
2. Description of Action -
The proposed project will construct an extension of Carver Street on new location, from its current
intersection with Danube Lane (SR 1648) to the intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin
Road (SR 1634), a distance of I mile. The project's location is shown in Figure 1. A three-lane typical
cross-section that provides one 12-foot wide through lane in each direction and a continuous left turn lane
is proposed. The proposed roadway includes 4-foot wide, striped bicycle lanes and 5-foot wide
sidewalks. Construction costs of the proposed improvements are estimated at $2,900,000.
3. Alternatives Considered -
In addition to the proposed improvements, the "No Build" Alternative was considered. Minor shifts in
the alignment were also considered. Alternative intersection designs were also considered at Danube
Lane (SR 1648) and Old Oxford Road (SR 1004).
4. Summary of Environmental Effects -
The proposed project is anticipated to impact 0.31 acres of wetland, 406 linear feet of stream, and
1.19 acres of riparian buffers. The proposed project will not impact any populations of threatened and
endangered species. Additionally, the proposed project will not require the relocation of any homes or
businesses and will not affect any historic resources. Impacts to water quality will be minimized through
the implementation of best management practices outlined in the Division of Water Quality's Stormwater
Best Management Practices Manual (July, 2007). Additionally, in the 1999 petition establishing the
project, the City of Durham Council committed to utilizing best management practices for the protection
of high quality waters.
5. Actions Required by Other Agencies -
The project will require a Section 404 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Individual Permit, a NC Division of
Water Quality Section 401 Water Quality Certification, and a letter of authorization for buffer impacts. In
addition, a No Rise Certification will be required from the floodplain administrator to ensure that any
proposed improvements at Danube Lane (SR 1648) will not result in an increase in base flood elevations
along Cub Creek.
6. Coordination - Federal, State, and local agencies were consulted during the preparation of this State
Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant Impact. Comments from the following agencies
were received and were considered during preparation of this assessment:
* * NC State Clearing House
* * State Historic. Preservation Office
* * NC Division of Water Quality
* * U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
State Environmental Assessment ii November 9. 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
7. Additional Information - Additional information concerning the proposed project and this State
Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant Impact can be obtained by contacting one of the
following:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
Stale Environmental Assessment iii November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Table of Contents
SUMMARY ................................................................................................................................................. ii
1. . General Description of Proposed Action ..........................................................................................I
II. Purpose and Need ............................................................................................................................... I
A. Purpose of Project ............................................................................................................................ 1
B. Need for Project ............................................................................................................................... I
1. Functional Classification and System Linkage ............................................................................ 1
2. Transportation and Land Use Plans .............................................................................................2
3. Traffic Operations .......................................................................................................................4
C. Benefits of Proposed Project ............................................................................................................5
III. Proposed Improvements and Alternatives Studied ....................................................................5
A. Recommended Improvements .........................................................................................................5
1. Project Termini ............................................................................................................................5
2. Proposed Alignment .................................. ..................................................................................5
3. Typical Section .......................................... ..................................................................................6
4. Proposed Right of Way / Access Control .. ..................................................................................6
5. Intersections ............................................... .................................................................................. I 6
6. Drainage Structures ................................... ..................................................................................6
7. Design Speed ............................................. ..................................................................................6
8. Sidewalks / Landscaped Berm ................... .................................................................................. 6
9. Bicycle Accommodations .......................... ..................................................................................6
10. Railroad Crossings ................................ ..................................................................................6
11 . Construction Costs ................................ ..................................................................................7
B. Alternatives Considered ................................. ..................................................................................7
1. "No-Build" Alternative .............................. ..................................................................................7
2. Alternative Intersection Treatments .......... ..................................................................................7
3. Alignment Alternatives .............................. ..................................................................................7
IV. Environmental Effects of Proposed Action .................................................................................7
A. Natural Resources ........................................... .................................................................................7
1. Physical Resources ..................................... .................................................................................8
2. Jurisdictional Topics ................................... .................................................................................9
B. Cultural Resources .......................................... ............................................................................... 13
C. Section 6(I) ..................................................... ............................................................................... 13
D. Social Effects / Community Impacts .............. ............................................................................... 13
State Environmental Assessment IV November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
I . Demographics/Socio-Economics ............................................................................................... 13
2. Neighborhoods/Communities .................................................................................................... 14
3. Relocation of Residences and Businesses ................................................................................. 15
4. Environmental Justice ................................................................................................................ 15
5. Recreational Facilities ............................................................................................................... 15
6. Railroad Crossings ..................................................................................................................... 15
7. Utilities ...................................................................................................................................... 15
E. Land Use and Zoning ..................................................................................................................... 15
F. Farmland ........................................................................................................................................ 16
G. Indirect and Cumulative Effects .................................................................................................... 16
H. Flood Hazard Evaluation ............................................................................................................... 17
1. Traffic Noise Analysis ................................................................................................................... 17
J. Air Quality ..................................................................................................................................... 19
K. Hazardous Materials Evaluation .................................................................................................... 19
V. C omments and Coordination .......................................................................................................... 19
A. Agency Coordination and Comments Received ............................................................................ 19
B. Public Meetings ............................................................................................................................. 20
VI. Basis for State Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant Impact ..................... 20
State Environmental Assessment v November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
List of Tables
Table 1. Estimated Area of Impacted Terrestrial Communities
Table 2. Waters of the U.S. Impacts
Table 3. Federally Protected Species in Forsyth County
Table 4. Economic Data
Table 5. Noise Abatement Criteria
Table 6. Defined Substantial Noise Increases
List of Figures
Figure 1. Vicinity Map with Functional Classifications
Figure 2. Typical Section
Figure 3. Existing Peak Hour Traffic Volumes (2009)
Figure 4. Future Peak Hour Traffic Volumes (2029)
Figure 5. Proposed Improvements and Environmental Features
Figure 6. Future Land Use
Figure 7. List of Appendices
Appendix A. City of Durham Resolution
Appendix B. Agency Coordination
Appendix C. USACE Jurisdictional Determinations and DWQ Determinations
State Environmental Assessment vi November
Finding of No Significant Impact
I. General Description of Proposed Action
The proposed project will construct an extension of Carver Street on new location, from its current
intersection with Danube Lane (SR 1648) to the intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin
Road (SR 1634), a distance of 1 mile. The project's location is shown in Figure 1. A three-lane typical
cross-section that provides one 12-foot wide through lane in each direction and a continuous left turn lane
is proposed. The proposed roadway includes 4-foot wide, striped bicycle lanes and 5-foot wide
sidewalks. The typical section for the project is shown in Figure 2. The construction of a roundabout is
proposed at the intersection of Carver Street and Danube Lane (SR 1648); and the existing traffic signal at
the intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634) will be retained and
modified.
The concept for the proposed project was established through a City Council resolution in 1999 that
identified improvements to the transportation network in northeast Durham. The purpose of the Carver
Street Extension is to enhance east-west access by providing access from areas in northeast of Durham,
served by Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634), to major routes that intersect
existing Carver Street, west of the project area. These routes include Roxboro Road, Duke Street, Guess
Road, and Hillandale Road. The proposed extension of Carver Street is also a future local bus, transit
route. Additionally, the extension will divert some traffic from busy intersections in the area, thereby
providing some reduction in travel delays. The proposed project is included in 2035 Long Range
Transportation Plan (May, 2009) and in the City's 2010-2015 Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
The CIP includes $2,635,000 for right of way acquisition in fiscal year 2011-2012 and $6,310,000 for
construction in 2012-2013.
H. Purpose and Need
A. Purpose of Project
The purpose of the project is to improve east-west transportation network connectivity in the project area
and improve traffic operations at nearby intersections. The extension will connect to existing Carver
Street and provide a continuous east-west route from areas in northeast of Durham, served by Old Oxford
Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634), to major routes that intersect existing Carver Street,
including Roxboro Road, Duke Street, Guess Road, and Hillandale Road. Additionally, the extension
will divert some traffic from busy intersections in the area, providing some reduction in travel delays.
B. Need for Project
1. Functional Classification and System Linkage
In the immediate project area, Carver Street is a city-maintained, local road. West of the project area
(from Roxboro Road (US 501 Business) west), Carver Street is designated as a collector in the statewide
functional classification system. Existing Carver Street provides east-west connectivity within North-
Central Durham, connecting north-south routes such as Hillandale Road (SR 1321), Guess Road
(NC 157), Duke Street (US 501), and Roxboro Road (US 501 Business). Carver Street connects
residential areas with commercial development that lies along NC 157 (Guess Road), Duke Street
(US 501), and Roxboro Road (US 501 Business). East of Roxboro Road, Carver Street currently ends at
Danube Lane (SR 1648). Of these routes, Duke Street (US 501), and Roxboro Road (US 501 Business)
are classified as principal arterials. Guess Road (NC 157) is classified as a minor arterial and Hillandale
Environmental Assessment 1 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Road (SR 1321) is classified as a collector. South and east of the proposed project, Old Oxford Road
(SR 1004) is classified as a minor arterial, and Hamlin Road (SR 1634) is classified as a collector.
Functional classifications of roadways in the project area are shown on the vicinity map, Figure 1. Old
Oxford Road (SR 1004) forms a "T" intersection with Roxboro Road (US 501 Business) approximately
0.5 mile south of Roxboro Road's intersection with Carver Street.
Motorists desiring to travel between portions of the city west of Roxboro Road (US 501 Business),
including all major north-south routes, and areas served by Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road
(SR 1634) must make several turns and use one or more of the following routes: Denfield Street
(SR 1641), Hebron Road (SR 1666), or Danube Lane (SR 1648). Extending Carver Street from Danube
Lane to the intersection of Old Oxford Road and Hamlin Road would provide a final link in a collector
that would extend from Hillandale Road (SR 1321) and portions of west Durham to Red Mill Road
(SR 1632) in the eastern portion of the county.
2. Transportation and Land Use Plans
The need for the Carver Street extension project is demonstrated by its inclusion in and consistency with
transportation and land use plans in the project area. These plans are described below.
a) Transportation Plans
The Durham-Chapel Hill Metropolitan Planning Organization (DCHC MPO) is the lead agency
responsible for facilitating the transportation planning process in the Durham, Chapel Hill and Carrboro
Planning Area. The MPO works with local governments and the North Carolina Department of
Transportation to develop transportation plans, travel models, highway and collector plans, transit plans,
and bicycle and pedestrian plans. The DCHC MPO Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) adopted
the 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) on May 13, 2009. The 2035 Long Range
Transportation Plan guides transportation investments and includes goals and objectives for the region's
transportation system. The plan addresses several topics including the need for a multi-modal street and
highway system, public transportation needs, bicycle and pedestrian needs, the integration of land use and
transportation, the protection of natural and social systems, safety and security, and freight transportation.
The extension of Carver Street is included in the 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan. The plan shows
the extension as being open for traffic between 2009 and 2015.
The Durham Comprehensive Bicycle Plan was adopted in 2006. The plan provides a comprehensive
approach to identifying bicycle needs and deficiencies. It includes a new route network to address those
deficiencies, and recommends design and policy improvements, and implementation strategies for the
development of quality bicycle facilities and programs. The Durham Comprehensive Bicycle
Transportation Plan identifies the need for four-foot bicycle lanes on Carver Street, Danube Lane
(SR 1648), and Old Oxford Road (SR 1004). In addition, the plan shows a planned off-road bicycle
facility to be provided along Cub Creek.
b) Comprehensive Planning
The Durham Comprehensive Plan, approved in 2005, provides policy direction for how the local
government and its citizens want to grow and develop. The plan covers both the City and the County's
jurisdictional areas, guides growth and development, and addresses the provision of public facilities and
services. The plan utilizes an Urban Growth Area (UGA) boundary as a tool to manage its physical
growth.
The Durham Comprehensive Plan transportation policies seek to ensure that streets function in an
interdependent manner, provide access for emergency and service vehicles, and provide for a street
system that operates within the adopted level of service and reduces demands on thoroughfares. The plan
recommends appropriate land uses, parking requirements, and development regulations for incorporation
Environmental Assessment 2 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
into the City's Unified Development Ordinance that encourage compact, mixed use, transit-friendly,
bicycle-friendly, and pedestrian-friendly development.
The plan's policies direct the City and County to require connectivity within new developments and
between new developments and existing development, where feasible, with street connections to adjacent
areas in each direction, where feasible. The proposed extension of Carver Street will provide such
connectivity and is therefore consistent with the Durham Comprehensive Plan.
c) Zoning I Future Land Use
The City of Durham's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), adopted in 2006, regulates land use
within the City and the project area. The Durham Zoning Atlas designates the area in the immediate
vicinity of the intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634) as a commercial
node. This commercial node has two zoning districts; commercial center, and commercial neighborhood.
The area is designated on the City's Future Land Use Map as Central Business District. The land use plan
clusters commercial uses at intersections of major thoroughfares to create nodes and discourage
encroachment into residential areas. The Carver Street Extension will provide a direct connection to the
commercial land use node.
Future land uses along the project corridor are shown in Figures 6a and 6b. The majority of the project
corridor extends through areas designated as low-medium and medium density residential. Some areas
designated as Recreation and Open Space are present along the west end of the corridor. The Recreation
and Open Space area generally follows the floodplain surrounding Cub Creek. Near the west end of the
project, the corridor crosses through land designated for industrial and commercial uses. It should be
noted that industrial uses are required to have direct access to either Major Thoroughfares, Minor
Thoroughfares, or Collector Streets to protect the character of surrounding neighborhoods.
d) City Council Resolution
On June 7, 1999, the Durham City Council passed a resolution in support of the construction of a
Northern Durham Parkway project and associated roadway improvements in lieu of the Durham
Northwest and Northeast Loop. The Northwest and Northeast Loop project was also known as Eno
Drive. The extension of Carver Street as a three-lane roadway to the intersection of Old Oxford Road
(SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634) was included as one of the road improvements to be planned in
lieu of Eno Drive. The extension is included in the City of Durham's Capital Improvements Program.
The Northern Durham Parkway supported in the resolution is not currently funded in the Capital
Improvements Program or the North Carolina Department of Transportation's 2009-2015 Transportation
Improvement Program. A copy of the resolution is included in Appendix A.
e) Transit
Public transportation in the project vicinity is provided by the Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA).
DATA transports 13,000 people daily. They have 19 weekly routes, operating between 5:30 a.m. and
12:00 midnight Monday through Friday, and from 6:30 a.m. through 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and holidays.
DATA provides the following services:
Fixed Route. DATA has bus stops throughout the city. Bus stop locations are placed every few
blocks along regular routes. DATA operates 17 weekday bus routes. All routes are wheelchair
accessible, and all buses have bike racks.
ACCESS. DATA provides curb-to-curb service for eligible disabled and elderly residents of
Durham and Durham County.
• Bike & Ride. DATA's bike racks allow riders to extend their trip by biking to or from a bus stop.
Riders can bike part of the way and connect with a bus route.
Environmental Assessment 3 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
In the 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan, local bus service is anticipated to be provided along the
Carver Street extension in the future.
3. Traffic Operations
Existing (2009) and future (2029) peak hour traffic volumes are presented in Figures 3 and 4. Existing
peak hour volumes were obtained by projecting peak hour traffic counts taken in 2008. Traffic volumes
were generated for the Carver Street extension by relocating fifty percent of the movements that could
logically utilize the extension as a new route between Roxboro Road (US 501 Business) and Old Oxford
Road (SR 1004). This includes fifty percent of the traffic traveling to and from Hamlin Road (SR 1634)
and the northern segment of Old Oxford Road, fifty percent of traffic turning to and from Carver Street to
Danube Lane (SR 1648), and fifty percent of traffic turning to and from'the northern section of Roxboro
Road (US 501 Business) and Old Oxford Road (SR 1004).
Traffic volumes for the years 2009 and 2029 were projected using the following annual growth rates
• Roxboro Road growth rate - 2%
• Old Oxford Road growth rate - 2%
• Carver Street growth rate - 5.4%
• Hebron Road growth rate - 5.4%
• Hamlin Road growth rate - 2%
• Danube Lane growth rate - 5%
Highway capacity analyses were conducted on several intersections in the project area to determine
existing and future levels of service and delays. The highway capacity analyses were based on
methodologies from the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM 2000), Special Report 209. Traffic modeling
software used in the capacity analyses included HCS+, Synchro 7.0, and SimTraffic 7.0.
Highway and intersection performance is usually described using "level of service." Level of service
(LOS) is a qualitative measure describing operational conditions within a traffic stream and at
intersections. At intersections, LOS is based on delay. Six LOS, ranging from A to F represent defined
operational characteristics, with LOS A as the best operating conditions. LOS E and F are considered to
be undesirable LOS associated with frequent and long delays.
Currently, in the peak hour, the existing intersection of Danube Lane (SR 1648) and Carver Street
operates at LOS B and motorists experience an average delay of approximately 11 seconds per vehicle.
In 2029, without improvements, the intersection will operate at LOS F, and average delays will reach 53
seconds. If the proposed project is constructed, the intersection is expected to operate at LOS B, with
delays of 17 seconds.
The existing intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634) currently operates
at LOS C in the peak hour, with average vehicle delays of 29 seconds. In 2029, the existing intersection
is anticipated to operate at LOS F, with average delays of 65 seconds. With the proposed improvements,
the intersection is anticipated to operate at LOS D, with average delays of 54 seconds.
In addition, the proposed project is anticipated to incrementally reduce average vehicle delays at the
intersections of Old Oxford Road (SR 1005) with Roxboro Road (US 501 Business) and Hebron Road
(SR 1666). These two intersections are still anticipated to operate at LOS F in 2029, even if the Carver
Street Extension is constructed; but, because some traffic will be diverted from these intersections, the
project will have some limited benefit to operations at these intersections. This incremental decrease in
anticipated delays at these intersections is a benefit, but is not the primary purpose of the project, which is
enhancing transportation network connectivity.
Environmental Assessment 4 November 9. 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
C. Benefits of Proposed Project
The proposed project will enhance the transportation network in north-central Durham by providing a
continuous east-west route. The project is expected to have an overall positive effect on community
stability and neighborhood cohesion. The provision of bicycle lanes and sidewalks on both sides of
Carver Street will improve non-motorized mobility in the area. Roadway improvements will provide new
access and connectivity that will improve traffic flow and property access. Additionally, the proposed
roadway is identified as a future local bus, transit route.
The proposed project may have a positive economic effect with respect to property values, due to new and
improved access to both residential properties and to the commercial node at the intersection of Old
Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634). Development interest in vacant and underutilized
properties and in commercial properties at the commercial node may increase.
111. Proposed Improvements and Alternatives Studied
A. Recommended Improvements
The proposed project will construct an extension of Carver Street on new location, from its current
intersection with Danube Lane (SR 1648) to the intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin
Road (SR 1634), a distance of 1 mile. The project's location is shown in Figure 1. A three-lane typical
cross-section that provides one 12-foot wide through lane in each direction and a continuous left turn lane
is proposed. The proposed alignment is shown in Figures 5a and 5b. The recommended improvements
are detailed below.
1. Project Termini
The proposed project begins at the existing intersection of Carver Street and Danube Lane (SR 1648).
West of this intersection, existing Carver Street is striped as a two-lane roadway and has a 36-foot wide
roadway width. Existing Carver Street has curb and gutter and sidewalks and is located on an 85-foot
wide right of way. Existing Danube Lane has a 60-foot right of way. South of the Carver Street
intersection, Danube Lane is a two-lane road. North of Carver Street and Cub Creek, Danube Lane is
36 feet wide and has curb and gutter and sidewalks. A 60-inch pipe carries Cub Creek under Danube
Lane. Both Carver Street and Danube Lane have posted speed limits of 35 mph.
The proposed project ends at the existing intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road
(SR 1634). East of this intersection, Hamlin Road (SR 1634) is a two-lane roadway on a 75-foot wide
right of way. Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) is also a two lane road on a 60-foot right of way. Hamlin
Road and Old Oxford Road both have posted speed limits of 45 mph.
2. Proposed Alignment
The proposed alignment is shown in Figures 5a and 5b. The alignment connects existing Carver Street
to Hamlin Road (SR 1634). The alignment was developed in a manner to minimize impacts to streams,
wetlands, and ponds to the extent practicable, while maintaining acceptable approach angles to
intersecting routes.
Environmental Assessment 5 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
3. Typical Section
The proposed typical section will provide one 12-foot wide lane through lane in each direction and a
continuous left turn lane. The proposed typical section includes 4-foot wide, striped bicycle lanes and
5-foot wide sidewalks. The typical section for the project is shown in Figure 2.
4. Proposed Right of Way / Access Control
The proposed project will generally require a right of way width of 120 feet. Additional right of way will
also be need along intersecting roadways. In addition, some construction and drainage easements will be
required. No control of access is proposed.
5. Intersections
The proposed project intersects three existing roads and two platted streets. The construction of a
roundabout is proposed at the intersection of Carver Street and Danube Lane (SR 1648). Turn-outs will
be provided at the two platted streets. An unsignalized intersection is proposed at Cub Creek Road (SR
1655). The Cub Creek Road approaches will be controlled with stop signs. The proposed project will tie
into the existing intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634). The existing
traffic signal at the intersection will be modified to accommodate the addition of the Carver Street
approach.
6. Drainage Structures
A preliminary hydraulics study was conducted to identify major drainage structures (larger than a 72-inch
pipe) that would be required for the project. Additional, more detailed hydraulic studies will be done
during the design phase of the project. Based on the initial study, it is anticipated that two box culverts
will be required. The first is a 7'X7' box culvert proposed at Unnamed Stream Channel (CH) 2, shown
on Figure 5a. The culvert is located within the FEMA-designated, I00-year floodplain of Cub Creek, but
not in an area where detailed flood elevations have been determined. The second culvert is a 5'X9' box
culvert proposed at CH 6, shown on Figure 5b. This culvert does not lie within a designated FEMA
floodplain. Other drainage crossings are anticipated to be conveyed by pipe culverts. Floodplain issues
are discussed in more detail in Section H of this report.
7. Design Speed
The proposed design speed for the Carver Street Extension project is 40 mph. It is anticipated that the
roadway would be signed at 35 mph.
8. Sidewalks/ Landscaped Berm
Five-foot wide sidewalks within 15-foot wide berms are proposed along both sides of the project. The
additional berm width is provided so a landscaped strip can be provided between the curb and gutter and
sidewalk.
9. Bicycle Accommodations
Four-foot wide bicycle lanes will be provided along both sides of the proposed roadway.
10. Railroad Crossings
A Norfolk Southern railroad corridor crosses Hamlin Road (SR 1634), just east of its intersection with
Old Oxford Road (SR 1004). Although the tracks have been removed, the proposed project will be
designed so that no right of way will be required from the railroad.
Environmental Assessment 6 November 9. 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
11. Construction Costs
A preliminary construction cost estimate was prepared during the development of this environmental
assessment. Construction costs for the recommended improvements are estimated at $2,900,000.
B. Alternatives Considered
The following alternatives were considered in addition to the recommended improvements:
1. "No-Build" Alternative
The "No-Build" alternative serves as the baseline condition for comparison with the recommended
improvements. The No-Build alternative would not require acquisition of property for right-of-way, alter
any biotic communities or affect water resources. However, the No-Build Alternative would not provide
the network connectivity provided by the recommended improvements.
2. Alternative Intersection Treatments
A signalized intersection was considered in lieu of the proposed roundabout at Danube Lane (SR 1648).
However, the roundabout was recommended because it operates at an acceptable level of service, does
not result in excessive queuing of traffic, and does not require the construction of a turn lane on Danube
Lane through the FEMA-designated 100-Year floodplain and floodway.
The construction of a roundabout was considered in lieu of the signalized intersection at Old Oxford Road
(SR 1004). The roundabout would operate at an acceptable level of service, but queue would be
anticipated to develop on Old Oxford Road (SR 1004). For this reason, and the fact that a traffic signal is
already present at the intersection, the modification of the existing traffic signal was recommended.
3. Alignment Alternatives
Due to the short length of the project, and the need to tie in to these existing intersections, major variances
from the current alignment could not be studied. The current alignment developed from similar
alignments, as modifications were made to try and minimize impacts to streams and wetlands.
IV. Environmental Effects of Proposed Action
A. Natural Resources
Natural resources investigations were conducted to inventory, catalog, and describe the various natural
resources present along the proposed corridor and quantify potential impacts. Published information and
resources were collected prior to a field investigation. Information sources used to prepare for the field
investigation and this portion of the environmental assessment included the following:
• USGS quadrangle maps (Northeast Durham, NC, Northwest Durham, NC, 1973).
• Aerial photography of project area (1 inch = 100 feet)
• Soil Survey of Durham County Area (Natural Resources Conservation Service [MRCS], 1971)
• USFWS list of protected and candidate species
• NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) files of rare species and unique habitats
Environmental Assessment 7 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
A general field survey was conducted along the proposed project route by AECOM biologists on
January 8, 2009. Water resources were identified and their physical characteristics were recorded. Plant
communities and their associated wildlife were identified using a variety of observation techniques,
including active searching, visual observations, and identifying characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds,
tracks, scats, and burrows). Terrestrial community classifications generally follow Schafale and Weakley
(1990) where appropriate and plant taxonomy follows Radford et al. (1968).
Jurisdictional wetlands were evaluated and delineated based on criteria established in the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (USACE, 1987). Wetlands were classified based on
Cowardin et al. (1979).
1. Physical Resources
The proposed project is located within the City of Durham and Durham County. The project is in north-
central North Carolina within the Triassic Basin eco-region, and is located within the Piedmont
physiographic province. The topography in the project area is generally rolling and is crossed by several
stream channels that flow into Cub Creek. Elevations in the project area range from approximately 300 to
360 feet (National Geodetic Vertical Datum, 1929).
a) Soils
The majority of the project corridor is dominated by Iredell Soils (IrB and IrC). Iredell loam (IrB) is a
moderately drained soil located on broad ridges and uplands with 2 to 6 percent slopes. Iredell loam (IrC)
has 6 to 10 percent slopes and is located on narrow, upland sideslopes. The soils have high shrink-swell
potential. The soils are slowly permeable and infiltration is moderate and runoff is medium to rapid.
Chewacla and Wehadkee soils (Ch) are the only hydric soils mapped near the corridor. These soils are
present along stream channels in the corridor. Other soils mapped along the corridor include: White
Store sandy loam (WsC), Creedmoor sandy loam (CrB and CrC), Gullied land (Gu), Wilkes sandy loam
(WxE), and Mayodan sandy loam (Mf 3).
b) Water Resources
The project is located entirely in the Eno River drainage of the Upper Neuse River Watershed (Watershed
Management Unit 03020201). The Eno River flows into the Neuse River/ Falls Lake and eventually into
the Atlantic Ocean.
Cub Creek and the Eno River are classified as WS-IV, NSW. Water Supply IV (WS-IV) waters are
waters used as sources of water supply for drinking, culinary, or food processing purposes where a WS-I,
II or III classification is not feasible. These waters are also protected for Class C uses. WS-IV waters are
generally in moderately to highly developed watersheds or Protected Areas. Nutrient Sensitive Waters
(NSW) is a supplemental classification intended for waters needing additional nutrient management due
to being subject to excessive growth of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation. Impacts to water quality
will be minimized through the implementation of best management practices as described in the North
Carolina Division of Water Quality's Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual (July, 2007).
Additionally, in the 1999 resolution that established the proposed project, the Durham City Council
committed to implementing those best management practices associated with the protection of high
quality waters.
C) Biotic Resources
The proposed project lies primarily in a relatively undeveloped area, partially within the City of Durham.
Only a few residential areas are located in the study corridor, however, much of the land has been
disturbed. Four terrestrial communities were identified within the project area: Pine/hardwood forest,
Environmental Assessment 8 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
clear-cut, a disturbed/residential community, and successional forest. These communities are described
below.
a Pine/hardwood Forest - This community consists of forest types where the canopy is dominated
by a mixture of pine and hardwood species. Shortleaf pine was dominant along with a mixture of
oaks (Quercus sp.), and other hardwoods such as sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciJ7ua) and red
maple (Ater rubrum).
• Clear-cut - This community includes habitat that consists of recently timbered forests. Typically
woody debris is scattered throughout the timbered area and the vegetation is characterized by
early successional shrub and herb species responding to the new availability of unhindered
sunlight. Additionally, remaining stumps will often begin re-sprouting following harvest.
Disturbed Community - This community includes habitats that have recently been or are
currently impacted by human disturbance including regularly maintained roadside shoulders,
utility right-of-ways, residential/businesses areas. These habitats are kept in a low-growing,
manicured state consisting primarily of horticultural plantings and occasional volunteer species.
The residential/business areas include maintained yards and gardens, outbuildings, and various
businesses. In addition to grasses and low growing weeds, various landscape plantings were
present in the maintained yards.
• Successional Forest - Successional forest communities are a transitional stage between the
harvest and developing a closed canopy. Early successional species are still present but
shrub/tree species begin acquiring significant heights to begin out competing the grasses and
early successional herbs.
Table 1 shows the terrestrial communities and anticipated impacts.
Table 1. Estimated Area of Impacted Terrestrial Communities
Community Type stimated Area Impacted acres
Disturbed 10.2
Early successional .4
Pine forest .2
Mixed pine-hardwood forest .3
Total Area 11.1
2. Jurisdictional Topics
Following initial stream and wetland surveys, a field meeting was held with the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers on April 9, 2009 to discuss the jurisdictional status of streams in the project area. Based on the
field meeting, the Corps of Engineers provided a Jurisdictional Determination, dated July 22, 2009,
indicating which waters in the project area are subject to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Likewise, a
field meeting was held with staff from the Division of Water Quality on April 16, 2009 to discuss the
project, ephemeral, intermittent, and perennial stream determinations, Neuse River Watershed buffer
determinations, and wetland determinations. Copies of the Corps of Engineers' Jurisdictional
Determination and Division of Water Quality Stream determination are included in Appendix B.
a) Surface Waters and Wetlands
Surface Waters
Five jurisdictional streams are present in the study corridor. These streams are shown in Figures 5a and
5b. These streams are all located in the Eno River watershed (Neuse River Basin) and thus fall under the
Environmental Assessment 9 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Neuse Riparian Buffer Protection Rules. Under these rules each stream has a protected riparian buffer that
extends 50 feet outward from the stream bank that is divided into two zones having differing levels of
buffer protection stipulations.
Cub Creek and Channel 2 are perennial streams. One tributary, Pond 1, is actually a beaver impounded
perennial stream and is classified as ponded water for impact calculations. Pond 2 is an artificial
impoundment that drains into a tributary of Cub Creek.
In the vicinity of the project, Cub Creek is approximately six to eight feet wide and has a broad
floodplain. It has a sand/gravel substrate and exhibited strong flow during the site visit.
Channel 2 is a small, perennial stream, approximately four to six feet in width. This stream had strong
flow during the field visit and has a gravel/cobble substrate.
Channels 3, 4, and 5 are small, intermittent streams. All of these streams are small streams approximately
two to four feet wide and have a sand/gravel/cobble substrate. The bed and bank were well-defined in
each of these streams and flow was observed in all of them. Amphipods and isopods, fauna typical of
intermittent streams, were common in these streams.
Wetlands
Five wetland areas of moderate to low quality were identified in the study corridor. These wetlands are
labeled in Figures 5a and 5b. Wetlands I and 2 can be categorized as palustrine scrub/shrub wetlands
with broad-leaved deciduous vegetation. Wetlands 3-5 are classified as intermittent riverine streambed
wetlands.
Wetland 1 is 0.5 acres in size and is located along Cub Creek and one of its tributaries. This wetland is a
floodplain wetland that is of moderate quality due to its location in a developed watershed. It was
formerly a bottomland hardwood forest floodplain but has been recently timbered. Vegetation consists
primarily of shrubs resprouting from stumps and perennial herbaceous plants. No impacts will occur to
this wetland as a result of the project.
Wetland 2 is 0.8 acres in size and is adjacent to a pond located on an unnamed tributary to Cub Creek.
This wetland is also of moderate quality and is a former headwater forest that was timbered within the last
decade and has been utilized as part of an unpaved road from Old Oxford Highway to the adjacent pond.
Vegetation in this wetland ranges from perennial herbaceous plants to shrubs of approximately 10 years
of age. The project is anticipated to impact 0.27 acres of this wetland.
Wetland 3 is 0.03 acres in size and is a low quality linear wetland that occupies a channel draining into
Pond 2 and exhibits no flow but relatively permanent hydrology. Vegetation consists of primarily hydric
herbaceous species with a loosely scattered distribution. No impacts will occur to this wetland as a result
of the project.
Wetland 4 is 0.09 acres in size and is also a linear wetland of low quality. It occupies a channel that
drains into Wetland 3. There was no flow evident in this channel either but the majority of the channel
exhibited saturated hydric soils. Hydric herbaceous and woody species were present in scattered locations
throughout the wetland. A small bowl-like area had standing water during the field visit. No impacts will
occur to this wetland as a result of the project.
Wetland 5 is 0.06 acres in size and is a linear wetland of low quality that occupies a channel that drains
into Wetland 4. There was no flow evident in this channel but the majority of the channel exhibited
saturated hydric soils. Hydric herbaceous and woody species were again present in scattered locations
throughout the wetland. No impacts will occur to this wetland as a result of the project.
Table 2 summarizes anticipated project impacts to wetlands, streams, and stream buffers established by
the Neuse River Basin Buffer Rules.
Environmental Assessment 10 November 9. 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Table 2. Waters of the U.S. Impacts
Resource Impacts (Acres) Impacts (Linear
Feet) Buffer Impacts
(Zone 7) Acres Buffer Impacts (Zone 2)
Wetland 1 0.0 NA NA NA
Wetland 2 0.27 NA NA NA
Wetland 3 0.0 NA NA NA
Wetland 4 0.0 NA NA NA
Wetland 5 0.0 NA NA NA
Cub Creek NA 0.0 0.00 0.00
Channel2 NA 47.5 0.06 0.03
Channel3 NA 0.00 0.00 0.00
Channel4 NA 134.9 0.20 0.12
Channel s NA 223.1 0.30 0.17
Pond 1 0.00 NA 0.00 0.00
Pond 2 0.04 NA 0.16 0.15
Totals 0.31 406 0.72 0.47
b) Permits
An Individual Section 404 Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will be required for the
proposed project. The project is not eligible for a Nationwide Permit because there will be greater than
300 linear feet of total stream impacts. The Individual Permit will require a full public interest review,
including public notices and coordination with involved agencies, interested parties and the general
public. Wetland and stream mitigation will be required for the project.
Additionally an Individual 401 Certification will be required from the North Carolina Division of Water
Quality (NCDWQ) for the Individual 404 Permit from the USACOE to be valid. Being that the project
lies in the Eno River basin (part of the Neuse River watershed) the Neuse Riparian Buffer Protection
Rules will apply to streams and ponds in the project area. The buffer rules shall apply to a 50 foot wide
riparian zone that is directly adjacent to intermittent and perennial streams, ponds, lakes, and estuaries.
This rule does not apply to wetlands. Road crossings are an allowable action in the riparian buffer but
will require mitigation. A request for a No Practicable Alternatives determination will be required before
a written authorization for the project to proceed will be issued by NCDWQ.
c) Federally Protected Species
Plants and animals with a federal classification of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered
(PE), and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The USFWS lists three federally protected species for
Durham County as of January 23, 2009 (USFWS, 2009): smooth coneflower (Echinacea laevigato),
Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii), and bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). Table 3 lists each
species, its status, and whether or not habitat is present along the corridor.
Environmental Assessment 11 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Table 3. Federally Protected Species in Durham County
Common Name Scientific Name Status Potential Habitat Present
Vertebrates
Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus BGPA No
Vascular Plants
Smooth coneflower Echinacea laevigata E Yes
Michaux's sumac Rhus michauxii E Yes
Notes: E
T
BGPA Endangered-A species that is threatened with extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its
range.
Threatened-A species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future
throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
Federally protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
Two federally Endangered species occur in Durham County. Michaux's sumac and smooth coneflower
are Federally-listed as Endangered. Both species prefer open habitats that receive significant sunlight and
have little overstory competition. Smooth coneflower also requires neutral or alkaline soils rich in
calcium or magnesium and having good drainage (Virginia DNH, 2008). Habitat of this type occurs in
the project study area in the eastern portion of the project along and west of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004).
Additionally, this area has been designated by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program as the
Hebron Road Remnant Glade Significant Natural Heritage Area (a natural area of state-level significance
due to the moderately high number of rare species located in it) (see Figure 5b). An existing population
of smooth coneflower currently exists in this identified natural heritage area approximately 3000 feet
north of the study area.
AECOM biologists surveyed the suitable habitat within the study corridor for the presence of smooth
coneflower and Michaux's sumac on June 3, 2009. Smooth coneflower was found to be in full bloom at
known sites outside the immediate project area (along Hebron Road and Penny's Bend Nature Preserve)
the day of the survey verifying the correct timing of the survey. No smooth coneflower or Michaux's
sumac plants were observed within the study corridor. However, some areas did support many of the co-
occurring species found with the smooth coneflower at the reference sites. These included two state rare
species observed within the study corridor: glade wild quinine (Parthenium auriculatum; NC
Significantly Rare) and prairie dock (Silphium terebinthinaceum; NC Significantly Rare). The occurrence
of these plants indicates that the alkaline soils favored by smooth coneflower are present in the study area.
Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxu)
Biological Conclusion No Effect
Although habitat exists in the project area for Michaux's sumac, no individual plants were identified
during project surveys. Therefore, the project is anticipated to have no effect on the species.
Environmental Assessment 12 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Smooth coneflower (Echinacea laevigata)
Biological Conclusion No Effect
Although habitat exists in the project area for smooth coneflower, no individual plants were identified
during project surveys. Therefore, the project is anticipated to have no effect on the species.
Although no impacts to these species are currently anticipated, because habitat exists along the project
corridor, additional surveys should be conducted just prior to the initiation of the construction phase of
the project.
B. Cultural Resources
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires that the properties and sites listed in or
eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places be considered in the planning of federal
undertakings. Federal undertakings include not only federally funded projects, but also locally and state
funded projects that are federally licensed, permitted, or approved by the federal government. The
proposed project will require a Corps of Engineers Section 404 permit, so Section 106 applies. However,
in a June 6, 2009 letter (included in Appendix B) the State Historic Preservation Office stated in a June 6,
2008 letter that they were aware of no historic resources in the project area. SHPO did not recommend an
historic architectural resources or archaeological survey be conducted for the project. .
The Catsburg Store, located southeast of the Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) / Hamlin Road (SR 1634)
intersection, was previously identified as being on the State Study List along with the former Cat Belvin
House, which has been razed. Although in disrepair, the store is a local landmark. Improvements to Old
Oxford Road (SR 1004) will be achieved by holding the existing edge of pavement so the building will
not be disturbed. However, some work beyond the edge of pavement may be required to install curb and
gutter and guardrail (since the building lies within the clear zone for the roadway).
C. Section 6(f)
Section 6(0 of the Land and Water Conservation Act of 1965 prohibits the conversion of any recreation
area developed with assistance from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to other uses
without the approval of the U.S. Department of the Interior. The Department of the Interior can only
approve such conversions if "the substitution of other recreation properties of at least equal fair market
value and or reasonable equivalent usefulness and location" can be ensured. The Natural Heritage
Program is the designated administering agency for the LWCF in North Carolina. No properties where
Section 6(f) funds have been used will be impacted by the project.
D. Social Effects / Community Impacts
1. Demographics/Socio-Economics
The proposed project is located in Census Tract 17.09, Block Group 03. In 2000, this tract had a
population of 2,583. The population of Durham County was 223,314. Between 1990 and 2000, the
Durham County experienced a 22.8 percent increase in total population. The census tract where the
project is located experienced a 34.1 percent increase during the same period.
According to the 2000 U.S. Census, Durham County had a median household income of $43,337,
compared with $21,955 for the census tract. The percent of population below the poverty line in the
Environmental Assessment 13 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
census tract was significantly higher than that of Durham County. The economic data for the demographic
area and Durham County is included in Table 4.
Table 4. Economic Data
Percent Unemployed Percent below Poverty Median Household
Income
Census Tract 1.5 26.8 $21,955
Durham County 3.5 12.8 $43,337
Source: 2000 U.S. Census
According to the U.S. Census, Durham County had an unemployment rate of 6.6 percent in 1990, and 3.5
percent in 2000. Durham County has a strong industrial base with companies such as International
Business Machines, Glaxo Smith-Cline, Cisco Systems, Inc., Nortel Networks, Inc., and Cree Research,
Inc. Other top non-manufacturing employers include Duke University, Durham Public Schools, Blue
Cross & Blue Shield of North Carolina, Inc., and the City of Durham.
The 2000 U.S. Census showed that the racial composition of the population residing in Durham County
was 50.9 percent White, 39.5 percent Black or African American, 0.3 percent American Indian, and 3.3
percent Asian. The census tract where the project is located had a population that was 74.4 percent Black
or African American, a greater proportion as compared with the county's racial composition.
The 2000 U.S. Census indicated that 10.6 percent of the county's population identified themselves as
either Hispanic or Latino. The census tract containing the project had 6.8 percent of its population
identified as Hispanic or Latino.
2. Neighborhoods/Communities
West of Danube Lane, the project is characterized by single family homes, lining Carver Street and
backing up to Sudberry Lane. Approximately 0.15 miles north of the proposed project, Benjamin
Franklin Boulevard intersects Danube Lane. Benjamin Franklin Boulevard provides access to an assisted
living facility, medical offices, and various commercial and institutional uses. Immediately east of
Danube Lane, the proposed project crosses through a platted subdivision, although no lots have been
developed. The proposed project crosses Cub Creek Road, which provides access to a few homes and
then intersects Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) at Hamlin Road (SR 1634). Approximately 1000 feet north
of this intersection are existing industrial uses, along both sides of Old Oxford Road. Parcels fronting Old
Oxford Road along this developed area contain light manufacturing, storage, PSNC Energy, and a small
business park with retail and service businesses. South of Hamlin Road (SR 1634), along the east side of
Old Oxford Road (SR 1004), there is a privately owned baseball field. In addition, the Catsburg store is
located in this intersection quadrant. The store is closed and is in a state of disrepair. However, it is a
well-known landmark in the project area. East of the Old Oxford Road / Hamlin Road intersection is an
abandoned rail corridor, owned by Norfolk Southern. Beyond the rail crossing are the First Assembly of
God Church and the North Carolina Center for Biomanufacturing. South of the project, development
along Old Oxford Road is characterized by predominantly by single family homes. Oxford Commons, a
public housing development, is located on the corner of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Danube Lane
(SR 1648).
The proposed project is not anticipated to relocate any homes, businesses, churches, or cemeteries.
Additionally, the project is not anticipated to negatively impact any cohesive neighborhoods or
commercial developments. The project does cross Cub Creek Road (SR 1655), and will separate two
Environmental Assessment 14 November 9. 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
homes at the north end of the road from homes along the south end of Cub Creek Road (SR 1655) and
Old Oxford Road (SR 1004).
3. Relocation of Residences and Businesses
The proposed project will not relocate any homes or businesses.
4. Environmental Justice
Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, there are requirements that protect special populations
from any type of discrimination on the grounds of race, age, color, religion, disability, sex, and national
origin. Along with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 12898 (Environmental
Justice) states that federal programs cannot have a disproportionately high adverse human health and
environmental effect on minority and low-income populations. Environmental Justice states the equitable
treatment of people of all races, cultures, ages, and incomes during development, implement and
enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and policies. Other special populations may include the
elderly, children, the disabled, low-income people, and minority groups.
Although the project is not federally funded, potential impacts to special populations identified by the
Executive Order were considered in this assessment of impacts. No impacts to any special populations
identified in the environmental justice requirements are expected on this project. The project is
predominantly on new location, through undeveloped land, and no homes or businesses are anticipated to
be relocated.
5. Recreational Facilities
Two recreational facilities are located or planned in the project area. Impacts to the existing baseball field
east of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) will be minimized by holding the existing edge of pavement and
developing the additional lane width to provide a new left turn lane on the west side of the roadway.
A planned greenway is located along Cub Creek. The proposed project will not impact this planned
greenway.
6. Railroad Crossings
No active railroad crossings are located in the immediate vicinity of the project. However, a railroad right
of way, owned by Norfolk Southern, crosses Hamlin Road (SR 1634) just east of Old Oxford Road
(SR 1004).
7. Utilities
The proposed project is expected to have an impact on utilities at its intersections with Danube Lane
(SR 1648) and Old Oxford Road (SR 1004). An eight inch ductile iron water line and ten inch sewer line
along existing Carver Street will be impacted. In addition, an eight inch water line along Danube Lane
south of the project and a twelve inch water line along Danube Lane north of the project will be impacted.
Sewer lines along Danube Lane and Cub Creek, near Danube Lane will be impacted.
At the east end of the project, a twenty inch water transmission line lies along Old Oxford Road
(SR 1004) and will be impacted by the project. The project will also impact a twelve inch water line
along Hamlin Road (SR 1634).
E. Land Use and Zoning
The area surrounding the proposed project is generally urban. Surrounding areas are characterized by
residential areas, some commercial and industrial uses, and a designated commercial center. The
Environmental Assessment 15 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
proposed alignment lies either within the city limits or the unincorporated urban growth area of the City
of Durham.
Currently, most of the land in the project alignment is designated as residential or industrial. Existing
land west of Cub Creek Road has been subdivided into residential lots and is classified as residential,
though the land is currently vacant forest land. Land east of Cub Creek Road is classified as agriculture.
The tract adjacent to and east of Cub Creek Road is considered vacant agricultural land while the tract
west of Old Oxford Road is classified as agricultural with present forestry uses.
Future land use plans designate the entire corridor for residential, industrial, and commercial uses.
Residential uses are designated along the west end of the alignment. Industrial and commercial uses are
designated along the east end. The intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road
(SR 1634) is designated as a commercial center. Future land uses are shown in Figures 6a and 6b.
The proposed project will create new access along existing undeveloped and vacant parcels and provide a
new route that connects with a land use node zoned as a commercial center. The project is consistent with
both comprehensive planning goals and current and future land use which call for increased street
connectivity. The project is not anticipated to result in any major changes to existing or future land uses
or zoning. The new corridor crosses mostly residentially zoned property. The project may accelerate
development activity through the provision of new access.
F. Farmland
The project is located primarily within the city limits or the unincorporated urban growth area of the City
of Durham. A small portion of the project, just east of the Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) / Hamlin Road
(SR 1634) intersection is within the city limits. Most of the land anticipated to be impacted by the project
is currently undeveloped. Some of the undeveloped land is currently classified in the existing land use
plan as agricultural with forestry uses. However, besides occasional timbering, no active farms are
crossed by the project. The future land use plan shows the eastern half of the project area designated as
industrial or commercial and the western portion of the alignment is designated as low-medium density
residential. The western half of the alignment is currently vacant, forested land but has been subdivided
in preparation for residential development. Because the project lies within areas that are designated for
future development, and the project is not federally funded, the provisions of the Farmland Protection
Policy Act do not apply.
G. Indirect and Cumulative Effects
The proposed project is consistent with future land use plans and is not anticipated to change planned
growth patterns. However, the proposed project may result in the acceleration of growth in the immediate
project area. The project will provide access to currently undeveloped tracts of land that are designated
for low to mid density residential development and light industrial and commercial uses. Due to the
relatively small size of the proposed roadway, this accelerated growth is anticipated to be limited to the
immediate project area, the undeveloped property located between Danube Lane (SR 1648) and Old
Oxford Road (SR 1004). The zoning for most of the project area is residential, so the indirect effects
would be the acceleration of planned residential growth. Water quality impacts would be managed
through the implementation of Durham's updated Stormwoter Performance Standards for Development
Ordinance (March, 2009).
Environmental Assessment 16 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
H. Flood Hazard Evaluation
Durham County is a participant in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's National Flood
Insurance Program. The mainline of the Carver Street extension crosses two unnamed tributaries (see CH
2 on Figure 5a and CH 6 on Figure 5b within a FEMA-designated 100-year floodplain. However, these
crossings are located just upstream of the portion of the study where flood elevations are determined.
Box culverts are proposed at both locations. A 7'X7' culvert is proposed at CH 2. A 5'X9' culvert is
proposed at CH 6. These crossings are not anticipated to have an effect on flood elevations.
An existing 60-inch corrugated metal pipe carries Cub Creek under Danube Lane, just north of the
project. This crossing is within a detailed flood study. The 100-year storm currently overtops Danube
Lane. Any improvements along Danube Lane and within the floodplain must be conducted in a manner
that will result in no rise in the determined, base flood elevations. During final design, additional
hydraulic studies will be conducted to determine whether or not a larger structure is needed under Danube
Lane to compensate for any changes in the proposed roadway grade that may be required if curb and
gutter is extended to the existing three-lane section north of the creek. A No-Rise certification will be
pursued, as appropriate. During final design, extending the curb and gutter from the existing three-lane
section on Danube Lane to the proposed roundabout will be investigated in conjunction with hydraulic
studies and design. The presence of the floodplain and floodway may preclude the installation of curb
and gutter across the floodplain.
1. Traffic Noise Analysis
Traffic noise analysis was conducted to determine the effect the proposed project will have on noise
levels in the immediate project area. This analysis includes an inventory of existing noise-sensitive land
uses and a comparison of the predicted noise levels and existing noise levels to determine if traffic noise
impacts would occur as a result of the project.
The level of highway traffic noise depends on three things: (1) the volume of the traffic, (2) the speed of
the traffic, and (3) the number of trucks in the flow of the traffic. Generally, the loudness of traffic noise
is increased by heavier traffic volumes, higher speeds, and greater numbers of trucks. Vehicle noise is a
combination of the noises produced by the engine, exhaust, and tires. The loudness of traffic noise can
also be increased by defective mufflers or other faulty equipment on vehicles. Any condition (such as a
steep incline) that causes heavy laboring of motor vehicle engines will also increase traffic noise levels. In
addition, there are other, more complicated factors that affect the loudness of traffic noise. For example,
as a person moves away from a highway, traffic noise levels are reduced by distance, terrain, vegetation,
and natural and inanmade obstacles. Traffic noise is not usually a serious problem for people who live
more than 500 feet from heavily traveled freeways or more than 100 to 200 feet from lightly traveled
roads.
Although the proposed project is not funded by the Federal Highway Administration or the North
Carolina Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration Noise Abatement Criteria and
NCDOT's Noise Abatement Policy were used to assess whether or not residences and / or businesses will
be impacted by traffic noise. Traffic noise impacts occur if the predicted design year noise levels
approach or exceed levels shown for each land use activity category in Table 5. The North Carolina
Department of Transportation defines "approach" as within 1 dBA of the Leq(h) value for the activity
category.
Environmental Assessment 17 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Table 5. Noise Abatement Criteria
Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level in Decibels (dBA)
Activity
C Leq(h) Description of Activity Category
ate o
57 Lands on which serenity and quiet are of extraordinary significance and
A (Exterior) serve and important public need, and where the preservation of those quality
is essential if the area is to continue to serve its intended purpose.
B 67 Residences, churches, schools, libraries, hospitals, motels, hotels, parks,
Exteri or _picnic and recreation areas, activesports areas and playgrounds
C Exte72 rior Developed lands, properties or activities not included in Categories A or B
D A Not Undeveloped lands
E 52 Residences, motels, hotels, public meeting rooms, schools, churches,
(Interior) libraries, hospitals and auditoriums
Traffic noise impacts also occur when predicted noise levels substantially exceed existing noise levels.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation defines substantial noise increases as shown in
Table 6.
Table 6. Defined Substantial Noise Increase
Existing Leq(h) Increase
50 or less dBA 15 or more dBA
51 dBA 14 or more dBA
52 dBA 13 or more dBA
53 dBA 12 or more dBA
54 dBA 11 or more dBA
55 or more dBA 10 or more dBA
The Federal Highway Administration's Traffic Noise Model (TNM 2.5) was used in conjunction with
existing and 2029 traffic data to determine existing and future noise levels at homes along the project.
Existing noise levels in the project area currently range from 45 dBA (the noise level of a typical rural
area) along Cub Creek Road (SR 1655) to 58 dBA at homes in the vicinity of Carver Street's intersection
with Danube Lane (SR 1648). In 2029, noise levels are anticipated to increase to 55 dBA at homes in the
vicinity of Cub Creek Road (SR 1655) and 64 dBA at homes near the intersection of Carver Street and
Danube Lane (SR 1648). Based on the criteria listed in Tables 7 and 8, no homes or businesses will be
impacted by traffic noise as a result of the proposed project.
The majority of the adjacent undeveloped land is designated for future low to medium density residential
development. In order to assist in the proper planning of this future development, so new houses are not
built where they may be impacted by traffic noise, efforts were made to establish the location of the
66 dBA noise contour. However, due to the relatively low traffic volumes and speeds (35 mph), the
proposed roadway is not anticipated to create noise levels of 66 dBA or more outside the proposed 120-
foot right of way.
Environmental Assessment 18 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
J. Air Quality
The United States Environmental Protection Agency originally declared Durham County a nonattainment
area for ozone and carbon monoxide on Novemebter 15, 1990. Durham County was redesignated to
attainment with a maintenance plan for ozone on June 17, 1994 and to attainment with a maintenance plan
for carbon monoxide on September 18, 1995. In 1997, the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for
ozone were reviewed and revised. An eight-hour standard was established. The entire Triangle region
was designated as a nonattainment area for eight-hour ozone on June 15, 2004, and subsequently
redesignated to attainment with a maintenance plan for ozone on December 26, 2007.
The proposed project is included in Durham-Chapel Hill-Carrboro Metropolitan Organization's 2035
Long Range Transportation Plan. The long range transportation plan was found to be in conformance
with the Statewide Implementation Plan. The Carver Street Extension project is not considered a
regionally significant project with respect to air quality and conforms to the transportation plan.
K. Hazardous Materials Evaluation
As a part of preparation of this Environmental Assessment, a government database search for potential
hazardous materials sites was conducted via a GIS based commercial service (EDR® has represented that
its procedures conform to, or exceed, the requirements of ASTM Standard Practice E1527-05). One
potential site was identified adjacent to the proposed corridor, the property in the southeast quadrant of
the intersection of Old Oxford Road (SR 1004) and Hamlin Road (SR 1634). The Catsburg Store (now
closed) is located on this parcel. The EDR report indicates that two underground storage tanks were
removed from this property in 1990. The report indicates that some soil cleanup was conducted at that
time, but details regarding the level of cleanup are not provided. Currently, the proposed design holds the
eastern edge of pavement along Old Oxford Road (SR 1004), which will minimize impacts to this parcel.
No other potential hazardous materials sites were identified along the potential alignment.
V. Comments and Coordination
A. Agency Coordination and Comments Received
As a part of the development of the proposed project and this environmental document, input was
requested from appropriate federal, state, and local agencies. Listed below are the agencies that were
contacted:
• * NC State Clearing House
• NC Division of Archives and History
• * State Historic Preservation Office
• NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources
• * NC Division of Water Quality
• NCDOT
• Federal Highway Administration
• * U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Jurisdictional Determination Form)
Environmental Assessment 19 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
An asterisk denotes agencies from which comments were received. Copies of these comments are in
Appendix B.
In addition, a field meeting was held with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on April 9, 2009 to discuss
the jurisdictional status of streams in the project area. Based on the field meeting, the Corps of Engineers
provided a Jurisdictional Determination, dated July 22, 2009, indicating which waters in the project area
are subject to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Likewise, a field meeting was held with staff from the
Division of Water Quality on April 16, 2009 to discuss the project, ephemeral, intermittent, and perennial
stream determinations, Neuse River Watershed buffer determinations, and wetland determinations.
Copies of the Corps of Engineers' Jurisdictional Determination and Division of Water Quality Stream
determination are included in Appendix B.
B. Public Meetings
Two public meetings were held to solicit public input on the proposed project. The first public meeting
was held on April 27, 2009 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM in the Durham City Council Chambers. The date
and time of the meeting were posted on the City of Durham's web page, and flyers were distributed to
homes and churches in the project area. A copy of the flyer distributed for the meeting is included in
Appendix C. Information presented at the meeting included displays showing the proposed typical
roadway cross-section and conceptual designs. A handout was distributed to meeting attendees that
included a project description, contact information, a vicinity map, and a comment sheet. One citizen
attended the meeting and expressed support for the project. A copy of the handout, attendance register,
and comment sheet are included in Appendix C.
The second public meeting was held on August 13, 2009 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The date and time of
the meeting were posted on the City of Durham's webpage, and flyers were distributed. In addition, the
meeting was advertised in the Durham Herald-Sun on Tuesday, July 28, and Sunday, July 26 in the Metro
Section. It was also listed in the Sunday, August 9 Weekly Calendar in the Metro Section. Copies of the
flyer and display advertisement are included in Appendix C. Information presented at the meeting
included displays showing the proposed typical roadway cross-section and conceptual designs. A
handout was distributed to meeting attendees that included a project description, contact information, a
vicinity map, and a comment sheet. Four citizens attended the meeting. Two comment sheets were
received; one expressed support for the project, the other expressed a wish that more people had attended.
The attendance register and comment sheets from the second public meeting are included in Appendix C.
VI. Basis for State Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant
Impact
On the basis of planning and environmental studies conducted, it is determined the proposed project will
not have significant adverse effects upon the human or natural environment. The proposed improvements
will only impact 0.31 acres of wetland, 406 linear feet of stream, and 1.19 acres of riparian buffers. The
proposed project will not impact any populations of threatened and endangered species. Additionally, the
proposed project will not require the relocation of any homes or businesses and will not affect any historic
resources. Moreover, based on the public meetings held for the project, there is no public controversy
associated with extension of Carver Street. Impacts to water quality will be minimized through the
implementation of best management practices outlined in the Division of Water Quality's Stormwater
Best Management Practices Manual (July, 2007). Additionally, in the 1999 petition establishing the
project, the City of Durham Council committed to utilizing best management practices for the protection
of high quality waters. The project will require a Section 404 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Individual
Environmental Assessment 10 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
Permit, a NC Division of Water Quality Section 401 Water Quality Certification, and a letter of
authorization for buffer impacts, although any wetland, stream, and buffer impacts will be mitigated.
Therefore, a State Environmental Assessment / Finding of No Significant Impact is applicable for this
project.
Environmental Assessment 21 November 9, 2009
Finding of No Significant Impact
FIGURES
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APPENDIX A
City of Durham Resolution
DURHAM
1 8 b 9
CITYpf MEDICINE
June 15, 1999
Mr. David McCoy
Secretary of Transportation (Acting)
P. O. Box 25201
Raleigh, N. C. 2761 1-5201
Dear Secretary McCoy:
City of Durham
North Carolina
City Clerk
Office of Records Management
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
(919) 560-4166
On June 7, 1999 the Durham City Council passed a resolution concerning the Durham Northwest and
Northeast Loop ("Eno Drive") and to endorse the Northern Durham Parkway and innovative measures to
increase transportation options. A certified copy of the City Council's resolution is enclosed, By copy
of this letter, the resolution is also being provided to the Durham-Chapel Bill-Carrboro Transportation
Advisory Committee, our Legislative delegation, and the Durham Board of County Commissioners.
Sincerely,
r?
Margar M. Bowers, CMC
City Clerk
Enclosure
cc: Senator Wib Gulley
Senator Jeanne Lucas
Representative Paul Luebke
Representative George W. Miller, Jr.
Representative H. M. Michaux, Jr.
Chairman MaryAnn E. Black, Durham Board of County Commissioners
Commissioner Beck ITeron, "T'AC Chair
An Equal Opportunity
Affirmative Action Employer
- Mny-19-1999 09: 10 TR i rt iCi.F J COG
CITY COUNCIL
C
9195493390 P. (32104
RESOLUTION #8562
RESOLUTION CONCERNING THE DURHAM NORTIIWF.ST AND
JUN 7 1999 NORTIIEAST LOOT' ("ENO DRIYF,") AND TO ENDORSE THE
0 NORTHERN DURHAM PARKWAY AND INNOVATIVE MEASURES TO
INCREASE TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
OE UTY CITY CLERK
W1II:REAS, The controversy over the Durham Northwest and Northeast Loop ("Eno Drive") has
lasted more than three decades; and
WHEREAS, The Board of County Commissioners and City Council strongly encourage protection of
the Eno River basin and parklands, Little River basin, Penny's Bend, rare plant liabitats,
and rusidential neighborhoods as transportation improvements are designed and
implemented; and
WHEREAS, Transportation solutions must include measures to increase transportation options by
promoting alternatives to single-occupant vehicles; and
WIMREAS, Under the leadersidp of the Board of County Commissioners and City Council, the
community has come to a consensus on the preferred solution to transportation problems
in northeastern Durliam.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OIL COUNTY
AND CITY COUNCIL, DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA, THAT:
1. As the substitute for the Northwest and Northeast Loop (TIP Nos. R-2630 and R-2631) and
proposed Durham Northern Freeway, the Board of County Commissioners and City Council
endorse the Northern Durliam Parkway and associated road improvements, as specifically described
in the map and list that are attached as appendices to this resolution; and
2. The Board of County Commissioners and City Council endorse a sequence of road construction that
simultaneously begins with construction in the north, i.e., in the vicinity of the proposed Red Mill
extension at US 501, and in the south, i.e., in die vicinity of US 70; and
3. The Board of County Commissioners and City Council recommend that the Durham representatives
on the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) to make a motion and advocate adoption at the
TAC's next meeting that endorses the substitution and construction sequence described in die
previous paragraphs (1 and 2); and
4 The Board of County Commissioners and City Council endorse the road construction performance
standards and measures for mitigating water quality impacts from road construction that arc listed in
appendix three to this resolution, stipulate these standards and measures as the minimum that are
necessary, and call for full funding and the most stringent adherence to these standards and
measures; and
5. The Board of County Commissioners and City Council endorse a well-funded, inclusive planning
process that within one year will develop a Durham Transportation Demand Management Plan
which seeks to reduce travel by single-occupant vehicles by at least 10 percent in no more than five
years; and
6. The Board of County Commissioners and City Council strongly recommend that the City and
County jointly fund a Durham Transportation Dcmand Management Plan described in the previous
paragraph (5) and seek federal and state funding to the maximum extent feasible.
6111991PWC I ATTACHMENT #PW--1
ry y-19-19`J`J e9. 10 1121 rV43LILJ CLYi 91`3149939(3 P .03/04
APPENDICrS
Note. Appendix I is tite man "Northern Durhani Parkway: Preferred Conceptual Alignment."
APPENDIX 2. DESCRIPTION AND DESIGN OF NORTHERN DURHAM
PARKWAY AND ASSOCIATED ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
I . 4-lane Class I rural arterial (parkway) with 45WI-I speed limit (capacity per direction of 19,700
ADT), limited access to newly-constructed segments, landscaped median and right of way, turn
bays, bus pull-outs, sidewalks, facilities for bicycles, and maximum use of noise mitigation
measures
2. Alignment begins at US-70 at proposed cxtension to Aviation Parkway and follows NCDOT's
preferred alignment (alternative 3) to Hamlin Road
3. Alignment follows Hamlin Road to Red Mill Road, then follows Red Mill Road north
4. A new segment links Red Mill Road with Roxboro Road (Thoroughfare Plan alignment), extending
across the Little River and passing north of existing Snow Hill Road
5. Alignment follows existing Roxboro Road/Duke Street south to I-85 and existing intersections are
upgrtded, as needed
6. Extend Carver Street as 3 lanes to link up with Han-din Road at Old Oxford Road
7. Upgrade Old Oxford Road but retain 2-lane cross-section for this road, until demand warrants a
wider cross-section.
8. Replace the Old Oxford Road bridge across the Eno River by a higher/longer span bridge to
improve the river as a wildlife corridor .
9. Relocate intersection of Snow Hill and Old Oxford Roads to a point north and cast of tic diabase
glade sites ('T'horoughfare Plan alignment)
10. Upgrade other existing intersections, using roundabouts where they are beneficial
APPENDIX 3. ROAD CONSTRUC'T'ION PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
AND MEASURES FOR MITIGATING WATER QUALITY
IMPACTS FROM ROAD CONSTRUCTION
1. Ensure complete protection of Penny's Bend and Snow Bill diabase glades
2. Prevention of adverse water quality impacts, prevention of adverse wetlands impacts, and full
mitigation of water quality and wedands impacts with penalties for poor performance by
highway contractors
3. High Quality Waters best management practices (I3MPs) for surface water protection
throughout the entire corridor
4. NC Wildlife Commission biologist (at least one working full time) to Delp provide continuous
surveillance of susceptible biota in Eno River and Little River and water quality, to help ensurr.
that all possible steps are taken to protect the susceptible biota in Eno River and Little River and
water quality, to help ensure that contractors incorporate all feasible prevention and mitigation
measures during construction, and to help ensure proper maintenance of sediment control
structures
5. Enhanced City/Courity protection against water quality impacts of secondary development and
more City/County staff
MnY-19-1999 09* 19 T R M-GLE J COG 9195499390 P. t34i04
6. Additional Prevention and rnitigation measures in the Durham Environmental Affairs Board's
report Environmental Impacts of the Proposed North wesWorth cast Corridor
7. Enhanced Strcam Watclt program for Eno River and tributaries
8. Rotttitrc, post construction strcaru maintenance to remove trasi1
TOTAL. P.04
APPENDIX B
Agency Coordination
North Carolina
Department of Administration
Michael F. Easley, Governor
September 11, 2008
Mr. Edward McFalls
City of Durham
c/o Earth Tech
701 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 475
Raleigh NC 27607
Dear Mr. McFalls:
Britt Cobb, Secretary
Subject: Scoping - City of Durham proposed extension of Carver Street which would extend
Carver Street from Danube Lane to the intersection of Old Oxford Road & Hamlin Rd in
Durham County
The N. C. State Clearinghouse has received the above project for intergovernmental review. This
project has been assigned State Application Number 09-E-4300-0064. Please use this number with
all inquiries or correspondence with this office.
Review of this project should be completed on or before 10/20/2008. Should you have any
questions, please call (919)807-2425.
Sincerely,
Valerie W. McMillan, Director
State Environmental Policy Act
Mailing Address: Telephone: (919)807-242S
1301 Mail Service Center Fax (919)133-9571
Raleigh, NC 27699.1301 State Courier #51-01-00
e-mail: valerie.w.mcmillan@doa.nc.gov
Location Address:
116 West Jones Street
Ralcigh, North Carolina
An Equal Opportunity/Afrmalive Action Employer
Notice
For future projects and correspondence, please address them to
the new Director for the State Clearinghouse Environmental
Review at the following address:
Ms. Valerie McMillan
State Clearinghouse
N.C. Department of Administration
1301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1301
Office #: 919-807-2324
Fax #: 919-733-9571
Email: valerie.w.mcmillangdoa.nc.gov
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Peter B Sandbeck, Administrator
Michael P. 1(aslcy, Governor Office el Archit v, and I listen'
Ltsbeth C. Evans, Secretary Division of I listorical Itesourees
Icifrcv ?. C Ow, Deputy secretary David lir(xwk, Director
September 16, 2008
Edward Mcf ills
Earth "Tech
701 Corporate Center Dricc
Suite 475 QG?I. 2Q-
+ f f
Raleigh, NC 27607 (? ` ZZ C)
Re: Extension of Carver Street, City of Durham, Durham County, FR 08-2177 1
Dear Mr. McFalls:
Thank you for your letter of September 10, 2008, concerning the above project.
We have conducted a review of the project and are aware of no historic resources which would be affected by
the project. 'T'herefore, we have no comment on the project as proposed.
`I'lie above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and rile
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR
Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperadon and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-807-6579. In all future
communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number,
Sincerely,
ux__O?
eter Sandbeck
Y"?U_ DQ - ?`o
Location: IM h:ast Jones, Strcct, Raleigh NC 214(11
Mailing Address: 461 , Mid Nk-mcc Ccntcr, Raleigh N(: 27497.4617
Telephone/Fax: e)19) F07.65711/N07.6597
Michael F. Easley, Govemor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Coleen Sullins, Director
Division of Water Quality
September 22, 2008
MEMORANDUM
To: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator, DENR
From: Rob Ridings, NC Division of Water Quality, Transportation Permitting Unit X,?
Subject: Scoping comments on City of Durham's proposed extension of Carver Street from Danube Lane
to Old Oxford Road in Durham County, DENR Clearinghouse No. 09-0064.
Reference your correspondence dated received September 15, 2008 in which you requested comments for
the referenced project. Preliminary analysis of the project reveals the potential for impacts to perennial
streams, riparian buffers and jurisdictional wetlands in the project area. More specifically, impacts to:
Stream Name River Basin &
Subbasin Stream Classifications Stream Index
Number
UT Eno River NEU 01 WS-IV, NSW 27-2
Further investigations at a higher resolution should be undertaken to verify the presence of other streams
and/or jurisdictional wetlands in the area. In the event that any jurisdictional areas are identified, the
Division of Water Quality requests that the City of Durham consider the following environmental issues
for the proposed project:
Project Specific Comments:
1. Eno River is class WS-IV; NSW waters of the State. DWQ is very concerned with sediment and
erosion impacts that could result from this project. DWQ recommends that highly protective sediment
and erosion control BMPs be implemented to reduce the risk of nutrient runoff to these waters. DWQ
requests that road design plans provide treatment of the storm water runoff through best management
practices as detailed in the most recent version of NC DWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices.
2. This project is within the Neuse River Basin. Riparian buffer impacts shall be avoided and minimized
to the greatest extent possible pursuant to 15A NCAC 2B.0233.
General Project Comments:
1. The environmental document shall provide a detailed and itemized presentation of the proposed
impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. If mitigation is necessary as
required by 15A NCAC 2H.0506(h), it is preferable to present a conceptual (if not finalized)
mitigation plan with the environmental documentation. Appropriate mitigation plans will be
required prior to issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification.
Transportation Permitting Unit
1650 Mail Servloe Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699.1650
2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604
Phone: 919-733-17861 FAX 919-7338893! Internet htto://h2e.enr.state.nc.usincwetlands
N????tthhCaro??.?'n
j/V,C,11, 41
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer -50%Recycledll0% Post Consumer Paper
2. Environmental assessment alternatives shall consider design criteria that reduce the impacts to
streams and wetlands from storm water runoff. These alternatives shall include road designs that
allow for treatment of the storm water runoff through best management practices as detailed in
the most recent version of NC DWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices, such as grassed
swales, buffer areas, preformed scour holes, retention basins, etc.
3. After the selection of the preferred alternative and prior to an issuance of the 401 Water Quality
Certification, the applicant is respectfully reminded that they will need to demonstrate the
avoidance and minimization of impacts to wetlands (and streams) to the maximum extent
practical. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules (15A NCAC
2H.0506(h)), mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 1 acre to wetlands. In the
event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan shall be designed to replace appropriate lost
functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as
wetland mitigation.
4. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules (15A NCAC
2H.0506(h)), mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150 linear feet to any single
perennial stream. In the event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan shall be designed to
replace appropriate lost functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be
available for use as stream mitigation.
5. DWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from this project.
The applicant shall address these concerns by describing the potential impacts that may occur to
the aquatic environments and any mitigating factors that would reduce the impacts-
6. Bridge supports (bents) shall not be placed in the stream when possible.
7. Whenever possible, the DWQ prefers spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not
require work within the stream or grubbing of the streambanks and do not require stream channel
realignment. The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges allow for human and
wildlife passage beneath the structure, do not block fish passage and do not block navigation by
canoeists and boaters.
8. Bridge deck drains shall not discharge directly into the stream- Stormwater shall be directed
across the bridge and pre-treated through site-appropriate means (grassed swales, pre-formed
scour holes, vegetated buffers, etc.) before entering the stream. Please refer to. the most current
version of NC DWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices.
9. If concrete is used during construction, a dry work area shall be maintained to prevent direct
contact between curing concrete and stream water. Water that inadvertently contacts uncured
concrete shall not be discharged to surface waters due to the potential for elevated pH and
possible aquatic life and fish kills.
10. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction
contours and elevations. Disturbed areas shall be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and
appropriate native woody species should be planted. When using temporary structures the area
shall be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other
mechanized equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate
naturally and minimizes soil disturbance.
11. Placement of culverts and other structures in waters, streams, and wetlands shall be below the
elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches, and
20 percent of the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than 48 inches, to allow low
flow passage of water and aquatic life. Design and placement of culverts and other structures
including temporary erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may result
in dis-equilibrium of wetlands or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and down stream
of the above structures. The applicant is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is being
maintained if requested in writing by DWQ• If this condition is unable to be met due to bedrock
or other limiting features encountered during construction, please contact the NC DWQ for
guidance on how to proceed and to determine whether or not a permit modification will be
required.
12. If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic natural stream cross
section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation and/or sills where
appropriate. Widening the stream channel shall be avoided. Stream channel widening at the inlet
or outlet end of structures typically decreases water velocity causing sediment deposition that
requires increased maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage.
13. If foundation test borings are necessary; it should be noted in the document. Geotechnical work
is approved under General 401 Certification Number 3494/Nationwide Permit No. 6 for Survey
Activities.
14. Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be implemented
and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of North Carolina Sediment and
Erosion Control Planning and Design Manual and the most recent version of NCS000250.
15. All work in or adjacent to stream waters shall be conducted in a dry work area unless otherwise
approved by NC DWQ. Approved BMP measures from the most current version of NCDOT
Construction and Maintenance Activities manual such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and
other diversion structures should be used to prevent excavation in flowing water.
16. Sediment and erosion control measures shall not be placed in wetlands and streams.
17. Borrow/waste areas shall avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practical. Impacts to wetlands
in borrow/waste areas could precipitate compensatory mitigation.
18. While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWM maps, NC Coastal Region Evaluation of
Wetland Significance (NC-CREWS) maps and soil survey maps are useful tools, their inherent
inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineations prior to permit
approval.
19. Heavy equipment shall be operated from the bank rather than in stream channels in order to
minimize sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of introducing other pollutants into streams.
This equipment shall be inspected daily and maintained to prevent contamination of surface
waters from leaking fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, or other toxic materials.
20. Riprap shall not be placed in the active thalweg channel or placed in the streambed in a manner
that precludes aquatic life passage. Bioengineering boulders or structures should be properly
designed, sized and installed.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The applicant is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Rob Ridings at (919) 733-9817.
cc: Eric Alsmeyer, US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh Field Office
Travis Wilson, NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Edward B. McFalls, PE, Earth Tech
File Copy
USACE
Jurisdictional Determination
And
DWQ Determinations
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
WILMINGTON DISTRICT
County: Durham U.S.G.S. Quads: Northwest Durham & Northeast Durham
NOTIFICATION OF JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION
Property Owner: City of Durham, Div. of Transportation Agent: Earth Tech/AECOM
Address: Attn: Ms. Marv Ann Grav Attn: Mr. Kevin Lapp
101 Citv Hall Plaza 701 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 475
Durham, NC 27701 Raleigh, NC 27607
Telephone No.: 919-560-4366 919-854-6255
Property description
Size (acres) N/A Nearest Town Durham
Nearest Waterway Cub Creek River Basin Neuse
USGS HUC 03020201 Coordinates N 36.047° W -78.881°
Location description Proposed Carver Street Ext. corridor, from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Road at
Hamlin Road, northeast of Durham, NC, as shown on the attached drawings.
Indicate Which of the Following Apply:
Preliminary Determination
Based on preliminary information, there may be waters of the U.S. on the above described property. We strongly suggest
you have this property inspected to determine the extent of Department of the Army (DA) jurisdiction. To be considered
final, a jurisdictional determination must be verified by the Corps. This preliminary determination is not an appealable
action under the Regulatory Program Administrative Appeal Process ( Reference 33 CFR Part 331).
Approved Determination
There are Navigable Waters of the United States within the above described property subject to the permit requirements of
Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Unless there is a change in the law or
our published regulations, this determination may be relied upon for a period not to exceed five years from the date of this
notification.
There are waters of the U.S. oil the above described property subject to the permit requirements of Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act (CWA)(33 USC § 1344). Unless there is a change in the law or our published regulations, this
determination may be relied upon for a period not to exceed five years from the date of this notification.
We strongly suggest you have the wetlands on your property delineated. Due to the size of your property and/or our
present workload, the Corps may not be able to accomplish this wetland delineation in a timely manner. For a more timely
delineation, you may wish to obtain a consultant. To be considered final, any delineation must be verified by the Corps.
X The waters of the U.S. on your property have been delineated and the delineation has been verified by the Corps. We
strongly suggest you have this delineation surveyed. Upon completion, this survey should be reviewed and verified by the
Corps. Once verified, this survey will provide an accurate depiction of all areas subject to CWA jurisdiction on your
property which, provided there is no change in the law or our published regulations, may be relied upon for a period not to
exceed five years.
The waters of the U.S. have been delineated and surveyed and are accurately depicted on the plat signed by the Corps
Regulatory Official identified below on . Unless there is a change in the law or our published regulations, this
determination may be relied upon for a period not to exceed five years from the date of this notification.
There are no waters of the U.S., to include wetlands, present on the above described property which are subject to the
permit requirements of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1344). Unless there is a change in the law or our
published regulations, this determination may be relied upon for a period not to exceed five years from the date of this
notification.
NOTIFICATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL OPTIONS AND PROCESS AND
REQUEST FOR APPEAL
Applicant: City of Durham, Div. of File Number: 2009-0 1 1 75 Date: 6/22/2009
Transportation
Attached is: See Section below
INITIAL PROFFERED PERMIT (Standard Permit or Letter of A
permission)
PROFFERED PERMIT Standard Permit or Letter of permission) B
PERMIT DENIAL C
APPROVED JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION D
PRELIMINARY JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION E
SECTION I - The following identifies your rights and options regarding an administrative appeal of the above decision.
Additional information may be found at htt_p://www.usace.army.mil/inet/functions/cw/cecwo/reg or
Corps regulations at 33 CFR Part 331.
A: INITIAL PROFFERED PERMIT: You may accept or object to the permit.
• ACCEPT: If you received a Standard Permit, you may sign the permit document and return it to the district engineer for final authorization. If
you received a Letter of Permission (LOP), you may accept the LOP and your work is authorized. Your signature on the Standard Permit or
acceptance of the LOP means that you accept the permit in its entirety, and waive all rights to appeal the permit, including its terms and
conditions, and approved jurisdictional determinations associated with the permit.
• OBJECT: If you object to the permit (Standard or LOP) because of certain terms and conditions therein, you may request that the
permit be modified accordingly. You mast complete Section II of this form and return the form to the district engineer. Your
objections must be received by the district engineer within 60 days of the date of this notice, or you will forfeit your right to appeal
the permit in the future. Upon receipt of your letter, the district engineer will evaluate your objections and may: (a) modify the
permit to address all of your concerns, (b) modify the permit to address some of your objections, or (c) not modify the permit
having determined that the permit should be issued as previously written. After evaluating your objections, the district engineer
will send you a proffered permit for your reconsideration, as indicated in Section B below.
B: PROFFERED PERMIT: You may accept or appeal the permit
• ACCEPT: If you received a Standard Permit, you may sign the pen-nit document and return it to the district engineer for final authorization. If
you received a Letter of Permission (LOP), you may accept the LOP and your work is authorized. Your signature on the Standard Permit or
acceptance of the LOP means that you accept the permit in its entirety, and waive all rights to appeal the permit, including its terms and
conditions, and approved jurisdictional determinations associated with the pemii.
• APPEAL: If you choose to decline the proffered permit (Standard or LOP) because of certain terms and conditions therein, you
may appeal the declined permit tinder the Corps of Engineers Administrative Appeal Process by completing Section II of this form
and sending the form to the division engineer. This form must be received by the division engineer within 60 days of the date of
this notice.
C: PERMIT DENIAL: You may appeal the denial of a permit under the Corps of Engineers Administrative Appeal Process by
completing Section 11 of this form and sending the form to the division engineer. This form must be received by the division engineer
within 60 days of the date of this notice.
D: APPROVED JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION: You may accept or appeal the approved JD or
provide new information.
• ACCEPT: You do not need to notify the Corps to accept an approved JD. Failure to notify the Corps within 60 days of the date of
this notice, means that your accept the approved JD in its entirety, and waive all rights to appeal the approved JD.
• APPEAL: If you disagree with the approved JD, you may appeal the approved JD under the Corps of Engineers Administrative
Appeal Process by completing Section 11 of this form and sending the form to the district engineer. This form must be received by
the division engineer within 60 days of the date of this notice.
F PRELIMINARY JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION: You do not Deed to respond to the Corps regarding the preliminary JD.
e Preliminary JD is not appealable. If you wish, you may request an approved JD (which may be appealed), by contacting the Corps
trict for further instruction. Also you may provide new information for further consideration by the Corps to reevaluate the JD.
II-
APPEAL or
AN INITIAL
REASONS FOR APPEAL OR OBJECTIONS: (Describe your reasons for appealing the decision or your
objections to an initial proffered permit in clear concise statements. You may attach additional information to
this form to clarify where your reasons or objections are addressed in the administrative record.)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The appeal is limited to a review of the administrative record, the Corps
memorandum for the record of the appeal conference or meeting, and any supplemental information that the
review officer has determined is needed to clarify the administrative record. Neither the appellant nor the Corps
may add new information or analyses to the record. However, you may provide additional information to clarify
the location of information that is already in the administrative record.
POINT OF CONTACT FOR QUESTIONS OR INrURMA HUN:
If you have questions regarding this decision If you only have questions regarding the appeal process you
and/or the appeal process you may contact: may also contact:
US Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District Mr. Mike Bell, Administrative Appeal Review Officer
Raleigh Regulatory Field Office CESAD-ET-CO-R
ATTN: Jean Manuele, Field Office Chief U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Atlantic Division
3331 Heritage Trade Drive, Suite 105 60 Forsyth Street, Room 9M 15
Wake Forest. NC 27587 Atlanta, Georgia 30303-8801
RIGHT OF ENTRY: Your signature below grants the right of entry to Corps of Engineers personnel, and any
government consultants, to conduct investigations of the project site during the course of the appeal process. You
will be provided a 15 day notice of any site investigation, and will have the opportunity to participate in all site
Date:
of appellant or
number:
For appeals on Initial Proffered Permits and approved Jurisdictional Determinations send this form to:
District Engineer, Wilmington Regulatory Division, Attn:Jean Manuele, Project Manager, Raleigh Regulatory
Field Office, 3331 Heritage Trade Drive, Suite 105, Wake Forest, North Carolina 27587
For Permit denials and Proffered Permits send this form to:
Division Engineer, Commander, U.S. Army Engineer Division, South Atlantic, Attn: Mr. Mike Bell,
Administrative Appeal Officer, CESAD-ET-CO-R, 60 Forsyth Street, Room 9MI5, Atlanta, Georgia 30303-
8801
bVsR .
It.
D U R -iAM
- Centerline
Jurisdictional Stream
Intermittent
1 8 6 9 Perennial
Pond
Soil Map Units
Wetlands
Study Corridor
Pond 1
CARVER STREET EXTENSION
7 " Waters of the U.S.
S Date 03-09 Carver St Lxtension
250 500 Ournam Couniv Nan' Carolina
Project No
2008 Photography Feet 105726 EARTH TECH
AN
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Dee Freeman
Govemor Director Secretary
July 15, 2009
Kevin Lapp
Earth Tech/AECOM
701 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 475
Raleigh, NC 27607
IP/NBRRO#09-068
Durham County
BASIN:
Neuse River Buffer Determination X _ Tar-Pamlico Buffer Determination
(I 5A NCAC 2B.0233) (15A NCAC 2B .0259)
E hetneral/Intermittent/Perennial Determination X Isolated Wetland Determination X
Project Name: Cattier Street Extension
Location/Directions: located between Danube Lane and Old Oxford Highway
Subject Stream: UT to Cooked Creek
Date of Determination: 4/16/09
Feature(s) Not Subject
Subject I Start C? Stop(a-,) Soil
Survey USGS
Topo Intermittent/
Perennial/
_Ephemeral
A X X Ephemeral
B X X Ephemeral
C X - X Ephemeral
Pond 1 X X X -NA
CH2 X Throughout X Perennial
CH3 X Throughout _ X Intermittent_
CH4 X Flag CH4 X Intermittent
CH5 X Throu hout X Intermittent
CH6 X Throughout X X Perennial
CH7 X Throughout X X Perennial
Cub Creek X Throughout X X Perennial
The isolated wetlands were reviewed on the property. Please see attached map for verified extent and location of
all isolated wetlands.
pne hCarohna
NtUrdly
North Carolina Division of Water Quality Raleigh Regional Office Surface Water Protection Phone (919) 7914200 Customer Service
Internet. www ricwaterquality orq 1828 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27899-1828 FAX (919) 788-7159 877-623.6748
An Equal OpportunitylAffirmative Action Employer - 50% RecycJed/10% Post Consumer Paper
Explanation: The feature(s) listed above has or have been located on the Soil Survey of Durham County, Noah
Carolina or the most recent copy of the USGS Topographic map at a 1:24,000 scale. Each feature that is checked
"Not Subject" has been determined not to be a stream or is not present on the property. Features that are checked
"Subject" have been located on the property and possess characteristics that qualify it to be a stream. There may
be other streams located on your property that do not show up on the maps referenced above but, still may be
considered jurisdictional according to the US Army Corps of Engineers and/or to the Division of Water Quality.
This on-site determination shall expire rive (5) years from the date of this letter. Landowners or affected
parties that dispute a determination made by the DWQ or Delegated Local Authority that a surface water
exists and that it is subject to the buffer rule may request a determination by the Director. A request for a
determination by the Director shall be referred to the Director in writing c/o Cyndi Karoly, DWQ
Wetlands/401 Unit, 2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260. Individuals that dispute a
determination by the DWQ or Delegated Local Authority that "exempts" a surface water from the buffer
rule may ask for an ad judicatory hearing. You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this
letter. Applicants are hereby notified that the 60-day statutory appeal time does not start until the affected
party (including downstream and adjacent landowners) is notified of this decision. DWQ recommends that
the applicant conduct this notification in order to be certain that third party appeals are made in a timely
manner. To ask for a hearing, send a written petition, which conforms to Chapter 150B of the North
Carolina General Statutes to the Office of Administrative Hearings, 6714 Mail Service Center, Raleigh,
N.C. 27699-6714. This determination is final and binding unless you ask for a hearing within 60 days.
The owner/future owners should notify the Division of Water Quality (including any other Local, State,
and Federal Agencies) of this decision concerning any future correspondences regarding the subject
property (stated above). This project may require a Section 404/401 Permit for the proposed activity. Any
inquiries should be directed to the Division of Water Quality (Central Office) at (919)-733-1786, and the US
Army Corp of Engineers (Raleigh Regulatory Field Office) at (919)-876-8441.
Respectfully,
Lauren C. Witherspoon
Environmental Senior Specialist
CC: Wetlands/ Stormwater Branch, 2321 Crabtree Blvd, Suite 250, Raleigh, NC 27604
RRO/SWP File Copy
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APPENDIX C
Public Meeting Information
Public Meeting 1
Public Information Meeting DURHAM
Carver Street Extension
from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Highway / Hamlin Road
1 8 6 9
Public Information Meeting Scheduled
A Public Information Meeting has been scheduled on April 27 2009, beginning at 7:00 PM to solicit
public input on the proposed extension of Carver Street from Danube Lane to the intersection of Old
Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road. The meeting will be held in the Durham City Council Chambers
on the first floor of City Hall, located at 101 City Hall Plaza in Durham. The purpose of the meeting is
to present conceptual designs showing the location of the proposed roadway extension, and provide
the public an opportunity to participate in the planning process by providing their comments and
concerns. Aerial mapping presenting the project's conceptual design will be on display. The City of
Durham will not be making a formal presentation; however, City of Durham representatives will be
available to discuss the project on a one-to-one basis throughout the meeting.
Project Description
The proposed project will construct an extension of Carver Street on new location, from its current
intersection with Danube Lane to the intersection of Old Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road (the
project's location is shown in a vicinity map on the back of this page). Currently, it is anticipated that a
three-lane typical cross-section will be provided. The three-lane typical cross-section would provide
one through lane in each direction and provide a continuous left turn lane. Intersection improvements
at Danube Lane and Old Oxford Highway will also be included.
The concept for the proposed project was established through a City Council resolution in 1999 that
identified improvements to enhance the transportation network in northeast Durham. The City of
Durham is currently preparing a State Environmental Assessment for the project to identify project
alternatives and potential impacts to both the human and natural environment. Comments received at
the public meeting will be addressed in the State Environmental Assessment. The State
Environmental Assessment is anticipated to be completed in September 2009. Neither a right of way
acquisition schedule nor a construction schedule have been established.
Additional Information, Questions, and Comments
If you have any questions about the April 27 public meeting, need information on the project, or would
like to submit comments, please contact Mr. Byron Brady, P.E. at the following address:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron.brad y Adurhamnc.q ov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 296 (telephone)
March 99, 2009
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City of Durham
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Date 08-08 Durham County, North Carolina
0 1,000 2,000 Figure
\- i? l l I Protect No. A
Feet 05726
Public Information Meeting
Carver Street Extension
from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Highway / Hamlin Road
DURHAM
I
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CITY OF MEMNE
Name Mailing Address PLEASE PRINT)
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17 1?j '0 Z
Apri! 27, 2009
Comment Sheet
Proposed Extension of Carver Street
Public Information Meeting - April 27, 2004
Name:
Address:
v tpwaav p,rnj
City: OCL State: Zip:
Phone:
concerns and/or questlops regarding this project:
(If you need additional space, please continue on the back)
Please leave your comments with City representatives at the workshop or mail them to:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron.bradyccD,durhamnc.gov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 30296 (telephone)
Public Information Meeting DURHAM
Carver Street Extension
from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Highway / Hamlin Road
1 8 6 9
T. i 1rr.'11.t
Welcome
Welcome to the Public Information Meeting for the proposed extension of Carver Street to the intersection of Old
Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road. The purpose of this meeting is to present conceptual designs of the
proposed improvements, and provide the public an opportunity to participate in the planning process by
providing their comments and concerns. Aerial mapping presenting the project's conceptual design is on
display. It should be noted that the designs are preliminary and are subject to change. The City of Durham will
not be making a formal presentation; however, City of Durham representatives are available to discuss the
project on a one-to-one basis throughout the meeting. In order to ensure your comments and suggestions are
answered and addressed, please follow the steps listed below:
0 Sign-in at the table located next to the entrance.
0 Review the project handout and maps
0 Discuss the project and your concerns and suggestions with the project team.
0 Submit your ideas, suggestions, and comments on the form provided with this handout.
Project Description
The proposed project will construct an extension of Carver Street on new location, from its current intersection
with Danube Lane to the intersection of Old Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road (the project's location is shown in
a vicinity map on the back of this page). Currently, it is anticipated that a three-lane typical cross-section will be
provided. The three-lane typical cross-section would provide one through lane in each direction and provide a
continuous left turn lane. The typical section shown on the mapping includes 14-foot wide through lanes to
serve as shared use lanes for motorists and bicycles. In lieu of the 14-foot shared use lanes, the City is
considering providing a 12-foot lane for motorists, and a 4-foot, striped bicycle lane for bicyclists. Intersection
improvements at Danube Lane and Old Oxford Highway will also be included.
The concept for the proposed project was established through a City Council resolution in 1999 that identified
improvements to enhance the transportation network in northeast Durham. The City of Durham is currently
preparing a State Environmental Assessment for the project to identify project alternatives and potential impacts
to both the human and natural environment. Comments received at the public meeting will be addressed in the
State Environmental Assessment. The State Environmental Assessment is anticipated to be completed in
September 2009. Neither a right of way acquisition schedule nor a construction schedule have been
established.
Additional Information, Questions, and Comments
If you have any questions, need additional information on the project, or would like to submit comments, please
contact Mr. Byron Brady, P.E. at the following address:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron.brady(aDdurhamnc.oov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 30296 (telephone)
April 27, 2009
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Carver Street Extension
City of Durham
Date 08-08 Durham County, North Carolina
`•.' z,/ 0 1,000 2,000 Figure
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Feet 19,726
B Ivin Ave
Comment Sheet
Proposed Extension of Carver Street
Public Information Meeting - April 27, 2009
Name:
Address:
City:
Phone:
(please
(please
State: Zip:
Comments, concerns and/or questions regarding this project:
(If you need additional space, please continue on the back)
Please leave your comments with City representatives at the workshop or mail them to:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron.brad y(c?durhamnc.gov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 30296 (telephone)
Public Meeting 2
DURHAM NOTICE OF A PUBLIC INFORMATION
MEETING FOR
CARVER STREET EXTENSION FROM
DANUBE LANE TO OLD OXFORD HIGHWAY/
1869 HAMLIN ROAD
CITY OF MFnIC,NF Durham, North Carolina
A Public Information Meeting has been scheduled on Thursday,
August 13,2009,6:00 PM-8:00 PM in the Durham City Council
Chambers, first floor City Hall, 101 City Hall Plaza, Durham, NC
27701 to solicit public input on the proposed extension of Carver
Street from Danube Lane to the intersection of Old Oxford
Highway and Hamlin Road. The purpose of the meeting is to
present conceptual designs showing the location of the proposed
roadway extension and provide the public an opportunity to
participate in the planning process by providing their comments
and concerns. The City of Durham will not be making a formal
presentation; however, City of Durham representatives will be
available to discuss the project on a one-on-one basis throughout
the meeting. Additional information is available on the project
web site located at http://www.durhamnc.gov/departments/
works/proj ect_carver st_ext. cfm
For questions or comments, please contact Byron Brady,
byron.brady@durhamnc.gov or call 919-560-4326 x 30296.
The City will provide auxiliary aids and services under the
Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who wish
to participate in this information meeting. Anyone requiring
special services should contact Mr. Brady as early as possible so
that arrangements can be made.
Public Information Meeting DURHAM
Carver Street Extension
from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Highway / Hamlin Road
1 8 6 9
Public Information Meeting Scheduled
A Public Information Meeting has been scheduled on August 13, 2009, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM to
solicit public input on the proposed extension of Carver Street from Danube Lane to the intersection of
Old Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road. The meeting will be held in the Durham City Council
Chambers on the first floor of City Hall, located at 101 City Hall Plaza in Durham. The purpose of the
meeting is to present conceptual designs showing the location of the proposed roadway extension,
and provide the public an opportunity to participate in the planning process by providing their
comments and concerns. Aerial mapping presenting the project's conceptual design will be on
display. The City of Durham will not be making a formal presentation; however, City of Durham
representatives will be available to discuss the project on a one-to-one basis throughout the meeting.
Project Description
The proposed project will construct an extension of Carver Street on new location, from its current
intersection with Danube Lane to the intersection of Old Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road (the
project's location is shown in a vicinity map on the back of this page). Currently, it is anticipated that a
three-lane typical cross-section with bike lanes and sidewalks will be provided. The three-lane typical
cross-section would provide one through lane in each direction and provide a continuous left turn
lane. Intersection improvements at Danube Lane and Old Oxford Highway will also be included.
The concept for the proposed project was established through a City Council resolution in 1999 that
identified improvements to enhance the transportation network in northeast Durham. The City of
Durham is currently preparing a State Environmental Assessment for the project to identify project
alternatives and potential impacts to both the human and natural environment. Comments received at
the public meeting will be addressed in the State Environmental Assessment. The State
Environmental Assessment is anticipated to be completed in September 2009. Neither a right of way
acquisition schedule nor a construction schedule has been established.
Additional Information, Questions, and Comments
If you have any questions about the August 13, 2009 public meeting, need information on the project,
or would like to submit comments, please contact Mr. Byron Brady, P.E. at the following address:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron.brady@durhamnc,( ov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 296 (telephone)
July 2009
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Public Information Meeting
Carver Street Extension
from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Highway / Hamlin Road
DURHAM
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August 13, 2009
Comment Sheet
Proposed Extension of Carver Street
Name:
Address:
City:
State: zip: Z 7 7- 1 Z
Phone: (optional)
Comments, concerns and/or questions regarding this project:
(If you need additional space, please continue on the back)
Please leave your comments with City representatives at the workshop or mail them to:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
Public Information Meeting - August 13, 2009
byron.brad 46-)durhamnc.gov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 30296 (telephone)
Comment Sheet
Proposed Extension of Carver Street
Public Information Meeting - August 13, 2009
Name:
Address
City: State: Zip. v? 7? d 9 - IV Phone: 9l 5? ?! 9 72 (optional)
Comments, concerns and/or questions regarding this project:
(If you need additional space, please continue on the back)
Please leave your comments with City representatives at the workshop or mail them to:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E_
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron. bradyfadurhamnc.Qov
(919) 5604326 ext. 30296 (telephone)
Public Information Meeting DURHAM
Carver Street Extension
from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Highway / Hamlin Road
1 8 6 9
Welcome
Welcome to the Public Information Meeting for the proposed extension of Carver Street to the intersection of Old
Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road. The purpose of this meeting is to present conceptual designs of the
proposed improvements, and provide the public an opportunity to participate in the planning process by
providing their comments and concerns. Aerial mapping presenting the project's conceptual design is on
display. It should be noted that the designs are preliminary and are subject to change. The City of Durham will
not be making a formal presentation; however, City of Durham representatives are available to discuss the
project on a one-to-one basis throughout the meeting. In order to ensure your comments and suggestions are
answered and addressed, please follow the steps listed below.
0 Sign-in at the table located next to the entrance.
0 Review the project handout and maps
0 Discuss the project and your concerns and suggestions with the project team.
0 Submit your ideas, suggestions, and comments on the form provided with this handout.
Project Description
The proposed project will construct an extension of Carver Street on new location, from its current intersection
with Danube Lane to the intersection of Old Oxford Highway and Hamlin Road (the project's location is shown in
Figure 1 on the back of this page). Currently, it is anticipated that a three-lane typical cross-section will be
provided. The three-lane typical cross-section would provide one 12-foot wide through lane in each direction
and a continuous left turn lane. The proposed project also includes 4-foot wide, striped bicycle lanes and 5-foot
wide sidewalks. The typical section for the project is shown in Figure 2. The construction of a roundabout is
being considered at the intersection of Carver Street and Danube Lane in addition to intersection improvements
(the addition of turn lanes) at the intersection of the proposed extension with Old Oxford Highway.
The concept for the proposed project was established through a City Council resolution in 1999 that identified
improvements to enhance the transportation network in northeast Durham. The City of Durham is currently
preparing a State Environmental Assessment for the project to identify project alternatives and potential impacts
to both the human and natural environment. Comments received at the public meeting will be addressed in the
State Environmental Assessment. The State Environmental Assessment is anticipated to be completed in
September 2009. In the City's 2010-2015 Capital Improvement Program, the proposed project is scheduled for
right of way acquisition in fiscal year 2011-2012 and construction in 2012-2013.
Additional Information, Questions, and Comments
If you have any questions, need additional information on the project, or would like to submit comments, please
contact Mr. Byron Brady, P.E. at the following address:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron Drady(adurf am_nc gov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 30296 (telephone)
August 13, 2009
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Comment Sheet
Proposed Extension of Carver Street
Public Information Meeting - August 13, 2009
Name:
Address:
(please print)
City:
State: Zip:
Phone: (optional)
Comments, concerns and/or questions regarding this project:
(If you need additional space, please continue on the back)
Please leave your comments with City representatives at the workshop or mail them to:
Mr. Byron Brady, P.E.
Public Works Department
City of Durham
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
byron.brady(d_i durh mnc.gov
(919) 560-4326 ext. 30296 (telephone)
Forrest Creek Riparian Buffer Mitigation Bank
Rudolph Riparian Buffer Bank
Statement of Availability- October 04, 2011
NC Division of Water Quality U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Ms. Katie Merritt Mr. Monti Matthews
401 Oversight/Express Permitting Unit CESAW-RG-R
1650 Mail Service Center Raleigh Regulatory Field Office
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 3331 Heritage Trade Center, Suite 105
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Re Project: Carver Street Extension
This document confirms that City of Durham (Applicant) of the Carver Street Extension has
expressed an interest to utilize 326 Linear Feet of Stream Mitigation Credits and 135,791
Square Feet of Riparian Buffer Mitigation Credits from the Forrest Creek Stream and Riparian
Buffer Mitigation Bank both located in Neuse 01 River Basin. As the Bank Sponsor, EBX-EM,
LLC, for the Forrest Creek Riparian Buffer Mitigation Bank (Bank) attests to the fact that
mitigation is available for transfer upon permit issuance.
Banker will notify applicant if the 326 SMU and 135,791 Sq. Ft. of Mitigation become
considered "At Risk" of not being available prior to permit issuance. Credits are not considered
secured until payment in full is received from the applicant resulting in the issuance of a Bill of
Sale and Affidavit of Sale by the bank acknowledging that the applicant has fully secured credits
from the bank and the Banker has accepted full responsibility for the mitigation obligation
requiring the credits/units.
The Banker will issue the Affidavit of Sale within ten (10) days of receipt of the balance of the
Purchase Price. Banker shall provide to Applicant with a copy of the Affidavit of Sale and a
documented copy of the debit of credits from the Bank Official Credit Ledger showing the
permit number and the resource type secured by the applicant. A copy of the Affidavit of Sale,
with an updated Official Credit Ledger will also be sent to regulatory agencies showing the
proper documentation.
If any questions need to be answered, please contact me at 239-872-1678
Best Regards
LC ;k-
Matthew R. Fisher
EBX-EM, LLC
909 Capability Drive Suite 3100. Raleigh, NC 27606