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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19970227 Ver 1_COMPLETE FILE_19970319 State of North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Wayne McDevitt, Secretary A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director A LT.19FA 14 110 0 D E N R January 8, 1998 Wake County DWQ Project #970227 APPROVAL of 401 Water Quality Certification and ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS, WRP Mr. Tim Bailey Town of Cary PO Box 8005 Cary NC 27512 Dear Mr. Bailey: You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions and those listed below, to place fill in 0.23 acres of wetlands and 450 linear feet of waters for the purpose of constructing the Cary Parkway Extension from north of SR 1615 to Evans road, as you described in your application dated October 22, 1997. After reviewing your application, we have decided that this fill is covered by General Water Quality Certification Number 3103. This certification allows you to use Nationwide Permit Number 14 which was issued by the Corps of Engineers April 25, 1997. In addition, you should get any other federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your project including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control, Coastal Stormwater, Non-Discharge and Water Supply Watershed regulations. This approval will expire when the accompanying 404 or CAMA permit expires unless otherwise specified in the General Certification. This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application except as modified below. If you change your project, you must notify us and you may be required to send us a new application. If total wetland fills for this project (now or in the future) exceed one acre, compensatory mitigation may be required as described in 15A NCAC 2H.0506 (h) (6) and (: ). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed in the attached certification and any additional conditions listed below. We understand that you have chosen to contribute to the Wetland Restoration Program in order to compensate for these impact streams. In accordance with 15A NCAC 2R.0500, this contribution will satisfy our compensatory mitigation requirements under 15A NCAC 2H .0506(h). According to 15A NCAC 2H .0506(h), 450 feet of restoration will be required. Until the Wetland Restoration Program receives and clears your check in the amount of $56,250 (made payable to: DENR - Wetland Restoration Program), wetland or stream fill shall not occur. Mr. Ron Ferrell should be contacted at 919-733-5083 ext. 358 if you have any questions concerning the Wetland Restoration Program. You have one month from the date of this Certification to make this payment. For accounting purposes, this Certification authorizes the fill of 0.23 acres of non-riparian wetlands and 450 feet of streams in Neuse River and subbasin and 450 feet of stream restoration are required. Please be aware that the Wetland Restoration Program (WRP) rules require rounding of acreage amounts to one-quarter acre increments (15A 2R.0503(b)). If you do not accept any of the conditions of this certification, you may ask for an adjudicatory hearing. You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. 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, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7447. This certification and its conditions are final and binding unless you ask for a hearing. This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. If you have any questions, please telephone John Domey at 919-733-1786. Attachment P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer Si ly, Ps.Pton Howar , Jr. P.E. Telephone 919-733-5083 FAX 919-733-9919 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper cc: Wilmington District Corps of Engineers Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office Raleigh DWQ Regional Office Mr. John Dorney Central Files Ron Ferrell; Wetland Restoration Program 970227.1tr NORTH CAROLINA - DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY 401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION SUMMARY OF PERMITTED IMPACTS AND MITIGATION REQUIREMENTS In accordance with 15A NCAC 2H .0500, Cary Parkway DWQ Project # 970227 is authorized to impact the surface waters of the State of North Carolina as indicated below for the purpose(s) of extension of Cary Parkway. All activities associated with these authorized impacts must be conducted in accordance with the conditions listed in the attached certification transmittal letter. THIS CERTIFICATION IS NOT VALID WITHOUT THE ATTACHMENTS. AUTHORIZED IMPACTS: 0.23 acres of Class WL wetlands acres of riparian wetlands 0.23 acres of non-riparian wetlands acres of Class SWL wetlands 450 linear feet of stream channel LOCATION: Town of Cary, new Location Cary Parkway Extension from north of SR 1615 to Evans Rd. COUNTY: Wake BASIN/SUBBASLN: 030402 COMPENSATORY MITIGATION REQUIREMENT As required by 15A NCAC 2H .0506, and the conditions of this certification, you are required to compensate for the above impacts through the restoration, creation, enhancement or preservation of wetlands and surface waters as outlined below prior to conducting any activities that impact or degrade the waters of the state. Note: Acreage requirements proposed to be mitigated through the Wetland Restoration Programs must be rounded to one-quarter acre increments according to 15A 2R .0503(b) acres of Class V?'-_ wetlands acres of riparian wetlands acres of non-riparian wetlands acres of Class SWL wetlands 450 linear feet of stream channel One of the options you have available to satisfy the compensatory mitigation requirements is through the payment of a fee to the Wetlands Restoration Fund per 15A NCAC 2R .0503. If you choose this option, please sign this form and mail it to the Wetlands Restoration Fund at the address listed below. An invoice for the appropriate amount of payment will be sent to you upon receipt of this form. PLEASE NOTE, THE ABOVE IMPACTS ARE NOT AUTHORIZED UNTIL YOU RECEIVE NOTIFICATION THAT YOUR PAYMENT HAS BEEN PROCESSED BY THE WETLANDS RESTORATION PROGRAM. Signature Date WETLANDS RESTORATION PROGRAM DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY P.O. BOX 29535 RALEIGH, NC 27626-0535 JAN-05-1999 12:16 FROM WITHERS & RAUENEL TO 7339959 P.01 WTI RS A RAVENEL 'En newin & surveying a<?ic:. Aanul[onE With P.O. f $ f .. Samuel F. Ravene4l.E 111 MacKenan Drive, Cary X C. 27511.9.191469-3340+FAX.,919/467 6008 J_ & cWOK p . JlnugyE Bmcs,RLS' January 5, 998 ' Michael E. Dickemon, AM 1VIE'IVIORANI TO:- Ms' Cyndi Bell, Wetland Scientist NCDBHNR' Division of Water Quality MOM Jim Canfield, P.E. RE: 401 Water Quality Certification For Cary Parkway Extension. from North of SR 1615 (High House Road) to. North of SR 1653, (EvansRoad) KC-DOT Pfoject' 9.8050381 (U-3408) .. "S Pr*ct #97105 ; . Ms. Ben, . , . ThanlGs fQr• taking. the time to meet with us; NCDOT and. the Town, of Cary today regarding tha 401 Water Quality Certification for the Cary Parkway Extension project. This meeting was' requested by us to determine exactly what we needed to address to obtain the 401 Ceztifioa&n. The following. two items were cited as conditions to receiving the Certification: . L DWQ requested iWt uo wcep.holes be allowed At.the Coles Branch crossing. This crossing .will be by a triple 9' x 8' rcini'breed conorefe box culvert. There' WM ttot be any weep holes associated with this' culvert except at the bottom of the concrete endwalls to all eviate groundwater 'hydrostatic pressure.: The proposed Awature over the 'existing railroad will not have any weep holes either'. The stormwater will flow in the bridge'gutter to roadway catch basins 'downgrade of the bridge: .. ' A yment'will be made to.the Wetlands Restoration program for tfie 450' of o iannel dlsturban ce•• We understand that this. payment .will be $125.00 per linear fo6t. The owners. of this. project have elected to do this in lieu 6f .a wetlands mitigation project. Per our znmfi ig this;.ihorning: we understand that DWQ will be able to issue the 401 Water Quality Certification for this project based on this information :Please' fax us a copy.of the Certification at; 467-6008 wboe it is completed. Also, please advise us if you, require additional information or have .any questions: Thanks for your assistance with this matter. ' TOTAL P.01 State of North Carolina 'T a Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources LTK;TA • Division of Water Quality A&4 e James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor F1 Wayne McDevitt, Secretary ED E H N F1 A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director November 20, 1997 MEMORANDUM To: Michelle S(uuvv?epr?krrub e Through: John Dorne`ya('t'?%"' From: Cyndi Bell Subject: State Finding of No Significant Impact for Cary Parkway Extension from North of Slt 1615 (High House Road) to Evans Road Wake County State Project No. 9.8050381, T.I.P. No. U-3408; FHNR #98-0330 The referenced document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of' Water Quality (DWQ) is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities which impact waters of the state including wetlands. The project will involve up to 0.4 acre of' fill in wetlands and one new perennial stream crossing. DWQ offers the following comments based on the document review: A) NCDOT has provided the additional stream information requested by DWQ in our comments on the EA. DOT has provided sufficient evidence to demonstrate avoidance and minimization of wetlands. The crossing at Coles Branch will involve 450 linear feet of' stream impacts, which DOT has acknowledged will require stream mitigation. DOT is reminded that the Welland Restoration is available to use for stream mitigation for this project. B) As this proposed project corridor is located in the Neuse River Basin, it is crucial that DOT demonstrate avoidance and minimization of wetland and stream impacts. Section 15A NCAC 02B .0200(1) of T15A: 02B .0233, Neuse River Basin: Nutrient Sensitive Waters Management Strategy: Protection and Maintenance of Existing Riparian Areas states: Roads, bridges, stormwater management facilities, ponds, and utilities may be allowed where no practical alternative exists. These structures shall be located, designed, constructed, and maintained to have minimal disturbance, to provide maximum nutrient removal and erosion protection, to have the (cast adverse effects on aquatic life and habitat, and to protect. water quality to the maximum extent practical through the use of best management. practices. DOT is encouraged to minimize wetland and stream impacts as much as possible during the final design of this project. Environmental Sciences Branch 4401 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, North Carolina 27607 Telephone 919-733-9960 FAX # 733-9959 M Equal opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/10% poet consumer paper N Ms. Michelle Suverkrubbe Memo November 20, 1997 Page 2 of 2 C) As this project is located within the Neusc River Basin, we recommend implementation of Hiqh Quality Storm Erosion Control Measures and Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds (15A NCAC 04B .0024) for the entire project corridor. Also, Hazardous Spill Catch Basins should be placed at the Coles Branch crossing. D) We encourage NCDOT to investigate whether or not temporary fill will be required to build haul roads and place culverts. We suggest that DOT include this information with the permit application. DOT is advised that full restoration (including removal of fill material and planting/monitoring of vegetation) of temporary fill areas exceeding one acre will be required in accordance with Condition #4 of General Certification 3114 (Nationwide Permit 33) All temporary fill material must be removed from construction access areas. On May 27, 1997, DWQ submitted a draft restoration policy for temporary impact areas to DOT. We anticipate sending this policy to Public Notice before the end of November 1977 and finalizing it prior to construction of this project. Based upon the wetland impacts described in the FONSI, an General Certification 3103 may be applicable to this project. Final permit authorization will require formal application by NCDOT and written concurrence from DWQ. Please be aware that this approval will be contingent upon evidence of avoidance and minimization of wetland and stream impacts to the extent practical, and provision of wetland and stream mitigation whe.c necessary. DWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on the FONSI. DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification requires satisfaction of water quality concerns, to ensure that water quality standards are met and no wetland or stream uses are lost. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to Cyndi Bell at (919) 733-1786 in DWQ's Water Quality Environmental Sciences Branch. cc: Eric Alsmeycr, COE, Raleigh Howard Hall, FWS David Cox, WRC U3408FONSI.DOC Soil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. 244 West Millbrook Road ¦ Raleigh, North Carolina 27609 ¦ (919) 846-5900 ¦ Fax (919) 846-9467 i, t' October 22, 1997 i Raleigh Regulatory Field Office N.C. Division of Water Quality - DEHNR U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Attn: Mr. John Dorney RECEIVED Attn: Mr. Eric Alsmeyer 4401 Reedy Creek Road 6508 Falls of the Neuse Rd., Suite 120 Raleigh, NC 27607 OCi 2 4 1997 Raleigh, NC 27615 ENVIRONMENT . , C?NCES Dear Sirs: The purpose of this letter is to request Nationwide Permits 13 & 14, and Section 401 Water Quality Certification for the project known as U-3408 Cary Parkway Extension. The project corridor is to be acquired by the Town of Cary, NC and is located near the Towns of Cary and Morrisville, NC (Wake County). The site is shown on the enclosed plans and, NC, USGS Topo Quad site vicinity map. It will be necessary to impact 0.396 acres (see map) of jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. above headwaters for the placement of the proposed road. Six pipe and fill crossings and channel improvements are proposed under Nationwide Permits 13 and 14. Each of these impacts exceeds the 150 linear foot limits. However, based on the USGS Quadrangle for Cary, N.C. and field verification by a biologist, five of the crossings can be classified as intermittent streams and not subject to mitigation under North Carolina DWQ Wetland Rules { 15A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)). Coles Branch is a perennial stream subject to mitigation. This mitigation can be accomplished through the Wetlands Restoration Program or the NCDOT mitigation bank. It is our understanding that this is linear project and that each crossing is single and complete. 2orz e?K A I ? ?`;e 1 d v?`tecl .7 A comprehensive stream mitigation proposal will be submitted to DWQ upon conditional issuance of the 401 prior to construction. A federal wetland permit for this project has been received from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the provisions of Nationwide Permit Number 14 of Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. The permit was issued on April 25, 1997, with an Action ID 199700542. Continent: "DWQ asks NCDOT to stipulate that borrow material will be taken from upland sources in the construction contract awarded for this project. This should also be included in a list of environmental commitments in the-FONSI." Please call if you have questions or require further information. If you decide to perform a site visit, please contact us so we can arrange for someone to accompany you. Sincerely, Bob Zarzecki, Biologist Soil/Site Evaluation ¦ Mapping and Physical Analysis ¦ Wetlands Mapping and Mitigation ¦ Environmental Audits On-Site Waste Treatment Systems, Evaluation and Design lm) II) Corps Action ID 199700542 Nationwide Permit Requested (Provide Nationwide Permit #): 13 & 14 Pre-Construction Notification Application For Nationwide Permits that require: 1) Notification to the Corps of Engineers 2) Application for Section 401 Certification 3) Coordination with the NC Division of Coastal Management Send the original and (I) copy of this completed form to the appropriate field office of the Corps of Engineers (see agency addresses sheet). Seven (7) copies should be sent to the NC Division of Environmental Management (see agency addresses sheet). PLEASE PRINT. Owner's Name: Town of Cary, Attn: Tim Bailey 2. Mailing Address: PO Box 8005 Subdivision Name: NIA City: Cary State: NC Zip Code: 27512 Project location address, including subdivision name (if different from mailing address above): Northeast and southwest of NC 54 connecting two present termini of the Cary Parkway and crossing tributaries of Crabtree Creek and Coles Branch. See attached Site Vicinity Map. 3) Telephone Number (Home): N/A (Work): 919-460-4935 4) If applicable, agent's name or responsible corporate official, address, phone number: Soil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. Phone: (919) 846-5900 244 W. Millbrook Road Raleigh, NC 27609 Location of work (provide a map, preferable a copy of USGS topographic map or aerial photograph with scale): County: Wake Nearest town or city: Cary Specific Location (include road numbers, landmarks, etc.): Northeast and southwest of NC 54 connecting two present termini of the Cary Parkway and crossing tributaries of Crabtree Creek and Coles Branch. See attached Site Vicinity Map. 6. Impacted or nearest stream/river: Tributaries of Crabtree Creek River Basin: Neuse River Basin 7a. Is project located near water classified as trout, tidal saltwater (SA), high quality waters (HQW), outstanding resource waters (ORW), water supply (WS-1 or WS-II)? YES ( ) NO (X) If yes, explain: N/A 7b. Is the project located within a North Carolina division of coastal management area of environmental concern (AEC)? YES ( ) NO (X) 7c. If the project is located within a coastal county (see page 7 for list of coastal counties), what is the land use plan (LUP) designation? N/A 8a. Have any Section 404 permits been previously requested for use on this property? YES (X) NO ( ) If yes, provide Action ID number of previous permit and any additional information (including photocopy of 401 certification). USACOE Action ID # 199700542 8b. Are additional permit requests expected for this property in the future? YES ( ) NO (X) If yes, describe anticipated work: N/A 9a. Estimated total number of acres in tract of land: 125 in Inspection Area 9b. Estimated total number or acres of wetlands located on project site: 1.5 I Oa. Number of acres of wetlands impacted by the proposed project by: Stream Intermittent/Perennial Width NW13 (ac.) NW14 (ac.) A Intermittent 10' 0.023 0.052 B Intermittent 5' 0.002 0.034 C Intermittent 5' 0.015 0.048 D Intermittent 5' 0.017 0.029 E Perennial (Coles Branch) 15' 0.107 0.048 F Intermittent 5' 0.002 0.020 Total: 0.166 0.231 l 0b. (1) Stream channel to be impacted by the proposed project (if relocated, provide distance both before and after relocation): Stream Intermittent/Perennial Width Impact (linear feet) A Intermittent 10' 226 U. 7'X7' box culvert (NW14) 100 I.f. riprap dissipater (NW13) B Intermittent 5' 299 U. 48" RCP (NW14) 10 U. riprap dissipater (NW13) C Intermittent 5' 418 l.f. 60" RCP (NW14) 130 U. channel improvements (NW13) D Intermittent 5' 254 U. 18" RCP (NW14) 145 I.f. channel improvements (NW13) E Perennial 15' 140 I.f. triple 9'x8' box culverts (NW14) (Coles Branch) 310 I.f. channel improvements (NW13) F Intermittent 5' 173 I.f. 30" RCP (NW14) 10 I.f. riprap dissipater (NW13) Total 1510 I.f. (NW 14) 705 l.f. (NW 13) (2) Stream channel impacts will result from: (check all that apply) Open channel relocation: Placement of pipe in channel: X Channel Excavation: Construction of a Dam/Flooding: Other: bank stabilization 11. If construction of a pond is proposed, what is the size of the watershed draining to the pond? N/A What is the expected pond surface area? N/A 12. Description of proposed work including discussion of type of mechanical equipment to be used (attach plans 8 1/2" x l 1" drawings only): Construction of proposed roadway with mechanical equipment typically assoicated with this type of activity. 13. Purpose of proposed work: Alleviate traffic burdens in local area and complete a segment of road between two current termini. 14. State reasons why it is believed that this activity must be carried out in wetlands (include any measures taken to minimize wetland impacts): Linear roadway requires six crossings of Waters of the U.S. Crossings will be constructed perpendicular to flow. 15. You are required to contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and/or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (see agency addresses sheet) regarding the presence of any federally listed or proposed for listing endangered or threatened species or critical habitat in the permit area that may be affected by the proposed project. Date contacted: (attach responses from these agencies). N/A; To be completed by the USACOE. 16. You are required to contact the state historic preservation officer (SHPO) (see agency address sheet) regarding the presence of historic properties in the permit area which may be affected by the proposed project. Date contacted: N/A; To be completed by the USACOE 17. Does the project involve an expenditure of public funds or the use of public (state) land? YES (X) NO ( ) If no, go to 18. a. If yes, does the project require preparation of an environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act? YES (X) NO ( ) b. If yes, has the document been reviewed through the North Carolina Department of Administration State Clearinghouse? YES ( ) NO (X) Currently in review process. If answers to 17b is YES, then submit appropriate documentation from the state clearinghouse to division of environmental management regarding compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. Questions regarding the State Clearinghouse review process should be directed to Ms. Chrys Baggett, Director State Clearinghouse, North Carolina Department of Administration, 116 West Jones Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003, telephone (919) 733-0369. 18. The following items should be included with this application if proposed activity involves the discharge of excavated or fill material into wetlands: a. Wetland delineation map showing all wetlands, streams, lakes and ponds on the property (for Nationwide Permit numbers 14, 18, 21, 26, 29 and 38). All streams (intermittent and permanent) on the property must be shown on the map. Map scales should be 1 inch equals 50 feet or 1 inch equals 100 feet or their equivalent. b. If available, representative photograph of wetlands to be impacted by project. C. If delineation was performed by a consultant, include all data sheets relevant to the placement of the delineation line. d. Attach a copy of the stormwater management plan, if required. C. What is land used of surrounding property? Forested and Residential f If applicable, what is proposed method of sewage disposal? N/A g. Signed and dated agent authorization letter, if applicable. NOTE: Wetlands or Waters of the U.S. may not be impacted prior to: 1. Issuance of a Section 404 Corps of Engineers Permit, 2. Either the issuance or waiver of a 401 Division of Environmental Management (Water Quality) certification, and 3. (in the twenty coastal counties only) A letter from the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management stating the proposed activity is consistent with the North Carolina Coastal Management program. ZZZ/9 it (Arcs , ignat re Date (Agent's signature valid only if Agent Authorization Letter from the owner is provided (18 g.)) 161 J L, . y0/3G/1996 13:08 919P459467 PAGL 012 mom Soil & Envimnmental Consultants, Inc. i f2,44 West MiUbrook Road ldRttleigh, North Catollaa 276091111(919) 846-59WN Fax (919) 846.9467 - AGENT AUTHORiZAYION FORM - ALL ILM Ag,,FL= IN BY CURRENT 6& WNER C CA-14 Name, -rrt?ti_ a m&& Addm": yr IWQDEP 1? Addmais: ro 8 (X ACAS ? v %at, &.76 1 a Phase: ?ria-x ==?} 460J4 ? 4 Project Name/Deecdptlon: Q (4 Irw r raw r 11 1 I-11 11 w?ww?w 11, r Date. _- 9 tp The Department of the Army U.S. Army Corp of Engineers Wilmington District PO Box logo Wilmington, NC 211402 Attn: EUe bke:tb Z `ield Ufllce: WAL-p <t 14 NL Re: Wetlands Related consulting and Permitting To Whom It May Concern: I, the ounint 2=dY owner, hereby deeignste and aulfw1re Sop and Environmental Consonants, Inc. to Oct ?in my behalf of my agent In the pmoeWng of permft applications. to fumish upon request supplemental a ? n In SUP gt1?appllr?ttlona, etc, front this day forward. This the _t F_ day of h P.- -I This not(flcatien supersedes any previous consapsndenee concerning the agent for this project. ?wN_ OF C?R? E Owners Nome: cc: Mr. John Domey NCORM&NR - OEM Water Quality Planning 4401 Raetly Creak fled Raleigh, NC 27WT p,mmft Owners Sig re: cc; Mr. Chile Huysnnen Soif and Environmerttdt Consultants, Inc, Soil/Site Evaluation ¦ Mapping and Physkat Anslysis 8 V*Oands Mapping and Mitigation • environmental Audits On-Site Waste Treatment Systems, t:veluation and Design post-iN Fax Note 7671 EDa, . -t` # of pages" I y I y? ua ?1 .?V 11{?I' .1 II } 1111` \ \? I ' ? f Il?? l 11'?I 1 •S t r/' 9PQ 1 1 I\ r ( Cj? ` ? •)? ' y Uao?i On w u I It, ? 11 i f Ell j, \ti.Jl .{' 1. 1 ? !:C. ? ? 1 ? ?• / II y1/ i t. ?? I r? n ?. r•? I i , ! r , r 7 n I? ? ??? j ?.. 1?/>?? - 1 1?,,? li ?? ''r ^?? u?'Ill?jl ?)?/?,,1?? t??'?" ???? ?1)? II? ?('.?? -?,? {# .111 If, fil , I Of 1'. 1? ? •?`' d ?'???I ? 1,?.' 1 /???j? II' I? _?' ? ??C \ ? 1 1 i ? ? I all. • 7 c c ) ? ? I 1, ?' log ??: I 1 • I 1 JIM 1i I?V -? 11 ?? 1 r ? ? 1? 111 1,1i -N 1)C?1?11?? I ? rx?I( } A, . l \? 1 I I r J , 1 '? .rte ? i 1 r ?? ?? ; l 1 I ?(I(? 1'•s- S I ? I I?l??' 11 ', ?' u '-? ?? ?, ? ?_,? h V) W W a w u u Q O Q O n o NW h z a N ? U m Z Q I 2N N s u" cl J N Z QQ ?a aLd w_ U la O ui oa ° N ah a i u N W o ? 0 ?. w y u m d 0 N_ LLl u N_ U' IL u Yd O ??Q 1 leltru•nlton 1)erfor. ned by: Soil and I.nvlronIllenlnl ( olAstiltillIt!i, lilt 299 W. Millbrook Rood Raleigh, NC 27609 Ph: 919/846-5900 DATA FORM ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMINATION (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) I'rolrct/Site: Date: _\? Applicant/Owner: _ County: Investigator. State: Stratum Indicator s \{ T-os 0 M T(5(f -M (t T(S if Dominant Plant Series Stratum Indicator 9. vv\kx v 10??-cv?ltN`c? h f-?-- lllGX?CS73J,? 12. - 13. 14. - - --- -- -- --- 15. --- 16. --- - - -- - (Atypical Situation)? , Yes Transect ID: Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes Plot ID. (If needed, explain on reverse.) Do Nonnal Circumstances exist on the site? (D No Community ID: is the site significantly disturbed VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species 2. 3.1? kz? C1.S2/N su\Uak?c?- SS?yv??,.C>? O? Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FA(__ (excluding FAC-). Remarks: HYDROLOGY KJO? Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks) Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Aerial Photographs I -Other No Recorded Data Available Field Observations of Drplh }G Sur{air Wulrr.Z _(in.) Depth to Free Water in Pit. -(Ill,) Depth to `iaturated 1m1 (rir ) I1 l,%l Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators: Inundated -Saturated in Upper 12 inches Water Marks Drift Lines ?- -Sediment Deposit, Drainage Pattenls in Wetlarnck ie, on l„rv Indicators (2 or wore redtuned) _oxidized 1,\()()t ('111111TIels ill upper 12 uti he., `? Wider-til4+ux•d I.euve:; I.u? ul`iciil `?urv,v I?utu FA(' Neutral Tc-A c lllre? (I'.xpli+iii ini I??•iltnrl.?,I tic)Il.ti Mnl, Unit Name (`irrces anti Phase). '?ci?l.S2R" _ 1)rninage (Mass Field Observations 1'nxonumy(Suhgroup): _ -- Confirm Mapped Type? Yes No Profile Descrthtion: Drplh Matrix Color Mottle Colors Mottle Texture, Concret (uns? I ionzon (Munsell Moist) (MuiLSell Mo{ Q Abundance Contrast Strue__t_-ure vtc. Cr- (b`l? _5(a . - - - - - ----- -- - ?11a _?__ cUti??LL Hydric Soil Indicators:' IHistosol Histic Epipedon \/ Sulfidic Odor _Aquic Moisture Regime Reducing Conditions \/ Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors Remarks: '**- Concretions ___High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soil Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils Listed on Local Hydric Soils List Listed on National Hydric Soils List Other (Explain in Remarks) Wetland Determination _/?.? Hydrophytic Vegetation Present!' ?f No (Circle) Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Wetland Hydrology Present? ? No (Circle) Hydric Soils Present? f No ' No Remarks: .I ___ _,. dw ALI. U?.U . Con?sr.1 I ?? ll' (Q? VVQa5 ?- ,`(/J 4- (W - lC l.A -? - so OY, f /?J, ?I s l - :c-L'4Q ?c.? at 9 / 9Y V r? OY- i lss uc?,vv??_ ?.1 aA,)o ?i u-Q 9-? _ I'1ar c/' rJJ Z1a2d?u? i)? ?JUscKs o ? im 60-112 qD ( 124 1?1 - r l/S 19E' I lalc? LEY -ow r4 OF CPRY I T A . M g l l w jwvs eaut t., it If ?AI lug r fl ?.? ?? P-07 ?? J !yt i ? f o2 C5? N c C?4 V Q x 4e--,J ij0-) r :5 / V U jl7d ? l3e /l ooq I M TA I LEY OWN of:" CPI?Y .I P4 F- ?iA?M lit A , MEMORANDUM Environmental Review Tracking DWQ - Water Quality Section TO: Env. Sciences Branch (WQ Lab) O Trish MacPherson (end. sps) O Kathy Herring (forest/omf1Qw) O Larry Ausley (ecosystems) O Matt Mathews (toxicology) O Jay Sauber (intensive survey) Non-Discharge Branch (Archdale 9th) O Kim Colson (Permitting) * Wetlands (WQ Lab) O John Dorney (Corps, 401) PI-Cyndi Bell (DOI) O Eric Galamb Sheet: Reg./ Prg. Mgmt Coordination Branch O Farrell Keough (Archdale 9th) O Brent McDonald (Archdale 12th) * Regional Water Quality Supervisors O Asheville O Mooresville O Washington O Fayetteville O Raleigh O Wilmington 0 Winston -Salem Planning Branch (Archdale 6th) O Alan Clark (basinwide planning) O Boyd DeVane (classifications & standards) O Beth McGee (management planning) O Ruth Swanek (modeling) (Archdale 9th) Point Source Branch (Archdale 9th) 0 Dave Goodrich (NPDES) O 0 Bradley Bennett (Stormwater) O 0 Tom Poe (Pretreatment) (Archdale 7th) O FROM: Michelle Suverkrubbe, Regional / Program Management Coordination Branch RE. q Q -()330-, i 2AAA4 s i Attached is a copy of the above document. 'Subject to the requirements of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act, you are being asked to review the document for potential significant impacts to the environment, especially pertinent to your jurisdiction, level of expertise or permit authority. Please check the appropriate box below and return this form to me along with your written comments, if any, by the date indicated. Notes: I can be reached at: phone: (919) 733-5083, ext. 567 misAcircmemo - mac version fax: (919) 715-5637 e-mail: michelle@dem.ehnr.state.nc. m -- rr v Thank you for your assistance. Suggestions for streamlining this process are greatly appreciated! Cary Parkway Extension North of 1615 (High House Road) to Evans Road Cary/Wake County, North Carolina State Project No. 9.8050381 TIP No. U-3408 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION STATE FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT October 1997 Documentation Prepared By: Withers & Ravenel Engineering & Surveying, Inc. 'a 17? 7, ' a William E. Lee, P.E. ??' ?,?'o^ Z? < ?.n-• Project Manager For the North Carolina Department of Transportation ' /James A. Bissett, Jr., P.E., Un' ead Consulting Engineering Unit ' Tho as R, Kendig, AICP Environmental Study Manage n TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. TYPE OF ACTION 2. DESCRIPTION OF ACTION 3. RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE 4. WETLAND FINDINGS 5. FLOODPLAIN FINDINGS 6. CIRCULATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 7. COMMENTS RECEIVED REGARDING THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 8. COMMENTS MADE DURING AND SUBSEQUENT TO THE PUBLIC HEARING 9. REVISION TO THE PROJECT SINCE CIRCULATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 10. FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT 11. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS FIGURES APPENDIX PAGE 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 7 9 9 9 r r j ' State Finding of No Significant Impact Prepared by the Planning and Environmental Branch of the ' North Carolina Department of Transportation ' 1. TYPE OF ACTION This is a North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) administrative Action, State Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). The NCDOT has determined that this project will not have any significant impact on the ' human or natural environment. This Finding of No Significant Impact is based on the Environmental Assessment which has been independently evaluated and determined to adequately and accurately discuss the need, environmental issues, and impacts of the proposed project. Copies of the Environmental Assessment are on file in the Planning and Environmental Branch of NCDOT. The Environmental Assessment provides sufficient evidence and analysis for determining that an Environmental Impact Statement is not required. ' The NCDOT takes full responsibility for the accuracy, scope, and content of the Environmental Assessment. 2 DESCRIPTION OF ACTION ' The North Carolina Department of Transportation in conjunction with the Town of Cary propose to join two independent sections of the Cary Parkway in Wake County, North ' Carolina. Presently, the northern section of the Parkway extends from North Harrison Avenue to Evans Road and the southern section is routed from Holly Springs Road to Crabtree Crossing Parkway in Cary. The intent of this project is to join these two sections by constructing a 2.57 mile, four-lane median divided roadway, primarily on new location within the northwest Cary and east Morrisville jurisdictional limits. The proposed project, referred to as the Cary Parkway Extension, is included in the 1998- 2004 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program, TIP No. U-3408, with construction in Fiscal Year 1998. The estimated cost of the project based on preliminary design is ' $10,550,000, not including right-of-way acquisitions. Approximately 70 percent of the right of way will be donated by developers. The purchase of the additional necessary right-of-way and required utility relocation will be the responsibility of the developers and the Town of ' Cary. 1 3. RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE ' There were six alternatives considered for the project including the no build and postponement of project alternatives. The recommended alternative will enhance the safety and general welfare of the public as well as minimize possible environmental and social 4. impacts (Figure 1). The proposed extension will be a major thoroughfare between northwest I Cary/Morrisville and south Cary. The proposed four-lane divided facility will have a 33-foot raised median on a 110-foot right- ' of-way from the Preston PUD property line to the Weston PUD property line. There is an existing 106-foot right-of-way from High House Road to the Preston property line and also within the Weston PUD area. The typical paved roadway section is 29 feet wide with 11-foot ' inside and 14-foot outside lanes and 1.5-foot inside and 2.5-foot outside curb and gutter. Berm width will predominately be 11 feet, except where guardrail is required the width will be 15 feet (Figure 2). This type of section is typical for the projected traffic volumes and ' conforms with the Town of Cary and NCDOT Greater Raleigh Urban Area Thoroughfare Plans as well as AASHTO and DOT standards. , Permanent and temporary easements will also be necessary for the construction of sidewalk, guardrail, drainage structures, and other miscellaneous items. All intersections will be at grade, with stop sign control for intersecting streets except for the NC 54 and Evans Road ' intersections which will be signalized as part of the project. A grade separated (bridge) crossing of the Southern Railroad is proposed. Private residential drives will not abut the ' proposed roadway. WETLANDS FINDING The proposed project is consistent with Executive Order 11990, which states that ' construction will not be allowed in a wetland area unless there are no practical alternatives to the proposed action and all practical measures to minimize harm to wetlands have been considered. ' The NCDOT also has a policy to avoid, to the extent possible, adverse impacts on wetlands whenever there is a practical alternative. Approximately 0.4 acres of wetlands will be ' unavoidably displaced by this project. The nature of the project and the topographical and economical concerns as well as highway safety issues associated with the project corridor, prohibit the shifting of the alignment to completely avoid wetland areas. In the absence of ' feasible alternatives to avoid wetland areas, all practical measures such as "best management practices" will be utilized to minimize impacts to wetlands. , The alignment of the Cary Parkway Extension was based on several factors. The primaryfactors considered in determining the alignment included the locations of the existing , Cary Parkway's termini, the location of the WRBZ radio transmission towers, the vertical alignment of the existing NC 54, wetland impacts and the presence of existing development. Several alignment alternatives were investigated for this project. The selected alternative ' minimized wetland impacts and project costs. Other alternatives considered and found not viable were the no-build alternative, an alignment west of the WRBZ radio transmission towers, an alignment through the transmission towers, an alignment east of the transmission ' towers (Figure 1) and postponement of the proposed project. 11 ' All wetland areas not affected by the project will be protected from unnecessary encroachment. No staging of construction equipment, or storage of construction supplies will ' be allowed in a wetland or near any water-related area. Erosion control measures will be observed and included in the design plans to the contractor. All bare fill or cut slopes adjacent to streams or intermittent drainage will be stabilized as soon as possible. Mitigation is recommended in accordance with Section 404(b)(1) Guidelines of the CWA (40 CFR 230), FHWA stepdown procedures (23 CFR 777.1 et seg.), and mandates expressed in ' Executive Order 11990 (42 FR 26962 (1977)). Based on the above considerations, it is determined that there is no practical alternative to the ' proposed new construction in wetlands and that the proposed action includes all practical measures to minimize harm to wetlands which may result from such use. 5. FLOODPLAIN FINDINGS ' The Town of Cary and the Town of Morrisville are both participant in the National Flood Insurance Program. This project includes one FEMA jurisdictional flood plain crossing of ' Coles Branch. The 100-year flood plain elevation at Section A of the Wake County Flood Insurance Study (FIS), which is in the proximity of the proposed crossing is 329 feet above mean sea level with a floodway width of 245 feet as depicted by the March 1992 map number ' 37183CO292 E as published by FEMA. Coles Branch is designated by the Wake County FIS as Basin 18 Stream 24 and has a drainage area of approximately two square miles. A Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) has been submitted to FEMA for approval of ' a triple 9'x 8' reinforced concrete box culvert crossing with a peak base flood discharge of 1505 cubic feet per second. This proposed encroachment in the floodplain will not have an adverse effect on the adjacent properties, however, it will increase the published 100-year ' flood elevation by a maximum of 0.6 feet approximately 180 feet upstream of the crossing. Approval of the CLOMR is pending. ' Directly downstream of this crossing is a Wake County flood control dam (Structure #18). This United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), NRCS designed impoundment is part ' of the PL 566 Flood Control program to relieve flooding in the Crabtree Creek drainage area. It is not anticipated that Wake County Structure #18 will be adversely affected by the project. During construction, Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be utilized to minimize ' the impact of sediment entering the stream as a result of this construction. ' 6. CIRCULATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT The approved Environmental Assessment was circulated for comment to the following ' federal, state and local agencies: Responses to the Environmental Assessment were received from those agencies in bold text , and asterisk. These comments are addressed in this document and copies are included as Appendix A. ' U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Wilmington, N.C. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service - Raleigh, N.C. , * N.C. State Clearinghouse N.C. Department of Cultural Resources * N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs ' * Division of Water Quality (Environmental Management) * Division of Land Resources ' N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation * N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Town of Cary ' Town of Morrisville Wake County 7. COMMENTS RECEIVED REGARDING THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT , The following comments were received from the circulation of the Environmental Assessment. A. DEHNR - Division of Water Quality ' Comment: "In order for DWQ to issue a 401 Water Quality Certification for the preferred alignment, we recommend that the FONSI should provide the following information ' lacking in the EA: ' Quantification of stream impacts - NCDOT has provided a diagram showing all streams within the study area, along with specific dimensions of each stream and recommended culvert structures. NCDOT should provide approximate linear distances of stream impacts. If culverts and/or stream relocations exceed 150 feet ' linear distance of stream channel at any stream crossing, stream mitigation may be required in accordance with DWQ Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)). In such a case, a comprehensive stream mitigation proposal should be included in the ' FONSI or application for 401 Water Quality Certification." ' Response: Six stream crossings were identified in the Environmental Assessment. These crossings have been assigned letter identification A through F on Figure 3. Quantification of the linear distances has been compiled based on the preliminary plans and is as follows: ' A 226-LF 7'x7' box culvert 100-LF riprap dissipater 326-LF total impact ' " B 299-LF 48 RCP ' 10-LF riprap dissipater 309-LF total impact ' C 418-LF 60" RCP 130- F channel improvements 548-LF total impact ' D 254-LF 18" RCP 145-LF channel improvements ' 399-LF total impact E 140-LF Triple 9'x8' box culverts (Coles Branch) ' 310-LF channel improvements ' 56-ff total imp= - ' F 173 -LF 30" RCP 10-LF riprap dissipater 183-LF total impact ' Each of these impacts exceeds the 150 linear foot limits. However, based on the USGS Quadrangle for Cary, N.C. (Figure 4) and field verification by a biologist, five of the crossings can be classified ' as intermittent streams and not subject to mitigation under North Carolina DWQ Wetland Rules { 15A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)). Coles Branch, identified on Figure 4 as E is a perennial stream subject to mitigation. A comprehensive stream mitigation proposal will be submitted with the state permit application ' requesting 401 certification to DWQ subsequent to construction. A federal wetland permit for this project has been received from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers under the provisions of Nationwide Permit Number 14 of Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. ' The permit was issued on April 25,1997, with an Action ID 199700542. Comment: "DWQ asks NCDOT to stipulate that borrow material will be taken from upland sources in the construction contract awarded for this project. This should also be included in a list of environmental commitments in the FONSI." ' 5 ' Response: All borrow and solid waste sites will be the responsibility of the Contractor. Soild waste will be disposed of in strict adherence to the NC Division of Highways " . The Contractor will observe and "Standard Specifications for Roads and Structures ' comply with all laws, ordinances, regulations, orders, and decrees regarding the disposal of solid waste. Soild waste will not be placed into any existing land disposal sites that is in violation of state or local rules and regulations. Waste and debris will , be disposed of in areas that are outside the right-of -way and provided by the Contractor. The Contractor will be responsible for obtaining borrow sites, delineating wetlands in borrow sites and obtaining written concurrence on delineated wetlands ' in borrow sites from the Corps of Engineers. Borrow materials will not be stockpiled or disposed of adjacent to or in areas where they may runoff with stormwater into streams and impoundments. Where it is absolutely necessary to store materials ' adjacent to streams, they will be stored above the mean highwater mark in such a manner that they would not runoff with stormwater. Disposal of waste and debris will ' not be allowed in areas under the Corps of Engineers regulating jurisdiction. In the event that Corps of Engineers jurisdiction areas cannot be avoided, the Department will be responsible for mitigation. ' Comment: "DWQ asks NCDOT to ensure that the sediment and erosion control measures are ' not placed in wetlands. This commitment should be incorporated into the construction contract awarded for this project. Response: NCDOT will minimize any sediment erosion control measures placed in existing ' wetlands. The construction plans and contracts for this project will address this matter in more detail. In summary, it is believed that this project will avoid and ' minimize wetlands and stream impacts to the extent practical. B. N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Comment: "At this time we concur with the EA. However, we request that the FONSI include ' a discussion of the measures that Cary will use to minimize the impacts of secondary development, which this project will serve, on streams and wetlands. Any existing ' ordinances requiring building setbacks from water courses, maintenance of open space or riparian buffers, and installation of detention basins or storm water ponds should be cited." ' Response: The Town of Cary has several ordinances and policies that will minimize impacts of secondary development along the Cary Parkway project corridor. This project is ' located within the Crabtree Creek watershed area which is not part of the Reservoir Watershed Protection Overlay District within the Town of Cary. This in effect means that any construction of stormwater retention or detention measures would be ' voluntary by the future developers. In the Cary Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), however, Section 14.3.8 indicates that on watersheds greater than 50 acres, a stream buffer will be provided 30 feet from the top of the bank on each side of the , drainage way. Chapter 14, Part 3 of the Cary UDO is entitled Soil Erosion and 6 , Sedimentation Control Stream and Wetland Protection, whose purpose is "regulating land disturbing activities in order to control accelerated erosion and sedimentation and ' accordingly to prevent water pollution from sedimentation to prevent accelerated erosion and sedimentation of lakes and natural water courses and to prevent damage to public and private property by sedimentation." This part of the ordinance also ' requires that all permits be obtained for development in regulatory wetlands. For further information, refer to Chapter 14, Part 3 of the Cary UDO. ' All developments within the Cary ETJ require approved Erosion Control Plans prior to grading. Areas within Morrisville's ETJ require Erosion Control Plan approval by ' Wake County. These regional approvals will assist in minimizing secondary impacts. ' C. DEHNR - Division of Land Resources Comment: "This project will impact one geodetic survey marker. N.C. Geodetic Survey should ' be contacted prior to construction." Response: In a conversation with Wayne Brantley of the N.C. Geodetic Survey, one geodetic ' survey benchmark located at the railroad crossing of the proposed alternative will most likely be impacted during the construction of the Cary Parkway Extension. N. C. Geodetic Survey will be contacted before construction begins to mitigate any impacts ' to the survey benchmark. Comment: "The erosion and sedimentation control plan required for this project should be ' prepared by the Department of Transportation under the erosion control program delegation to the Division of Highways from the North Carolina Sedimentation Commission." Response: The erosion and sedimentation control plan required for this project will be prepared ' by NCDOT under the erosion control program delegation to the Division of Highways from the North Carolina Sedimentation Commission. 8. CONIlMENTS MADE DURING AND SUBSEQUENT TO THE PUBLIC HEARING ' Following circulation of the Environmental Assessment, an open forum public meeting was held at the West Cary Middle School on August 6, 1997. The format of the forum was an informal showing of the NCDOT approved preliminary plans, aerial photography and plan view of the proposed ' alignment. Approximately 22 people attended the meeting and signed the registry. A three-page handout included a description of the project and a comment sheet allowing for public written response. There were two written comments received by the NCDOT Citizen's Participation Unit. At the time of the meeting a number of people had questions and/or comments. The vast majority of those attending were in support of the project. A summary of the written and paraphrased voiced comments are as follows: A. Written Comment: "After viewing the maps at the "Open Forum Public Meeting" on August , 6, 1997, I wish to voice a concern about sidewalks. The plan for this project shows sidewalks only on one side of Cary Parkway. I think that is a mistake. Cary Parkway should have ' sidewalks on both sides. An even greater mistake is the fact that the railroad bridge was shown as wide enough Qnly for sidewalks on one side. This would mean that the second ' sidewalk could not be added later. A mistake. Please put sidewalks on both sides. We should be and must be pedestrian friendly." Response: Cary's policy for sidewalks is being followed on this project. , B. Comment: The location of the sidewalks was a question of several attendees. Several people I voiced their opinions that sidewalks should be included on both sides of this roadway. , Response: It was indicated that the sidewalk would be placed on the interior side of the Cary Parkway project, which in this case would be on the east side of the proposed roadway. This is in accordance with current Town of Cary policy. C. Comment: Several inquiries were made with respect to bicycle lanes for this project. ' Response: The outside travel lanes for the Cary Parkway Extension will be 14 feet wide, to , accommodate for bicycle usage. D. Comment: Several inquiries were made with respect to the actual extent of the project limits. ' Comments were made that the project should be expanded to include the addition of two lanes to the existing two lane roadway from Evans Road to North Harrison Avenue. Response: Funding for the two additional lanes was not a part of this project and would have ' to be included in future programs for either the Town of Cary and/or NCDOT. E. Comment: An inquiry concerning roadway and bridge elevations adjacent to proposed development was prompted. The concern was visibility of a proposed building from the road. , Response: The plans were reviewed and information found to be sufficient by the inquiring party. F. Comment: A request was made by an individual that the planned extension of Winfair Drive ' to Cary Parkway within the Silverton area be reconsidered. The individual indicated that a petition was being circulated to eliminate the tie in and terminate Winfair Drive short of the , Cary Parkway. Response: It was indicated that any design changes with respect to this tie in could be made ' at a later date if approved by the Town of Cary and NCDOT. At this time, the plans will remain unchanged in this area. G. Comment: An inquiry was made with respect to the projected noise level on the proposed ' Cary Parkway. 8 1 Response: A review of the EA indicated that the maximum projected noise level in the year 2020 would be 72 dBA in the vicinity of NC 54. H. Comment: A few of the adjacent property owners along the Cary Parkway project were concerned with easement and right-of-way requirements that would affect their property. Although they had previously been contacted by the Town of Cary and Withers & Ravenel Engineering and Surveying, the primary question was related to the actual easement and right- of-way acquisition process. Response: The Town of Cary will be contacting them in the near future to finalize the necessary right-of-way and easement acquisitions. 9. REVISIONS TO THE PROJECT SINCE CERCULATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT The Environmental Assessment indicated that there would be an impact of 0.12 acres of wetlands. However, based on the preliminary design the approximate area of impacted wetlands will be 0.397 acres. to. FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT Based upon a study of the proposed project documented in the environmental assessment, and upon comments received from federal, state, local agencies and the public, it is the finding of the North Carolina Department of Transportation that the project will not have a significant impact upon the human environment. Therefore, an environmental impact statement or further environmental analysis will not be required. 11. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS The following environmental commitments will be adhered to during the implementation of this project: a. NCDOT will implement all practical measures and procedures to minimize and avoid environmental impacts. b. Borrow & Waste Commitment All borrow and solid waste sites will be the responsibility of the Contractor. Soild waste will be disposed of in strict adherence to the NC Division of Highways "Standard Specifications for Roads and Structures". The Contractor will observe and comply with all laws, ordinances, regulations, orders, and decrees regarding the disposal of solid waste. Soild waste will not be placed into any existing land disposal sites that is in violation of state or local rules and regulations. Waste and debris will be disposed of in areas that are outside the right-of -way and provided by the Contractor. The Contractor will be responsible for obtaining borrow 9 sites, delineating wetlands in borrow sites and obtaining written concurrence on delineated ' wetlands in borrow sites from the Corps of Engineers. Borrow materials will not be stockpiled or disposed of adjacent to or in areas where they may runoff with stormwater into ' streams and impoundments. Where it is absolutely necessary to store materials adjacent to streams, they will be stored above the mean highwater mark in such a manner that they would not runoff with stormwater. Disposal of waste and debris will not be allowed in areas under , the Corps of Engineers regulating jurisdiction. In the event that Corps of Engineers jurisdiction areas cannot be avoided, the Department will be responsible for mitigation. , The Contractor will maintain the earth surface of all waste area, both during the construction phase and until the completion of all seeding and mulching, or other erosion control measures ' specified, in a manner that will effectively control erosion and siltation into areas under the Corps of Engineers regulatory jurisdiction, streams and impoundments. 10 , FIGURES Q Y a IL x 6 fi kz- 0 O N L?J J U N V / ? ? `_ `) _ ?`\f`1??1? . tip ? f ? I % , ?\? 11n???' l 6 a. 10 JLLI m: Q J ?J Jf i i 0 0 Q.' ?a z V x ? W U Q W O Q LLJ Q U U) LL. 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' ?, ,' ? `?. ? j i ? • ? i _ tree --?-?; ? a' `. 77 / _ A .I / +P J Jill- ?' a •?. 1.? ????i ,'n'?\11 1???F1?rl??? ?A1 11I o\\\ ??i_ I ? ? ii:%' _ ?? :A -/?? /.?? '/%? ;? i` l( r ! li r .1 40,' > g - s .I ' Ji ll ?/ j 1 ) " M. / ?? ft'1 I i - - • - i . ?j . ? .. m i ? I • ? ?? t / VE , ?. ? ,_ 11 _ 1 j N , -„1 U G 1 ?, _ (_ ? ?? fir,.,;, :?.` ? '??? `` ??1?,-?. : ? \ ?•' ? , I ?,?? ./ •???t ? __ '?:? PI it, S?• ?•??'. i, __? 005 ?--- / + _ •. - _? ? JJ - ? \ ? ` ?? h 2 C - ? • y ° N N z 2 1 va, ?f_ ° a /;d 1 O O O 3+ 11/U',. N• O. A .\??\?\\ I?1 ` .. \ ` •? ???1\. i o N ° ; / cm) N \ r 111 /• ?? r p ;? 2 m M„ IL! 1. W OD co 00 oD n ? (( \ l ? I I ? I, ? ? ,? ij/ .a:? •T• ? 7?.?? pp?? \ x ?? ? ?-. _ 46 t? %? _ ?? ' •7 ): X15') , A?? ••? •1'a. •???v I /?? l?. ?? ?O) ?? "Oar J J J i i l C? C n j I] u APPENDLY L I L ,7 .w 2 4 North Carolina ir-- r1l'?-11i?Ci ' c41t ' aN, epartment of Administration James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Mr. Whit Webb N.C. Dept. of Transportation Program Development Branch Transportation Building Raleigh, NC 27603 Dear Mr. Webb: kelId lck JUL r ti L ? - Katie G. Dorsett, Secretary July 22, 1997 (T1C 1.([? Re: SCH File r 97-E -..220-0743); Environmental Assessment Proposed Cary Parkway Extension North of SR 1616 (High House Rd.) to Evans Road in Cary, NC; TIP-U-3.108 The above referenced environmental information has been reviewed through the State Clearinghouse under the provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. Attached to this letter are comments made by Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR) in the course of this review. It has been suggested by DEI-hv-R that its concerns be adequately addressed in the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) document. Best regards. Sincerely, Mrs. Cloys Baggett, Director N. C. State Clearinghouse Attachments cc: Region J Melba McGee, DEHNR ju' 2 c 19°7 . .r f/ 116 West Jones Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27643-3003 Telephone 919-733-7232 An Equal Opportunity / Apirtnative Action Employer State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs E `• James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor '- Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary Richard E. Rogers, Jr., Acting Director MEMORANDUM TO: Chrys Baggett State clearinghouse FROM: Melba McGee V Environmental Review Coordinator RE: 97-0743 Carv Parkway Extension, Wake County DA=E: July 7, 1997 The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed information. The attached comments reflect information that should be addressed in the Finding of No Significant Impact. Thank you for the opportunity to review. attachments JUL i 11997, N.C. STATE CLEA.R!NGHOUSE P.O. Box 27687, FAX 715-3060 Raleigh, North Carolina 2761 1-7687 An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer 919-715-4148 5001. recycled/1001. post-consumer paper J State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Division of Water- Quality James B. Hunt, Jr., G ovemor Jonathan B. Howes; Secretary A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E.,.Director 4 ° o ' 1 June 12, 1997 lvtE'vtOR.-\NDTTNT fijL 4ez To: 'Michelle Suverkrubbe / Through: John DorneIP From: Cyndi Bell L Subject: Environmental Assessment for Cary Parkway Extension from North of SR 1615 (High House Road) to Evans Road Wake Countv State Project DOT No. 9.8050381, T.I.P. No. U-3408; EM R t! 97-0743 The referenced document has beea reviewed by this office. The Division of Water Quality (DWQ is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities which impact waters of the state including wetlands. The document describes potential impacts associated with NCDOT's Preferred Alignment plus three alternate alignments. The project will involve fill in un to 0.12 acre of wetlands and two new crossings of perennial streams. On November 10, 1996, NCDOT applied for 404/401 Permits for the preferred alternative. Although the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has issued Nationwide Permit 14 for this project, DWQ has placed this project on administrative hold until the EA and FONSI have been sent through the State Clearinghouse.. DWQ offers the following comments based on the document and permit application review: A) A permit application was and specifies impacts for field review, DWQ believes preferred alternative, m Since the wetland impacts acre, and it appears that channel distance, DWQ w further avoids and minimi strongly discourage NCD circulation and agency co also reminded that the 40 until after the FONSI is submitted even before the EA was completed, NCDOT's preferred alternative. Based upon our that Alternate 3, which is not NCDOT's ay be the least environmentally damaging. associated with this project fall below 1/3 no stream impacts will exceed 150 fe- linear ill not pursue selection of an alternative which zes impacts. However, in the future we OT from applying for. permits prior to document nsensus with the design alternative. NCDOT is 1 Water Quality Certification will not be issued approved and circulated to the review agencies. Environmental Sciences Branch - 4:01 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, North Carolina 27607 Telephone 919-733-9960 FAX K 733-9959 An Equal Cppcaumtf Aff,= ivu Ac icn Ernplay SQ°6 reelcl?'C1t0°: pert c=umer p: per 41 Ms. Michelle Suverkrubbe Memo June 12, 1997 Page 2 of 2 B) In order for DWQ to issue a 401 Water Quality Certification for the preferred alignment, we recommend that the FONSI should provide the following information lacking in the EA: Ouantirication of stream impacts - NCDOT has provided a diagram showing all streams within the study area, along with specific dimensions of each stream and recommended culvert s=ztures. NCDOT should provide approximate linear distances of stream impacts. If culverts and/or stream relocations exceed 150 feet linear distance of stream channel at anv stream crossing, stream mitigation may be required in accordance with DWQ Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)1. In such a case, a comprehensive stream mitigation proposal should be included in the FONSi or application for 401 Water Quality Certification. C) DWQ asks NCDOT to stipulate that borrow material will be taken from upland sources in the construction contract awarded for this project. This should also be included in a list of environmental commitments in the FONSI. D) DWQ asks NCDOT to ensure that the sediment and erosion control measures are not placed in wetlands. This commitment should be incorporated into the construction contract awarded for this project. Based upon the wetland impacts described in the EA, General Certification 3103 will likely be applicable to this project. Final permit authorization will require written concurrence from DWQ. This approval will be contingent upon evidence of avoidance and minimization of wetland and stream impacts to the extent practical, and provision of wetland and stream mitigation where necessary. DWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on the EA. DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification re _uires satisfaction of water quality concerns, to ensure that water ouality standards are met and no wetland or stream uses are lost. Questions re=ding the 401 Certification should be directed to Cyndi Bell at (919) 733-1786 in DWQ's Water Quality Environmental Sciences Branch. cc: Eric Alsmeyer, COE, Raleigh Howard Hall, FWS David Cox, WRC U3408FA.DOC 'I I-_1.U F,, I- , nk- F + r nLL:, Lri F, L. i Lt l - 1. : 1v -•v'. _ - .. . 11 - 1 - . . - I. - ..- ? ? . v.. 0 it i . 4 a Noah Carolina Wildlife Resources CornmissionP. 312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM itifelba McGee Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs FROM: David Cox, Highway Project Coordinator Habitat Conservation Program DATI July 8, 1997 SUR.TFCT: North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Cary Parkway Extension, from north of SR 1615 (High House Road) to Evans Road, Wake County, North Carolina. TIP No. U-340$, SCH Project No. 97-0743. Staff biologists with the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the subject EA and are familiar with habitat values in the project area. The purpose of this review was to assess project im' acts to fish and wildlife resources. Our comments are provided in accordance with certain provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act (G.S. 113A-1 et seq., as amended; 1 NCAC 25). The proposed project involves connecting existing Cary Parkway and NW Cary l arkwav which are four-lane, median divided highway: s that forms an approximate three- quailer loop with a two to three mile radius around down town Cary. The roadway will be a four-lane, median-divided highway on new location. The protect length is approximately 2.57 miles. Wetland imparts are minimal and will be covered under a Nationwide 14 permit. We feel that the EA adequately describes potential impacts to the wildlife and fisheries resources in the project area. Although the project will alleviate.some traffic on surrounding roads, we recognize that the main purpose of the project is to facilitate existing and future development in the Cary area. The direct impacts of the roadway are minimal. Howevcr, the wildlife habitat loss and uncontrolled stormwater runuff froitr the planned developments will have permanent effects on local terrestrial and aquatic species. At this time we concur with the EA. However, we request that the FONSI include a discussion of the measures that Cary will use to minimize the impacts of secondary development, which this project will serve, on streams and wetlands. Any existing ordinances requiring building'setbacks from water courses, maintenance of open space or riparian buffers, and installation of detention basins or storm water ponds should be cited. Hill, Memo 2 July 8, 1997 Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this EA. If we can be of any further assistance please call me at (919) 528-9886. State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Division of Land Resources James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary Charles H. Gardner, P.G., P.E. Director and State Geologist a ° v F= U PROTECT REVIEW COMMENTS Project Number: 9 7 - O 7¢ 3 Country: ltjl_r - Project Name: ?-vu Parr, tX;?°KSim.- ?S7aaG Pry, 9.8?5a3?1? r ? v HC Officd of State Planning - Geodetic Survev This project will impact gecdetic survey markers. N.C. Gacdetic Survev should be contacted prior to construction at P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, N.C. 27611 (919) 733-3836. Intentional destruction of a geodetic monument is a violation of N.C. General Statute 102-4. This project will have no impact on gecdetic surrey markers. Other (cc=ents attached) For more info=aticn contact the N.C. Office of State Planning, Geedetl-c Survey Office at 919/733-3836. E1 r aUi (,n) 0- r'r (3 - a-9 7 Reviewerl Date Erosion and Sedimentation Control No cement This project will require approval of an erosion and sedimentation control plan prior to beginning any land-disturbing activity if more than cne (1) acre will be disturbed. If an envircrLaental document is required to satisfy Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements, the document must be submitted as par` of the eresicn and sedimentation control plan. If any perticn cf the project is located within a High Quality Water Zone (HQW), as classified by the Division of Environmental Management, increased design standards for sediment and erosion central will apply. The erosion and sedimentation control plan required for this project should be prepared by the Department of Transportation under the erosion control program delegation to the Division of Highways frcm the North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission. Other (comments attached) For more information contact the Land Quality Section at 919/733-4574. • ?aw.'? u??? -5/30/9 7 Geclogicd Survey Seci3on ewer Land Ouelify Section Date Geodetic Survey Section (919) 733-2423 (919) 733-4574 (919) 733-3836 FAX: (919) 733-0900 FAX: 733-2876 FAX: 733-4407 P.O. Box 27687, Rcleigh, Ncrth Ccrclina 27611-7687 Telephone 919-733-3833 FAX 919-733-4407 An Equd Cppcrtunity Affrmctive Acticn Employer 50% recycled/ 10% pest-ccnsurner pcper NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW FRI Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley Clearinghouse Coordinator a Dept. of Cultural Resources Archives-History Bldg. Raleigh NC REVIEW DISTRIBUTION Dent. of Agriculture Dent. of Crime Cont./ Dent. of Cultural Res Dent. of Env. Health, Triangle J Council o- Public Safety :=ces & Natural Res Governments PROJECT INFORMLATION AP_=LIC311TT: N.C. De_ t. of Transportation L% ?jU3 a_)h ? TYPE: State Envircn-mental Policy Act ERD: Environmental Assessment 1,? DESC: Proposed Cary Parkway Extension North of SR 16(115 (High House Rd.) to Erns Road in Cary, NC; TIP nU-3408 The attached project has been submitted to the N. C. State Clearinghouse for i:tercovernmental review. Please review and submit your response by the above indicated date. If additional review time is needed, please contact this office at (919)733-7232. AS A RESULT OF T HT_S REV_IE'll THE FOLLOWING IS SUEMITTED : ?[ I NO CCNMENT ? COMMENTS ATTACHED SIGNED BY: DATE : / 101 ' STATE NU'?MER: 97-E-4220-0743 F02 DATE RECEIVED: 05/21/1997 4 D AGENCY RESPONSE: 07/16/1997 64^ ?J REVIEW CLOSED: 07/21/1997 CCE11 C Ji!I. 2 11997 M.C. STATE CLEAR-NGhCUSc 2 3 r,AY "997 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Wayne McDevitt, Secretary A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director December 2, 1997 Mr. Tim Bailey Town of Cary PO Box 8005 Cary, NC 27512 Dear Mr. Bailey: Re: 401 Water Quality Certification Cary Parkway Extension Construction Wake County DWQ #970227 TIP #U-3408, State Project #9.8050381 I On October 24, 1997 you wrote to the Division of Water Quality (DWQ) requesting a 401 Water Quality Certification for your project to fill wetlands for Cary Parkway Extension at Cary and Morrisville in Wake County. We believe that this project is currently under review by the State Clearinghouse. DWQ cannot issue the 401 Certification until the project has received a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or Record of Decision (ROD) from the State Clearinghouse in accordance with NCAC 15A: 01C.0402. Therefore, I must hereby place this project on indefinite hold until the State Clearinglouse has issued the FONSI or ROD. However we will continue to review the project and make you aware of any concerns. We recommend that you notify us that the NEPA/SEPA process is complete so we can reactivate the project. In addition, by copy of this letter, I ani also notifying the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that this project should be placed on hold. If you believe that this decision is in error, please call me at 919-733-1786 to discuss the matter. Sincerely, qVaoohhnn R. Dorney ater Quality Cercifi lion Program cc: Raleigh DWQ Regional Office U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District Office Central Files Bob Zarzecki; Soil and Environmental Consultants Raleigh Field Office US Army Corps of Engineers 970227.nocert Division of Water Quality - Environmental Sciences Branch 4401 Reedy Creek Rd., Raleigh, NC 27626-0535 - Telephone 919-733-1786 - FAX 919-733-9959 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper MEMO bUM TO: JOHN DORNEY ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES BRANCH PRINT NAMES: Reviewer:Y WO SUPV.: ?WL&kga,,zu DATE: SUBJf T: WETLAND STAFF REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS fy ***EACH ITEM MUST BE ANSWERED (USE N/A FOR NOT APPLICABLE) PERMIT YR: 97 APPLICANT NAME: CARY PROJECT TYPE: ROAD COE #: RCD FROM CBA: APP REG OFFICE: PRO RIVER AND SUB BASIN J STREAM CLASS: C PERMIT NO: 0000916 COUNTY: WAKE PARKWAY EXT. CONSTRUCTION PERMIT TYPE: NW13,14 DOT #: DATE FRM CDA: 10/24/97 030402 STR INDEX N0: 27-33-3 WL IMPACT?: Y/N WL TYPE: WL_REQUESTED: WL ACR EST?: Y/N WL_SCORE M : WATER IMPACTED BY FILL?: Y/N MITIGATION?: Y/N MITIGATION TYPE: MITIGATION-SIZE: DID YOU REQUEST MORE INFO?: Y/N IS WETLAND RATING SHEET ATTACHED?: Y/N HAVE PROJECT CHANGES/CONDITIONS BEEN DISCUSSED WITH APPLICANT?: Y/N RECOMMENDATION (Circle One): ISSUE ISSUE/COND DENY COMMENTS: -"//L cc: Regional Office Central Files 6zs Soil R Environment .l (Consultants, Inc. 244 West Millbrook Road ® I aleigh, Nortlh Carolina 27609 [] (919) 846-5900 0 Fax (919) 846-9467 October 22, 1997 Raleigh Regulatory Field Office U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Attn: Mr. Eric Alsmcycr 6508 Falls of the Neuse Rd., Suite 120 Raleigh, NC 27615 N.C. Division of Water Quality - DEHNR Attn: Mr. John Dorncy 4401 Reedy Creek Road RECEIVED Raleigh, NC 27607 cel 2 44 1997. ? ra ,, Er,IROr?;,;tNTAL?C?T,,?s Dear Sirs: The purpose of this letter is to request Nationwide Pemnits 13 & 14, and Section 401 Water Quality Certification for the project known as U-3408 Cary Parkway Extension. The project corridor is to be acquired by the Town of Cary, NC and is located near the Towns of Cary and Morrisville, NC (Wake County). The site is shown on the enclosed plans and, NC, USGS Topo Quad site vicinity map. It will be necessary to impact 0.396 acres (see map) of jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. above headwaters for the placement of the proposed road. Six pipe and fill crossings and channel improvements are proposed under Nationwide Permits 13 and 14. Each of these impacts exceeds the 150 lincar foot limits. However, based on the USGS Quadrangle for Cary, N.C. and field verification by a biologist, five of the crossings can be classified as intermittent streams and not subject to mitigation under North Carolina DWQ Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)). Coles Branch is a perennial stream subject to mitigation. This mitigation can be accomplished through the Wetlands Restoration Program or the NCDOT mitigation bank. It is our understanding that this is a linear project and that each crossing is single and complete. A comprehensive stream mitigation proposal will be submitted to DWQ upon conditional issuance of the 401 prior to construction. A federal wetland permit for this project has been received from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under die provisions of Nationwide Permit Number 14 of Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. The permit was issued on April 25, 1997, with an Action ID 199700542. Comment: "DWQ asks NCDOT to stipulate that borrow material will be taken from upland sources in die construction contract awarded for this project. This should also be included in a list of environmental commitments in die FONSI." Please call if you have questions or require further information. If you decide to perform a site visit, please contact us so we can arrange for someone to accompany you. Sincerely, Bob Zarzccki, Biologist Soil/Site Evaluation © Mapping and Physical Analysis © Wetlands Mapping and Mitigation 13 Environmental Audits On-Site Waste Treatment Systems, Evaluation and Design DWQ ID: Corps Action ID: 199700542 Nationwide Permit Requested (Provide Nationwide Permit #): 13 & 14 Pre-Construction Notification Application For Nationwide Permits that require: 1) Notification to the Corps of Engineers 2) Application for Section 401 Certification 3) Coordination with the NC Division of Coastal Management Send the original and (1) copy of this completed form to the appropriate field office of the Corps of Engineers (see agency addresses sheet). Seven (7) copies should be sent to the NC Division of Environmental Management (see agency addresses sheet). PLEASE PRINT. Owner's Name: Town of Cary, Attn: Tim Bailey 2. Mailing Address: PO Box 8005 Subdivision Name: N/A City: Cary State: NC Zip Code: 27512 Project location address, including subdivision name (if different from mailing address above): Northeast and southwest of NC 54 connecting two present termini of the Cary Parkway and crossing tributaries of Crabtree Creek and Coles Branch. See attached Site Vicinity Map. 3) Telephone Number (Home): N/A (Work): 919-460-4935 4) If applicable, agent's name or responsible corporate official, address, phone number: Soil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. Phone: (919) 846-5900 244 W. Millbrook Road Raleigh, NC 27609 5. Location of work (provide a map, preferable a copy of USGS topographic map or aerial photograph with scale): County: Wake Nearest town or city: Cary Specific Location (include road numbers, landmarks, etc.): Northeast and southwest of NC 54 connecting two present termini of the Cary Parkway and crossing tributaries of Crabtree Creek and Coles Branch. See attached Site Vicinity Map. 6. Impacted or nearest stream/river: Tributaries of Crabtree Creek River Basin: Neuse River Basin 7a. Is project located near water classified as trout, tidal saltwater (SA), high quality waters (HQW), outstanding resource waters (ORW), water supply (WS-I or WS-II)? YES ( ) NO (X) If yes, explain: NIA 7b. Is the project located within a North Carolina division of coastal management area of environmental concern (AEC)? YES ( ) NO (X) 7c. If the project is located within a coastal county (see page 7 for list of coastal counties), what is the land use plan (LUP) designation? N/A 8a. Have any Section 404 permits been previously requested for use on this property? YES (X) NO ( ) If yes, provide Action ID number of previous permit and any additional information (including photocopy of 401 certification). USACOE Action ID it 199700542 8b. Are additional permit requests expected for this property in the future? YES ( ) NO (X) If yes, describe anticipated work: N/A 9a. Estimated total number of acres in tract of land: 125 in Inspection Area 9b. Estimated total number or acres of wetlands located on project site: 1.5 10a. Number of acres of wetlands impacted by the proposed project by: Stream Intermittent/Perennial Width NW13 (ac.) NW14 (ac.) A Intermittent 10' 0.023 0.052 B Intermittent 5' 0.002 0.034 C Intermittent 5' 0.015 0.048 D Intermittent 5' 0.017 0.029 E Perennial (Coles Branch) 15' 0.107 0.048 F Intermittent 5' 0.002 0.020 Total: 0.166 0.231 10b. (1) Stream channel to be impacted by the proposed project (if relocated, provide distance both before and after relocation): Stream Intermittent/Perennial Width Impact (linear feet A Intermittent 10' 226 I.f. 7'X7' bo:c culvert (NVV14) 100 Lf. riprap dissipater (NW13) B Intermittent 5' 299 Lf. 48" RCP (NW14) 10 Lf. riprap dissipater (NI'J13) C Intermittent 5' 418 Lf. 60" RCP (NW14) 130 U. channel improvem--nts (W13) D Intermittent 5' 254 U. 18" RCP (NW14) 145 Lf. channel improvements (NW13) E Perennial 15' 140 I.f. triple 9'x8' box culverts (NW14) (Coles Branch) 310 Lf. channel improvements (NW13) F Intermittent 5' 173 I.f. 3011 RCP (NW14) 10 I.f. riprap dissipater (NW13) Total 1510 I.f. (NW 14) 705 I.f. (NW 13) (2) Stream channel impacts will result from: (check all that apply) Open channel relocation: Placement of pipe in channel: X Channel Excavation: Construction of a Dam/Flooding: Other: bank stabilization 11. If construction of a pond is proposed, what is the size of the watershed draining to the pond? N/A What is the expected pond surface area? N/A 12. Description of proposed work including discussion of type of mechanical equipment to be used (attach plans 8 1/2" x 11" drawings only): Construction of proposed roadway with mechanical equipment typically assoicated with this type of activity. 13. Purpose of proposed work: Alleviate traffic burdens in local area and complete a segment of road between two current termini. 14. State reasons why it is believed that this activity must be carried out in wetlands (include any measures taken to minimize wetland impacts): Linear roadway requires six crossings of Waters of the U.S. Crossings will be constructed perpendicular to flow. 15. You are required to contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and/or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (see agency addresses sheet) regarding the presence of any federally listed or proposed for listing endangered or threatened species or critical habitat in the permit area that may be affected by the proposed project. Date contacted: (attach responses from these agencies). N/A; To be completed by the USACOE. 16. You are required to contact the state historic preservation officer (SHPO) (see agency address sheet) regarding the presence of historic properties in the permit area which may be affected by the proposed project. Date contacted: N/A; To be completed by tha USACOE 17. Does the project involve an expenditure of public funds or the use of public (state) land? YES (X) NO ( ) If no, go to 18. a. If yes, does the project require preparation of an environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act? YES (X) NO ( ) b. If yes, has the document been reviewed through the North Carolina Department of Administration State Clearinghouse? YES ( ) NO (X) Currently in review process. If answers to 17b is YES, then submit appropriate documentation from the state clearinghouse to division of environmental management regarding compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. Questions regarding (lie State Clearinghouse review process should be directed to Ms. Clirys Baggctt, Director State Clearinghouse, North Carolina Department of Administration, 116 Nest Jones Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003, telephone (919) 733-6369. 18. The following items should be included with tlus application if proposed activity involves the discharge of excavated or fill material into wetlands: a. Wetland delineation map showing all wetlands, streams, lakes and ponds on the property (for Nationwide Permit numbers 14, 18, 21, 26, 29 and 38). All streams (intermittent and permanent) on the property mast be shown on the map. Map scales should be 1 inch equals SO feet or 1 inch equals 100 feet or their equivalent. b. If available, representative photograph of wetlands to be impacted by project. C. If delineation was performed by a consultant, include all data sheets relevant to the placement of the delineation line. d. Attach a copy of the stormwater management plan, if required. e. What is land used of surrounding property? Forested and Residential f. If applicable, what is proposed method of sewage disposal? N/A g., Signed and dated agent authorization letter, if applicable. NOTE: Wetlands or Waters of the U.S. may not be impacted prior to: 1. Issuance of a Section 404 Corps of Engineers Permit, 2. Either the issuance or waiver of a 401 Division of Environmental Management (Water Quality) certification, and 3. (in the twenty coastal counties only) A letter from the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management stating the proposed activity is consistent with the North Carolina Coastal Management program. zap -Ag F, l e, X s tgrtat re T'atc (Agent's signature valid only if Agent Authorization Letter from the owner is provided (18 g.)) /30/1956 13:08 9198469467 PAGE 02 ®g$; Inc. 244 Wc5t MiUbraok Road q Rakish, NcAh Carolina 27609 (919) 646-5900 fJ Fax (919) 846.9467 - AGUYT AUT'MOM ATION FORM - A" ULA a r 13F- RULER IN RY PIAIR ~ -41 L8MOWCNFR Namo: .mm- ZML-V jrtJt?3 ? 1 Addmw: '"DOZE=01 _2E Addm=: M A00ci x.751 a Phom max = 46?0 ?._.. ProJoct Namo/O on; Data. _10'?_3Q'94, The Copartmont of tho Army U.S. Army Corp3 of EgInacrn Wilmin0ton Olatrict PO Box 1000 Wilmington, NC 24402 Attn: 6P_Ve aSN1EYb Z Field Oftlco: OALc G!? 14 Re: Wetlands Rotatcd ConzWting and PormltUnj To Whom It May Conc:m: I, the current PMAy ovrnor, horeby d=lgncto cnd autrzdzo Soil and EnvlronmQntal Conuultanta, Inc, to act In my tnhalr CS my ugcnt In tho PMW -*ia of pormtt Appttcatlon , to fumisll upon roqutut rupplemcntal lrifot n In zuppo of epplications. ctc. from this day forward. This the -,?j_ day of _ r"?tr,?? 1`?i G, This nvtlfluriion up7wdzz cny pmvt= corn_-panaanc3 conwminq tho apont for this project. BLIM Owners Na1mo: 6a Z&44 o: RucnortvOwcro Sign FrO cc: Mr. John Do" NCDLHaNR - t7tJV1 Water Quality Ptcnntng 4401 Ra ;dy C=k F4--d Rtllolgtt, NC 27007 cc; Mr. Chris Huy=an Snit and Environmtnmi Consultants, Inc, Soil/Site Evaluation 0 Mapping and Phyuical Analysis U Wetlands Mapping and Mitigation 0 Environmental Audit." On-Site Waste Trcatmant Systems, Evaluation and Design post-it' Fax Note 7671 Dale 10-31-961409 esIl. To ?5 tl Fro. i ?/ _ t( I 0-5 Lit i "1 1 C ..-?{ 1? •II ??'; i ?i _ I ? ?. i II `, /???) ?? ??\. \r??? s'•?? ? i!) i / y ?e ) 11 i} \ %; 11l O \??1 `\ (ll ll ^J\ I Y(T L j???s` I Z. I CSC ,; ( '1 • ?"?S ?u l? ???,:!? ? I?%) +?? " ?`?? 4 r: ?,\\j;\ I? ,, J? \.(? III-' ,?/ ?I?: Il _. \,I •, y)T Ctis??? ?? ,?.. \ ..- ,i \?I'.. _?i. i _? _ -.`y.i i" <?i J ? ?,/A?? ?? i,: ??` I ?? 'off .,• _rv r „ u ?\J 11 /, vaIj _'- J i z 0 F u Z LIJ o W Q U LL R a ? O a ? U U cl J gig d UEF0. Vg Q h Q U u U a ¢ g z N W z p ?u in 2¢ mn u" °m h (n Z ¢ ¢ r Sy W W V Q? _N U W It < O N Q ?1 Z ~ ? ? 1 ry 1 {bpi 1 0 \ r? T? / Q d i w aQ nd O n \ ` /r d Q N M //\ 0 l•• C? (L LLJ co co \`-?- Z \ ?. ?. LLJ W LLJ J N `•? y.\\ U LM cr O \ ;., \ N I\ W U W z o Fn z ay? N W X a 3 ?N u U ? w z ? o? ?I O H ?Q ?a Delmeahon Performed hy: Soil and Environmental ConsultanL" Inc. 244 W. Millbrook Road Raleigh, NC 27609 Ph: 919/846-5900 DATA FORM ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMIN ATION (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) 1'rolect/Site: Date. q=? -- Applicant/Owner.' County: k l Investigator. ?AUy9NAY?? State: l-X Do Nonnal Circumstances exist on the site? (9No Community ID: Is the site significantly disturbed (Atypical Situation)? , Yes eqZqTransect ID: Is the area a potential Problem Area? Yes Plot ID: (If needed, exTlair? on reverse.) VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 11?N?y r-? SU,r?- IN S K 2. R's c -I 1-s to _ 3.1?-?zd c1.S _ 4 4 - S? G= ICG., r(5(k 5sY?n?-?cs 6. `?>?' ? ?(Slf g ? T 5l-f Dominant Plant Species Stratum Indicator 6'xjf_,fdakadCA -- V yvl? 10tscv\w"N %rrlf%?M 2 r- ?- 11 1-??-- 12 13. 14. 15. 16. Percent of Dominant Species that are OBL, FACW or FAC (excluding FAC-). Remarks: HYDROLOGY O k Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks) Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge I Aerial Photographs I Other l No Recorded Data Available Field Observation;: of Drpth }6 Surface Water: _(RJ?7?-_(in.) Depth to Free Water in Depth to Sulwuled Sail. Wetland Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators: y Inundated ____?_Saturated in Upper 12 inches Water Marks Drift Lutes ?- --Sediment Deposit-; ?/. -Drainage Patter ms in Wetland:; Sep ondar? indicator.; (2 or more regmwd). ._ _?/___Oxidired Root ChanneL; in upper 12 incbvr, Water .Stuuwd Leaves Local Soil Sun:ev Data FAC-NeUtTiiI Test c lther (I?xpliu>> in Rellll,rk.,) 0. 1w,11 I ... SOILS Map Unit Mime 1?-?^t ^^ ? (Series and Phase). -- --?- / -v--CJ-('-S2R? -- Taxonoilly (Subgroup):.-------. --- -- -- Profile Description: Depth Matrix Color Mottle Colors irvLS. Horizon Munsell Moist (Munsell Moist) 011 ?- Drainage Class:-_ - Field Observatiovus Confirm Mapped Type? Yes No Mottle Texture, Concretio Abundance/Contrast Structure etc. HN'dric Soil Indicators-. Histosol Concretions Histic Epipedon High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soil Sulfidic Odor Organic Streaking in Sandy Soils Aquic Moisture Regime Listed on Local Hydric Soils List Reducing Conditions Listed on National Hydric Soils List Gleyed or Low-Chroma Colors Other (Explain in Remarks) Remarks: Wetland Determination Hydrophytic Vegetation Present?C:4;s No (Circle) Is this Sampling Point Within a Wetland? Wetland Hydrology Present? ? No (Circle) Hydric Soils Prevent? &? No f?3 No Remarks 1 f +. 1 ?f Y d Soil & Environmental Consultants, S Inc 2.11 Wcst Mitlllrook Road Q Ralcis;h, Not III Carolina 27609 a (919) 8,16-5900 Li 1'ax (919) 846-9,1 Transmittal To: EIZ%G At--5"L_N1EF9_ " USAC-OIE Project #:%1-ZZ-'gO Date: 16 1Z2lq'}. ?t}?1 poi2Nr?`C ?' 01n1C? Project Name: CINRH 1'A6ZV-\A1a& RECEIVED 2 ? r?2 Y 197 Fr2 (t?n? ,:EC1Tra.St;;P.Ct'S We Transmit to you Herewith: Drawings _ Specifications _ Brochures or photos _ Correspondence _ Under Separate Cover: GEt . For your information and files X By mail*, For comment or approval By courier Returned for correction, resubmit By express Approved as noted No. Copies Document No. Date Description 1 FM- r-11 rr AWL16471ON1 - VSACd6' ? ?? - Awl Remarks: If enclosures are not as listed as above, kindly notify us at once. 13y: -- - al/ Soil/Silo FY:alai:itioll M Mapping :and Physical Analysis M We11:11uts M:alllling and Mitigation CF 1?11vironnlcnta1 A On-Site Write 'I'rcautu•nt Systcnls, Evaluation :allot Design Soil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. 244 Test Millbrook Road E3 IZalcigh, North Carolina 27609 0 (919) 846-5900 t] Fax (919) 846-9467 w J Raleigh Regulatory Field Office U.S. Artily Corps of Engineers Attn: Mr. Eric Alsmcycr 6508 Falls of the Neuse Rd., Suite 120 Raleigh, NC 27615 q -? 2'?O October 22, 1997 N.C. Division of Water Quality - DEHNR Attn: Mr. John Donley 4401 Reedy Creek Road RECEIVED Raleigh, NC 27607 GCi 2 4 1997 ENVIR0aV't,'FNTALSCictuCE6 Dear Sirs: 17ie purpose of this letter is to request Nationwide Permits 13 & 14, and Section 401 Water Quality Certification for the project known as U-3408 Cary Parkway Extension. Tlnc project corridor is to be acquired by the Town of Cary, NC and is located near the TOwms of Cary and Morrisville, NC (Wake County). Tltc site is shown on the enclosed plans and, NC, USGS Topo Quad site vicinity map. It will be necessary to impact 0.396 acres (sec map) of jurisdictional Waters of the U.S. above headwaters for tic placement of the proposed road. Six pipe and fill crossings and channel improvements arc proposed under Nationwide Penuits 13 and 14. Each of these impacts exceeds the 150 linear foot limits. However, based on the USGS Quadrangle for Cary, N.C. and field verification by a biologist, five of the crossings can be classified as intermittent streams and not subject to mitigation under North Carolina DWQ Wctland Rules {I 5A NCAC 21J.0506(b)(6)) . Coles Branch is a perennial stream subject to mitigation. This mitigation can be accomplished through tic Wetlands Restoration Program or die NCDOT mitigation bank. It is our understanding that this is a linear project and that each crossing is single and complete. A comprelncnsive stream mitigation proposal w1111 be submitted to DWQ upon conditional issuance of the 401 prior to construction. A federal Nvetland pennit for this project has been received from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the provisions of Nationwide Permit Number 14 of Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. The pernlit was issued on April 25, 1997, with an Action ID 199700542. Comment: "DWQ asks NCDOT to stipulate that borrow material will be taken from upland sources in the construction contract awarded for this project. This should also be included in a list of environmental commitments in tltc"FONSI." Please call if you have questions or require further information. If you decide to perfornn a site visit, please contact us so we can arrange for someone to accompany you. Sincerely, df ??? Bob Zarzecki, Biologist Soil/Site Evaluation 0 Mapping and Physical Analysis Cl Wetlands Mapping and Mitigation ® Environmental Aud On-Site Waste Treatment Systems, Evaluation and Design l)%V'O 11) Corps Action ID 199700542 Nationwide Permit Requested (Provide Nationwide Permit #): 13 & 14 Pre-Construction Notification Application For Nationwide Permits that require: 1) Notification to the Corps of Engineers 2) Application for Section 401 Certification 3) Coordination with the NC Division of Coastal Management Send the original and (1) copy of this completed form to the appropriate field office of the Corps of Engineers (see agency addresses sheet). Seven (7) copies should be sent to the NC Division of Environmental Management (see agency addresses sheet). PLEASE. PRINT. Owner's Name: Town of Cary, Attn: Tim Bailey 2. Mailing Address: PO Box 8005 Subdivision Name: N/A City: Cary State: NC Zip Code: 27512 Project location address, including subdivision name (if different from mailing address above): Northeast and southwest of NC 54 connecting two present termini of the Cary Parkway and crossing tributaries of Crabtree Creek and Coles Branch. See attached Site Vicinity Map. 3) Telephone Number (Home): NIA (Work): 919-460-4935 4) If applicable, agent's name or responsible corporate official, address, phone number: Soil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. Phone: (919) 846-5900 244 W. Millbrook Road Raleigh, NC 27609 5. Location of work (provide a map, preferable a copy of USGS topographic map or aerial photograph with scale): County: Wake Nearest town or city: Cary Specific Location (include road numbers, landmarks, etc.): Northeast and southwest of NC 54 connecting two present termini of the Cary Parkway and crossing tributaries of Crabtree Creek and Coles Branch. See attached Site Vicinity Map. 6. Impacted or nearest stream/river: Tributaries of Crabtree Creek River Basin: Neuse River Basin 7a. Is project located near water classified as trout, tidal saltwater (SA), high quality waters (I IQW), outstanding resource waters (ORW), water supply (WS-1 or WS-11)? YES NO (X) If yes, explain: N/A 7b. Is the project located within a North Carolina division of coastal management area of environmental concern (AEC)? YES ( ) NO (X) 7c. If the project is located within a coastal county (see page 7 for list of coastal counties), what is the land use plan (LUP) designation? NIA 8a. I lave any Section 404 permits been previously requested for use on this property? YES (X) NO ( ) If yes, provide Action ID number of previous permit and any additional information (including photocopy of 401 certification). USACOE Action ID # 199700542 8b. Are additional permit requests expected for this property in the future? YES ( ) NO (X) If yes, describe anticipated work: NIA 9a. Estimated total number of acres in tract of land: 125 in Inspection Area 9b. Estimated total number or acres of wetlands located on project site: 1.5 1 Oa. Number of acres of wetlands impacted by the proposed project by: Stream Intermittent/Perennial Width NW13 (ac.) NW14 (ac.) A Intermittent 10' 0.023 0.052 B Intermittent 5' 0.002 0.034 C Intermittent 5' 0.015 0.048 D Intermittent 5' 0.017 0.029 E Perennial (Coles Branch) 15' 0.107 0.048 F Intermittent 5' 0.002 0.020 Total: 0.166 0.231 1 Ob. (1) Stream channel to be impacted by the proposed project (if relocated, provide distance both before and after relocation): Stream Intermittent/Perennial Width Impact (linear feet A Intermittent 10' 226 I.f. 7'X7' box culvert (NW14) 100 I.f. riprap dissipater (NW13) B Intermittent 5' 299 I.f. 48" RCP (NW14) 10 I.f. riprap dissipater (NW13) C Intermittent 5' 418 I.f. 60" RCP (NW14) 130 I.f. channel improvements (NW13) D Intermittent 5' 254 I.f. 18" RCP (NW14) 145 I.f. channel improvements (NW13) E Perennial 15' 140 I.f. triple 9'x8' box culverts (NW14) (Coles Branch) 310 I.f. channel improvements (NW13) F Intermittent 5' 173 I.f. 30" RCP (NW14) 10 I.f. riprap dissipater (NW13) Total 1510 I.f. (NW 14) 705 I.f. (NW 13) (2) Stream channel impacts will result from: (check all that apply) Open channel relocation: Placement of pipe in channel: X Channel Excavation: Construction of a Dam/Flooding: Other: bank stabilization 11. If construction of a pond is proposed, what is the size of the watershed draining to the pond? N/A What is the expected pond surface area? NIA 12. Description of proposed work including discussion of type of mechanical equipment to be used (attach plans 8 1/2" x 11" drawings only): Construction of proposed roadway with mechanical equipment typically assoicated with this type of activity. 13. Purpose of proposed work: Alleviate traffic burdens in local area and complete a segment of road between two current termini. 14. State reasons why it is believed that this activity must be carried out in wetlands (include any measures taken to minimize wetland impacts): Linear roadway requires six crossings of Waters of the U.S. Crossings will be constructed perpendicular to flow. 15. You are required to contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and/or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (see agency addresses sheet) regarding the presence of any federally listed or proposed for listing endangered or threatened species or critical habitat in the permit area that may be affected by the proposed project. Date contacted: (attach responses from these agencies). NIA; To be completed by the USACOE. 16. You are required to contact the state historic preservation officer (SI-IPO) (see agency address sheet) regarding the presence of historic properties in the permit area which may be affected by the proposed project. Date contacted: N/A; To be completed by the USACOE 17. Does the project involve an expenditure of public funds or the use of public (state) land? YES (X) NO ( ) If no, go to 18. If yes, does the project require preparation of an environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act? YES (X) NO ( ) b. If yes, has the document been reviewed through the North Carolina Department of Administration State Clearinghouse? YES ( ) NO (X) Currently in review process. If answers to 17b is YES, then submit appropriate documentation front the state clearinghouse to division of environmental management regarding compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. Questions regarding (lie State Clearinghouse review process should be directed to Ms. Clays Baggett, Director State Clearinghouse, North Carolina Department of Administration, 116 Nest Jones Street, P,ilcigh, North Carolina 27603-8003, telephone (919) 733-6369. 18. The following items should be included with this application if proposed activity involves the discharge of excavated or fill material into wetlands: a. Wetland delineation map showing all wetlands, streams, lakes and ponds on the property (for Nationwide Permit numbers 14, 18, 21, 26, 29 and 38). All streams (intermittent and permanent) on the property must be shown on the map. Map scales should be I inch equals 50 feet or I inch equals 100 feet or their equivalent. b. If available, representative photograph of wetlands to be impacted by project. C. If delineation was performed by a consultant, include all data slieets relevant to the placement of the delineation line. d. Attach a copy of the stormwater management plan, if required. C. What is land used of surrounding property? Forested and Residential f. If applicable, what is proposed method of sewage disposal? N/A g. Signed and dated agent authorization letter, if applicable. NOTE: Wetlands or Waters of the U.S. may not be impacted prior to: 1. Issuance of a Section 404 Corps of Engineers Permit, 2. Either the issuance or waiver of a 401 Division of Environmental Management (Water Quality) certification, and 3. (in the twenty coastal counties only) A letter from the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management stating the proposed activity is consistent with the North Carolina Coastal Management program. se4si8*natre -/D???? Date (Agent's signature valid only if Agent Authorization Letter fi-om the owner is provided (18 g.)) 1 t NT t'iJ'L 9- S®a1 & Enviyarme Co ults, Inc. 244 Wcst Wlbmok Road p RaleiGtt, Ncrttt Carolina 27609[3(gig) 846.5900 CI Fax (919) 846.9467 - AGIENT AUTHORZATION FORM - ALL 9LAN?TQ t, Namo: Addrgao: Addmaz: Phone: Projod NamoMi;=VUon: Data: _1p, 3 2(11 The Dapartmont of to Army U.S. Army Cogs of Enginom Wilmington Dictrict PO Box Iago Wilmington, NC ZU02 Attn: Ipa-v" AISN1c ley- Field 01TIC- is (1A O!? 1A N-1, LE!? IN BY ORRRENT LA QWNEj3 rz?- + or= Co?.?`( r. ?-o M P'Co5 f 4.6?4 x.751 a aX 460 Re: Wetlands aerated Corizutt:ng and Pormlttln3 To Whom It May Concam: 1, the otlrmnt p yf owner, horeby dettlgn;to and auttt rizo Soil and Envimmontal Cortsuttanta, Inc, to act in my txthalf Ca my uggrtt In the fx'OQO*-' 1W of pormtt AppUcatlcns, to furnish upon rc uo4t aupplorn ntal Inf0AV n In =J tN a-1lri;tion3, etc. tram W3 day forward. Thiz the __U- day of ICS s:f r 1`4 1L This netlficatlon suporsadca tiny pmvW, a carrc poMenci concoming the cgont for this project. a 0-j ELI.W Owners gram©: Go:.. Mr. Jahn Co=y NCDEH&NR - DEM Water Quality Picnning 4401 Rc-cQy CM--k Rood Raleigh, NC 27007 cc; Mr. ChM Huy=an Soil and EnvirvnmofUl Conaultanta, inc. Er. p-o1•tY O+tmoto Sign ro: SuiUSite rvalumign C] Mapping and Physical Analysis R Vk0ands Mapping and Mitigation U Environmental Audit-S On-Site Waste Treatment Systems, Cvaluatiun and Design feat-it" Fax Note 7671 Date 10-31-1 6 # of Tv t5 ' 11,?? "'T Ulan t o l l'- v m o o r 12, Ilk, ? ?? ?A /A •/:? S •' \/r'1 y 7 ?? .,-. r II F? S ??,+{ / ?.^ . 1? JIM ?,1 Ir r ? ?.? (4%.' Illi-.'`?11.?! ?'.1; KIN J(??' 11??"? ? `I(f? ,?? ?- ?? ? ?_ :111 j? ?'. ?)i?;? 'r ?f 4 /-,??`•J) l l?r?r ? 1? ( .?1 r,l \,- : ,? i ti IfAr , -Itt ?)?.?/ / ./`?/\R?? ._ F??I' ?I I (?'??1I l ?/(n'C '?1?%.I /? A?`? ??? L/l \ ,I/ I, 11 / I?II?I\ / f \ X 1 1 I `? ) \\ ?.I' '. 1 ./ \\ ;1. ? t \ (. - %??II??,? il\???1`/'O],??.?( •r?`?ll??L?i:i,'? ,?,??!) ?1~?j?, ,r `, •`,,i\???? A ? I ?? !?'?. ?' .r Li 1 I r: V-1: A A ?? VIII ? \; (? ??\ ?/[O l '? / ,1?? ii• ? ?:i ?? I; •, ., . ? ? ,,,'c I / I 1 ' ,?I }?,?; t`-??'i•?; ?l ate. (t '????'•?? ='?'' I ""?? ---////? fer / III ! ( + ' c -) „ r j# ? r Avs VIA h rn W uj k a U U Q O a o ,? h o ° NW N tiV m ZQ LL) uN U) Q Q L or LLJ t4 U W Q ? O N d r4 O Q ~ Qti Z N 4 ti i o ^(,' n j i Z H Lij K w 1\ %' w a a ?? \ o n d a Z N . ?\ ul ui u, N \ \ u m a o \ N w \ I J N \ O LA U- 1'e,tonned I,y 'oll 11114 VilviloRn\(`ntol 1 oii •ultnnt 1,,, 244 W. Millbiool, Road Raleigh, NC- 27009 Ph: 919 / 846-5900 D A'F A FORM ROUTINE WETLAND DETERMIN ATION (1987 COE Wetlands Delineation Manual) Project/Site: Datc:_4-?g-?_ -- Applicant/Owner: _ County: _1=-- Invrstigaloi- ?Vy91?lf?-? State: 1 X? 1A (Atypical Situation)? , Yes Transect ID: -_ Is Lhe area a potential Problem Area? Yes Plot ID: ...... (If needed, exTInin on reverse.) Do Normal Circumstances exist on the site? (9 No Commu-1uty ID: Is the site sigzuficantly disturbed VEGETATION Dominant Plant Species Stratum 3.1?- d C1.Q?tU. l4 ?l? t CsnCJC-b vS(f Indicator Dominant Plant Species St Tatum Indicator 9.}? ?x.srsr 10?/??tnll?m _Z_- 11 ??? _7 OS S( 12. 13. 14. - 15. ---- - 16. - ---- Pt., cent of Domiiiant. Species that are 0131, FAC\'1i or FAC (excluding FAC-). Romarks: HYDROLOGY lj? Recorded Data (Describe in Remarks): Stream, Lake, or Tide Gauge Aerial Photog7aplls I Other No Recorded Data Avoilable Flood Obscrvatxltu; oF I)e1,th}?i SUH41Ce C?'ulrr W'f1,d- _(ill - 04,011 to Free V\?uter ul 1'1t L9 ?? __' .(111.) I),,pt11 to `;(Jturnt',d ")oil (i,l ) WaLmd Hydrology Indicators: Primary Indicators: y Inundated _Saturated in Upper 12 inches v Water Mar1S Drift Lille s ?- Sediment Deposib; V .Drouulge Paltenis in Wetl`ind: Se. on(Ini Irldicaton; (2 or more rctqutrc<{ Ox1d17.ed I:ool C'hantlek; in upprr I'1_ n1, 11e?. Waler -.;Ullllvd Lei,ves Lo(ul .`;oil `?;u rv,•v I?nta FA( Nrutrnl 1, :;l ( )11,4,, (I,>:plnn, u, IZenuirl.•1 'iOI1."v ni„I• Unit Namo le.; iuul I'hnsr) I'uXOnomy(klul,group): Pro(IIe Description: Depth Matrix Color (uL/.) 0_ 62 1101`17,011 MMutL CII Moil) - Hydric Soil Indicators:' Urnuiugv -- Field Observntu»us C'onlirr, Mapped l yPe? Ye, No Mottle Colors Mottle (Must.ell Moist) /\Ibundalice /Contrast Texture, Concr Slruet_ z? ,rte Histosol `' Concretions Histic Epipedon High Organic Content in Surface Layer in Sandy Soil Sulfidic Odor Organic Streaking m Sandy Soil; Aquic Moisture Regime Listed on Local Hydric Soil List Reducing Conditions Listed on National Hydric Soil List \,- Cleyed or Low-Chron,a Colors Other (Explain in Remarks) Recnarl:s: Weiland Deternunation Hydrophytic Vegetation Present-/' ?s No (Circle) Is this Samplu,g Poii,t Within a Wetland? Wetland Hydrology Present? ? No (Circle) Hydric Soil Prevent? No > No Remark s: State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality James R Hunt, Jr., G ovemor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director June 12, 1997 MEMORANDUM To: Michelle Suverkrubbe Through: John Dorne(P From: Cyndi Bell L L/3 Subject: Environmental Assessment for Cary Parkway Extension from North of SR 1615 (High House Road) to Evans Road Wake County State Project DOT No. 9.8050381, T.I.P. No. U-3408; EHNR # 97-0743 The referenced document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities which impact waters of the state including wetlands. The document describes potential impacts associated with NCDOT's Preferred Alignment plus three alternate alignments. The project will involve fill in up to 0.12 acre of wetlands and two new crossings of perennial streams. On November 10, 1996, NCDOT applied for 404/401 Permits for the preferred alternative. Although the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has issued Nationwide Permit 14 for this project, DWQ has placed this project on administrative hold until the EA and FONSI have been sent through the State Clearinghouse. DWQ offers the following comments based on the document and permit application review: A) A permit application was submitted even before the EA was completed, and specifies impacts for NCDOT's preferred alternative. Based upon our field review, DWQ believes that Alternate 3, which is not NCDOT's preferred alternative, may be the least environmentally damaging. Since the wetland impacts associated with this project fall below 1/3 acre, and it appears that no stream impacts will exceed 150 feet linear channel distance, DWQ will not pursue selection of an alternative which further avoids and minimizes impacts. However, in the future we strongly discourage NCDOT from applying for permits prior to document circulation and agency consensus with the design alternative. NCDOT is also reminded that the 401 Water Quality Certification will not be issued until after the FONSI is approved and circulated to the review agencies. Environmental Sciences Branch • 4401 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, North Carolina 27607 Telephone 919-733-9960 FAX # 733-9959 An Equal opportunity Attirmative Action Employer 501% recyclod/l0% pest consumer paper Ms. Michelle Suverkrubbe Memo June 12, 1997 Page 2 of 2 B) In order for DWQ to issue a 401 Water Quality Certification for the preferred alignment, we recommend that the FONSI should provide the following information lacking in the EA: Quantification of stream impacts - NCDOT has provided a diagram showing all streams within the study area, along with specific dimensions of each stream and recommended culvert structures. NCDOT should provide approximate linear distances of stream impacts. If culverts and/or stream relocations exceed 150 feet linear distance of stream channel at any stream crossing, stream mitigation may be required in accordance with DWQ Wetland Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)). In such a case, a comprehensive stream mitigation proposal should be included in the FONSI or application for 401 Water Quality Certification. C) DWQ asks NCDOT to stipulate that borrow material will be taken from upland sources in the construction contract awarded for this project. This should also be included in a list of environmental commitments in the FONSI. D) DWQ asks NCDOT to ensure that the sediment and erosion control measures are not placed in wetlands. This commitment should be incorporated into the construction contract awarded for this project. Based upon the wetland impacts described in the EA, General Certification 3103 will likely be applicable to this project. Final permit authorization will require written concurrence from DWQ. This approval will be contingent upon evidence of avoidance and minimization of wetland and stream impacts to the extent practical, and provision of wetland and stream mitigation where necessary. DWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on the EA. DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification requires satisfaction of water quality concerns, to ensure that water quality standards are met and no wetland or stream uses are lost. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to Cyndi Bell at (919) 733-1786 in DWQ's Water Quality Environmental Sciences Branch. cc: Eric Alsmeyer, COE, Raleigh Howard Hall, FWS David Cox, WRC U3408EA.DOC Environmental Review Tracking Sheet IM5 7i DWO - Water Quality Section M Env. Sciences Branch (WQ Lab) * Wetlands O John Dorney P_Kcyndi Bell (Dar) Greg Price (airports, COE) O Steve Kroeger (utilities) O * Bio. Resources, Habitat, End. Species O Trish MacPherson O Kathy Herring (forest/oxw/t-1Qw) O * Toxicology O Lary Ausley O Technical Support Branch (Archdale 9th) O Coleen Sullins, P&E O Dave Goodrich, P&E, NPDES O Kim Coleson, P&E, State O Bradley Bennett, P&E, Stormwater O Ruth Swanek, Instream Assess. (modeling) O Carla Sanderson, Rapid Assess. O Operations Branch (Archdale 7th) O Kent Wiggins, Facility Assessment O Tom Poe, Pretreatment O Lisa Martin, Water Supply Watershed Regional Water Quality Supervisors Planning Branch (Archdale - 6th) O Asheville O Mooresville O Washington O O Fayetteville O Raleigh O Wilmington O Winston-Salem FROM: Michelle Suverkrubbe, Planning Branch RE: Attached is a copy of the above document. Subject to the requirements of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act, you are being asked to review the document for potential significant impacts to the environment, especially pertinent to your jurisdiction, level of expertise or permit authority. Please check the appropriate box below and return this form to me along with your written comments, if any, by the date indicated. RESPONSE DEADLINE: ? NO COMMENT ? COMMENTS ATTACHED Name: Date: Thank you for your assistance. Suggestions for streamlining and expediting this process are greatly appreciated! Notes: You can reach me at: phone: (919) 733-5083, ext. 567 fax: (919) 715-5637 e-mail: michelle@dem.ehnr.state.nc.us m1s.Ncircmemo.doc Documentation Prepared By: Withers & Ravenel Engineering & Surveying, Inc. Cary Parkway Extension North of 1615 (High House Road) to Evans Road Cary/Wake County, North Carolina State Project No. 9.8050381 TIP No. U-3408 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION STATE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT William E. Lee, P.E. Project Manager For the North Carolina Department of Transportation ' ames A. Bissett, Jr., PE., Un t Head Consulting Engineering Unit ' Thomas R. Kendig, AICP Environmental Study Manager 1 SUMMARY 1. TYPE OF ACTION This is a North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Administrative ' Action, Environmental Assessment. 2. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ' The following person can be contacted for additional information concerning this action: ' H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 (919) 733-3141 3. ACTIONS REQUIRED BY OTHER AGENCIES A wetlands permit for this project has been received from the U.S. Army Corps of ' Engineers under the provisions of Nationwide Permit Number 14 of Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. The permit was issued on April 25, 1997 with an Action ID 199700542. A Section 401 Water Quality ' Certification from the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR), Division of Water Quality (DWQ) will be required. ' A railroad crossing will require the preparation and submittal of a four party railroad encroachment agreement and a railroad force account agreement. Preliminary and final bridge plans must be submitted to the railroad for review and approval. NCDOT encroachment agreements will be required for utilities constructed as part of ' this project such as the 24-inch Town of Cary water main. 4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT AREA The Cary Parkway is a four-lane median divided highway that forms an approximate three-quarter loop with a two to three-mile radius around downtown Cary. Presently, there are two independent sections of the road that are referred to in this document as Cary Parkway and NW Cary Parkway. The intent of this project is to join these two sections. The Cary Parkway's southern origin is the intersection of Holly Springs Road on the southeast side of Cary and is routed west northwest along the south side of town. As the Parkway approaches the Apex city limits the route turns north and terminates approximately one-quarter of a mile north of High House Road (SR 1615) near Crabtree Crossing Parkway within the Preston Planned Unit Development (PUD). See Figures 1, 2, and 3. The NW Cary Parkway's northern origin is at the intersection of North Harrison Avenue. The NW Cary Parkway is routed west to Evans Road where it ' terminates. The purpose of this project is to connect the existing NW Cary Parkway at Evans Road with the Cary Parkway terminus just north of High House Road. The proposed Cary Parkway Extension project is within Wake County and is 2.57 ' miles in length. The project area is located within northwestern Cary and eastern Morrisville jurisdictional limits and is primarily on new location. The project area contains a few environmental features which include the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) stream, Coles Branch as well as non FIS streams that are unnamed tributaries of Coles Branch and unnamed tributaries of Crabtree Creek. 5. PROPOSED PROJECT NCDOT in conjunction with the Town of Cary and area developers, proposes to complete the Cary Parkway, from Evans Road intersection to Crabtree Crossing Parkway intersection in Wake County. The proposed project is referred to as the Cary Parkway Extension. The extension will be constructed as a four-lane median divided roadway, primarily on new location. The proposed project is designated U-3408 and is included in the 1997-2003 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program for construction in Fiscal Year 1998. NCDOT estimates the cost of the project at $10.55 million. 6. SUMMARY OF BENEFICIAL AND ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS Construction of the proposed project will help meet traffic needs and fulfill the goals of the Town of Cary Comprehensive Growth Plan and the Town of Morrisville Growth Plan. Cary Parkway is designated as a major thoroughfare between northwestern Cary /Morrisville and South Cary. Possible adverse environmental impacts from the proposed project consist of the following: four stream crossings, including two perennial streams and two intermittent streams, potential impacts to approximately 17 acres of forested habitat, and potential impacts to wetlands totaling approximately 0.12 acres. Adverse social impacts from the proposed project include the division of the Silverton and Preston PUDs, however, the proposed roadway was included in the original PUD Plans and a corridor has been preserved. Several other existing and proposed developments will also be impacted by their relative proximity to the proposed project. There will be no residences or businesses relocated by the roadway. 7. ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED The typical section being considered is a four-lane divided facility with a 33-foot raised median on a 106 to 110-foot right-of-way. These typical sections are required based on projected traffic volumes and to conform with the Town of Cary and NCDOT Greater Raleigh Urban Area Thoroughfare Plans. Several alignment alternatives were investigated for this project. The selected alternative minimized wetland impacts and project costs. Other alternatives considered and found not viable were the no-build alternative, an alignment west of the WRBZ radio transmission towers, an alignment through the transmission towers, an alignment east of the transmission towers (Figure 3) and postponement of the proposed project. 8. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS The following environmental commitments will be adhered to during the implementation of this project: • NCDOT will implement all practical measures and procedures to minimize and avoid environmental impacts. • No environmental commitments of a unique or special nature are involved. SUMMARY I J TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER 1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ................................. 1 1.1 General Description ........................................... 1 1.2 Characteristics of Existing Facility ................................. 1 1.2.1 Typical Section ......................................... 1 1.2.2 Right-of-Way ..........................................2 1.2.3 Horizontal and Vertical Alignment ............................. 2 1.2.4 Speed Limit ........................................... 2 1.2.5 Access Control ......................................... 2 1.2.6 Intersecting Roads ....................................... 2 1.2.7 Railroad Crossings ....................................... 2 CHAPTER2 PURPOSE AND NEED ...................................3 2.1 Project Status ............................................... 3 2.2 Accident Rates .............................................. 3 2.3 Traffic Volumes and Level-of-Service ............................... 4 2.4 Benefits to the State, Region, and Community .......................... 5 2.5 Summary of Project Need ....................................... 5 CHAPTER 3 ALTERNATIVE CONSIDERATIONS .......................... 6 3.1 No Build Alternative .......................................... 6 3.2 Postponement of the Proposed Project ............................... 6 3.3 Transportation System Management ................................. 6 3.4 Multi- Modal .................................... ..... 6 3.5 Build Alternatives ............................................ 7 3.5.1 Alignments Considered .................................... 7 3.5.2 Preferred Alternative ..................................... 8 3.5.2.1 Type of Improvement ..................................... 8 3.5.2.2 Typical Section ......................................... 8 3.5.2.3 Right-of-Way .......................................... 8 3.5.2.4 Bikeways/Sidewalks ...................................... 8 3.5.2.5 Proposed Design Speed .................................... 9 3.5.2.6 Access Control ......................................... 9 3.5.2.7 Intersection Treatment .................................... 9 3.5.2.8 Utilities .............................................. 9 3.5.2.9 Permits .............................................. 9 3.5.2.10 Cost Estimates ......................................... 1 0 3.5.2.11 Traffic Analysis ....................................... 1 0 ' CHAPTER 4 SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES ............. 4.1 Land Use Impacts ........................................... 11 11 4.2 Neighborhood Impacts ........................................ 11 ' 4.3 4.4 Relocation Impacts ..::::::::::::::: : :: : :::::::::::::::::::::: Community Facilities 11 11 4.5 Utilities .................................................. 11 1 4.6 Economic Impact ............................................ 13 4.7 Historic Architectural and Archaeological Resources ..................... 13 4.8 Air Quality ................................................ 14 4.8.1 Background .......................................... 14 4.8.2 Analysis Methodology .................................... 16 4.8.3 Analysis Results ........................................ 16 4.9 Noise ................................................... 17 4.9.1 Traffic Noise Analysis ................................... 17 4.9.1.1 Characteristics of Noise .................................. 17 4.9.1.2 Existing Noise Levels ................................... 18 4.9.1.3 Noise Abatement Criteria and Analysis Methodology ............... 19 4.9.2 Analysis Results ........................................ 20 4.9.2.1 Traffic Noise ......................................... 20 4.9.2.2 Construction Noise. .................................... 23 4.9.3 Abatement Measures ..................................... 23 4.9.3.1 Highway Alignment Selection .............................. 23 4.9.3.2 Traffic System Management Alternative ........................ 24 4.9.3.3 Noise Barriers ......................................... 24 4.10 Natural Resources ...................................... 25 4.10.1 Introduction .......................................... 25 4.10.1.1 Purpose ............................................. 25 4.10.1.2 Methodology .......................................... 25 4.10.1.3 Qualifications of Principal Investigator ......................... 26 4.10.1.4 Definitions ............................................ 26 4.10.2 Physical Resources ...................................... 26 4.10.2.1 Soils ............................................... 26 4.10.2.2 Topography .......................................... 27 4.10.2.3 Regional Geology ....................................... 27 4.10.2.4 Water Resources ....................................... 28 4.10.2.4.1 Water Impacts and Characteristics ....................... 28 4.10.2.4.1a Flood Hazard Evaluation ............................. 28 4.10.2.4.1b Hydraulics ...................................... 28 4.10.2.4.2 Best Usage Classification ............................. 30 4.10.2.4.3 Water Quality .................................... 30 4.10.2.4.3a Surface Water .................................... 30 4.10.2.4.3b Groundwater ..................................... 31 4.10.2.4.4 Summary of Anticipated Impacts ........................ 31 4.10.3 Biotic Resources ....................................... 32 4.10.3.1 Terrestrial Plant Communities .............................. 32 4.10.3.1.1 Mixed Pine-Hardwood Forest .......................... 32 4.10.3.1.2 Mixed Hardwood Forest ............................. 33 4.10.3.1.3 Pine Forest ...................................... 33 4.10.3.1.4 Floodplain Forest .................................. 33 4.10.3.1.5 Rights-of-Way and Residential Areas ..................... 34 4.10.3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife ...................................... 34 4.10.3.3 Aquatic Habitat ........................................ 36 4.10.3.4 Impacts to Biotic Communities .............................. 36 ' 4.10.3.4a Habitat Fragmentation ............................... 37 4.10.4 Jurisdictional Topics ..................................... 37 ' 4.10.4.1 Waters of the U.S ....................................... 4.10.4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters .............. 37 38 4.10.4.1.2 Vegetated Wetlands ................................ 38 ' 4.10.4.1.3 Hydric Soils ..................................... 4.10.4.1.4 Hydrophytic Vegetation .............................. 38 39 4.10.4.1.5 Hydrologic Indicators ............................... 39 ' 4.10.4.1.6 Waters of the U.S . ................................. 39 4.10.4.1.7 Permits ......................................... 39 4.10.4.1.7a Section 404 ...................................... 4.10.4.1.7b Section 401 ...................................... 40 40 4.10.4.2 Rare and Protected Species ................................. 40 ' 4.10.4.2.1 Literature Review and Background Investigations ............. 4.10.4.2.2 Field Survey Methods ............................... 40 41 4.10.4.2.3 Species Descriptions and Status ......................... 41 ' 4.10.4.2.3a Bald Eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus .................... 4.10.4.2.3b Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Picoides borealis . 41 42 4.10.4.2.3c Dwarf wedge Mussel, Alasmidonta heterodon ............... 42 ' 4.10.4.2.3d Michaux's Sumac, Rhus michauxii ...................... 43 4.10.4.3 Federal Species of Concern and State Protected Species .............. 43 4.11 Secondary Impacts ........................................... 44 ' 4.12 Visual Impacts ............................................. 45 4.13 Hazardous Material Sites ........................................ 45 4.13.1 CERCLA ............................................ 45 ' 4.13.2 RCRA .............................................. 45 4.13.3 Hazardous Spill Incident Records ............................ 46 ' 4.13.4 UST Leak Incidents ..................................... 4.13.5 Solid Waste ........................................... 46 46 4.14 Construction Impacts ......................................... 47 CHAPTER 5 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT ................................ 49 ' CHAPTER 6 COMMENTS AND COORDINATION ........................ 50 CHAPTER7 REFERENCE .........................................51 ' APPENDICES ..................................................53 Appendix A: Agency Response and Coordination Letters ' Appendix B: General Permit Verification, Nationwide Permit 14 Appendix C: USFWS List of Protected Species LIST OF FIGURES' Figure 1 Vicinity Map Figure 2 Study Area Map Figure 3 Proposed Alignment Figure 4 Cary Zoning Map Figure 5 Projected Average Daily Traffic Figure 6 Roadway Typical Section Figure 7A Proposed Right-of-Way (East) Figure 713 Proposed Right-of-Way (Central) Figure 7C Proposed Right-of-Way (West) Figure S Cary Growth Plan Figure 9A Measurement and Receptor Locations (West) Figure 9B Measurement and Receptor Locations (Central) Figure 9C Measurement and Receptor Locations (East) Figure 10 Cary, N.C. USGS. Topographic Quadrangle Figure 11 Plant Community Type Approximation Map Figure 12 Preliminary Wetlands Approximation Map LIST OF TABLES TABLE 1: ACCIDENT RATE COMPARISON TABLE 2: LEVEL-OF-SERVICE SUMMARY TABLE 3: PREDICTED MAXIMUM CARBON MONOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS TABLE 4: AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL MEASUREMENTS TABLE 5: FHWA NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA TABLE 6: EXISTING AND PREDICTED NOISE LEVELS TABLE 7: SOILS: ENGINEERING INTERPRETATIONS FOR HIGHWAY LOCATION TABLE S: IMPACTS TO TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES TABLE 9: WETLAND IMPACTS TABLE 10: RCRA REGULATED FACILITIES TABLE 11: HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILL TABLE 12: UST LEAK INCIDENTS 7 I? 1 CHAPTER 1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Cary Parkway is a four-lane median divided highway that forms an approximate three- quarter loop with a two to three-mile radius around downtown Cary. Presently, there are two independent sections of the road that are referred to in this report as Cary Parkway and NW Cary Parkway. The intent of this project is to join these two sections. The Cary Parkway's southern origin is the intersection of Holly Springs Road on the southeastern side of Cary and is routed west northwest along the south side of town. As the Parkway approaches the Apex city limits the route turns north and terminates approximately one-quarter of a mile north of High House Road (SR 1615) near Crabtree Crossing Parkway. The NW Cary Parkway's northern origin is at the intersection of North Harrison Avenue. The NW Cary Parkway is routed west to Evans Road where it terminates. The purpose of this project is to conn(:ct the existing NW Cary Parkway at Evans Road with the Cary Parkway terminus just north of High House Road. 1.1 General Description The proposed Cary Parkway Extension project is within Wake County and is 2.57 miles in length. The project area is located within northwestern Cary and eastern Morrisville jurisdictional limits and is primarily on new location. The northern terminus of this project is the intersection of NW Cary Parkway and Evans Road and the southern terminus is the intersection of Cary Parkway and Crabtree Crossing Parkway in Preston Planned Unit Development (PUD). See Figures 1, 2 and 3. Approximately 6,800 feet of road frontage within Cary's jurisdiction is zoned PUD, 2,000 feet of frontage zoned residential eight (R-8), 600 feet office/ institutional, 1,200 feet commercial and 4,000 feet light industrial. Approximately 7,000 feet of road frontage is within the Town of Morrisville's jurisdiction and is primarily residential, industrial management and general business. See Figure 4. The proposed extension intersects NC 54 within the city limits of Morrisville. The project is needed to serve projected traffic volumes and to provide access for future development. The traffic will be primarily north-south oriented, between existing and planned residential communities, as well as light industrial and commercial areas. The planned and partially completed subdivisions along the alignment have been developed in anticipation of this project. The projected 2020 average daily traffic volumes, which range from approximately 19,600 to 22,400 vehicles per day on Cary Parkway, cannot be accommodated without this facility. The Cary Parkway provides an important link between rapidly urbanizing portions of northern Cary, Morrisville, and the Research Triangle Park. It also supplements Maynard Road as a vital connection between High House Road and NC 54. 1.2 Characteristics of Existing Facility 1.2.1 Typical Section The existing Cary Parkway southern terminus is a curb and gutter four-lane divided urban thoroughfare from High House Road to just south of Crabtree Crossing Parkway where it transitions to a two-lane roadway. The lanes are 11 feet wide on the inside and 13 feet wide on the outside to accommodate bicycles. The project's northern terminus at Evans Road extends to North Harrison Avenue as a two-lane curb and gutter section offset in the eastern half of a right-of-way. The lanes are 12 feet wide. 1.2.2 Right-of-Way The right-of-way for the existing Cary Parkway is 106 feet wide. The right-of-way for the proposed Cary Parkway Extension is 110 feet, except between Weston PUD boundary, approximately 200 feet south of Sheldon Drive, and Evans Road. This right- of-way will be 106 feet wide and has been dedicated by Weston PUD and approved in the Silverton PUD. It has been agreed that easements for guardrail and sidewalks will be obtained as necessary. 1.2.3 Horizontal and Vertical Alignment The horizontal and vertical alignment of the existing Cary Parkway meets North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) design guidelines for 50 mile per hour (mph) design speed. 1.2.4 Speed Limit The existing speed limit on Cary Parkway is 45 mph. 1.2.5 Access Control Existing Cary Parkway has partial control of access with no individual residential driveways in accordance with Town of Cary policy. - The Town of Cary restricts access points to a minimum via site plan and subdivision approval. The Town of Morrisville, also controls access through zoning and subdivision ordinances. 1.2.6 Intersecting Roads Most intersecting roads within the vicinity of the project area connect with Cary Parkway at-grade and have stop sign control. The intersection with High House Road, south of the project is signalized. The existing NW Cary Parkway and Evans Road intersection is controlled by stop signs along the NW Cary Parkway. 1.2.7 Railroad Crossings There are no railroad crossings on existing roads in the study area for this project. However, the proposed extension will cross a 200-foot wide railroad right-of-way with a grade separated crossing. 2 J ' CHAPTER 2 PURPOSE AND NEED ' 2.1 Project Status The Project is listed in the 1997-2003 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as U-3408. Construction is scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year 1998. 1 2.2 Accident Rate Traffic accident rate analyses were prepared for 1) NC 54 between Aviation Parkway in Morrisville and Maynard Road in Cary, 2) Evans Road from Weston Parkway to Maynard Road, and 3) the Cary Parkway from Crabtree Crossing Parkway to Trade Center Boulevard. The analyses, summarized in Table 1, cover the period from June 1993 through May 1996. This table indicates the actual accident rates on these roads and compares them with the average statewide accident rates for similar types of roadways. J 1 TABLE 1 ACCIDENT RATE COMPARISON (accident rate per 100 million vehicle kilometers) 6/93 thru 5/96 Total Fatal Non- Total Accident Fatal Accident Fatal Classification Facility Between Accidents Rate Accidents Rate Injury Accident Rate Urban State NC 54 Maynard Rd. 107 211.4 0 0 61.2 Highway and Aviation Pkwy Urban State Cary Crabtree 55 182 1 1.8 69.6 Road Parkway Crossing Pkwy to Trade Center Blvd. Urban State Evans Road Weston 51 267.86 0 0 99.8 Road Pkwy and Maynard Rd. 1992 - 1994 STATEWIDE AVERAGE (Urban Primary Routes) Two Lanes Undivided 267.9 0.9 110.4 Four Lanes Divided (Uncontrolled Access) 265.8 0.5 111.5 As shown in the above table, the total and injury accident rates on the existing Cary Parkway are lower than the statewide averages for similar facilities. All of the other rates for facilities examined within the study are at/or below the statewide averages for similar facilities, with the exception of the fatal accident rate on Cary Parkway. This fatal accident rate is due to one fatal accident that occurred in May 1994 in which one person died. 2.3 Traffic Volumes and Level-of-Service Based on a recent study, the existing (1996) average daily traffic (ADT) volumes on the Cary Parkway at the High House Road intersection is 13,600 vehicles per day (vpd), (see Figure 5). The 1996 ADT volumes on the Cary Parkway at the Evans Road intersection is 1,700 vpd. The 1996 ADT on the Cary Parkway at North Harrison Avenue is 3,400 vpd. The projected 1996 ADT volumes for the proposed Cary Parkway Extension range from a low of 6,600 vpd in the vicinity of the Cary Parkway and North Harrison Avenue intersection to a high of 12,300 vpd in the vicinity of High House Road. For the design year 2020, ADT volumes range from a low of 18,200 vpd in the vicinity of North Harrison Avenue to a high of 22,400 vpd in the vicinity of High House Road. Figure 5 also includes truck percentages, design hourly volume percentages and directional split percentages. A peak hour factor of 0.9 was established for use in subsequent analysis. A detailed analysis was performed to determine level-of-service (LOS) for the existing and future traffic conditions. LOSs are designated with letters from A through F. LOS A represents the best operating conditions with free flow and virtually no delay. LOS F represents the worst operating conditions and indicates that long queues of traffic tend to form with intersections delays that exceed 60 seconds per vehicle. The results of the analysis for the year 2020 indicate that the four-lane cross section is warranted. The mainline LOS is not applicable for this project because signalized intersections are less than two miles (±1.0 miles) apart, thus, creating urban arterial conditions where LOS is dictated by the signalized intersection's. Signalization will be required at the NC 54 and Evans Road intersections in the design year and the LOS of these signalized intersections will be controlling factors along this facility. Each of these intersections will operate at LOS D or better in year 2020. The 2020 analysis assumes that NC 54 will be widened to a five-lane section allowing two through lanes and an exclusive left turn lane in each direction. The 1996 analysis utilizes the planned exclusive left turn lanes along NC 54 to be constructed as part of this project. Table 2 summarizes the present and projected year 2020 LOS for specific intersections along the alignment. The 2020 analysis only examines the worst case scenario which assumes that Cary Parkway will be extended to Trinity Road in accordance with the Town of Cary and Greater Raleigh Urban Area Thoroughfare Plans. 4 TABLE 2 LEVEL-OF-SERVICE SUMMARY 1996 LOS 2020 LOS at at Intersection of Ca Parkway and Status Signal Intersection Intersection NC 54 Proposed Yes B D Evans Road Pro osed Yes B B 2.4 Benefits to the State. Region, and Community North Carolina is one of the most prosperous states in the U.S. and a vital part of the success lies within the greater Triangle Area. In the past couple of decades the Research Triangle Park (RTP) has been a catalyst in the progressive growth in surrounding communities such as Cary and Morrisville. Each of these communities has an aggressive agenda for development and the Cary Parkway Extension is a part of the Town of Cary's Thoroughfare and Growth Plans. Presently, the majority of the project area is wooded, however, significant portions have been parceled out for development, including residential, commercial, institutional and light industrial growth. Hence, the Cary Parkway Extension is expected to enhance economic growth and development in the project area and favorably affect the local tax base. The completion of this facility is also expected to relieve some of the commuter traffic congestion, primarily associated with RTP on Davis Drive and Maynard Road. In consideration of the planned growth for this area, this facility will enhance the safety and general welfare of residents of Wake County by providing more travel lanes and a more direct route for the flow of goods, services, and traffic. 2.5 Summary of Project Need The Cary Parkway Extension project is expected to be a favorable addition to Wake County, Cary, Morrisville and the RTP. In summary several site plans and subdivision plans have been approved by local authorities that will require completion of this facility for access. Actual ' construction has begun on several of these sites. The project traffic volumes and capacity analyses further demonstrate that the facility is warranted. 1 CHAPTER 3 ALTERNATIVE CONSIDERATIONS 3.1 No Build Alternative The "No Build" alternative would avoid environmental impacts resulting from the construction of the project. The impacts of implementing the proposed project will be primarily limited to wetlands in the stream channels (channelized wetlands), reduction of local wildlife habitats, increased development and increased traffic in some lightly urbanized areas. However, benefits of the proposed action, such as providing a more direct route for the flow of traffic, increased safety, user cost savings, and completion of a major thoroughfare, would not be realized. The long-term benefits resulting from the construction of the proposed project, include increased accessibility, enhanced economic development, and provision for more efficient commuter routes. This could more than compensate for any unavoidable adverse impacts. 3.2 Postponement of the Proposed Protect The southern portion of existing Cary Parkway is a four-lane divided roadway and is designed to be a major thoroughfare with the terminus being in an area of the Preston PUD. The postponement of the connection of the two completed sections of the Parkway project will result in the underutilization of the existing facility. Postponement would delay the negative and positive impacts of this facility. The project would also be more difficult to construct in the future as development within the project area increases. Approval of planned development along the proposed corridor has already been completed in some areas and in at least two cases, construction has begun in anticipation of the facility's completion. 3.3 Transportation System Management The proposed Cary Parkway Extension will complete a vital portion of the Town of Cary Thoroughfare Plan. The completion of this roadway will provide an integral roadway system serving most of Cary. The signals proposed at the intersection with Evans Road and NC 54 are isolated and will not require coordination with any other signals. This project will reduce travel times from south Cary to north Cary and the RTP by providing an alternate route. Proper signing and pavement markings will ensure that the Parkway is a valuable addition to the area transportation system. Transportation system management approaches would have minimal impact since this roadway is on primarily new alignment. 3.4 Multi-Modal The Cary Parkway is being constructed with fourteen foot outside lanes to accommodate the growing bicycling community. Although the Town of Cary and Town of Morrisville do not have bus systems, it is anticipated that the Triangle Transit Authority (TTA) will utilize this thoroughfare in completing their routes between various areas in Wake County and the RTP. 6 E F F 3.5 Build Alternatives 3.5.1 Alignments Considered The objective for completing this section of the Cary Parkway is to provide a critical north-south route to help alleviate traffic congestion in parts of Cary, Morrisville, and RTP, while minimizing impacts to the surrounding environment. Due to the fact that the north and south termini of this project are existing roadway, the corridor for the four alignments considered is relatively narrow. Each alternative was evaluated based upon potential environmental impact, and cost effectiveness, and approved development plans and master plans by local municipalities. The alternatives are depicted in Figure 3. Alignment 1 was based on approved site plans for subdivisions and commercial/institutional development at each end of the proposed Cary Parkway Extension as well as a commercial development, Park Place, presently, under construction on the south side of NC 54. Park Place will be a commercial shopping center more than 33 acres in area with a multiplex 16-screen movie theater. Based on the developments site plan, Cary Parkway Extension's eastern right-of-way boundary along the southern approach to NC 54 would be the Park Place property line and the western boundary of the right-of-way would be the Bristol-Myers property line. This alignment would provide an approximate 1,000-foot buffer between the proposed Parkway and the Bristol Myers facilities. This alignment was also completed by the Town of Cary approximately 10 years ago as part of their preliminary right-of-way corridor plan for the Cary Parkway. Additionally, the Metroplex transmission towers are directly south of the Park Place development and the proposed alignment would abut the western boundary of the Metroplex leased property. This alignment from the southern terminus to NC 54 would, however, have some negative impacts. Between the Metroplex towers and Park Place is a 200-foot railroad right-of-way that will require a bridge crossing. Alignment 1 would necessitate a skewed crossing, thus, extending the bridge length. In this same vicinity and up to the Park Place/Bristol Myer right-of-way a longitudinal impact of channelized wetlands would be realized. Furthermore, the intersection with NC 54 would be located beyond the existing crest resulting in inadequate sight stopping distance on NC 54 which could create a safety problem. Alignment 2 was based on a more direct route for the Cary Parkway Extension and a more perpendicular crossing of the railroad. The primary difference between this alignment and Alignment 1 is that it would be routed directly through the Adelphi Reality Company property, which is under lease agreement with Metroplex Communications of North Carolina, Inc. The lease was executed in September 1986 and may continue for a maximum period of 100 years. Presently, Metroplex has five transmission towers on the site and operates broadcast radio station WRBZ AM 850. 7 Therefore, it would require the relocation of the transmission towers. Based on discussions with WRBZ it would be cost prohibitive to move the towers. The relocation costs would include siting, a purchase/lease agreement, demolition, and construction of new towers and are estimated by WRBZ to be $3,000,000 not including land purchases. Alignment 3 was considered to assess the feasibility of routing the extension to the east of the Metroplex transmission towers. This alternative could allow for a relatively perpendicular crossing of the railroad and could be aligned for a workable intersection at NC 54. However, with the construction of the Park Place commercial center underway it would necessitate skewing the alignment further east and causing a longitudinal impact of wetlands between the transmission towers to Park Place. The northern part of the alignment would require condemnation of at least one structure, altering the Sheldon Drive intersection and impacting the approved Silverton PUD Parcel K residential subdivision. 3.5.2 Preferred Alternative 3.5.2.1 Type of Improvement The proposed Cary Parkway Extension will connect the two segregated segments of the Cary Parkway and effectively provide a radial main thoroughfare for the north, west and south perimeter of the Town of Cary. 3.5.2.2 Typical Section The roadway will be a four-lane divided curb and gutter facility. The typical section will consist of a 14-foot outside lane and an 11-foot inside line in each direction separated by a typical 33-foot raised median with curb and gutter. The typical section is shown in Figure 6. 3.5.2.3 Right-of-Way The acquisition of adequate right-of-way to contain the four-lane section is proposed in most areas. The right-of-way for this project will be 110 feet from the Preston PUD property line to the Weston PUD property line as depicted on Figures 7A thru 7C. This right-of-way will be dedicated by Preston Development Company from the Preston PUD line to NC 54. The right-of-way from NC 54 to the Weston PUD property line will be obtained by the Town of Cary. There is an existing 106 foot of right-of-way from High House Road to the Preston property line and also within the Weston PUD area. Also, Silverton, Inc. will dedicate 106 feet of right-of-way through their property in accordance with their PUD Plan as approved by the Town of Cary. An existing 106 foot right-of-way is in place on the Cary Parkway located north of Evans Road. Permanent and temporary easements will also be granted by property owners as required for construction of sidewalk, guardrail and other miscellaneous items. 3.5.2.4 Bikeways/Sidewalks The outside travel lanes in each direction will be 14 feet wide to accommodate bicycle traffic. Sidewalks are planned along the interior loop of the Cary Parkway from its current terminus of the Preston PUD property line to the Evans Road intersection. 8 ' Sidewalks will be financed in accordance with NCDOT Pedestrian Policy Guidelines dated April 20, 1994. 3.5.2.5 Proposed Design Speed The design speed for the proposed roadway will be 50 miles per hour. The anticipated ' posted speed limit is 45 miles per hour. 3.5.2.6 Access Control Access will be consistent with the existing Cary Parkway and will be controlled via Town of Cary and Town of Morrisville site plan and subdivision review and by NCDOT Driveway Permits once the roadway is dedicated to NCDOT. Median breaks ' will be spaced at 800 feet minimum intervals with minor right in/right out accesses as approved by Cary, Morrisville and/or NCDOT. ' 3.5.2.7 Intersection Treatment All intersections will be at-grade, with stop sign control for intersecting side streets ' except for the NC 54 and Evans Road intersections which will be signalized as part of this project. In addition, future signalization may be required at other locations as warranted by future development traffic which will be monitored by NCDOT. Private ' residential driveways will not abut the proposed new roadway. 3.5.2.8 Utilities ' All utilities will be below grade with the exception of transformer housing and roadway lighting. Underground utilities anticipated will include a 24-inch Town of Cary water main, power lines, natural gas, Cable television (CATV), communications and possibly ' a future irrigation main from the Town of Cary North Cary Sewer Treatment plant to the Preston Golf Course. Only the water main and possibly the irrigation main will be constructed as part of this project. ' Colonial Pipeline's eight-inch main will need to be upgraded to a heavier wall pipe. ' Approximately four months lead time will be necessary to complete the modifications prior to the construction of the proposed extension through this area. Special requirements for construction tests will be issued by NCDOT. There will also be revisions required to the existing Carolina Power & Light (CP&L) 230 KVA high transmission power line. This line will need to be raised at the roadway crossing to provide adequate clearance from the proposed roadways at the railroad bridge approach. MCI has fiber optic lines on the power line structures. ' 3.5.2.9 Permits A wetlands permit for this project has been received from the U.S. Army Corps of ' Engineers under the provisions of Nationwide Permit Number 14 of Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. The permit was issued on April 25, 1997 with an Action ID 199700542. A Section 401 Water Quality ' Certification from the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR), Division of Water Quality (DWQ) will be required. For culverts crossing the proposed roadway, culvert survey reports must be prepared and submitted to NCDOT for review. A Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) stream crossing of Coles Branch will require a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) and a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) be submitted to the Town of Cary and FEMA. A railroad crossing will require the preparation and submittal of a four party railroad encroachment agreement and a railroad force account agreement. Preliminary and final bridge plans must be submitted to the railroad for review and approval. NCDOT encroachment agreements will be required for utilities constructed as part of this project such as the 24-inch Town of Cary water main. 3.5.2.10 Cost Estimates Construction cost of the project is as estimated to be $10.55 million. NCDOT will not be expending any funds for right-of-way or utility relocations. 3.5.2.11 Traffic Analysis A detailed analysis was performed to determine level-of-service (LOS) for the future traffic conditions. The results of the analysis for the year 2020 indicate a need for Cary Parkway Extension to have a four-lane cross section with exclusive left turn lanes at all median breaks. Signalization will be required at the NC 54 and Evans Road intersections and the LOS of these signalized intersections will be controlling factors along this facility. Each of these intersections will operate at LOS D or better at year 2020. Table 2, presented on page 5 in this document, summarizes the present and projected year 2020 LOS for specific intersections along the preferred alternative alignment. 10 1 1 CHAPTER 4 SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES 4.1 Land Use Impacts Existing land use in the project vicinity is sparsely mixed residential, commercial, office/institutional and light industrial with the majority of the land being undeveloped woodland. However, the Town of Cary Comprehensive Growth Plan Map, Second Draft, July 11, 1996, indicates that the majority of the undeveloped land within Cary's jurisdiction is within the Preston PUD and Silverton PUD, with the remaining vicinity being light/ industrial, office/institution/commercial, Bristol Myers and existing residences. See Figure 8. The Town of Cary Comprehensive Growth Plan also includes a future greenway path along Coles Branch. This proposed greenway will cross the Cary Parkway Extension. However, at this time the Town of Cary is not prepared to include this greenway as part of this project. It is anticipated that the greenway will be constructed in several years. At that time, the type of crossing will be determined and the necessary NCDOT approvals will be obtained by the Town of Cary. The area within Morrisville's jurisdiction is somewhat developed along NC 54 and within the vicinity of the project is zoned residential, industrial management, and general business. The anticipation of this project has been a catalyst for development along and within the study area. Examples of development as a direct effect of the project include; Park Place Shopping Center on NC 54, Sheldon Drive, Preston Medical Center North, Preston PUD along the south terminus of the project and Silverton PUD along the northern terminus of the project. The completion of the project will further accelerate the development of the woodland areas. See Figures 7A thru 7C. However, based on the current growth patterns, development is inevitable with or without the implementation of this project. ' 4.2 Neighborhood Impacts The proposed project is located within a rapidly growing urbanized area. The connection of the Cary Parkway is expected to increase traffic in the vicinity of the existing termini. The t completion of the project is expected to accelerate development resulting in additional subdivision construction along the alignment. ' 4.3 Relocation Impacts The proposed alignment will not impact any occupied structures and no relocation will be necessary. 4.4 Community Facilities There are no Community Facilities within the project area. 4.5 Utilities ' Utilities will be within the right-of-way of the proposed alignment. Utilities issues will be handled in the design phase of the project. Utilities are expected to include: water, sewer, power, communications, gas, and CATV. The Colonial Pipeline is routed from the railroad right-of-way south of the Bristol-Myers ' facility southeast toward the Weatherstone PUD. The Colonial Pipeline eight-inch main that transports kerosene will need to be replaced within the project area to meet traffic rating requirements. To maintain uninterrupted service of the main, a traffic-rated pipe will be installed within the 50-foot Colonial Pipeline right-of-way, parallel to the existing main. The heavier parallel line will be tied into the existing main at either end of the Cary Parkway right- of-way and the lighter pipe will then be taken out of service. Efforts will be made to keep the proposed piping within the 50-foot right-of-way, but if necessary, acquisition of additional right-of-way will be pursued to ensure adequate measures have been taken to protect the pipeline from damage. The Metroplex Communications of North Carolina, Inc. (Metroplex) has the WRBZ AM 850 radio station's five transmission towers within the project area south east of the existing Bristol-Myers facility and south of the railroad right-of-way. These towers will not be affected by the preferred alignment. Metroplex has a lease agreement on the property with Adelphi Realty Company that extends to September 2086. CP&L has a 230 KVA high transmission power line that parallels the railroad right-of-way. MCI has fiber optic lines on these structures. These lines will require raising due to the railroad crossing overpass and embankment. CP&L will coordinate the replacement of these towers with MCI. Public Service Company of North Carolina has an eight-inch high pressure transmission natural gas line routed in an east west direction through the Silverton and Weston PUD approximately 3300 feet south of Evans Road at the proposed Cary Parkway Extension. Proposed roadway grades of Cary Parkway and existing grades of nearby Sheldon Drive will require that this gas line be relocated and/or lowered. An existing AT&T fiber optic cable is located in Weston in a 10-foot easement which parallels the 30-foot Public Service Company easement. This cable will require relocation and/or lowering due to proposed roadway grades. NC 54 at the proposed Cary Parkway intersection has overhead telephone and CATV lines as well as an underground fiber optic cable in a 4-ft x 4-ft conduit paralleling the south side of the road. A 16-inch Town of Morrisville ductile iron (DI) water main, a six-inch Public Service gas main that reduces to four-inch in front of the Park Place development and overhead power lines parallel the north side of NC 54. A Town of Morrisville eight-inch gravity sewer and 12-inch DI water main serves Park Place. CP&L is working on a relocation design for the overhead power lines and poles on NC 54. Bell South Telecommunications, Inc. will be relocating their telephone lines and poles and will coordinate with Time Warner Cable in relocating the CATV lines. Evans Road at the northern approach has underground power, telephone and four inch Public Service gas main parallel to the curb and gutter. A Town of Cary 12-inch water main is located beneath the Evans Road pavement. A Town of Cary 12-inch water main is located in the median of the existing NW Cary Parkway with underground power, telephone and natural gas lines located parallel behind the curb and gutter. 12 r The southern approach to the extension from High House Road has a 24-inch water main in the median with laterals at most intersections. Other underground utilities in this vicinity include power, and CATV lines The proposed Cary Parkway will also cross the existing Town of Cary sanitary sewer interceptor near Coles Branch. Preliminary design information indicated that this segment of sewer line will not require relocation. A 24-inch water line will need to cross through the railroad right-of-way. Geotechnical reports indicate that the subsurface beneath the railroad is solid rock. Alternate designs are being reviewed. The 12-inch Town of Cary water reuse line and the Town of Morrisville 12-inch waterline will be suspended from the bridge that crosses the railroad right-of-way. It should be noted that all utility locations will be coordinated during design. All costs of these required relocations will be funded by the Town of Cary and the developers in accordance with the Construction Agreement. 4.6 Economic Impact The proposed Cary Parkway Extension has influenced development and subsequently economic growth during the early planning stages. The project has had and will have short and long- term economic impacts. Presently, the impacts are with the development of the Preston PUD, the Silverton PUD, the ' Preston Medical Center, Weston Industrial Park, and the Park Place commercial center. Short-term economic growth is expected to provide employment to contractors and laborers during the construction period. Right-of-way acquisition is expected to have a minimal ' reduction in the real property tax. ' Long-term impacts will continue to increase residential, commercial and industrial development. This will have a major positive impact on the local tax base and also provide employment to contractors during the development and construction as well as permanent ' employment for commercial and industrial development. Real estate property values should increase. ' 4.7 Historic Architectural and Archaeological Resources State-funded projects are subject to review pursuant to GS 121-12(a) which requires the identification of archaeological and historic architectural properties listed in the National ' Register of Historic Places, and present within the area of potential effect for the project. This is followed by an evaluation of the impacts the undertaking of the project may have on these ' properties. If a state action will have an adverse effect upon a property listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the North Carolina Historical Commission will be given an opportunity to comment. 13 The area of potential effect for the proposed project was delineated, and the maps and files of the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) were consulted. This search revealed there are no historic architectural properties or archaeological sites within the project area of potential effect listed in the National Register of Historic Places or on the North Carolina State Study List. See letter from SHPO in Appendix A. This completed compliance with GS 121-12(a). Specific areas identified as needing wetland permits may be determined to need additional cultural resource consultation in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The determination of the need for investigation will be made by the Army Corps of Engineers (COE) and the Department of Cultural Resources. 4.8 Air Quality 4.8.1 Background The federal Clean Air Act of 1970, as amended (42 USC 750(c)), was enacted for the purposes of protecting and enhancing the quality of the nation's air resources to benefit public health, welfare, and productivity. In 1971, in order to achieve the purposes of Section 109 of the act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established primary and secondary national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS). Six pollutants of concern were designated: ozone (03), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide, (SO2), Nitrogen dioxide (N02), lead (Pb), and suspended particulate matter (PM-10). North Carolina has adopted these national standards as the state standards. The project is located in Wake County, which is within the Raleigh-Durham nonattainment area for ozone (03) and carbon monoxide (CO) as defined by the EPA. The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) designated this area as a "moderate" nonattainment area for 03 and for CO. However, due to improved monitoring data. this area was redesignated as "maintenance" for 03 on June 17, 1994, and "maintenance" for CO on September 18, 1995. Section 176(c) of the CAAA requires that transportation plans, programs, and projects conform to the intent of the state air quality implementation plan (SIP). The current SIP does not contain any transportation control measures for Wake County. The Capital Area 1997 TIP has been determined to conform to the intent of the SIP. The Metropolitan Planning Organization approval date for the TIP is November 21, 1996. The U.S. Department of Transportation approval date is April 4, 1997. The current conformity determination is consistent with the final conformity rule found in 40 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR) Part 51. There had been no significant changes in the project's design concept or scope, as used in the conformity analyses. Air pollution originates from various sources, with emissions from industrial processes and internal combustion engines the most prevalent sources. Other sources of outdoor air pollution are solid waste disposal and combustion and any form of fire. The impact resulting from highway construction ranges from intensifying existing air pollution problems to improving the ambient air conditions. The traffic is the center of concern when determining the impact of a new roadway facility or the improvement of an 14 ' existing roadway facility. Motor vehicles emit carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NO,,), hydrocarbons (HC), particulate matter, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and lead (Pb) ' (listed in order of decreasing emission rate). Automobiles are considered to be the major source of CO in the project area. For this reason, most of the analysis presented is concerned with determining expected CO levels in the vicinity of the project due to ' traffic flow. Hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxides emitted from vehicles are carried into the atmosphere ' where they react with sunlight to form ozone and nitrogen dioxide. Automotive emissions of HC and NO,. are expected to decrease in the future due to the continued installation and maintenance of pollution control devices on new vehicles. However, in ' regard to area-wide emissions, these technological improvements may be offset by the increasing number of vehicles on the transportation facilities in the area. ' Ozone is the main component of smog. Since ozone if formed by chemical interactions with sunlight, ozone concentrations are generally higher during the daytime and in late ' spring through early fall when temperatures are above 60°F and sunlight is more intense. The photochemical reactions which form ozone and nitrogen dioxide require several hours to occur. For this reason, the peak levels of ozone generally occur six to ' 12 miles downwind of a hydrocarbon or nitrogen oxide source. Urban areas as a whole are regarded as sources of ozone precursors, not individual streets and highways. The emissions of all sources in an urban area mix together in the atmosphere, and in the presence of sunlight, the mixture reacts to form ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and other photochemical oxidants. ' Automobiles are not regarded as significant sources of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. Nationwide, highway sources account for less than 7 percent of particulate matter emissions and less than 2 percent of sulfur dioxide emissions. Particulate matter and sulfur dioxide emissions are predominantly the result of non-highway sources such as industrial processes and commercial and agricultural activities. Because emissions of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide from automobiles are very low, there is no reason ' to suspect that traffic on the project will cause air quality standards for particulate matter and sulfur dioxide to be exceeded. ' A bil i h utomo es w t out catalytic converters can burn regular gasoline. The burning of regular gasoline emits lead because regular gasoline contains tetraethyl lead, which is ' added by refineries to increase the octane rating of the fuel. Newer cars with catalytic converters burn unleaded gasoline, eliminating lead emissions. Also, the EPA has ' required a reduction in the lead content of leaded gasolines. The overall average lead content of gasoline in 1974 was 0.45 grams per liter. By 1989, this average had dropped to 0.002 grams per liter. In the future, lead emissions are expected to decrease as more cars use unleaded fuels and as the lead content of leaded gasoline is reduced. ' The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments make the sale, supply, or transport of leaded gasoline or lead additives unlawful after December 31, 1995. Because of these reasons, ' it is not expected that traffic on the proposed project will cause the NAAQS for lead to be exceeded. 15 4.8.2 Analysis Methodology Carbon monoxide concentrations at a receiver near a roadway are comprised of two components; local and background concentrations. The background, or ambient, concentrations vary by region and are based on air quality monitoring data and regional modeling. For the project area, the background hourly average carbon monoxide concentration is 1.8 parts per million (ppm) (NC DEM, 1995). Local carbon monoxide concentrations were estimated using the EPA's line source dispersion model CAL3QHC (1992), with input from the EPA's emission factor model MOBILE5a (1993). Inputs to the models were based on the NC DEM's "Guidelines for Evaluating the Air Quality Impacts of Transportation Facilities" (1995). The project areas modeled were those near the proposed Cary Parkway intersections with NC 54 (Chapel Hill Road) and Evans Road. Intersection areas tend to experience higher carbon monoxide levels than free-flowing road segments because vehicles idling at intersections emit more carbon monoxide than moving vehicles. The CAL3QHC model results are added to the background concentration to determine the total 1-hour and 8-hour carbon monoxide concentrations at a receiver near a roadway. These total values are then compared to the ambient air quality standards to determine whether the receiver would experience air quality impacts. The 1996 and 2020 build conditions at the Cary Parkway/NC 54 and Cary Parkway/Evans Road intersections were modeled. 4.8.3 Analysis Results Table 3 lists the predicted maximum 1-hour and 8-hour average maximum carbon monoxide concentrations for receivers modeled near the intersections of Cary Parkway with NC 54 (Chapel Hill Road) and Evans Road. As shown in Table 3, model results indicate that state and federal ambient carbon monoxide standards would not be exceeded in 1996 or in 2020 with construction of the proposed project. For the Cary Parkway/NC 54 intersection, the highest carbon monoxide concentrations occur in 2020 in the southwest quadrant of the intersection, adjacent to NC 54. The 1996 maximum 1-hour and 8-hour concentrations are predicted to be 8.3 ppm and 5.0 ppm, respectively. The 2020 maximum 1-hour and 8-hour concentrations are predicted to be 9.3 ppm and 5.6 ppm, respectively. These values are well below the state and federal standards. The maximum carbon monoxide concentrations are higher in 2020, even though future emissions from individual vehicles are expected to be lower, due to the increase in traffic volumes and in the number of lanes at the intersection. More lanes along NC 54 would allow more vehicles to idle in the area near the intersection, rather than being queued in a line extending away from the intersection. This configuration would create a greater concentration of pollutants which takes longer to disperse 16 TABLE 3 PREDICTED MAXIMUM CARBON MONOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS Cary Parkway from North of High House Road (SR 1615) to Evans Road (SR 1653) Project U-3408, Cary, Wake County 1-Hour Avg. CO 8-Hour Avg. CO Wind Concentration Concentration Intersection Year Receiver Location Direction (ppm) (ppm) Cary Parkway / 1996 Northwest Quadrant - From the 8.3 5.0 NC 54 adjacent to Cary Pkwy southeast 2020 Southwest Quadrant - From the 9.3 5.6 adjacent to NC 54 northeast Cary Parkway / 1996 Southwest Quadrant - From the 8.0 4.8 Evans Road adjacent to Evans Rd northeast 2020 Southwest Quadrant - From the 7.5 4.5 at corner of north intersection * ppm = parts per million CO = carbon monoxide Note: The federal and state ambient air quality standards are 35 ppm for a 1-hour average and 9 ppm for an 8-hour average. ' For the Cary Parkway/Evans Road intersection, the highest carbon monoxide concentrations occur in 1996 in the southwest quadrant of the intersection, adjacent to Evans Road. The 1996 maximum 1-hour and 8-hour concentrations are predicted to be ' 8.0 ppm and 4.8 ppm, respectively. The 2020 maximum 1-hour and 8-hour concentrations are predicted to be 7.5 ppm and 4.5 ppm, respectively. These values are well below the state and federal standards. At the Cary Parkway/Evans Road ' intersection, the expected decrease in future emission rates from individual vehicles offsets the increases in traffic volumes projected to occur between 1996 and 2020, resulting in higher predicted concentrations for 1996. 4.9 Noise 4.9.1 Traffic Noise Analysis ' A preliminary noise analysis was conducted for the proposed project in order to determine existing noise levels, evaluate future traffic noise levels, determine impacted ' areas, and examine the feasibility of traffic noise mitigation measures. 4.9.1.1 Characteristics of Noise ' Noise can be defined as unwanted sound. It is emitted from many sources, including motor vehicles, airplanes, railroads, power generation plants, and factories. Motor vehicle noise, or traffic noise, is usually a composite of noise from engine exhaust, ' drive trains, and tire-roadway interaction. Most individuals in urbanized areas are exposed to noise from many sources as they go ' about their daily activities. The degree of disturbance or annoyance from these noises 17 depends on three factors: 1) the amount and nature of the intruding noise, 2) the relationship between the background noise and the intruding noise, and 3) the type of activity occurring when the intruding noise is heard (Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, Inc., 1973:1-19). Over time, individuals tend to accept the noises which intrude into their daily lives, particularly if the noises are steady or occur at regular known intervals. Many of these noises are subject to regulations, including airplane noise, factory noise, railroad noise, and highway traffic noise. In this report, all noise levels are expressed as average A-weighted decibels dBA Leq(h). The hourly average sound level (Leq(h)), is the level of constant sound which in an hour would contain the same acoustic energy as the time-varying sound. The A- weighted scale is used almost exclusively to describe traffic noise because A-weighted sound quantities often correlate well with the subjective response of people to the magnitude of a sound level. 4.9.1.2 Existing Noise Levels Ambient noise levels are defined as "the composite of airborne sound from many sources near and far associated with a given environment. No particular sound is singled out for interest" (American Society for Testing and Materials [ASTM] Standard C634-89). Ambient noise level measurements were taken in the vicinity of the project to determine the existing background noise levels and to provide a base for assessing the impacts of traffic noise level increases. A Rion NL-10A Integrating Sound Level Meter was used to measure existing noise levels on August 26, 1996, at seven locations surrounding the project alignment. Three measurement locations were adjacent to major roadways and four locations were in areas away from direct traffic noise sources. Measurement periods were 10-15 minutes at each site. Figure 9A thru 9C show the locations of the ambient readings and Table 4 summarizes the results. At locations near NC 54 and Evans Road, noise levels averaged 59.7-60.8 dBA Leq. In the four measurement areas where traffic noise did not dominate the noise environment, the ambient noise levels averaged 48 dBA Leq. 18 E r TABLE 4 AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL MEASUREMENTS Cary Parkway from North of High House Road to Evans Road Project U-3408, Cary, Wake County Site Date and Location Description Measured Avg. Number Time Noise Level (dBA Leq) Al 8/26/96 NC 54 at Linda Dr 245 ft from NC 54 55.5 3:45-4:OOpm A2 8/26/96 NC 54 near proposed 70 ft from road - measurement of 60.8 4:25-4:40 pm Cary Pkwy traffic noise on NC 54 Intersection A3 8/26/96 Evans Rd near Cary 45 ft from road - measurement of 59.7 6:00-6:15 pm Pkwy traffic noise on Evans Rd B1 8/26/96 End of Innsbrook Measurement of background 45.0 2:55-3:10 pm Court noise levels away from traffic 132 8/26/96 Gray Horse Dr near Measurement of background 47.3 11:20-11:30am Crabtree Crossing noise levels away from traffic Pkwy 133 8/26/96 North end of Measurement of background 48.2 10:05-10:20am Wilson St near noise levels away from traffic - proposed Cary Pkwy Industrial noise from Presspart alignment Industries could be heard throughout measurement period. 134 8/26/96 Winfair Dr near Measurement of background 49.7 5:30-5:45 pm Pebble Ridge Farm noise levels away from traffic Ct Note: All measurements taken with a Rion NL-10A Integrating Sound Level Meter, which was calibrated before and after each measurement period. 1 4.9.1.3 Noise Abatement Criteria and Analysis Methodology To determine whether highway noise levels are, or are not, compatible with various ' land uses, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has developed noise abatement criteria (NAC) and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways (23 CFR 772). A summary of the FHWA noise abatement criteria for various land uses is ' presented in Table 5. As shown in Table 5, land uses are grouped in Activity Categories. All land uses evaluated in this report belong in Category B or C. 19 TABLE 5 FHWA NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA Activity Leq Description of Activity Category Category (hour)* A 57 Lands on which serenity and quiet are of extraordinary (exterior) significance and serve an important public need and where the preservation of those qualities is essential if the area is to continue to serve its intended purpose. B 67 Picnic areas, recreation areas, playgrounds, active sports areas, (exterior) parks, residences, motels, hotels, schools, churches, libraries, and hospitals. C 72 Developed lands, properties, or activities noise included in (exterior) Categories A or B above. D -- Undeveloped lands. E 52 Residences, motels, hotels, public meeting rooms, schools, (interior) churches, libraries, hospitals, and auditoriums. * Hourly A-weighted Average Noise Level Source: Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 772, U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. Traffic noise impacts occur when either; a) the predicted traffic noise levels approach or exceed the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria for the applicable Activity Category, or b) when the predicted traffic noise levels substantially exceed the existing noise levels (23 CFR 772). Noise abatement measures must be considered for receptors impacted under either case. The NCDOT Noise Abatement Guidelines (1996) state that noise levels within one decibel of the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria are considered as `approaching' the criteria. The guidelines also define `substantial increase' as an increase of 15 decibels when existing noise levels are 50 dBA Leq or less and an increase of 10 decibels when existing noise levels are greater than 50 dBA Leq. Traffic noise levels which would occur in 2020 with the proposed project were predicted using the STAMINA 2.0 computer model. This model calculates noise levels at selected receiver locations using input parameters such as projected hourly average traffic; vehicle mix, distribution, and speed; roadway lengths and gradients; distances between sources, barriers, and receptors; and shielding provided by intervening terrain, barriers, and structures. 4.9.2 Analysis Results 4.9.2.1 Traffic Noise Receptors representing all of the residences within 200 feet of the proposed Cary Parkway were modeled in STAMINA 2.0. The following additional receivers were 20 ' also modeled: a day care facility currently under construction near the southern end of the project, a commercial complex currently under construction adjacent to the intersection of proposed Cary Parkway and NC 54, and Presspart Industries at the intersection of proposed Cary Parkway and Sheldon Drive. Modeled receivers are shown on Figure 9B. Figure 9C depicts the receptors and measurement location on the eastern third of the alignment. The traffic noise exposures associated with this project are listed in Table 6. The table ' includes existing and predicted noise levels for the modeled receptors and their estimated noise level increases. Noise levels at Receptors 11, 13, and 14 are dominated by traffic noise from NC 54. Cary Parkway is the primary traffic noise source for all other receptors. As shown in the tables, 26 residences are predicted to experience future traffic noise levels which approach or exceed the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria and 13 residences and one business are predicted to experience substantial ' increases in noise levels. TABLE 6 EXISTING AND PREDICTED NOISE LEVELS Cary Parkway from north of High House Road to Evans Road Receptor Number' Activity Category Number of Residences/ Businesses Represented Approximate Distance to Cary Parkway Centerline (ft) Existing Ambient Noise Level dBA Leq(h) Predicted 2020 Noise Level dBA Leq (h) Change in Noise Levels2 1 B 1 190 48 64 16 $ 2 B 1 210 48 63 15 $ 3 B 1 225 48 62 14 4 B 1 280 48 61 13 5 B 1 380 48 60 12 6 B 1 420 48 59 11 7 B 1 230 48 63 15 $ 8 B 1 360 48 60 12 9 B 1 450 48 59 11 10 C (Presspart) 1 110 48 66 18 11 B 1 230 61 71 10 12 B 1 260 48 63 15 $ 1 21 TABLE 6 cont. EXISTING AND PREDICTED NOISE LEVELS Cary Parkway from north of High House Road to Evans Road Receptor Number' Activity Category Number of Residences/ Businesses Represented Approximate Distance to Cary Parkway Centerline (ft) Existing Ambient Noise Level dBA Le (h) Predicted 2020 Noise Level dBA Le (h) Change in Noise Levels' 13 B 1 530 61 72 11 14 C (Theater) 1 260 61 69 8 15 B 2 300 48 60 12 16 B 1 160 48 65 17 $ 17 B 2 110 48 68 20 18 B 8 340 48 60 12 19 B 4 125 48 67 19 20 B 5 125 48 67 19 21 B 2 215 48 63 15 $ 22 B 2 160 48 66 18 * 23 B 3 125 48 67 19 * 24' B (Apts) 3 125 48 64 16 $ 25' B (Apts) 12 210 48 60 12 26' B (Apts) 2 125 48 63 15 $ 27' B (Apts) 12 210 48 60 12 28 B 3 120 48 69 20 * 29 B 4 100 48 69 21 * 30 B 9 300 48 61 13 31 B 1 220 48 63 15 $ 32 B 1 100 48 69 21 33 B (da care) 1 270 48 61 13 * Predicted noise level exceeds FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria or is a substantial increase over existing noise levels. 1. Receptor locations are shown in Figures 9A,913, and 9C. 2. * - receptor is projected to experience future noise levels which approach or exceed the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria. $ - receptor is projected to experience future noise levels which are a "substantial increase" over existing noise levels. 3. Receptors 24-27 represent apartment buildings which face perpendicular to Cary Parkway. Therefore, a shielding factor of 3 decibels was applied to these receptors since their outdoor living areas (patios and balconies) are perpendicular to the roadway and have a view of only half the road. 22 In accordance with NCDOT Traffic Noise Abatement Policy, the Federal/State governments are, no longer responsible for providing noise abatement measures for new ' development within the noise impact area of a proposed highway after the Date of Public Knowledge. The Date of Public Knowledge of the location of a proposed highway program will be approval date of the final environmental document or the Design Public Hearing, whichever comes later. For development occurring after this public knowledge date, local governing bodies are responsible for insuring that noise compatible designs are utilized along the proposed facility. The maximum extent of the 72 and 67 dBA noise level contours are 26 and 53 meters, respectively, from the center of the proposed roadway. This information should assist the local authorities in exercising land use control over the remaining undeveloped lands adjacent to the roadway within local jurisdiction. For example, with the proper information on noise, the local authorities can prevent further development of incompatible activities and land uses with the predicted noise levels of the adjacent roadway. 4.9.2.2 Construction Noise. The major construction elements of this project are expected to be earth removal, hauling, grading, and paving. General construction noise impacts, such as temporary speech interference for passers by and those individuals living or working near the project, can be expected, particularly from paving operations and from earth moving equipment during grading operations. Overall, construction noise impacts are expected to be minimal since the construction noise is relatively short in duration and is generally restricted to daytime hours. 4.9.3 Abatement Measures There are three major types of abatement measures which can be implemented to reduce traffic noise: highway alignment modifications, traffic system management measures, and construction of noise barriers. 4.9.3.1 Highway Alignment Selection Highway alignment selection involves the horizontal or vertical orientation of the proposed improvements in such a way as to minimize impacts and costs. The selection of alternative alignments for noise abatement purposes must consider the balance between noise impacts and other engineering and environmental parameters. For noise abatement, horizontal alignment selection is primarily a matter of siting the roadway at a sufficient distance from noise sensitive areas. Changing the vertical alignment by decreasing or increasing the elevation of a road can create cut and fill slopes which may provide shielding between the roadway and a receptor. As discussed in previous chapters, no other horizontal alignment, except the one currently proposed, is considered reasonable and feasible. The proposed vertical alignment falls within the design criteria for the roadway classification and takes into account the existing topography of the area, intersections with existing roads, and a planned grade-separated 23 railroad crossing. Changing the highway alignment at this stage of the project is not a viable alternative. 4.9.3.2 Traffic System Management Alternative Traffic system management measures which limit vehicle type, speed, volume and time of operations can be effective noise abatement measures. For this project, traffic management measures are not considered appropriate for noise abatement due to their effect on the capacity and level of service on the proposed roadway. 4.9.3.3 Noise Barriers Noise barriers reduce noise levels by blocking the sound path between the noise source and noise sensitive areas. This measure is most often used on high-speed, limited- access facilities where noise levels are high and there is adequate space for continuous barriers. For a noise barrier to provide sufficient noise reduction it must be high enough and long enough to shield the receptor from significant sections of the roadway. The barrier must also be feasible to construct as well as economically reasonable. The NCDOT Noise Abatement Guidelines (1992) provide guidance on determining the reasonableness and feasibility of providing noise barriers. Feasibility considers source/receiver relationships and the engineering aspects of constructing a barrier at impacted sites. Determination of feasibility includes consideration of whether a minimum of six decibels of noise reduction can be achieved, whether a barrier can be built on the site topography, and whether other noise sources are present in the area. Access openings in barriers severely reduce the noise reduction provided by barriers, making barriers along roadways which lack access control generally unreasonable to construct. An evaluation of reasonableness should include the following criteria: barrier cost, decibel reduction achieved, public support, the degree of noise impact, required sound barrier height, and consideration of potential safety and/or drainage problems. A reasonable barrier must be cost effective. The NCDOT considers a cost-effective barrier as one costing no more than $25,000 per effectively protected site (a site having 4 decibels or more of reduction). In general, barriers are not considered reasonable for businesses or isolated residences (NCDOT, 1992). A qualitative evaluation was performed to identify those areas/receptors for which a noise barrier is clearly infeasible or unreasonable. The factors considered in the qualitative evaluation included each receptor's Activity Category, source-receptor relationships, impacted site densities, access-control, and the ability to construct continuous barriers. For reasons described below, the qualitative evaluation resulted in the elimination of all impacted areas from further detailed consideration of a noise barrier. Noise barriers were considered unreasonable along Cary Parkway south of NC 54 because the road is not access controlled. Existing and potential future driveway 24 ' openings would severely reduce a noise barrier's effectiveness. Noise barriers were also considered unreasonable for impacted receptors north of NC 54 due to lack of ' access control along Cary Parkway and NC 54 and the low residential densities. 4.10 Natural Resources ' 4.10.1 Introduction The following is a compilation of data collected with respect to Natural Resources in ' the vicinity of the project. 1 1 4.10.1.1 Purpose The purpose of this section is to describe the various natural resources likely to be impacted by the proposed action. The entire environmental assessment attempts to identify and estimate the probable consequences of the anticipated impacts to these resources. These descriptions and estimates are relevant only in the context of existing preliminary design concepts. If design parameters and criteria change, additional field investigations will need to be conducted. 4.10.1.2 Methodology Research was conducted prior to field investigations. Information sources used in this pre-field investigation of the study area include: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle maps, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS, formerly the Soil Conversation Service) soil information, NCDOT aerial photographs of the project area and NC Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP). Water- resource information was obtained from various publications of the NCDEHNR and from the USGS Water Resources. Information concerning the occurrence of federal and state protected species in the study area was gathered from the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) list of protected species and federal species of concern, and the NCNHP database of rare species and unique habitats. General field surveys were conducted along the proposed alignment by Soil & Environmental Consultants, Inc., biologists Chris Huysman, Steve Roberts and Bob Zarzezki between May 1996 and April 1997. Field reconnaissance was performed between May 22-29, 1996 and April 8, 1997. Plant communities and their associated wildlife were identified and recorded. Wildlife identification involved using one or more of the following observation techniques: active searching, visual observations (binoculars), and identifying characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, scat, tracks and burrows). Jurisdictional wetland determinations were performed utilizing delineation criteria prescribed in the "Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineations Manual" (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). See the Figure 10 Cary, NC USGS Topographic Quadrangle for the approximate bounds of the study area. General notes pertaining to the existing environmental conditions were made upon pedestrian and aerial photo inspection. 25 4.10.1.3 Qualifications of Principal Investigator Investigator: Chris Huysman, Biologist & Wetland Scientist, S&EC, Inc. Education: Biological Sciences, University of Connecticut, College of Life Sciences Experience: National Park Service, Biologist U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Coop. Extension Service, Technician R.J. Goldstein & Associates, Biologist Expertise: Wetland delineation; Section 7 field investigations 4.10.1.4 Definitions Definitions for the terminology used in area descriptions contained in this section are as follows: Project Study Area denotes the area bounded by proposed construction limits; Project Vicinity describes an area extending 0.5-mile on all sides of the project study area, and Project Region is equivalent to an area represented by a 7.5 minute USGS quadrangle map with the project occupying the central position. 4.10.2 Physical Resources Soils and water resources, which occur in the study area, are discussed below. Soil,, and availability of water directly influence composition and distribution of flora and fauna in any biotic community. The project study area lies within the Piedmont Physiographic Province. The topography within the project region is characterized by Piedmont areas frequently dissected by streams. The project area is situated in the headwaters of the Crabtree Creek sub basin within the Neuse River Basin. 4.10.2.1 Soils The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service has published a soil survey of Wake County, North Carolina (November 1970). Review of data contained in the publication indicates that the subject area soils belong to the Cecil Appling and Creedmoore-Whitestone Associations. The Cecil-Appling Association of soils is characterized as having gently sloping to steep terrain with deep, well-drained soils that have a subsoil of firm, clay soil. The soils were formed from weathering of gneiss and schist. The Creedmore-Whitestone Association of soils is characterized as having gently sloping hilly terrain, with deep and moderately deep, well drained soils that have a firm, clayey subsoil. The soils were formed from weathered sandstone, shale and mudstone. The following table lists the soils series along the proposed route and the soils suitability for highway location. The data is based on an interpretation of the Wake County Soil Survey data. 26 TABLE 7 SOILS: ENGINEERING INTERPRETATIONS FOR HIGHWAY LOCATION Soil Series Engineerin tion Altavista ., seasonal high-water table Cecil frost-susceptible material Chewacla flooding, high-water table; unsuitable ditch slopes Creedmoor highly plastic material Ma odan frost-susceptible material Pinkston rock material White Store highly plastic material In general, all soils with slopes between zero and eight percent that are adequately ' drained at a sufficient depth to maintain cultivated crops are classified as prime farmlands. Additionally, these soils cannot be frequently flooded during the growing ' season. Factors such as stones, boulders, adverse chemical properties, erosion and wetness reduce or exclude some soils from the prime farmlands classification. ' Soils within the corridor in the series Altavista, Cecil, Chewacla, and Mayodan that conform to the aforementioned criteria may be considered prime farmland. ' Approximately 23.5 acres of land will be disturbed for the development of this project. All lands in the general area are zoned as residential, industrial or commercial lands. The current land use patterns in the general area do not tend toward agriculture. Since ' this is an urban area no farmlands calculations were assessed and no further consideration of potential impacts to prime and unique farmlands is required. ' 4.10.2.2 Topography The proposed right-of-way is located in or near the cities of Morrisville and Cary in Wake County, North Carolina. Wake County lies mostly within the Piedmont physiographic province with gently rolling topography. ' The elevation of the subject area ranges from 330 feet to 430 feet above mean sea level. Surface drainage within the subject area is received by the drainage basin of Crabtree Creek. The Neuse River and its tributaries drain about 80 percent of the county. ' 4.10.2.3 Regional Geology The Geologic Map of North Carolina indicates that the study area is located within the ' Raleigh Belt, near the fault dividing the Triassic Basin from the Eastern Slate Belt. The portion of the subject area that lies within the Triassic Basin is characterized as the Chatham Group/undivided with conglomerate, fanglomerdie, sandstone and mudstone. ' The portion of the subject area that lies within the Eastern Belt is characterized as Metavolcanic - Epiclastic Rock - with metamorphosed anfilsite, mudstone, volcanic ' sandstone, conglomerate and volcanic rock (Parker, 1979). 27 4.10.2.4 Water Resources This section contains information concerning those water resources likely to be impacted by the project. Water resources information encompasses physical aspects of the resource, its relationship to major water systems, Best Usage Standards and water quality resources. Probable impacts to these water bodies are also discussed, as means to minimize impacts 4.10.2.4.1 Water Impacts and Characteristics Waters in the project vicinity are part of the Neuse River Basin. The upper reaches of Neuse River Basin include the Eno River, Little River, Flat River, Falls Lake and the Neuse River. The Neuse River flows in a southeasterly direction toward the Atlantic Ocean and discharges into the Pamlico Sound. Waters within the project area are located in the Crabtree Creek sub basin (Index No. 27-33-(1)) which is within the headwaters of the Crabtree Creek watershed that discharge to Crabtree Lake (Index No. 27-33-(3.5)). Also within the project area is Coles Branch (Index No. 27-33-3), a tributary a Crabtree Creek. :3(2, 9 -/ 7 The proposed Cary Parkway Extension crosses two perennial streams and two intermittent streams as defined by the USGS Cary, NC Topographic Quadrangle (Figure 10). The perennial stream crossings include an unnamed tributary of Crabtree Creek (labeled as A) which is in the northern most portion of the project area and Coles Branch which is in the southern portion of the project area. The intermittent stream crossings include an unnamed tributary of Crabtree Creek (labeled as B) and an unnamed tributary of Coles Branch (labeled as C). 4.10.2.4.1a Flood Hazard Evaluation The Town of Cary and the Town of Morrisville both participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. The project will include one FEMA jurisdictional flood plain crossing of Coles Branch. The approximate 100-year flood plain, as determined by FEMA is shown on Figure 7A for this crossing. The 100-year flood plain elevation at Section A of the Wake County Flood Insurance Study (FIS), which is in the proximity of the proposed crossing is 329 feet above mean sea level with a floodway width of 245 feet as depicted by the March 1992 map number 37183C0292 E as published by FEMA. Coles Branch is designated by the Wake County FIS as Basin 18 Stream 24. The crossing will be constructed in accordance with FEMA "Procedures for `No Rise' Certification For Proposed Development in Regulatory Floodways". This procedure is targeted at not allowing any rise in the 100-year flood plain as previously established and documented by FEMA and the COE. 4.10.2.4. lb Hydraulics There are two significant stream crossings with regards to hydraulics. The Coles Branch stream crossing is within the Preston PUD. The preliminary hydraulics analysis indicates that triple 9-ft x 8-ft box culverts will be required to cross the stream without causing an increase in the 100-year flood profile. All necessary FEMA approvals required for this crossing will be obtained prior to construction. Based on 28 ' preliminary' studies, it would appear that this crossing will require a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) and a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR). Directly ' downstream of this crossing is a Wake County flood control dam (Structure #18). This USDA, NRCS designed impoundment is part of the PL 566 Flood Control program to relieve flooding in the Crabtree Creek drainage area. It is not anticipated that Wake ' County Structure #18 will be adversely affected by the project. During construction, Best Management Practices (BMPs) will be utilized to minimize the impact of sediment entering the stream as a result of this construction. ' The other significant stream crossing is located within the Silverton PUD near Evans Road (labeled A on Figure 10). This proposed roadway crossing is located upstream of ' the detailed limits of the Wake County FIS for Crabtree Creek Tributary # 6 (Basin 18, Stream 20). Therefore, no FEMA approvals will be required for this crossing. The t crossing was originally designed and approved by the Town of Cary as half of the required 86 feet back to back median swale section previously constructed for Cary Parkway. The roadway embankment for the Cary Parkway will be the dam of a proposed lake which has appeared on the approved Silverton PUD documents since its ' completion and approval in the early 1980's. The proposed drainage for this crossing is actually the riser barrel spillway structure for the proposed dam. This spillway structure ' is contingent upon receiving approval from the North Carolina Dam Safety Division. The spillway structure consists of a 7-ft x 7-ft box culvert and a 10-ft x 15-ft riser structure. The dam design is currently being reviewed by the Dam Safety Division of ' the NCDEHNR. The owners of Silverton will be providing this approval letter and also providing any wetlands permits required for the impoundment. This permitting will be completed separately from the Cary Parkway permitting. Actual construction of the ' dam and the concrete spillway will be a part of this project. ' All upstream lots that have been recorded show the proposed 100-year flood elevation based on the Town of Cary approved design drawings for the dam. This impoundment should improve water quality downstream by containing sedimentation pollution from developing areas upstream and by the removal of pollutants associated with urban development by providing a highly efficient settlement area for the removal of solids. The proposed impoundment area may be used as an erosion control basin during construction and be cleaned out prior to impounding water. Additional erosion control sediment basins will also be located at the downstream side of the roadway on both sides of the stream to minimize the effect of erosion and sedimentation during the ' project construction. There are two smaller intermittent stream crossings associated with this project that will ' require culverts. These crossing locations are depicted on Figure 10 as B and C. Crossing B will require a 48-inch diameter pipe and crossing C will require a 60-inch ' diameter pipe. These preliminary culvert sizes are based on a headwall/diameter ratio (HW/D) of 1.2 and a 25-year peak discharge for the two drainage areas of approximately 27 acres and 29 acres which are zoned commercial. There are two ' additional crossings, depicted as D and F that will require an 18-inch and 30-inch diameter pipes, respectively. 29 The culvert requirements for these watercourses will be analyzed in detail during the design phase of this project. These preliminary sizes are based upon future development of all upstream property in accordance with the Town of Cary and Town of Morrisville comprehensive growth plans. It is not anticipated that these culverts will have any adverse impacts on the upstream or downstream properties. 4.10.2.4.2 Best Usage Classification Surface water quality is classified by the State of North Carolina's DWQ. Classifications for water bodies are based on watersheds and their "best usage's". The project site is located in the upper reaches of the Crabtree Creek drainage basin where the "best usage" of these waters include: aquatic propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. Waters with these uses are officially known as Class C Nutrient Sensitive Waters (NSW) DWQ: Neuse River Watershed. Crabtree Lake is Class B NSW which is primarily recreational water contact sports and any other best usage specified by Class C in the State of NCDEHNR, Administrative Code Section: 15A NCAC 2B .0211, Fresh Surface Water Classifications and Standards. Crabtree Creek from the mouth of Haleys Branch to the mouth of Richland Creek Index No. is 27-33-(6) Class B NSW. The NSW is an additional classification that is defined under 15A NCAC 213 .0214 and .0300. Neither High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-l: undeveloped watersheds or WS-II: predominately undeveloped watersheds) nor Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within 1.0 miles of the project study area. 4.10.2.4.3 Water Quality 4.10.2.4.3a Surface Water All streams within the drainage area are classified as NSW. These streams have limitations on nutrient input. No additional nutrient input will result from this project. Although the project will intensify short term sedimentation and siltation in the immediate area of necessary construction activities, potential adverse effects will be minimized by the contractor's application for erosion control measures in accordance with applicable regulations of sediment control. These regulations include BMPs developed by the North Carolina Division of Highways, adopted by the Board of Transportation, and approved by the North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission. Effects on water quality in the project area will be minor with implementation of these and other applicable erosion control measures. Based on a review of the public record there are no major point sources discharges (greater than one half of a million gallons per day) under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) on these tributaries.- There is no record of water quality sampling locations within the area of interest. 30 ' Additional water quality issues are associated with wetland impacts as dictated by Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. These issues are discussed in Section 4.10.4 ' Jurisdictional Topics of this report. 4.10.2.4.3b Groundwater The site is located on the Crystalline Rock Aquifer where groundwater quality is generally acceptable for human consumption. Most groundwater samples from this aquifer do not exceed drinking water standards; however, treatment of some ' groundwater supplies may be necessary. Wells constructed in optimum areas, such as valleys and draws where the chance of intercepting interconnecting fractures is greatest, can yield up to 200 gallons per minute (gpm). Groundwater in this general area has the potential for radon-gas contamination due to the underlying crystalline rock and the wells may need to be tested accordingly. Most observed changes in groundwater quality are related to land use and waste disposal patterns. Underground storage tanks, waste lagoons and disposal landfills are ' commonly responsible for point-source contamination. However, more dispersed contamination by non-point sources is increasing and is manifested by petroleum, pesticide and biological contamination (National Water Summary 1986). No land uses commonly associated with groundwater contamination were encountered during the pedestrian inspection. ' No adverse impacts to groundwater are anticipated as a result of this project. 4.10.2.4.4 Summary of Anticipated Impacts ' Construction of the proposed project will impact water resources by one or more of the following processes: box culvert, and pipe construction. Construction activities are ' likely to alter and/or interrupt stream flows and water levels at each aquatic site. This disruption of the stream reduces stream flow downstream of the project. Temporary diversions of water flow will raise the water level upstream of the project and lower the ' water level downstream of the project. A summary of possible surface water impacts as a result of project construction include: ' • Increased sedimentation and siltation from construction and/or erosion. • Changes in light incidence and water clarity due to increased sedimentation and vegetation removal. • Alteration of water levels and flows due to interruptions and /additions to surface and groundwater flow from construction. . ' Changes in water temperature due to vegetation. • Increased nutrient loading during construction via runoff from exposed areas. ' Increased concentration of toxic compounds from highway runoff, construction, ill d i l i d hi tox ncrease ve c sp s an cu ar use. 31 4.10.3 Biotic Resources I Biotic resources include terrestrial and aquatic communities. This Section describes those communities encountered in the study area. Composition and distribution of biotic I communities throughout the project area are reflective of topography, hydrologic influence, past land uses and present land use in the study area. Descriptions of terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications and I follow descriptions presented by Schafale and Weakley (1990) where possible. Dominant flora and fauna observed, or likely to occur, in each community are described and discussed. Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are provided for each plant and animal species described. Plant taxonomy generally follows Radford, et al. (1968). Animal taxonomy follows Martof et al. (1980), Menhenick (1991), Potter, et al. (1980), and Webster, et al. (1985). Subsequent references to the same organism will be by common name only. Fauna observed during the site visits are denoted with an asterisk (*). Published range distributions and habitat analysis are used in estimating fauna expected to be present within the project area. 4.10.3.1 Terrestrial Plant Communities Five general plant community types occur on the site and immediately adjacent to the site. The community types are: 1) Mixed Pine - Hardwood Forest, 2) Mixed Hardwood Forest 3) Pine Forest, 4) Floodplain Forest and 5) Rights-of-Way and Residential Areas. Plant species found in each plant community are listed below the type (alpha ordered). Classifications were compared to Schafale and Weakley (1990) when possible. Prior agricultural and silvicultural practices have left few areas that conform to the natural community classification system (see Figure 11 Plant Community Type Approximation Map for approximate bounds). 4.10.3.1.1 Mixed Pine-Hardwood Forest This plant community type accounts for a large percentage of the vegetational coverage along the proposed route. This forest type is typical of the late stages of successional Dry-mesic Oak/Hickory Forest. Since this community was historically harvested for timber, most hardwood specimens do not exceed eighteen inches in diameter at breast height (dbh). Pine species are dispersed throughout the forested areas; large specimens are located primarily within drainage features. This community grades into the Mixed Hardwood Forest. Portions of this habitat type have been recently harvested for timber or for development. Harvested areas are identified as a different community type on Figure I 11. These areas differ primarily in age and species composition. Harvested areas are comprised of the more vigorous species from those listed below: American beech (Fagus grandifolia), American holly (Ilex opaca), black cherry (Prunus serotina), I blueberry (Vaccinium spp.), Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), cranefly orchid (Tipularia discolor), dogwood (Corpus florida), grape (Vitus spp. ), greenbrier (Smilax spp. ), heartleaf (Hexastylis spp. ), hickory (Carya spp. ), ironwood (Carpinus I caroliniana), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), 32 ' partridge berry (Mitchella repens), pipsissewa (Chimaphila maculata), rattlesnake plantain (Goodyera pubescens), red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), red maple (Acer rubrum), red oak (Quercus rubra), shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata), sourwood (Oxydendron arboreum), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and white oak (Quercus alba). ' 4.10.3.1.2 Mixed Hardwood Forest This community type resembles the climax stage of the Dry-mesic Oak/Hickory Forest. An area identified as this community was historically harvested for timber. Most hardwood specimens in this community do not exceed eighteen inches dbh. Few pine species are dispersed throughout the forested areas; pine composition was field ' estimated to be less than 15 percent of the biomass. Species noted in the mixed hardwood forest included American beech (Fagus grandifolia), American holly (Ilex opaca), black cherry (Prunus serotina), blueberry (Vaccinium spp.), Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), cranefly orchid (Tipularia discolor), dogwood (Corpus florida), grape (Vitus spp.), greenbrier (Smilax spp.), heartleaf (Hexastylis spp.), hickory (Carya spp.), ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), Japanese honeysuckle, (Lonicera japonicera), partridge berry (Mitchella repens), pipsissewa (Chimaphila maculata), rattlesnake plantain (Goodyera pubescens), red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), ' red maple (Acer rubrum), red oak (Quercus rubra), sourwood (Oxydendron arboreum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and white oak (Quercus alba). ' 4.10.3.1.3 Pine Forest Areas identified as this community type are such because of current silvicultural ' practices. These areas are apparently managed for timber production. The basal area is high and the understory is limited to invasive vines and some shrubby undergrowth. ' The forested areas are even aged which further supports the notion that these areas are managed for timber. No portion of the pine forested areas is contiguous with more than 300 acres of similar habitat type. Species noted included blueberry (Vaccinium spp. ), Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), dogwood (Corpus florida), grape ' (Vitus spp.), greenbrier (Smilax spp.), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata), sourwood (Oxydendron arboreum), and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua). 4.10.3.1.4 Floodplain Forest ' The flood regime of Coles Branch produces a community type that is similar to the classification of Bottomland Hardwood. Vegetation has followed natural succession toward species adapted for these conditions. Understory is limited to invasive vines ' and small saplings. Portions of this community type appear to have historically been harvested. This forest, where it extends into drains, is "dryer" than a typical floodplain ' forests; however, these areas have been classified as such to create a meaningful mapping unit. Species noted included American elder (Sambucus canadensis), black berry (Rubus spp. ), black willow (Salix nigra), chain fern (Woodwardia areolata), ' Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinese), giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), greenbrier (Smilax spp. ), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), persimmon (Diospyros 1 33 virginiana), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), red maple (Acer rubrum), river birch (Betula nigra), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), tag alder (Alnus serrulata), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and white ash (Fraxinus americana). 4.10.3.1.5 Rights-of-Way and Residential Areas This community type was characterized by low shrubby invasive and pioneer plant growth; all areas identified as such are regularly maintained. Within these areas small outcroppings of trees provided diversity suitable for many edge species of wildlife. This habitat is associated with roadsides, existing utility lines and lands cleared for development. Residential areas are similar in species composition to the rights-of-way areas. Species noted during field investigation included blackberry (Rubus spp. ), cherry (Prunus spp. ), grasses, lespedeza (Lespedeza stipulacea), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), persimmon (Diospyros virginiana), red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), sumac (Rhus spp.) and sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua). 4.10.3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife Portions of the proposed route have historically been developed and disturbed areas are evident throughout the corridor. The corridor is crisscrossed by paths and vehicle roads, home to feral domestic animals and partially vegetated with exotic species. The upland habitat provides wildlife with food and shelter. Animal communities typically benefit from diverse habitat types such as agricultural fields, successional areas and open areas. Animal tracks along the proposed route consisted of gray squirrel* (Sciurus carolinensis), raccoon (Procyon lotor), domestic dog* (Canis familiaris), white tailed deer (Odocoileus virginiana), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), and humans. Bird species observed on the property are those commonly associated with semi-urban development; i.e. house sparrow* (Passer domesticus), Carolina chickadee* (Parus carolinensis), house wren* (Troglodytes aedon), Carolina wren* (Thryothorus ludovicianus), mocking bird* (Mimus polyglottos), blue jay* (Cyanocitta cristata), bluebird (Sialis sialis), rufous-sided towhee* (Pipilo erythropthalmus), American robin* (Turdus migratorius), and common crow* (Corvus brachyrhyncos). Dead and dying trees have evidence of recent woodpecker activity. No woodpeckers were observed during field investigations. Portions of the property provide suitable resting zones for migratory song and prey bird species. Reptiles associated with the study area include black racer (Coluber constrictor), broad- headed skin (Eumeces laticeps), brown snake (Storeria dekayi), eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina), eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), eastern kingsnake (Lampropeltis getulus), eastern mud turtle (Kinosternon subrum), green anole (Anolis carolinensis), ground skink (Scincella lateralis), northern fence lizard (Sceloporus undulatus), northern water snake (Nerodia sipedon), rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta), rough green snake (Opheodrys aestivus), scarlet kingsnake (Lampropeltis elapsoides), scarlet snake (Cemophora coccinea), smooth earth snake (Virginia valeriae), snapping turtle 34 C (Chelydra serpentina), southeastern five-lined skink (Eumeces inexpectatus), stinkpot (Sternotherus odoratus), and worm snake (Carphophis amoenus). Some amphibian habitat is associated with wetland areas. One toad species (Bufo spp) was observed during an inventory of wet areas. Ofter species that may occur in the study area include American toad (Bufo americanus), bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), fowler's toad (Bufo woodhousei), green frog (Rana clamitans), marbled salamander (Ambystoma opaca), northern dusky salamander (Desmograthus fuscus), northern cricket frog (Acris crepitans), pickerel frog (Rana palustris), red salamander (Pseudo triton ruber), red-backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus), slimy salamander (Plethodon glutinosus), southern leopard frog (Rana sphenocephala), spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculata), spring peeper (Hyla crucifer), and three-lined salamander (Eurycea guttolineata). Avifauna associated with the study area include American goldfinch (Carduelis tristis), American redstart (Setophaga ruticilla), American woodcock (Scolopax minor), barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), barred owl (Stryx varia), black-crowned night heron Nycticorax nycticorax), blue jay* (Cyanocitta cristata), blue-gray gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea), brown creeper (Certhia familiaris), brown thrasher (Toxostoma rufum), brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), brown-headed nuthatch (Sitta pusilla), cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), Carolina chickadee* (Parus carolinensis), Carolina wren* (Thryothorus ludovicianus), cedar waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum), common crow* (Corvus brachyrhynchos), common flicker (Colaptes auratus), dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis), downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens), fox sparrow (Passerella iliaca), great blue heron (Ardea herodias), green heron (Butorides striatus), hairy woodpecker (Dendrocopus villosus), hermit thrush (Hylocichla guttata), house sparrow* (Passer domesticus), house wren* (Troglodytes aedon), indigo bunting (Passerina cyanea), mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), warbler (Dendroica coronata), ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus), parula warbler (Parula americana), pine siskin (Spinus pinus), purple finch (Carpodacus purpureus), purple martin (Progne subis), red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus), red-eyed vireo (Vireo olivaceous), red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamacensis), robin* (Turdus migratorius), rough-winged swallow (Stelgidopteryx rufrcollis), ruby-crowned kinglet (Regulus calendula), ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris), rufous-sided towhee* (Pipilo erythrophthalmus), rusty blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), scarlet tanager (Piranga olivacea), song sparrow (Melospiza melodia), summer tanager (Piranga rubra), tree sparrow (Spizella arborea), tuffed titmouse (Parus bicolor), turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), white-breasted nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis), white-eyed vireo (Vireo griseus), white-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis), winter wren (Troglodytes troglodytes), wood thrush (Hyclocichla mustelina), yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia), and yellow-throated warbler (Dendroica dominica). Mammals associated with the study area include beaver (Castor canadensis), big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), eastern gray squirrel *(Sciurus carolinensis), eastern mole (Scalopus aguaticus), eastern pipistrel (Pipistrellus subflavus), evening bat (Nycticeius humeralis), gray fox (Urocyon 35 cinereoargenteus), hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus), long-tailed weasel (Mustella frenata), meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius), mink (Mustella vison), muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus), opossum (Didelphis marsupialis), raccoon (Procyon lotor), red bat (Lasiurus borealis), red fox (Vulpes fulva), short-tailed shrew (Blarina brevicauda), silver-haired bat (Lesionycteris noctivigans), southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans), white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus), and whitetailed deer (Odocoileus virginicus). 4.10.3.3 Aquatic Habitat Coles Branch, its unnamed tributaries and the unnamed tributary of Crabtree Creek provide aquatic habitats that can support populations of fish, invertebrates and amphibians. The distribution of organisms is dependent on channel characteristics such as riffles and pools. The biological diversity of streams is dependent on stream and water quality characteristics. Amphibious species rely on aquatic habitats for at least part of their life cycle. This document has listed these animals in the terrestrial portion of this document. Aquatic habitats directly correlate with areas identified as wetlands on the attached maps. Amphibious organisms have a wider distribution than the aquatic areas. Some reptilian species, such as turtles, rely on aquatic habitats. Aquatic species likely to be found in waters associated with the project region include Asiatic clam (Corbicula manileusis), brown bullhead (ktalurus nebulosus), carp (Cyprinus carpio), green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus), pumpkinseed (L. gibbosus), redbreast sunfish (L. auritus), bluegill (L. macrochirus), largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis), bluehead chub (Nocomis leptocephalus), caddisfly (Hydropsyche sp.), mayfly (Stenonema sp.), cranefly (Tipulidae); aquatic snails: (Pseudosuccinea columella), (Physella sp.), (Elimia catenaria), (Helisoma anceps), (Leptoxis carinata), and (Gillia altilis); and crayfish (Cambarus acruminatus), and (C. latimanus). 4.10.3.4 Impacts to Biotic Communities The location of the proposed right-of-way is shown on Figure 11. The right-of-way area is approximately 110 feet wide and 12,000 feet long and will result in the clearing of more than 14 acres of terrestrial habitat (Table 8) not including existing residential, cleared and rights-of-way (i.e. railroads, power transmission lines and sewer lines). To minimize additional adverse impacts to terrestrial resources a sediment and erosion control document will be drafted and followed. Additionally, the following provisions should be clearly listed in the final construction document: 1) All merchantable timber is to be sold, where practicable. 2) Measures will be taken to control fires at burn piles in accordance with local and state guidelines for air quality. 3) Skinning of trees, outside rights-of-way, will be minimized. 4) Soil compaction and filling will be minimized outside of the right-of-way. 5) Spilling of petroleum products will be avoided. 36 t TABLE 8 IMPACTS TO TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES Plant Community Type Total Acreage Within Study Area Proposed Alignment Acreage by Community Mixed Pine-Hardwood Forest 36.1 acres 3.4 acres Mixed Hardwood Forest 35 acres 8.9 acres Pine Forest 17.1 acres 1.8 acres Flood lain Type Forest 0.3 acre 0.1 acres Total to Clear 14.2 acres Mixed Pine-Hardwood Forest(cleared) 11. acres .7 acres Residential 3.9 acres 1.0 acres Cleared 10.4 acres 3.8 acres Rights-of-Way 10.7 acres 1.8 acres 4.10.3.4a Habitat Fragmentation ' Habitat fragmentation occurs when parcels of otherwise suitable habitat are isolated and rendered less suitable for wildlife, thereby adversely affecting faunal diversity and ' richness. The degree of impact on wildlife and species diversity depends on the sensitivity of the species. Groups of species directly impacted by habitat loss through fragmentation include those with large home range requirements, very specific micro habitat requirements and poor dispersal abilities. Many of the natural habitat types in the study area have already been fragmented by ' subdivisions, golf courses and industrial development. The greatest fragmentation will occur in the mixed pine-hardwood plant community. ' Fragmentation will be in the form of a long linear cleared corridor; approximately 110 feet wide. The edges of this corridor are likely to follow natural succession toward a habitat type that is beneficial to urban dwelling edge species of fauna. ' 4.10.4 Jurisdictional Topics ' This section provides descriptions, inventories and impact analysis pertinent to important issues--Waters of the U.S. and rare and protected species. ' 4.10.4.1 Waters of the U.S. Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the U.S.," as defined in 33 CFR Part 328.3. Surface waters as defined by the COE is water present ' above the substrate or soil surface. Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR 328.3, are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of ' vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated conditions. Any action that proposes to 1 37 place fill into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the COE under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). Current wetland regulations are based on Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. The COE is the lead federal agency charged with the defining and regulating of wetlands and Waters of the U.S. Permits to discharge fill material into wetlands and waters are covered by what is commonly referred to as Section 404 wetland permit. Many 404 permits require an additional certification to ensure that water quality is not adversely effected; this certification is known as a Section 401 Water Quality Certification. The issuance of Water Quality Certifications (Section 401) is handled by individual states. In North Carolina Section 401 is administered by NCDEHNR DWQ. The COE and the EPA are responsible for making the determination of regulated wetlands. The COE issues permits for discharge under Section 404. 4.10.4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters The definition of wetlands and their boundaries on the landscape has resulted in various manuals and policy statements from different governmental agencies. The "Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Wetlands" was issued jointly by the COE, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), EPA, and the USDA NRCS in an attempt to achieve a single, consistent approach for identifying and delineating wetlands from a multi-agency perspective. The following definition is that used by the EPA and COE for administering Section 404: Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas. The definition emphasizes hydrology, vegetation, and saturated soils. As a result, the manual seeks to give technical criteria for defining and delineating these three characteristics: 1) hydrophytic vegetation, 2) hydric soils, and 3) wetland hydrology. 4.10.4.1.2 Vegetated Wetlands One area has been identified as a vegetated wetland in the inspection area. The area has been confirmed to be outside the proposed construction area. The area totals 0.30 acres and has characteristics described below. However, this area may not be jurisdictional if it is determined that it is an active sediment and erosion control device and is maintained in accordance with the sediment and erosion control plan. 4.10.4.1.3 Hydric Soils Hydric soils within the inspection area are limited to the vegetated wetland area identified above and the bottoms of channels. Hydric soils that are present have a chroma below three and some sulfidic odor. 38 4.10.4.1.4 Hydrophytic Vegetation Vegetative indicators of wetlands are species that require significant wet periods to ' grow. Wetland plants within this area included: Black Willow, Soft Rush, Cattails and Sedges. Plants located within the wetland areas are supported by the hydrology of the area. No vegetation was noted in channel bottoms. 4.10.4.1.5 Hydrologic Indicators Hydrologic indicators provide visible proof that water inundates or saturates an area for a sufficiently long enough period of time to support hydrophilic vegetation and hydric soils. Some of the following hydrologic indicators were observed within the wetlands on-site; saturation, inundation, drainage patterns, and sediment deposits. 4.10.4.1.6 Waters of the U.S. (Surface Waters) Most drainage features within the study area are identified as Waters of the U.S. The drainage features that are present on the site have consolidated flows, gravely substrates and evidence of scouring. Channels that are found within the study area are deeply incised non-meandering high- energy channels of the Piedmont region. Channels are typically greater than 3 feet deep (measured from the top of bank) with gravel substrate and evidence of bank erosion. Intermittent streams of the project area are generally less than 5 feet in width and consist of a sandy/clay substrate with occasional cobbles. Coles Branch and an unnamed tributary of Crabtree Creek are the only surface water that shows on the USGS map as a perennial water body and were field confirmed to be so. Coles Branch is approximately 15 feet wide at the proposed crossing and has a cobble substrate and a riffle-run structure. 4.10.4.1.7 Permits Impacts to wetlands are in-part regulated based on their size, relationship to headwaters, and habitat water quality. Wetland impacts are regulated by both COE and DWQ. An evaluation of jurisdictional wetlands identified less than 1.2 acres of wetlands and ' Waters of the U.S. within the study area. Table 9 summarizes these impacts by channel width and Figure 12 depicts the locations. The loss of wetlands by the construction of \ this project will be approximately 0.12 acres. Areas identified as Waters of the U.S. are classified as channels. Channels are not special aquatic sites and will be permitted utilizing Nationwide Permit 14. 1 39 TABLE 9 WETLAND IMPACTS Channel Width Proposed Alignment Impact Area (Acres) Studied Area (Acres) 5 ft 0.08 0.60 10 ft 0.03 0.48 15 ft 0.01 0.09 4.10.4.1.7a Section 404 All crossings of Water of the U.S. are above headwaters and to non-special aquatic sites. The COE has issued a Nationwide Permit for the project (see Appendix B). 4.10.4.1.7b Section 401 All projects with impacts greater than 150 linear feet to streambed must obtain a 401 Water Quality Certification from the DWQ. DWQ typically requires mitigation for projects that have excessive impacts to perennial channels. An application for the 401 Water Quality Certification has been made. DWQ cannot issue the 401 Water Quality Certification until this project has received a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or Record of Decision (ROD). 4.10.4.2 Rare and Protected Species Rare plant and animal species may be protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, administered by the USFWS. Protected rare species are listed by USFWS as endangered, threatened, proposed endangered and proposed threatened. Information presented herein follows recommendations of a Non-Environmental Impact Statement or Minor Resource Impact Project as provided by USFWS, Ecological Services in Raleigh, North Carolina. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and its associated legislation mandates that no federal permits, money or land be utilized for projects that adversely impact endangered species. Consequently, the presence of an endangered species within a proposed alignment utilizing federal permits, money or land could be cause for redesigning the specific project. Wetland permits, for instance, will not be issued if the proposed activity adversely impacts a known population of an endangered species. The same scenario emerges when activities are funded by the federal government and/or are proposed on public lands. If an endangered species population is identified within a project area, it will require further study, consultation with the USFWS and potential mitigative and minimization activities. 4.10.4.2.1 Literature Review and Background Investigations Plant and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under 40 provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. The current (August 23, 1996) USFWS list of threatened, endangered and ' rare species for Wake County, North Carolina (Appendix C. USFWS Comment Letter) listed four federally protected species in Wake County. A literature review for the federally protected species was conducted to gather vital information on the species: range, preferred habitat, life history, historic distribution and confirmed presence ' within two miles of the site. 1 NCNHP datafiles were reviewed on May 22, 1996 to identify known occurrences of federally protected species within the study area. No occurrence of protected species is reported within two miles of the site. The August 23, 1996 Endangered, Threatened and Candidate Species and Federal Species of Concern in North Carolina list for Wake County is identical to the revised April 1, 1996 Federally-Listed, Candidate Species and Federal Species of Concern list for Wake County. 4.10.4.2.2 Field Survey Methods Information regarding the unique characteristics of the species, its habitat requirements, its reproductive biology and locations of its previous local sittings are compiled and reviewed before surveying commences. Aerial photo inspection and field reconnaissance of the site locates potential suitable habitats for the protected species: after which, transects are traversed by foot. Survey methods are consistent with recommendations of recognized professional biologists and scientific literature. 4.10.4.2.3 Species Descriptions and Status Unique characteristics of the species, its habitat and its reproductive biology will be discussed for the species. An assessment of the species presence or absence will be made on the basis of limiting habitat and biological features. Impacts to known populations, and the existence of the species, will be assessed if suitable habitat is found on or believed to be adjacent to the site. 4.10.4.2.3a Bald Eagle, Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald Eagles are federally listed as threatened in the southeastern U.S. Bald Eagles are large and dark in the body, 32-43 inches (81-109 cm) long, with a white head, white tail and yellow bill. The wingspan is about seven feet (2.1 m). Young birds lack the white head and tail, and have a dark bill and pale markings on the belly, tail and under the wings. The lower section of the leg has no feathers. Nests are cone-shaped, six to eight feet (1.8-2.4 m) from top to bottom and six feet (1.8 m) or more in diameter. Bald Eagles in the southeast frequently build their nests in the transition zone between forest and marsh or open water. Nests are typically constructed in dominant live pines or cypress trees that provide a good view and clear fight path, usually less than a half of a mile from open water. 41 No large bodies of water, suitable for nesting bald eagles, are within a half mile of the ' project. Biological Conclusion: No effect ' 4.10.4.2.3b Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Picoides borealis Red-cockaded woodpeckers are listed as endangered throughout the U.S. The red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) is eight inches (20 cm) long. It has a black cap and is black on the nape of its neck. The back is barred with black and white; the underside is white with black spots on the sides. There is a large white patch on each cheek, which is a distinguishing characteristic from other woodpecker species. The male has a small red spot behind the eye, which may or may not be visible. Fledgling males have a red patch on the crown of the head. RCW's live together in family groups, but each adult has its own roost cavity. Foraging takes place during the day; birds return to their roost cavities at dusk. Cavity trees are often highly visible, as the birds peck the bark around the cavity, causing the tree to ooze large amounts of light- colored sap. The preferred habitat of RCW's is open, parklike pine savannah with little undergrowth. Most populations are found in forests of longleaf pine, but loblolly, shortleaf, pond, slash and occasionally Virginia and pitch pine are also used. Living pines (30+ years old) are preferred for foraging habitat and mature, live trees (60+ years old) are used for roosting and nesting cavities.. The territory of a group of birds is at least 125 - 175 acres (50 - 70 ha) in size; normally they do not travel more than a half mile to forage. RCW's are the only birds to regularly excavate cavities in live southern pines, although other birds are known to nest in dead limbs of live trees. No cavity trees or individuals were observed along the proposed route. The most suitable habitat was associated with areas identified as pine forest. These areas were determined to be not suitable for this species because of its isolation from large tracts of pine. Biological Conclusion: No effect 4.10.4.2.3c Dwarf wedge Mussel, Alasmidonta heterodon The dwarf wedge mussel is listed as endangered throughout the U.S. ' The dwarf wedge mussel is a small bivalve, usually less than two inches (5 cm) long. ' The outer shell is somewhat ridged and dark colored, often with a greenish tinge. The bottom of the shell may have a slight, gradual indentation and the shell is usually wider and more rounded than other species of mussel. The most effective way to identify this ' species is to examine the interior of the shell (after an individual has died). The right valve of the dwarf wedge mussel has two lateral teeth while the left valve has one lateral tooth. In all other NC species, the opposite is the case. ' 42 1 This mussel is found close to stream banks, under overhangs and around the tops of submerged logs. This species is also known to live on firm substrates of sand, gravel and muddy sand with a slow to moderate current. The mussel requires water that is well-oxygenated and free of pollution. ' No portion of the project is in a watershed known to support populations of this mussel. Impacts to intermittent channels will not have an impact on this species. Field surveys for mussels produced no specimens of the protected mussel (Mottesi, et al., 1996). The fact that the study area supports significant domestic and industrial uses and minor agricultural land uses further supports this conclusion. ' Biological Conclusion: No effect 4.10.4.2.3d Michaux's Sumac, Rhus michauxii Michaux's sumac is listed as endangered throughout the U S . . Michaux's sumac is a low, deciduous, fuzzy shrub, one to three feet (30-91 cm) tall. The leaves are alternate and consist of long rows of nine to 13 leaflets. The leaflets are 1.6 to 3.5 inches (4-9 cm) long, 0.8 to 2.0 inches (2-5 cm) wide, hairy with toothed ' edges. Flowers grow at the top of the plant in a dense, erect cluster colored greenish- yellow to white. The fruit is grouped in the same manner, is reddish and fuzzy. Flowering occurs April through June, fruiting occurs August through November. The plant prefers sandy or rocky open, upland woods and wood margins and grows best where disturbance has maintained an open area. It has been found along roadsides ' and power line rights-of-ways. Inspection of maintained rights-of-way produced no specimens of Michaux's sumac. ' No field edges with the appropriate disturbance regime are within the inspection area. No impact to Michaux's sumac is anticipated. Biological Conclusion: No effect ' 4.10.4.3 Federal Species of Concern and State Protected Species As of August 23, 1996 there are a total of nine Federal Species of Concern (FSC) listed for Wake County. These species are: Bachman's sparrow, the southern hognose snake, ' the southeastern myotis, the yellow lance, the Atlantic pigtoe, the green floater, the Diana fritillary butterfly, sweet pinesap, and the Carolina least trillium. FSC were formerly classified as C2 Candidate species are defined as "species which may or may ' not be listed in the future..., and ... are under consideration for listing for which there is insufficient information to support listing" (USFWS 1996). The definition of a C2 ' Candidate species was a taxa for which there is some evidence of vulnerability but for which there are not enough data to warrant a list of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered or Proposed Threatened at this time. 43 These FSC species also have a North Carolina protection status as well. Plants or animals with state designations of Endangered (E), Threatened (T) or Special Concern (SC) are given some protection by the State Endangered Species Act and the NC Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979 administered and enforced by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. However, the level of protection given to state listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities. These species listed herein are mentioned here for information purposes should they become protected in the future. Surveys for these species were not conducted during site visits nor were any of these species observed. 4.11 Secondary Impacts The Cary Parkway Extension will connect two sections of the existing Parkway and complete a major radial thoroughfare around roughly three-quarters of the perimeter of Cary. In anticipation of the completion of this project, significant development has been planned and is under construction or completed. The development includes residential, commercial and industrial growth. As the majority of the study area is undeveloped woodland, it is expected to change with or without the planned project due to the surrounding development pressures. Sheldon Drive, presently a dead end street in the Weston Industrial Park, will be tied into the Cary Parkway and will provide a means of ingress and egress to Weston Parkway. This will accelerate the already anticipated industrial development in this area. The existing Silver Oaks Subdivision southeast of the Evans Road/NW Cary Parkway intersection will be provided with additional access to promote safety and distribute traffic more evenly through the subdivision. Additionally, the Silverton Parcel K subdivision has been approved for construction by the Town of Cary. These developments are a direct result of the anticipation of this project in the vicinity of the northern terminus. The Town of Cary has also approved for construction plans for Preston Medical Center North, which includes approximately 1,400 feet of northeastern road frontage along the proposed Cary Parkway just north of the project's southern terminus. Several commercial/office developments will be located within this project. Weatherstone Way will be extended to Maynard Road at a later date. This will provide a link between the proposed Cary Parkway and Maynard Road. Preston PUD will continue development of residential areas as well as office and light industrial properties from the current southern terminus to the railroad right-of-way. James Jackson Avenue will be extended in the future as a part of this development and will provide a direct link between the proposed Cary Parkway and Maynard Road. The Park Place Shopping Center has been approved by the Town of Morrisville and is under construction on NC 54. The western boundary of the property was proposed as a part of the Cary Parkway Extension right-of-way. 44 ' Bristol-Myers Company located west of the proposed alignment on NC 54 had indicated that there are plans for additional development of their property. However, they have recently announced that they will be closing this plant down within two and a half years. This leaves ' the status of future development of this site in question. I 4.12 Visual Impacts The project is predominantly undeveloped woodland with gently rolling hills and small creeks. Therefore, visual impacts to existing development will be limited to businesses along NC 54 and Sheldon Drive and single family homes in the Preston and Silverton subdivisions. The four-lane divided urban thoroughfare will be constructed to allow for landscaping and screening to mitigate adverse visual impacts. Landscape berms may be considered along the Cary Parkway Extension as part of adjacent subdivision construction to further mitigate visual impacts. 4.13 Hazardous Material Sites The NCDOT Geotechnical/GeoEnvironmental Section conducted a field reconnaissance survey and file search for potential environmental hazards that could be encountered during right-of- way acquisition or construction that may result in an environmental liability. The hazards considered included underground storage tanks, hazardous waste sites, landfills, dumps and similar sites. The study does not include any intrusive or geophysical means for identifying subsurface features. The methodology is restricted to surficial review for visual indications and a file search which includes: 4.13.1 CERCLA Review of the lists of sites registered in the Wasteland Remedial Report as potential superfund sites under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) indicates no CERCLA sites are listed within a one-mile radius of the study area. 4.13.2 RCRA Table 10 is a summary of the findings from a September 1996, review of the list of businesses that may generate or store hazardous waste registered under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) in the immediate project vicinity. TABLE 10 RCRA REGULATED FACILITIES No. Facility Name T 1 Location EPA ID No. -7 EPA Desi ation 40 AMP Madison Ave, NCD 075 569 368 Inactive Incorporated Cary 89 Bristol-Myers 1331 W. Durham NCD 000 623 082 Large Generator Products Rd. 45 4.13.3 Hazardous Spill Incident Records Table 11 summarizes the finding from a September 1996, review of the NCDEHNR ' files pertaining to hazardous material spills in the project vicinity. TABLE 11 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SPILL No. Date Location Incident Remediation 389 5/15/90 603 E. Chatham St. Diesel fuel discharge Contained 396 7/7/89 Huntington Apart, Ground soaked with Unknown Morrisville septage 505 12/13/89 2213 Bedford Ave -200 gal home heating oil Reportedly spilled into storm drain contained 1137 3/24/94 521 Old Apex Rd Improper dumping of No known motor oil and transmission remediation fluid 1139 5/26/94 300 block of High "40 gal diesel spilled from Spill contained House Rd. leaking tank 1233 3/11/95 Evans Rd. & -40 gal diesel spilled into Raleigh HAZMAT Weston Pkwy lake as a result of a traffic contained accident 1235 5/8/95 280 Lake Drive, 5-8 gal of gasoline leaked YRAC Fire Depart .L- I Cary I from damage fuel tank contained s ill 4.13.4 UST Leak Incidents Table 12 summarizes the findings of a September 1996 review of the leaking underground storage tank (UST) files for Wake County maintained by NCDEHNR. TABLE 12 UST LEAK INCIDENTS Facility Name Location T Incident No. Preston Wood, Inc. 109 Summerlakes Dr., Cary 9010 Preston Wood, Inc. 110 Summerlakes Dr., Cary 7381 4.13.5 Solid Waste The Geographical Information Service (GIS) was consulted for the study area. The , review shows that no regulated or unregulated landfills or dump sites are evident within 46 the study area. However, during field reconnaissance a property north of NC 54 was observed to have trash piles mainly consisting of shingle and associated construction debris. A concrete island, presumably from a gasoline station was observed in the ' same vicinity. It appeared that the island had been moved from its original location and discarded in the present location. L? 4.14 Construction Impacts During construction of the Cary Parkway Extension there will be various impacts that will require mitigation. These impacts are expected to include but are not limited to natural resources, water quality, air quality, noise, solid waste, land disturbance, vector propagation, and utilities. Federal, state and local requirements, ordinances and guidelines will require sediment and erosion control measures be approved and implemented, and open burning will be limited if necessary by permit. Construction impacts can be mitigated by implementing the following construction guidelines: • Contractors will be required to observe and comply with all laws, ordinances, regulations, orders, and decrees, including those of the North Carolina State Board of Public Health, regarding solid waste. All solid waste will be disposed of in accordance with the Standard Specifications of the Division of Highways. • Waste and debris will be disposed of in areas outside of the right-of-way and provided by the contractor, unless otherwise required by the plans and special provisions or unless disposal within the right-of-way is permitted by the engineer. Disposal of waste or debris in active public waste or disposal areas will not be permitted without prior approval by the engineer. Such approval will not be permitted when, in the opinion of the engineer, it will result in excessive siltation or pollution. • During construction of the proposed project, all material resulting from clearing, grubbing, demolition, or other operations will be removed from the project, and disposed of by the contractor. Any merchantable timber should be salvaged with an emphasis on selling all wood products to minimize burning. If vegetation is disposed of by burning, all burning will be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with NCAC 2D.0520 and G.S. 113-60.24. • Provisions will be taken during construction to prevent erosion, sedimentation and construction damage to forest land outside the right-of-way and construction limits. Trees outside the construction limits should be protected from construction activities to prevent skinning tree trunks by heavy equipment, exposing roots, smothering trees from fill dirt around the base, or accidentally spilling petroleum or other damaging substances over the root systems. • Borrow pits and ditches will be drained to alleviate breeding areas for mosquitoes. Care will be taken to prevent the blockage of existing ditches. 47 • Adherence io the sediment and erosion control plan will be required, including limiting ' areas and duration of exposed earth and stabilizing exposed areas as quickly as possible. An erosion control schedule will be prepared by the contractor prior to ' initiation of work. The schedule will outline phases of work and temporary measures implemented during those phases. ' • Measures will be taken to alleviate the dust generated by construction when the control of dust is necessary for protection, safety, and comfort of motorist and nearby residents. ' • Although the high equipment noise levels are expected to be the main contributor to the , construction activity noise emissions, noise impacts during construction will be relatively short term. It is anticipated that the major source of noise will be heavy equipment operation from earth moving, hauling grading, pile driving and paving. ' General construction noise impacts will be limited to daylight hours. Prior to construction, a determination will be made in regards to utility relocation I and/or adjustment of existing utilities in the project area. • Traffic service in specific areas of the project may be subject to brief disruptions during ' construction. Measure will be taken to maintain the flow of traffic as dictated by NCDOT specifications. 48 J CHAPTER 5 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT ' There will be a public hearing help following the publication of this document. Advance notification will be provided in the local newspapers and by letter to those that have requested correspondence. 1 1 49 i CHAPTER 6 COMMENTS AND COORDINATION Comments on the proposed Cary Parkway Extension were requested in a scoping letter from the listed agencies. Responses were received from those agencies in bold text. These comments were addressed in this document and copies are included as Appendix A. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Wilmington, N.C. U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service - Raleigh, N.C. U. S. Forest Service U. S. Geological Survey - Raleigh, N.C. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IV - Atlanta, Ga. N.C. State Clearinghouse N.C. Department of Cultural Resources N.C. Department of Administration N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs Division of Water Quality (Environmental Management) Division of Land Resources N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Town of Cary Town of Morrisville Silverton Homeowners Association Wake County 50 ' CHAPTER 7 REFERENCE ' A Re-evaluation of the Mammals. Occasional Papers of the North Carolina Biological Survey. North Carolina State Museum of Natural Science, Raleigh, NC. ' Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, Inc. Fundamentals and Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise. Prepared for the Federal Highway Administration. Report Number P13-222-703. June 1973. Cooper J.E. S.S. Robinson and J.B. Funderburg (eds.). 1977. Endangered and Threatened Plants and Animals of North Carolina. North Carolina State Museum of Natural Science, Raleigh, NC. ' Earley, L.S. 1991. Going, going...? Wildlife in North Carolina 55(3):14-19. Environmental Laboratory, 1987, COE Wetlands Delineation Manual, Technical report Y-87- 1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Miss. Frazer, M. 1993. Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Species of North Carolina. ' unpublished. Hardin, J.W. 1977. Vascular plants. In: Cooper, J.E., S.S. Robinson, and J.B. Funderburg ' (eds.). Endangered and Threatened Plants and Animals of North Carolina. North Carolina State Museum of Natural History, Raleigh, NC. ' Mottesi, Gabriela B., Mara E. Savacool, July 1, 1996, William B. Umstead State Park Aquatic Inventory. NC Natural Heritage Trust Fund, Raleigh, NC. North Carolina Administrative Code, Title 15A, Subchapters, 2B, 2H, 2L and 2N North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources - Division of North Carolina Department of Transportation 1992 NCDOT Noise Abatement Guidelines. Parker, John M. I11, 1979. Geology and Mineral Resources of Wake County, Bulletin 86 NC Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, Division of Land Resources, Geological Survey Section. Environmental Management 1993 Classifications and Water Quality Standards Assigned to The Waters of the Neuse River Basin. 1995 1990 Ambient Air Quality Report. September. Prepared by the Air Quality Section. 1995 Guidelines for Evaluating the Air Quality Impacts of Transportation Facilities. ' March. Prepared by the Air Quality Section. North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Development, Division of Land Resources, Geological Survey Section (Bulletin 86), Geology and Mineral Resources of Wake County, 1979 r Radford, A.E., H.E.'Ahles, and C.R. Bell. 1964. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, Raleigh, NC. U.S. Department of Agriculture. SCS. 1970. Wake County Soil Survey. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1992. Endangered and Threatened Species of the Southeastern United States (The Red Book). Prepared by Ecological Services, Division of Endangered Species, Southeast Region. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. U.S. Geological Survey. 1986. National Water Summary - 1986 - Groundwater Quality: North Carolina. GPO. Washington, DC. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1992. User's Guide to CAL3QHC Version 2.0: A Modeling Methodology for Predicting Pollutant Concentrations Near Roadway Intersections. EPA Report Number EPA-454/R-92-006. 8/ngsinol of iunoW A4308 Ol W O d LL Od HOPE ny NEW r m o " R n Sf°d vc7 °?1. y = °?r 'a8 NOOHGAI ? v u r1/dY ~ o a ? > O o- m W O PO '3AY = 0j1NY.,lY N m 4 a i QQ? 0 0 W = m am N6U x Oby_ d a D eOp 1\01 00 1S3 ?+ m Aa z m bOd 311VtA y¦o =?3 ST. Y 7 F © 04.E ?, a '^ E V` ? ? / q0. J oc1??0? vOO ?o FORy,S Otl IIIW H31155Y1 AV o ¦ r° ,HOOD '`^ ov`? D is H3C ac L - GLEN ,?. ?? Z JE o by P _>_¦ f a °d m 61 Ob ?., F v N ^? w N1jb38O •v c? EY 3 f v o z a o `a o OY3 H1 3 31%10 J ?. Z o ? o °?` o v 3 od ? 3 F" • Is Oyr m ?. ? z a F• z .y°? -+ 3901a Rv' S 'J, w Z t ? z a ?° i ¦p ¦ DURAlE1GH RO P° ¦ < v o: v o' G1{URGH Z C7 1'•' m ,Z r- P 4.° 4,'LF, p? ? ?' P ?? 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W 0 Q a 33 ?v ao 0 3 t C! 1 EHNR - ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT History Note: Filed as a Temporary Amendment Eff. March 8, 1994 for a Period of 180 Days or Until the Permanent Rule is Effective, Whichever-is Sooner; Statutory Authority G.S. 143-213; 143-215.3(a)(1); 143-215.109; Eff. February 1, 1976; 2D .0800 Amended Eff. July 1, 1994; July 1, 1984. %.0803 IGHWAY PROJECTS Environmental assessments regarding highway projects shall be rev' wed in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and L 'e North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. If there is no assessment, or if an assessment shows that there may be a problem in complying with an ambient air quality standard, or if the environmental impact assessment fails to show that the highway project will not result in violations of applicable portions of the control strategy, and will not interfere with attainment or maintenance of a national standard, then the following regulatory provisions shall apply: (1) A person shall not construct or modify any highway if that highway will result in a contravention of ambient air quality standards; (2) Before construction or modification of any highway with an expected maximum traffic volume of 2,000 vehicles per hour or more within 10 years, a person shall apply for and have received a permit as described in 15A NCAC 2Q .0600 , and shall comply with any terms and conditions therein. History Note: Filed as a Temporary Amendment Eff. March 8, 1994 for a Period of 180 Days or Until the Permanent Rule is Effective, Whichever is Sooner; Statutory Authority G.S. 143-215.3(a)(1); 143-215.109; Eff. February 1, 1976; Amended Eff. July 1, 1994; July 1, 1984. .0804 AIRPORT FACILITIES Before constructing or modifying any airport facility designed to have at least 100,000 annual aircraft operations, or at least 45 peak-hour aircraft operations (one operation equals one takeoff or one landing) , the owner or developer of the airport facility shall apply for and have received a permit as described in 15A NCAC 2Q .0600, and shall comply with all terms and conditions therein. History Note: Filed as a Temporary March 8, 1994 for a Until the Permanent Whichever is Sooner; NORTH CAROLINA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE S 27 Amendment Eff. Period of 180 Days or Rule is Effective, D-800-2 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROJECT COMMENTS Reviewing Office: Project Number: . Due Date: After review of this project it has been determined that the EHNR permit(s) and/cr approvals indicated may need to be obtained in order for this project to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions reqarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of the form. All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office. Normal Process Time PERMITS I SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit) Permit to construct 3 operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award of 30 days facilities, sewer system extensions, & sewer construction contracts On-site inspection. Post-application systems not discharging into state surface waters. technical conference usual (90 days) NPOES • permit to discharge into surface water andlor Application 180 days beicre begin activity. On-site inspection. 90.120 days permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities Pre-application conference usual. Additionally, cotain permit to discharging into state surface waters. construct wastewater treatment facility-granted after NPCES. Reply (NIA) time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPOES permit-whichever is later. Water Use Permit Pre application technical conference usually necessary 3C days _ (NIA) ? Well Construction Permit Complete application must be received and permit issued 7 days prior to the installation or a well. (15 days) Application copy must foe served on each ad;acent ricaran property c5 days Credge and Fill Permit owner. On-site inspection. Pre-application conference usual. Filling may require Easement to =ill from N.C. Department of (90 days) Administration and Feceral Dredge and Fill Permit. Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement 60 days facilities and/or Emission Sources as per 15A NCAC 21H.06C NIA f90 days) Any open burning associated with subject proposal must be in compliance with 15A NCAC 21).0520. Demolition or renovations of structures containing asbestos material must be in compliance with 15A 60 days NCAC 20.0525 which requires notification and removal N/A prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos Control Group 919.733-0820. (90 da s) Complex Source Permit required under 15A NCAC 20 0800 - copc?U6 IS )? Lk'F}L LO •c?o3 y . - 7 The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be property addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion 3 sedimentatio u control plan will be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Cuality Sec;.) at least 30 20 days davs before becinnino activity. A fee of 530 for the first acre and S20.C0 for each additional are or part must accomeanv the plan. (3C days) J The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the referrenced Local Ordinance: (30 days) On-site inspection usual. Surety bond filed with EHNR. Bond amount Mining Permit varies with type mine and number of acres of affected land. Any area 30 days mined greater than one acre must be permited. The appropriate bond (60 days) must be received before the permit can be issued ?I North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources if permit 1 day I exceeds 4 days (NIA) -l Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit • 22 On-site inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources required "it more 1 day counties in coastal N.C. with organic soils than five acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections (NIA) should be requested at least ten days before actual burn is planned." J 90.120 days Oil Refining Facilities NIA (NIA) It permit required, application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant must hire N.C. qualified engineer to: prepare plans. 30 days _ Dam Safety Permit inspect construction, certify construction is according to EHNR aoorev• ed plans. May also require permit under mosquito control program. And (60 days) a 404 permit from Carps of Engineers. An inspection of site is neces- sary to verity Huard Classification. A minimum fee of 5200.00 must ac• company the application. An additional processing fee based on a Normal Process Time - PERMITS .SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURE'-- or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit) ' ------------- File surety bond of 55,000 with EHNR running to Slate of N.C. ----- 10 days Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well conditional that any well opened by drill operator shall, upon (NIA) ' abandonment, be plugged according to EHNR rules and regulations. ? I Geophysical Exploration Permit Application filed with EHNR at least 10 days prior to issue of permit 10 days Application by letter. No standard application form. I (NIA) ' Slate Lakes Construction Permit Application fee based on structure size is charged. Must include i f d i i 1520 days pt escr ons 3 draw ngs o structure 3 proof of ownership (NIA) of riparian property. 60 days 401 Water Quality Certification NIA (100 days) ' ? GAMA Permit Icr MAJOR development S2`_0.00 fee must accompany aDDlicahon 55 days `50 d aysl u 22 days CAMA Permit Icr MINCR development S51CO fee must accompany application <c days) ' ?, Several gecce!;c monuments are located in or near the project area. If any monuments need to be moved or destroyed. please nosily ( I I N.C. Geodetic Suryey, Box 27687, Raleign, N.C. 27611 ' C I Abandonment of any wells, if required, must be in accordance with Title 15A, Subcnacter 20.0100. CI Notification of the proper regional office is requested if 'crpnan'undergreunC stcrage tanxs (USTS) are CiscovereC during any excavation oceraticn. ' Compliance .vith 15A NCAC 2H.1000 (Coastal Stcrmwaler Pules) is required. a` days lJ I (NIA) * other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority) ' L d C li an ua ty: Sedimentation and erosion control must be addressed in accordance with NC DOT's acoreved program. In particular, adecuate sediment controls must be designed for the perimeter of all affected areas, and stable stormwater conveyances and outlets must be ' provided. Particular attention must be given to protection of Coles Branch. ' REGIONAL OFFICES O i uest ons regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office marked below. ? Asheville Regional Office Fayetteville Regional Office 59 Woodfin Place Suite 714 Wachovia Euildinc ' Asheville, NC 28801 Fayetteville, NC 28301 (704) 251.6208 (919) 486-1541 C Mooresville Regional Office ? Ralei ional Cffice h Re ' 919 North Main Street, P.O. Box 950 g g 3800 Barrett Drive, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28115 Raleich, NC 27609 (704) 663.1699 (919) -7/33-2214 ? Washington Regional Office rr--11 L Wilmington Regional Office ' 1424 Carolina Avenue 127 Cardinal Drive Extension Washington, NC 27889 Wilmington, NC 28405 (919) 946.6481 (919) 395.3900 f?t L Winston-Salem Regional Office ' 8025 North Point Blvd. Suite 100 Winston-Salem, NC 2710E NCI, RC-, HCF FALLS' LAKE TF ' 9 1a :=-9 ; -?' ? Flay 7 ' 96 11 : 0, No .002 F .06 North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission L7" 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charies R. Fullwocd, Executive Director .MEMORANDUM TMelba McGee Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental AlTairs, DEHNT, FROM: David Cos, Highway Project Coo ator Habitat Conservation Prokrar )_ DATE: 'Yiay 13, 1996 SUBJECT: Request for info,-.-mation from the N. C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) regarding fish and wildlife concerns fur the Cary Parkway Extension, from the current terminus in the Preston P.U.D. to Evauis Road (SR 1653), Wake County, North Carolina, TIP No. U-3408, SCH Project No. 96-0665. This memorandum responds to a request from ivir. H. Franklin Vick of the NCD(-)I' for our concerns regarding impacts on fish and wildlife resources resulting from the subject project. Biologists on the staff of the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the proposed project, and our comments are provided in accordarice with provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act (G.S. 1 13zZ- 1 et seq., as Lurnended, 1 NCAC 25). A this time we have no specific eo1lunents or concerns regarding the suriect project, however, our general informational needs are outlined below: 1. Description of fishery and wildlife resources witltin the project area. including a listing of federally or state designated threatened, endarngered, or special concern species. Potential borrow areas to be used for project construction should be included in the inventories. A listing ol'designated plant species can be developed through consultation with: The Natural Heritage P oorani N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation P. 0. Box 27687 Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919) 733-7795 and, H CWRC,HCP , FRLLS LRK:E Memo TE' ..J1 __-3 _,4.3 J- 9 1.1aa 11 C:? I10.F,D% CJ 7 2 May 13, 1)96 NC'DA Plattt Conservation Program P. 0. Box 27647 Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919) 733-3610 2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected b}' the project. The nccd for channelizing or relocating portions of streams crossed and the extent of such activities, 3. C OVel' tyre maps showing wetland acreages impactod by the project. Wetland acreages should include all project-related areas that may undc;ao hydrologic change as a result of ditching, other dminave, or filling for project const-n:ction. Wetland idertirlc ttion may be ?ccompli`he:I thruuah coordination with the U. S. A= Corps of'Engineers tf the C:C)r.. is not consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be idcntilicd and crircria listed. 4. (.ever ,vpc maps showing acreages of unl; nd wildlife habitat InlU?lettd by tl- propose:! projoct. Potential borrow sites should be included. 5. The extent to wh>sch the project will result in loss, degradation. or fr-znnentation of wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands). 6. Mitigation for avoiding, minimizing or compensating fur direct and indirect degadanon in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses. 7. A cuniulauve impact assessment section which analyzes the environmental effects of highway construction and quantifies the contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation. 5. A discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources which NN-ill result from secondary development facilitated by the improved road access. 9. It' constnlction of this facility is to be coordinated with other stl,tc, municipal, car private development projects, a description of these projects should be included in the ertvironinental document, and all project sponsors should be identified. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early pla1u11ng staecs foi- l - this project. 1f 1 can further assist Your office, please contact me at (919) _525-9556. / 1 . tudv? REPLY TO ATTENTION OF DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS P.O. BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402.1890 Special Studies and Flood Plain Services Section Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Division of Highways Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 7611-5201 Dear Mr. Vick: May 16, 1996 Get V M Q? 2 ? 1996 E7VVIR? 50? , This is in response to your memorandum of April 8, 1996, to our Raleigh Regulatory Field Office requesting scoping comments on the "State Environmental Assessment/Finding of No Significant Impact for Cary Parkway Extension from current terminus of four lane section in Preston P.U.D. to Evans Road (SR 1653), Town of Cary, Wake County, TIP No. U-3408" (Regulatory Branch Action 1. D. No. 199602182). Our comments involve impacts to flood plains and jurisdictional resources, which include waters, wetlands, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects. The proposed roadway improvements would not cross any Corps-constructed flood control or navigation project. Enclosed are our comments on the other issues. In keeping with current coordination procedures, please also provide a copy of 'future requests for comments to Mr. Coleman Long of our District Office. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of further assistance, please contact us. Sincerely, C. E. Shu rd, Jr), E. Acting Chief, Engineering and Planning Division Enclosure I Appendix B 1 ENDANGER&D, THREATENED, AND CANDIDATE SFZCM AND FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN IN NORTH CAROLINA 1 This list was ads ed *= the North Csroura Natural Hwrltags Prvpam's County Species List. It is a listing of North Carolfrtu': feddcslly listed and proposed wAse eivd, daWenW, and 1 candidate species and Federal a mcm of coed (for a complete list of rare species in the state, please contact the North Caromut Nawal Heritage Progtan). The inforimalon on this list is compiled item a variety of sou rm, including field surveys, musatn m and herbariums, literature, 1 and personal communications. The Nm* Carolina Nat>orod Heritage Fmgmm'a database is dynamic, with new records being added and old records bed crAW as ngw i anuation is received. Please note that this list cannot be conAdered a definitive record of listed species and 1 Federal species of concern, amd it should not be eomidered a subsdb2z for held surveys. i WAXI COUNTY CO ' MMON NAME SCtENTI>f iC NAMZ STATUS 1 Vertebrate. Bachman's sparrow Aixmpkila antivois FSC Bald eagle Haltaserua 1"coosl+4WW Tbreatened Southern hogaose make Hd&vdoa:lilac! FSC` 1 Southwstcm myot v M+otfs auaaroripaliw FSC Rcd-cockaded woodpecker pko"a borealis Endangered inyxothm= Dwarf wedge mussel Alm%Wvn t hetemdlow Emwwred Yellow lance Etioda 1W%c6olata FSC Atlantic pigtoe PlC emia maoxi FSC Green floater Laasrigoxa j#bWrkbw FSC 1 Diana fritillary butterfly Speyeria dtmta F9C* 1 Vascular Punta Swett pinesap MOW&OPslt odowa FSC Michaux's fume Rho )"k awsii Endangered Carolina least bn1hum Trift'RntPWIllox ear, P"Uh in FSC ' KEY; Sums Onion Endangemd A twwn "in datSer ofexlt action dmmgboutall or t sisaffiew posuion of its rasfge " 1 . nweatened A taxon "Nicely to becom andangsred wifto tine fiorsaasabis ff an tbrougtlout all at a sageaihaa ut pution of its range." 1 FSC A Federal species of comm . a species that may or may not be listed m the A#= (fomtarly C2 candidate speeise orspacies mader eonaiderstion for listing for winch there to annuli wd iofe notion to support listing]. 1 3pocies with 1.2.3. or 4 aste isb behind them indicate biseods. abscu4e, or ir? records. *Historic esoord • the specie was last obser and is the mmly more tlrm SO years ago. 1 A a r ?3.1996 Pm I ofl i Appendix C U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS ' WILMINGTON DISTRICT 'fiction ID. 2970042 County Witt ' GENERAL PERMIT (REGIONAL AND NA-MONWIDE) VERIFICATION ' Property Owner/Agent JoW of CarvfATTN• Mr_ Tim RaLiley_ ^ ddress PO 59218005 -C NC 27,512 Telephone No. Size and Location of project (waterway, road name/number, town, etc.) Town of Cary rocv located Northeast and Southwest of NC 54 connecting DQ present termini gf the Ca PUWy ' 4nd crgg*ii g tribIgar_iCs Uf CrabtMC Creek and Cole Branch in Caa, North- Carolina-Description of Activity (,1711stmi. ction of proposed roadway (linew Ma way Mquirea six ne=ndicular crossings of bank- ' wank waters of IJte US)Osulting in 0,12 acres of iMpacta i he j didictional waters of the t 1 S . as shown on the plans received =h 14. 1997, X....Section 404 (Clean Water Act, 33 USC 1344) only. Section 10 (River and Harbor Act of 1899) only. ' Section 404 and Section I0. 14 Nationwide Permit Number. ' Any violation of the conditions of the Regions! General or Nationwide Permit referenced above may subject the permittee to a stop work order, a restoration order, and/or appropriate legal action. Thi, Department of the Army Regional General/Nationwi:de Permit verification does not relieve the undersigned permittee of the responsibility to obtain any other required Federal, State, or ' local approvals/permits, The permittee may need to contact appropriate State and local agencies before beginning work. Regulatory Project Manager Signature c Date April 25. 1997 Expiration. Date AZzdl 25, 19W SURVEY PLATS, FIELD SKETCH, WETLAND DELINEATION FORM, ETC., MUST BE ATTACHED TO THE FILE COPY OF THIS FORM, IF REQUIRED OR AVAILABLE CF; Soil & Environmental Consultants (By Fax) 11 soil 2 Vi \C Ir i onmental Consultants, Inc >r??lt?`dt<?c1`tlc?i?;C?,'N<?rtli (:;irc?lina L7(iO?) ¦(?)19) ?/(r59UO ¦ I?ax(919)i?/(i-9i( WET?RC' "?' . 970227 November 10. 1990 NCDEHKNR - DWQ Attn: Mr. John Donley 4401 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, NC 27607 Dear Mr. Alsmeyer and Mr Dorney. US Army Corps of Engineers Attn. Mr Eric Alsmeyer 6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120 Raleigh, NC 27615-6846 The purpose of this letter is to request a Nationwide Permit 14, and a Section 401 Water Quality Certification for the project known as U-3408 Cary Parkway Extension. The project corridor is to be acquired by the Town of Cary, NC and is located near the cities of Cary and Morrisville, NC (Wake County). The site is shown on the enclosed plans and Cary, NC, USGS Topo Quad vicinity map, It will be necessary to impact 0.12 acres (see map) of jurisdictional Waters of the US above headwaters for the placement of the proposed road. Six pipe and fill crossings are proposed under Nationwide Permit 14. No single crossing impacts more than 150 linear feet of Waters of the US. Impacts are shown in detail on attached map and grade plans. The roadway is needed to alleviate potential traffic burdens in the local area. Please call if you have questions or require further information. If you intend to perform a site visit please call and we will arrange for someone to accompany you. Sincerely, Christopher Huysman, Biologist \.1ill.111,o, ¦ M.11)pIllv,, ;110 ¦ \\4-tlmid., ¦ V 1\ c )ii `;il?? \\';i?,l? "Iii .i?iii?•ni `,??.til??ni?;, I?.valti;iii??ii ,ui?l I>? ,i}',ii DI:M ID _ _ Corps Action II) Nationwide Permit Requested (Provide Nationwide Permit Il) 14 Pre-Construction Notification Application 1?or Nationwide Permits that Require I ) Notification to the Corps of 1?ngincers ?) Application for Section 401 Certification 3) Coordination with the NC Division of Coastal Management Send the original and ( I ) copy of this completed form to the appropriate field office of the Corps of Engineers (see agency addresses sheet). Seven (7) copies should be sent to the NC Division o1' Environmental Management (see agency addresses sheet). PLEASE'- PRINT I . Owner's Name 2 Mailing Address 'T'OWN OF CARY, ATTN TIM BAILEY PO Box SOO, Subdivision Namc: City: CARY State: NC Zip Code: -'7,? 1:' Project location address, including subdivision name (if different from mailing address above) SEE PART 5 3) 'telephone Number (home): (Work): FAX 919 / 460-4935 4) If applicable, agent's name or responsible corporate official, address, phone number: SOIL. &, l"1NVIR0NMF.NTN. CONSI II.TANTS, INC 1'11 (919) 8 ?10 244 W M11.1.BROOK ROAD RALEIGII, NC 27609 5 Location of work (provide a map, preferable a copy of USGS topographic map or aerial photograph with scale): County: WAKE COUNTY Nearest town or city. CARY, NC Specific I.ocation (include road numbers, landmarks, etc ) NORI HFAST AND SOUTI IWEST OI, N('54 CONNI;CTING IFWO ITFISENT TFIRMINI OFTI IF GARY PARKWAY AND CROSSING IRIBI ITARIFS OF ('RAB'fRI:I?. ('RI:E:K AND COI,I:S BRAN('H Sl?,l: A'I"IACHI':D VI('[NI'1'Y MAP 0 Impacted or nearest stream/river TRIII( I ARILS 0 1? ('RAIVIR I"I -: CRL, I-:K River Basin NFUSI" RIVFR BASIN 7a Is project located near water classified as trout, tidal saltwater (SA), high quality waters (HQW), outstanding resource waters (ORW), water supply (WS-I or WS-II)? Y1;S ( ? ) NO ( X ) lf"yes, explain: 7b. If the project is located within a North Carolina division of coastal management area of environmental concern (AEC)? YES ( ? ) NO ( X ) 7e If the project is located within a coastal county (see page 7 for list of'coastal counties), what is the land use plan (LUP) designation? 8a Have any Section 404 permits been previously requested for use on this property? YF,S (? ) NO ( X ) If yes, provide Action ID number of'pervious permit and any additional information (including photocopy of 401 certification) 81). Are additional permit requests expected for this property in the iirture? YES ( ? ) NO ( X ) If yes, describe anticipated work 9a. Estimated total number of acres in tract of land 125 IN INSPECTION AREA 96 F.stimated total number or acres of wetlands located on project sites 1.5 ACRFS I0a Number of acres of'wetlands impacted by the proposed project by Filling Excavation Flooding Other 1'IPI" AND FILL 0 12 A('Kl,,S Drainage Total acres to be impacted 0 12 ACM"S lot) (1) Stream channel to be impacted by the proposed project (11' relocated distance both before and after relocation) Length before EAC1I SEGMENT LESS THAN 150' After. Width Before (based on normal high water contours): Width After: Average depth before: LESS 10" After: (2) Stream channel impacts will result from: (check all that apply) provide Open channel relocation: ? Placement of pipe in channel X Channel Excavation ? Construction of a Dam/Flooding: ? Other: I I if construction of a pond is proposed, what is the sire of the watershed draining to the pond? What is the expected pond surface area? 12. Description of proposed work including discussion of type of mechanical equipment to be used (attach plans S 1/2" x 11" drawings only): CONSTRUCTION OF PROPOSED ROADWAY WITH MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TYPICALLY ASSOCIATED WITH THIS TYPE OI, CONS'T'RUCTION. *4 0 4 V', SI'm I OF NmRriI CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS GARIANI) B. GARRH JR. G(A] RNt'R I,(), 14 A .),SMI RAI 1 161 1, N.C.:?7011 5711 SWRI 1ARY RECEIVED April 8, 1996 APR 15 19% ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES ^RAnarN MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Eric Galamb Division of Environmental Manageme t FROM: H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Z Planning and Environmental Branch SUB.iECT: State Environmental Assessment/Finding of No Significant Impact For Cary Parkway Extension from current terminus of four lane section in Preston P.U.D. to Evans Road (SR 1653). 'T'own of Cary, Wake County, TIP No. U-3408 The firms of Withers and Ravenel Engineering and Surveying, Inc. (WRES) located in Cary, North Carolina has been retained to prepare a State Environmental Assessment (FA) for the proposed extension of Cary Parkway from the current terminus of the four lane section in Preston P.U.D. to Evans Road (SR 1653). The attached figures show the project location (Figure 1) and the approximate study limits and features of interest (Figure 2). The roadway will be located within both the Town of Morrisville ETJ and Town of Cary E'T.I. The approximate length of this roadway extension is 2.25 miles (11,900 LF). The roadway cross section will be a four-lane median divided thoroughfare. Signalization of the NC 54 and Evans Road intersections will be required. As shown in Figure 2 the parkway extension will be required to cross the Southern Railroad Line and Coles Branch. The construction of a bride will be required to cross the railroad while the installation of box culverts will be utilized to cross Coles Branch. While the town terminus of the parkway extension are set, no work has been completed to identify either potential or the preferred alternatives. However, there are several existing and "approved for construction" structures within the corridor which, together with environmental and engineering design constraints, will limit the possible routes. These structures, shown on Figure 2, include the WKIX radio towers, the Bristol Myers industrial facility, a shopping center currently under construction on NC 54, and existing and approved for construction subdivisions. During the initial portion of the EA our P W LO& ti consultants will be creating a base map on which natural resources within the corridor will be overlain on the existing conditions. This map will be used to assist in the selection of a preferred alternative. The EA will evaluate the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the proposed project. Specific issues to be addressed include natural resources, wetlands, air and noise impacts, water quality, flood plains, hazardous materials, archaeology, historic sites, and other relevant impacts. Please note that there will be no formal interagency scoping meeting for this project. This letter, therefore, constitutes solicitation for scoping comments related to this project. In order that we may fully evaluate the impacts of the proposed project, it is requested that you respond in writing concerning any beneficial or adverse impacts of the proposed project relating to the interest of your agency. For our consultants to stay on schedule and for your input to be included in the planning and environmental document, please respond within 30 days. If you have any questions concerning this project, please contact Mr. Tom Kendig at (919) 733-7844, Ext. 263 HFV/tp