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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 ea ? a? `?# Legend ? ` ° r i ^V Project Alignment ?i ----------- N C Functional Class \ ! Interstate ?ks i ------I Felice sr Freeway/Expressway Melanie 5l •? i d Han ock St Other Principal Arterial a I I Shy Of o I j ? r„ ? ice St i J i Minor Arterial ye d I i us a nk •rr ebron Rd - ___? ?, R f Collector o J / Imo, r, End '. Wollpack R Project T,d sc - Begin eel St Project Flt ? ? ? ? •? I -?- C t F ` v Thom son City of Durham i Vicinity Map with Functional Classificiations Carver Street Extension yJ A t City of Durham Dote 08-09 Dornam County. North Carolina c, 0 1,500 3,000 Figure r' I Project No I -J tf (k) Feet 105726 k,z iNVI T?17M ,1 7 T 3 ? 1 g Q 7 ? i MGM TY'fr.s y i T R 4 :- -- - Typical Section Carver Street Extension City of Durham y N }` fL tom,=S"' Date 09-09 Dumam County. North Carolina 0 1,500 3,000 Figure I Project No. Feet a L 0 x oa ao o CL, -1 ti o ?r6 1 S 9 aI\X ? oad t? b ) CO y, k ?,1 0}?0 o 52/131 J C N6 ?t 12117 'i 9 G'a i ? +I el .Q ? C -? Cz 0 XXX/XXX AM Volumes / PM Volumes in Vehicles per Hour Existing Peak Hour r? 'rte ' `{ ?j ' Traffic Volumes (2009) Carver Street Extension City of Durham Date 08 09 Durham County. North Carolina Figure Project No Not to Scale 105726 a k 0 am 0 0? ?i J 05 fV N 50n ZO5 A 1 O ?rn ` N CO t', 26' LO o? N i Cb N L ? ? „ 378/30E Xte?C:N 1¢Z32 2 r* '8G/?>O 515 N C ?-373/295 ver street ft* ss Z ,9 a 5/5 C t 327/537 d ? ? , N 741186 cr`r -11, v 0 Q' ?a + 2421446- 17121 -4 Uk CC) t T co N N N 04 N 1 C J XXX/XXOC AM Volumes / PM Volumes in Vehicles per Hour Future. Peak Hour Traffic Volumes (20129) ` 71 r' ? ' Carver Street Extension L?1 ??? - =r ? N City of Durham ? `?. Date 08-09 DurhamCounly, North Carolina r Figure I Not to Scale Project No. 1 F (t 1 ?, 4 .i _ i ?p t 1 11 1 1 \I Ur C N 0 H Q r ?? ZO l u» a d C LL b? K &L c C w . K c F C i G m? 5 ?y 8 m 2 C U W z IL G & 0 d 0 ?T ?Y j .• 1 r. 1~ • 'til.... '1 ?Jp`? y?'..r '- ?, •! • • r?. • '^ Y ?!-pp -LOA '-?''??? min' .• "'"•'•%•'r?'1•?rj?__'?!.4?_'f5,?<?, • ```'t.') N 41* 71 r r r N LL p O s LL O s LL > g Y g i0 1 LL ? P y, ? ? E ? ¢ • y c ? n` 2 N Ito 22 ?+1 1 '?r 1y ' J p Z. W 3 V N tt ?? J U o ? ? N O to d?;?. ate', V E N r ' m LL ? 8s) P.-d \ ? z? g d LL 1 ? +11. 1 r 11 iI f tj 1' ) { 1 I 27 LU J OF m $ ? t i t ,'1 ? 9 4 r ?z .s j U N N I t ! i O 4 C I ' N O, j J E ? 9 1'n = c J ?C?i ? o a U K y 'yi?+ is `?` '.? a . t' ?,•e?•'ti ?. S,;.it? ? •.?., p?:?? ..: ?? 1 N e AyJ v k X ?i?? "}. ? I U? t80 I MAIO f O'k rT ? .?y??? ?;?•?/ r? ? ? '?L L. }.?•.? ice, it Wl'). AOC- i 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 'Ot_INA - SHEET NUMBER 17 ire 1 p.: "a ' MITI Grove M .. Gp p .K ? r?yn???p ? Ir(3 ? ?1 ' .-r-'• W&B - t? C? Ur N 1 Y ..._ , .t4o leg Hy ?h I ( Mf ? +?w 1 ? ? ?? Q' I? 11 ? •t,7 .;? } A . WvC2 ; W E Mtl3 $ ? 1 l.c, '! ? t. 1?.f ./ Y 1. ?, ?it• h.? ?j? 5141tff CrB 3 MUC .,. I B w s ` U aV M<C? ? 4r a irC' rr• ? yt ' 1 d y it r? 1 a Y 1? ? i? f »? ! llr i - &J f13 pf mvow fr y /i ,, wed ? ?' ?, w>e ? ME ? W6? W`s`G • ? ?_ VOwC rf: MIC;f t Ws ?ice _ Mt IJr .? r 1r y f G I 1 rB PtE s ?l \ >j ? r Q 17 N f rh ur of seal 1) 12035000 FEET lA? J 16?Qq ??- (JgP.J?O o?-D6$ Pill - 'r ` - • s? d L ? W iN X W m W O u 5 ,r v 6J J - ? ? 1 cw lop ? /0 Y r/ 1 ' ? ? ? ? f/y , ?, r •? ? f err 4 ? ? ?y?yyl 7 x ? g N 319sio q_ 3 a 10 rr P? ? - C e0 _ -1 I ? L •? 51 egnuea _ ?...., -.. _ 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 on Dr 0 N 0 T7 c a m Rd c X I ldd St 0 Teel St N ?. \ e?Fta?t?n8lvd N SI ock q Dr ice E Rd Begin St qve City of Durham St Leon CI End s a 0 t? J5n 6 n r * Vicsinit Mai Carver Street Extension City of Durham _ f r 4, 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 1 S b 9 CITY OF MEMNE Name Mailing Address PLEASE PRINT) d" t l 'i Jul jc_ Z? 7 - y// 4 u ?Q 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 on Dr 0 n 0 8 6 S ryDS, an Ju Hebron Rd i Todd St ? ° Teel St N I ? d i' Begin - - -- -- _ o Project 1 nFta? 1'n Blvd Rd o ? I i a , .1 N Wolfpack Dr End 0 U. St Piper St '? o0 Ave "v BersvynAve v 7 City Of a ' int t- Durham Leon Leon C o` ?o c1-::; 1 n -T,- Vicinity Ma Carver Street Extension City of Durham Date 08-08 Durham County, North Carolina `•.' z,/ 0 1,000 2,000 Figure `J t 1 t Project No 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 ? Justice Hebron Rd u? 8 n End Teel Sl Rd N ? O ?Y -s 61 tD ?• U [n a U J ?a Shan Ct St Dr a Ave Ave ?e eon Sl ` X Leon St i vi 1ve 1? C ity of Durham RusktnsAve 01 u, .....nortl Ave St O ? n ? 3 0 a? LL arbors St o` D Ct, Vicinity Map Carver Street Extension City of Durham ?L? 1 ?I I Date 08.08 Dumam County. NoW1 Carolina 0 1,000 2,000 Figure Protect No. Feet c ? g rn o; Public Information Meeting Carver Street Extension from Danube Lane to Old Oxford Highway / Hamlin Road DURHAM 1 8 6 9 CW OF MMCJ4F Name Mailing Address (PLEASE PRINT AN D 3.., l?vt A u F JL R N A f-t N C -2-177t-l- 0 7 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 70 ?? , • - - -i Felicia Sr - ? I Mel St --- I 2 \` -_- ?^ I \ ?} t,j I } Han ockSt '•?__ Sh y Dr n A i 7 Jus ice St 0 ?\ D Monk Rd •cc H ebron Rd - o v v I End Project a a o a ? '? Wokpack r ?- -• a?\\? I r I Todd St Begin Rd / Project ! _ J eep`a •-,` ,,- d d Rd ?F Cank?tn Blv N c?n ?. v Ave City of Durham St Knox Ave _?rr_rr TT ?. Vicinity Map Carver Street Extension r-?7 City of Durham Date 09-09 Durham County. North Cardina `J--2.; 0 1,500 3,000 Figure i I Protect No. A F CO M 1 Feet 105726 ?wvt nx?w ,? iJ .O-.i =1 f Q T- Typical Section _1t _, ," C'? - Z• Carver Street Extension City of Durham ?` ? Date 08-09 Durham County. Noah Carolina 0 1,500 3,000 Figure f? 1 L t t Project No 1 c` r" ?? •i L Feet ,0572(; 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