Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout19920774 Ver al_Complete File_19920908M SfAlF u? ???h va?tsst4 t STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION P.O. BOX 25201 RALEIGH 27611-5201 JAMES G. MARTIN GOVERNOR THOMAS J. HARRELSON SECRETARY August 25, 1992 District Engineer Army Corps of Engineers P. 0. Box 1890 Wilmington, North Carolina 28402 ATTENTION: Regulatory Branch Dear Sir: 77, t??•?t?r?as cRO; . ILI, ER pUALITY SE DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS WILLIAM G. MARLEY, JR., P.E. STATE HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATOR Subject: US 221-NC 226, Replacement of Bridge No. 104 and the realignment of NC 226 intersection with US 221, McDowell County, State Project No. 8.1870702, Federal-Aid Project No. BRF-21-1(12), TIP Project B-1277 Attached for your information is a copy of the project planning report for the subject project. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Adminis- tration as a "Categorical Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). This project, located in one of the 25 western North Carolina Counties designated as "Trout Counties', falls under the discretionary authority of the Corps. In accordance with this policy, the North Carolina Department of Transportation will obtain a letter of concurrence from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission prior to requesting authorization to construct the project under the CE Nationwide Permit. If you have any questions or need additional information, please call me at 733-3141. Sincerely, • . Xl OM L. and P. E., Manager LJW/plr Planning and Environmental Branch Attachment cc: Mr. John Parker, Permit Coordinator, w/report Mr. John Dorney, Environmental Management, w/report Mr. C. W. Leggett, P. E. Mr. J. T. Peacock, Jr., P. E. Mr. A. L. Hankins, Jr., P. E. Mr. R. E. Edmonds An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer US 221-NC 226 Replacement of Bridge Number 104 and the Realignment of NC 226 Intersection with US 221 McDowell County State Project 8.1870702 Federal Project BRF-21-1(12) TIP Project Number B-1277 4'.? CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION U. S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration And N. C. Department of Transportation Division of Highways APPROVED: i ?L ate L. . Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT z Uate ich s L. ?ra ??ivision Administrator, FHWA US 221-NC 226 Replacement of Bridge Number 104 and the Realignment of NC 226 Intersection with US 221 McDowell County State Project 8.1870702 Federal Project BRF-21-1(12) TIP Project Number B-1277 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION June, 1992 Documentation Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By: 06,14, A %?? k. Ja es A. McInnis Jr. r Project Planning Engineer Linwood Stone Project Planning Eng' ear, Uni He H. r n lin Vick, P.E., ssistant Manager Planning and Environmental Branch HC p`cVo •. . 7754 •.• GI NE ,. •., ,p ••......• !? !l111?1 1j111 ? zs?9z US 221-NC 226 Replacement of Bridge Number 104 and the Realignment of NC 226 Intersection with US 221 McDowell County State Project 8.1870702 Federal Project BRF-21-1(12) TIP Project Number B-1277 I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The subject project consists of the replacement of Bridge No. 104 * over Armstrong Creek and the realignment of the intersection of NC 226 with US 221 in McDowell County. An adjacent project, TIP number R-2020, proposes to widen existing US 221-NC 226 to five lanes from SR 1434 to the southern limits of project B-1277. Design and construction of the new structure and intersection will be coordinated with project R-2020. The replacement of Bridge Number 104 and the realignment of the intersection of NC 226 with US 221 were originally parts of the state-funded project R-2020. Both the bridge replacement and the intersection realignment were studied in the preparation of the State Environmental Assessment (SEA) for project R-2020. Since the completion of the SEA, it has been decided to replace Bridge Number 104 and realign the intersection of NC 226 with US 221 under project B-1277. Federal bridge replacement funds will be used to purchase right of way and construct the bridge and widen the approaches to the bridge. State highway trust fund money will be used to purchase right of way for and construct the intersection. Based on the planning and environmental studies, it is anticipated this project (B-1277) will not have a significant impact on the existing human or natural environment. This action is considered to be a "categorical exclusion" as defined by the Federal Highway Administration's environmental guidelines (23 CFR 771.117). Project B-1277 is included in the North Carolina Department of Transportation 1992-1998 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Right of way acquisition is scheduled for federal fiscal year 1992 and construction is scheduled for federal fiscal year 1993. i 2 The estimated costs of project B-1277 are listed in Table 1. Table 1 Estimated Project Costs For B-1277 Replacement of Bridge Number 104: Removal of Old Bridge $ 11,280 New Bridge (80 ft. x 147 ft.) 588,000 Roadway (pavement, earthwork, etc.) 423,208 ?? Traffic Control (signing, etc.) 10,000 ' Engineering and Contingencies (15%) 156,000 Other (erosion control, clearing, etc.) 211,512 Total Construction Cost $ 1,400,000 Right of Way Cost $ 615,000 Total Cost-Replacement of Bridge No. 104 $ 2,015,000 Realignment of NC 226 Intersection: Removal of Existing Pavement $ 7,000 Roadway (pavement, earthwork, etc.) 298,500 Traffic Control (signing, etc.) 8,000 Engineering and Contingencies (15%) 77,000 Other (erosion control, clearing, etc.) 109,500 Total Construction Cost-Realignment of NC 226 Intersection $ 500,000 Right of Way Cost $ 75,000 Total Cost - Realignment of NC 226 Intersection $ 615,000 Total Cost - Project B-1277 $ 2,630,000 II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Structure Bridge Number 104 was built in 1933. It is a reinforced concrete deck girder bridge on reinforced concrete end abutments with the interior bent on piles. It has a clear roadway width of 20 feet and a structure length of 96 feet. The bridge has a sufficiency rating of 20.3, with an estimated remaining life of 18 years. 1? Roadway US 221-NC 226 is 20 feet wide with five feet of grassed shoulders on both approaches to Bridge Number 104 and in the area of the US 221-NC 226 intersection. The bridge and intersection are located on a fairly flat, tangent section of roadway. US 221/NC 226 Intersection The existing intersection of NC 226 with US 221 is located approximately 400 feet north of Bridge Number 104. The intersection is skewed approximately 30 degrees and channelized with a large, grassed island. Traffic Volumes Current average daily traffic on the subject section of US 221-NC 226 is 9,400 vehicles per day (vpd). Traffic volumes for US 221-NC 226 between SR 1556 and NC 226 were estimated for the construction year 1993 and the design year 2013. In 1993 and 2013, 10,900 and 20,000 vpd, respectively, are expected to travel the subject section of US 221-NC 226 (see Figure 4). Accident Record There were 20 accidents along US 221-NC 226 in the vicinity of Bridge Number 104 and the intersection with NC 226 between December 1, 1989 and November 30, 1991. No fatal accidents were reported during this period. The total accident rate for the subject section of US 221-NC 226 for the time period was 4.76 accidents per million vehicle miles (ACC/MVM).• This rate is significantly higher than the 1988-1990 state-wide average of 1.83 ACC/MVM for rural US routes. The accident rate for the subject section of US 221-NC 226 is also higher than the 2.21 ACC/MVM reported for the segment of US 221-NC 226 from SR 1434 to NC 226 between January 1, 1986 and December 31, 1989 (see Figure 5). Of the reported accidents; 9 were rear-end collisions, 3 involved vehicles running off the road, 3 were angle accidents, 2 involved vehicles hitting a fixed object (Bridge Number 104), and 3 were other types of accidents (see Figure 6). III. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS Bridge Number 104 Project B-1277 proposes to replace Bridge Number 104 with an 80 foot wide, 147 foot long bridge. The new structure will be built in stages, allowing traffic to be maintained on-site during construction. US 221- NC 226 will be widened to five lanes within the limits of the proposed project. The widening will be done asymmetrically (widening on the east side) in the area of the bridge to allow for staged construction. 4 NC 226 Intersection Also proposed is the realignment of the intersection of NC 226 with US 221. The new alignment will create a four-leg intersection at the present T-intersection of SR 1558 with US 221 (see Figure 2). Abandoned portions of pavement will be removed. Th section 3 paved). section paved). Roadway Cross-sections proposed cross-section for US 221-NC 226 is a five-lane shoulder with 60 feet of pavement and eight-foot shoulders (two-foot The proposed cross-section for NC 226 is a two-lane shoulder with 24 feet of pavement and eight-foot shoulders (two-foot IV. PROJECT BENEFITS Project B-1277 will replace an obsolete, narrow bridge with one able to accommodate a five-lane cross-section. The present bridge is too narrow, even for a two-lane roadway. Replacement of Bridge Number 104 will reduce the potential for accidents caused by the bridge's narrow width, such as vehicles crossing the centerline into the opposing traffic lane or vehicles hitting the bridge railing. The realignment of the intersection of NC 226 with US 221 will improve safety at that intersection. Realigning the intersection will improve sight distance by eliminating the excessive skew of the existing intersection. Turning lanes will be provided, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions caused by turning vehicles slowing down or stopping in the travel lane. This portion of US 221-NC 226 in the vicinity of Bridge number 104 and the intersection of NC 226 has an accident rate much higher than that for other similar facilities, including adjoining sections of US 221- NC.226. The proposed improvements will help to reduce this high accident rate. V. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION Replacement with a Two-lane Structure Replacement of Bridge Number 104 with a modern two-lane structure is not considered prudent given the high traffic volumes and the fact the adjacent section of US 221-NC 226 is being widened to five lanes under project R-2020. The most logical point to transition back to two lanes would be north of the structure at the intersection of NC 226 with US 221. Postponement of Proposed Action Postponement of the proposed action is not recommended. Bridge Number 104 and the subject intersection are both substandard. The accident rate for the subject section of US 221-NC 226 is much higher than the state-wide average for rural US routes. "No-Build" Alternative The "no-build" alternative is not considered feasible given the high accident rate and the large traffic volume of the subject section of US 221-NC 226. The replacement of Bridge Number 104 and the realignment of the intersection of NC 226 with US 221 are necessary to reduce this high accident rate and increase the traffic capacity along the existing facility. VI. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Cultural Resources The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) was contacted regarding possible impacts on archaeological sites or historic structures in the project area. According to the SHPO, it is unlikely there are archaeological sites or historic structures irf the area (see Appendix). In order to insure compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, the area of potential effect (APE) was surveyed by NCDOT staff. The only property over fifty years old found in the APE was Bridge Number 104 itself, built in 1933. The bridge is one of 489 extant state-maintained pre-1940 reinforced concrete deck girder bridges, and as such does not possess the significance necessary for National Register listing. The SHPO was informed of these findings, and verbal concurrence was obtained from the SHPO. Since there are no properties either listed in or eligible for the National Register in the APE, no further compliance with Section 106 is required. No adverse impacts on section 4(f) resources are anticipated due to the subject project. Biological Impacts Two upland plant communities will be impacted by proposed construc- tion: disturbed grass-dominated and mesic upland hardwood communities. Dominant species of the disturbed grass-dominated community include broom straw (Andropogon sp.), sourwood (Oxydendron arboreum seedlings, blackberry, short-leaf pine Pinus echniata seedlings, strawberry 6 Fra aria sp.) and the hairy cap moss (Polytrichum sp.). Approximately 10.3 acres of the disturbed grass-dominated community will be impacted by the project. Mesic upland hardwood communities are located adjacent to streams. The predominant canopy species is tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipfera). Other canopy species include sycamore Platanus occidentalis), red maple Acer rubrum , southern red oak uercus rubra hybrid and short-leaf pine. Understory and shrub layers, dense in some locations, contain sourwood, silky dogwood Cornus amomum , flowering dogwood Cornus florida , and several other species. Rose Rosa sp.), honeysuckle Lonicera Japonica), and rumex Rumex sp.) are common ground cover plants. Approximately one acre of the mesic upland hardwood community will be impacted. Both terrestrial and aquatic animal communities will be impacted by the subject project. Mammals that are most likely to be impacted are opossum, short-tailed shrew, eastern mole, eastern cottontail, eastern chipmunk, gray squirrel, southern flying squirrel, white footed mouse, raccoon, striped skunk, bobcat and white tailed deer. Reptiles such as snapping turtle, snakes, lizards and amphibians will also be impacted. Bird species which may be impacted include robins, blue jays, pileated woodpeckers, warblers and thrushes. Wetlands Two types of wetland plant communities will be impacted by the proposed project: the forested and the non-forested wetland communities. Sycamore, river birch Betula ni ra and alder Alnus serrulata) are common canopy species in the forested wetland areas.- Less than 0.1 acre of forested wetland area will be impacted by construction. The non-forested wetland areas contain cattail T ha sp.), juncus Juncus sp.) and grasses. Less than 0.1 acre of non-forested wetland area will be impacted by construction. In summary, anticipated wetlands impacts are minor. Construction will impact less than 0.2 acres of wetlands based on determinations made using the 1987 "Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual". Minor wetland impacts and surface water takings are most likely to fall under the Minor Road Crossing Fill section of the Nationwide Permit Provisions of 33 CFR 330.5 (a) (23). Water Quality Two streams, Armstrong Creek and Hickory Bottom Branch, will be impacted by the proposed project. Armstrong Creek is classified as WS-III Tr by the Division of Environmental Management of the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, while Hickory Bottom Branch is classified as WS III. WS III indicates a water supply segment with no categorical restrictions on watershed development or 7 discharges; suitable for all Class C uses. Trout waters indicated by "Tr" are suitable for trout propagation and maintenance of stocked trout. Specific buffer zone requirements exist for development in "Tr" designated waters. These requirements are stated in the Sedimentation Control Guidelines (T15A.04B.0025). No High Quality Waters, Outstanding Resource Waters or Waters classified as WS I or WS II will be impacted by the proposed project. Armstrong Creek and Hickory Bottom Branch are not Designated Public Mountain Trout Waters, nor are they designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. McDowell County is designated a "Trout County" by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Any work performed near streams in a Trout County requires the concurrence of the Wildlife Resources Commission. This concurrence will be obtained during the permitting process. Approximately 100 to 150 feet of channel change is proposed for Hickory Bottom Branch. The channel change is proposed at the northern end of the project, where Hickory Bottom Branch closely parallels US 221. It will be necessary for NCDOT to consult with the appropriate natural resource agencies in accordance with the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 USC 661-667d). Construction will adhere to strict erosion controls to prevent the siltation of Armstrong Creek and Hickory Bottom Branch. Approximately 1 mile downstream of the project on Armstrong Creek is a stream intake for the American Thread Company. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) dischargers are not located in the study area or immediately upstream of the proposed project. Threatened/Endangered Species The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) were consulted to determine if any protected species are located in the study area. Names of federally-protected species were obtained from an updated list, dated March 16, 1992, from the USFWS. Two federally-protected species are listed by the USFWS in McDowell County. The carolina northern flying squirrel Glaucom s Sabrinus coloratus) is listed as endangered and Mountain golden heather (Hudsonia Fontana is listed as threatened. The carolina northern flying squirrel is found at high elevations in the transition zone between coniferous and northern hardwood forests. The project area is not located at a high elevation nor does it support suitable habitat for the carolina northern flying squirrel; therefore, no impacts to this endangered species are likely to occur. Mountain golden heather is found on shrub balds. The study area does not contain suitable habitat for this plant; therefore,.no impacts to this threatened species are anticipated to occur. 8 Two state-protected species are listed by the NCNHP in McDowell County. Oconee-bells Shortia galacifolia) is listed as endangered and Gray's lily Lillium ra i is listed as threatened. No suitable habitat for either of these species is located in the project area and no impacts to these species are likely to occur. Relocation Of Residences And Businesses The proposed improvements will result in the relocation of one residence. This residence is a frame dwelling located adjacent to the Woodlawn Lumber Company, south of Armstrong Creek (See Figure 8). The Division of Highways offers a Relocation Assistance Program to help minimize the effects of displacement on families and businesses. The Relocation Program will be conducted in accordance with the North Carolina Relocation Assistance Act (GS-133-17). The program is designed to provide assistance to displaced persons in occupying a new place to live or in which to do business. At least one relocation officer is assigned to each highway project for this purpose. The relocation officer will, at the time right of way is authorized, determine the needs of displaced families, individuals, business concerns, non-profit organizations, and farm operations for relocation assistance advisory services, moving cost compensation, replacement housing payments, mortgage differential. and incidental cost payments. This assistance will be provided without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin. The relocation officer will contact the relocatee within ample time prior to displacement to allow negotiations for and possession of replacement housing which meets decent, safe and sanitary standards and is adequate to accommodate the relocatee. Relocation of displaced persons will be made in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial facilities. Rent and sale prices of replacement housing offered will be within the financial means of the families and individuals displaced. Replacement properties will be made available to the displaced families and individuals in the same general area from which they are being displaced and reasonably accessible to their places of employment. The relocation officer will also assist owners of displaced businesses, non-profit organizations and farm operations in locating and moving to replacement property. All tenant and owner-occupant displacees will receive an explanation regarding all options available to them, such as (1) purchase of replacement housing, (2) rental of replacement housing, either private or public, or (3) relocating existing owner-occupant housing. The relocation officer will also supply information concerning other State or Federal F programs offering assistance to displaced persons and will provide other advisory services as needed in order to minimize hardships to displaced persons in adjusting to a new location. Last resort housing will be provided, if necessary, in accordance with North Carolina law. The Moving and Replacement Housing Payments Program is designed to (a) compensate the relocatee for the costs of moving from homes, businesses and farm operations acquired for a highway project; (b) provide incidental purchase payments for replacement dwellings such as attorney's 9 fees, prepayment penalty, appraisals, and other closing costs; and (c) make payment for any increased interest expenses for replacement dwellings. Reimbursement for replacement housing payments, increased interest payments, and incidental purchase expenses may not exceed $22,500 combined total, unless last resort housing becomes necessary. Tenants may receive a rental assistance payment not to exceed $5,250, unless last resort housing becomes necessary. Farmland The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all federal agencies and - their representatives to consider the impact of construction and land acquisition projects on prime and important farmland soils. These soils are defined by the US Soil Conservation Service (SCS). The SCS was contacted regarding Important Farmland in the project area (see Appendix). According to the SCS, the proposed widening, bridge replacement, and relocation of NC 226 will convert approximately 9.0 acres of soils which meet the criteria for prime farmland designation. The Form AD-1006, Farmland Conversion Impact Rating, was completed to determine the significance of the project's impact (see Figure 9). The relative value of the prime farmland soils to be converted is high, with a rating of 81.8 on a 100 point scale. However, the complete site assessment indicates that the proposed improvements will not threaten the viability of the entire farm or farming activities throughout McDowell County. Therefore, mitigation of the project's impact to prime farmland soils is not required. Flood Hazard Evaluation McDowell County is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program. A complete flood study has been completed for Armstrong Creek and the limits of the 100 year flood have been delineated (see Figure 7). The proposed project will not have any significant adverse effect on the floodplain. Armstrong Creek has an average daily flow of 63.0 cubic feet per second (cfs). Existing Bridge Number 104 over Armstrong Creek is 95 feet long. The proposed replacement structure will be 147 feet long. • The terrain in the vicinity of the project is rolling with natural draws and streams located such that the proposed project can be drained without difficulty. Ground water and existing drainage patterns along the proposed roadway will not be significantly affected by project construction. Siltation of adjacent areas and streams due to project construction will be minimized by the use of standard erosion control measures and devices. 10 Air Quality And Traffic Noise The project is located in the Eastern Mountain Air Quality Control Region. The ambient air quality for McDowell County has been determined to be in compliance with the National Air Quality Standards. Since this project is located in an area where the State Implementation Plan (SIP) does not contain any transportation control measures, the conformity procedures of 23 CFR 770 do not apply to this project. If vegetation is disposed of by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. The subject project will not substantially increase traffic volumes along US 221-NC 226. Therefore, the impact of the project on noise levels will be insignificant. Noise levels may increase during construction, but the increase will be temporary. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements of 23 CFR 772 (highway traffic noise) and 23 CFR 770 (air quality) and no additional reports are required. Underground Storage Tanks Two sites with potential underground storage tank involvement have been identified in the area of the subject project. Woodlawn Lumber Company, located at the southern end of the subject project, has two 10,000 gallon underground tanks containing diesel fuel. These tanks are registered with OEM/GW, ID number 0-003114. The tanks appear to be well outside the right of way limits. Tony's Texaco, located at the existing intersection of NC 226 with US 221, has two 10,000 and one 4,000 gallon gasoline tanks. A 1,000 gallon diesel fuel tank is located on the property as well. These tanks are constructed of steel and all but one were installed in 1972. They are registered with DEM/GW, ID number 0-014301. Depending on final design,' this existing facility may be impacted by the project. If underground storage tanks are impacted by the project, NCDOT will determine the condition of the underground storage tanks and the adjacent soil prior to right of way acquisition. ~ VI. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION The following federal, state, and local agencies were asked to offer suggestions and provide environmental comments as part of the environ- mental study. An asterisk indicates agencies from which written comments applicable to the replacement of Bridge Number 104 and the realignment of the NC 226 intersection were received (Written comments are included in the Appendix). 11 Appalachian Regional Commission *Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Department of Agriculture (Forest Service) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services U.S. Department of the Interior Environmental Protection Agency *U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Asheville U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Raleigh U.S. Geological Survey *U.S. Soil Conservation Service *Tennessee Valley Authority *State Clearinghouse *N.C. Dept. of Cultural Resources N.C. Dept. of Human Resources N.C. Dept. of Public Instruction N.C. Dept. of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Isothermal Planning and Economic Development Commission McDowell County *City of Marion VII. PERMITS AND APPROVALS Estimated wetland impacts are less than one acre. The subject project is a federally-funded categorical exclusion. The nationwide permit provisions of 33 CFR 330.5 (a) 23 are likely to be applicable. Because McDowell County is a designated "trout" county, a letter of approval from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission will be required before a Department of the Army permit can be issued. State permits are administered through the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. A Section 401 Water Quality Certification will be required for any activity which may result in a discharge into waters and for which a federal permit is required. JAM/plr 10 N NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONRIENTAL BRANCH 221 - NC 226 IMPROVEMENTS MCDOWELL COUNTY T. I. P. PROJECT B-1277 VICINITY MAP FIGURE 1 1 I Yl 4 • 40, pr r 's >4 Y m h } ? r' i r ar4 .' .II L v 0 N W W U O Z O H U) Q> wz X00 W co U N J J Lu C.) ?G Z r O N0 m V Z O 0 r O Z W U _G m m m w m a LL ESTIMATED 1993/2013 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC US 221-NC 226 FROM SR 1556 TO NC 226 McDOWELL COUNTY 65 US 221 TTST-5% 119 -DUAL-4% DHV-10% 62 8 2 6 NC 226 111 13.) k.:-3- . 3 12 SR 1558 52 2 TTST-3% 93 4 DUAL-4% DHV-10% BRIDGE NO. 104 109 200 5 21 9 39 SR 1556 120 16 TTST-1 % 221 30 DUAL-3% DHV-10% US 221-NC 226 1993 2013 ADT IN HUNDREDS FIGURE 4 ACCIDENT RATE SUMMARY US 221-NC 226, MCDOWELL CO. ACCIDENTS PER MILLION VEHICLE MILES 6 0 Total Fatal Nonfatal Night Wet Noar NO 228 Intor. ® SR 1434 to NC 228 NC Avq. - US Routoo FIGURE 5 ACCIDENT TYPE SUMMARY US 221-NC 226, McDOWELL CO. Percent Acoidonto 60 40 30 ____._._.._......_.-..............__....... 20 _?_--- 5 10 -- 0 Ran Off Rd Flxod ObJoot Roar. End Lt. Turn Anglo Othor Near NC 226 Inter. FIGURE 6 i M /?.r / •a ?, .C 04 A lp- LLJ n . \: ?J ( Y y... ro c O ?! N IL v 1. 383 to co CO O Q r .r zy - LLI O Y s; a' N W J W J _ ?aF r t1 rv ?bj , Q P Ljj O d1 y(N v c f Y 9 ,t 4Fr x 8 0 m (? art '. Y t s6'el,;3 Ito O r • / ? Si '? t ? ,, , t? !r'a r ??+f ? J `,:? t ?,??C17t??J?Y ,t'i? 1?ri, cr Wx.. o ? ? Y ?d'??d V t t t r "j > t t t i cr- U 'rte wA 4 err.y27t??Yfl?t; ^ ,\??? l1 `4 , F tti r ^Yl r? k 1?: ?, GJ-71 3 g?. dY uitT42 ,-1 41 t{ ?j 4,J l4 } d }x YaC J ;, 1?T W T' , ;9 t ? S teat t?; o. O so N ,r ?S !} rtv rY°!Y 1 ]? F ' w,t r,7. u'?zcY,?:?ik'ITk J, y",t k. ?4 Y? z z a' i r 00 N N t sf n ?6 ti 11 j \ b( ?? It R E L- O C A T I ON Rap OR _F North Carolina Department of Transportation X E.I.S. _ CORRIDOR _ DESIGN RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROJECT: 8.1870702 COUNTY McDowell Alternate 1 of 1 Alternate I.D. NO.: TIP B-1277 F.A. PROJECT: N/A _ DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: Improvements to US 221-2261 McDowell Count ?....._._. __.. _.._. _ = EST I MATED D I SPLACEES INCOME LEVEL ?..Tvpe of Displacee Owners Tenants Total Minor- ities 0-15M 15-2511 25-35M 35-50M 50 U' Individuals - - - - - - - - i _....-._..___.___.____..___._? Families 1 - 1 - - - 1 - - Businesses -?? ??- - - VALLE OF DWELLING DSS DWELLINGS AVAILABLE Farms - - - - Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent Non-Profit - - - - 0-20M - $ 0-150 - 0-20M 5 $ 0-150 2 ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS 20-4011 1 150-250 - 20-4011 10 150-250 8 YES NO EXPLAIN ALL. "YES" ANSWERS 40-70M - 250-400 - ___....__..____....__._.___.• .___ _ ____ 40-70M 35 250-4D0 10 _.__._...._ _ _.... _.__.___ .._.._....._.__...._._._............... ._....... h - x __ _-_. 1. Will special relocation ._..?__ - 70-100 - 400-600 - 70-100 20 400-600 9 ............ .. ._..- x services be necessary 2. Will schools or churches be 100 UP Y _ 600 LIP 100 LP 12 - 6D0 UP _ 2 -_..__......_......_......... --- ------- .?. affected by displacement x 3. Will business services still TOTAL 1 - 82 31 be av a i l ab l e after p r o J e c t -__.___ __.. _.-_-_.• __.._..___.._.__ ----.._.....----__..._..._.__........_._.____.__ .______.____.._.._......._...._ ................ 4. Will any business be dis- REMARKS (Respond by Number) x placed. If so, indicate size type, estimated number of 3. Will not be disrupted due to the protect. employees, minorities, etc. x S. Will relocation cause a 6. Local realtor, newspaper. - housing shortage x 6. Source for available hous- 8. As necessary in accordance with State Law. - - ing (list) x _ 7. Will additional housing - programs be needed x 8. Should Last Resort Housing (-•------- ---- be considered ? x 9. Are there large, disabled, _- - elderly, etc. families A14SWER TI-ESE ALSO FOR' DES I GN 10. Will public housing be needed for project. 11. Is public housing avail- able 12. Is it felt there will be ad- equate DDS housing available --- during relocation period 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financial - --- means 14. Are suitable business sites - --- available (list source) 15. Number months estimated to comp to RELOCATION elocation Agent Date Form 15.4 Revised 5/50 // av FIGURE 8 Approved j Date Original & 1 COPY: State Relocation Agent 2 Copy: Area Relocation rile. U.S. Oeparcment of agncuiture FARMLAND CONVERSION IMPACT RATING (Oats at lino Evajuanon Requnt .. 3-?j ?G\? PART 1 1770 he corno/etea by ='Cerol Ag"fl) I Feaenj AgeneY Imrolvea ??].`?? Nam* Ct Project 3 Caunrv Ana star. m Proootea uric Use •?` ?? ?'C?C?•?C.? V I Oats Request Recrvaa 3v SG _ ?-5 - 4 ?-- PART II (fo be compered by SCS! 7 Yes No ImptsG IAvervq* Farts 5640 Does the site contain prime, unique, statewide or local important fatmiindt ,-n/ - - ()f no, Ise FPPA does nor a001Y - do not eOmplete addirronal parrs of this form). u a ?? L at r=.rtr+ ana As oehnw in raQ. _ Maio! Croo(s/ FarmaWe Una in Govt. lunsaaion r I PA C or 1>.• I Oats LinC cva+u:nan RsLUm*a dv SCS Name at Una Evaiuiuon System Urea tyan" at Loca Sim Aasssment SvsLSm F- f7 f] PART III (fo be completed by Federal Agenc/J .,I :? ..< Tn Rw ('AnVert°_d Oirectly a r-i -. Tn Re Converted Indirecdv r• T.,r,l ilrrrr In Sits PART IV lfo be completed by SCSI Land Evaluation Information Ajternatrv• S.ce ann4 Sate C Site SitO A I S't• d - T,..-,j t- Primes And Unique F3rmland a? Tnral Arses Statewide And Local Imoor'm Farmland r• Oar -.manes Llf Farmland in Caunrr Or Local Govt. Unit To Be Converted I 0. Pemantage Of FarmUna In Gcvc. .,unsaicnan nth Sam• ar Higher Reiarive Value PART V (fo be completed by SCS) Land Evaluation Criterion o..,..,:.,.vii,?„ofFarmlandToBeCanverted(Sct/sofOW ICOPoinr.! PART VI (To be completed by Federal AgencyJ ` cpiained in 7 CFR 658.5Ib) i i P,taximw Paints a an e? rsrc 51t* AaessntML Crltaria lThKS cr 1 Area In Nonurban Use 2. Perimeter In Nonurban Use 3 Percent Of Situ Being Farmed _ 4. Protection Provided By Stata And Loeaf Govemment O 5. Distance From Urban Builtuo Area 6. Oismnea To Urban Suooort Services 7. Size Of Present Farm Unit Comoared To Average & Creation Of Nonfarmable Farmland 4. Availability Of F3rm Suooort Servicxs M On-F3rrn Investments c) 11. Effects Of Conversion On Farm Suooort Services 12 Comoatibiii Wlith Existing Agricultural Us0 \ TOTAL SITE ASSESSMENT POINTS 16 PART V I I (fo be completed by Federal Agency) Relative Value Of Farmland (From Part V) I 1Q? Tow Sits Assessment (From Parr VI above Ora 1ota1 ( 160 sire J=eSSmenr) TOTAL POINTS (focal of above 2linesl Zfid Ct" Selected: Oats! Of Seiection n .D ? D ? -` R b\ \y of . 3 was A Local 5.t• Atsearnem Ussa( Yes Q No Q Re"on For Setecnon: FIGURE 9 APPENDIX DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 4 WILMINGTON DISTRICT; CORPS OF ENGINEERS P.O. BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402.1890 June 28, 1990 IN REPLY REFER TO Planning Division Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Research Branch Division of Highways North Carolina Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Ward: z ?0 ? ??'%? 'G• ? f990 '?'?F18RP?'.,.r We have reviewed your letter of May 114, 1990, requesting information for "US 221-NC 226 Between SR 114314 and NC 226 North of Marion, McDowell County, R-2020, State Project #6.879001T" and offer the following comments. This proposed project crosses Armstrong Creek where there is an identified flood plain. The effects of the proposed project on the flood plain and floodway should be evaluated and coordinated with the local government (Ref. Panel 140 of 200, McDowell County Flood Insurance Rate Map dated July 15, 1988). Department of the Army permit authorization, pursuant to Section 14014 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended, will be required for the discharge of excavated or fill material in waters of the United States or any adjacent and/or isolated wetlands in conjunction with this project, including disposal of construction debris. Department of the Army permit requirements will depend on the final project design, area of waters and/or wetlands filled, construction methods, etc. Under our mitigation policy, impacts to wetlands should first be avoided or minimized. We will then consider compensation or mitigation for unavoidable impacts. When final plans are completed, including the extent and location of any work within waters of the United States and wetlands, our Regulatory Branch would appreciate the opportunity to review these plans for a project-specific determination of Department of the Army permit requirements. Should you have any questions, please contact Mr. David Baker, Regulatory Branch, at (7014) 259-0856. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of further assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us. S n erely, Lawrence W. Saunders Chief, P1 ning Division ENT 0, , Gt TAKE United States Department of the Interior F rim o FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE AMM CA -'? ASHEVILLE FIELD OFFICE 100 OTIS STREET, ROOM 224 rte. L3 ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA 28801 93 June 5, 1990 L 4?? Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E. Manager, Planning and Research Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Ward: Subject: Proposed improvements to US221-NC 226 between SR 1434 and NC 226 north of Marion, McDowell County, North Carolina (State Project No. 6.879001T, TIP No. R-2020) This responds to your letter of May 14, 1990 (received May 16, 1990), requesting our comments on the subject proposal. These comments are provided in accordance with the provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 661-667e), and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is particularly concerned about the potential impacts the proposed action may have on endangered/threatened species and on stream and wetland ecosystems within the project impact area. Preference should be given to alternative alignments, stream crossing structures, and construction techniques that avoid and/or minimize encroachment and impacts to these resources. The enclosed page identifies federally protected endangered (E) and threatened (T). species that may occur in the area of influence of this proposed action. The legal responsibilities of a Federal agency or their designated non-Federal representative under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, as amended, were detailed in material sent to you previously. If you would like another copy of this material or if you have any questions, please contact Mr. John Fridell at 704/259-0321 (FTS 672-0321). The Service's review of any environmental document would be greatly facilitated if the document contained the following information: (1) A complete analysis and comparison of all available alternatives including the no action alternative. (2) A description of the fishery and wildlife resources within existing and required additional rights-of-way and any areas, such as borrow areas, which may be affected directly or indirectly by the proposed improvements. (3) Acreage and descriptions of branches, creeks, streams, rivers, or wetlands which will be filled as a consequence of proposed highway improvements. Wetlands affected by the proposed project should be mapped in accordance with the Federal Manual for (4) Linear feet of any water courses which will be relocated as a consequence of the proposed improvements. - (5) Acreage of upland habitats, by cover type, which will be eliminated as a consequence of proposed highway improvements. (6) Techniques which will'be employed for designing and constructing any relocated stream channels or for creating replacement wetlands. (7) Description of all expected secondary and cumulative environmental impacts associated with this proposed work. (8) Mitigation measures which will be employed to avoid, eliminate, reduce, or compensate for habitat value losses associated with any of the proposed improvements. We appreciate the opportunity to provide these comments and request that you continue to keep us apprised on the progress of this project. In any future correspondence concerning this project, please reference our log number 4-2-90-061. Sin erely, Brian P. Cole Field Supervisor Enclosure cc: Section Manager, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Archdale Building, 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27611 Mr. Charles Roe, Director, North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, NC 27611 Mr. Rob Sutter, North Carolina Department of Agriculture, Plant Conservation Program, P.O. Box 27647, Raleigh, NC 27611 Division Administrator, Federal Highway Administration, Box 26806, Raleigh, NC 27611 Field Supervisor, FWS, P.O. Box 33726, Raleigh, NC 27636-3726 United States f)? Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service 1 Mr. L. J. Ward, P.B. Manager of Planning and Research Branch N. C. Department of Transportation P. 0. Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 4405 Bland Road, Suite 205 Raleigh, NC 27609 Telephone: (919) 790-2905 June 6, 1990 C? 'n 'r r Re: US 221-NC 226 between SR 1434 and NC 226 North of Marion, County, R-2020, State Project No. 6.879001T Dear Mr. Ward: s This is in response to your request for Important Farmland Information for this project. There is a small area of important farmland at junction NC226 and US 2210 north end of the project area. The rest of the area does not have important farmland. This is because of the steep to very steep landscapes, cut and fill areas, and urban development along the project area. Sincerely, Bobbye J. Jones State Conservationist cc: Kayla B. Hudson U' o The Sod Conservation Service `J is an agency of the Department of Agriculture TENNESSEE VALLEY AUTHORITY ' ?n1? NORRIs, TENNESSEE 37a2a MAY 31 1990 • ?5 'rJUN 4199 Hr. L. J. Ward, P. E. ? Manager of Planning and Research "•- North Carolina Department of Transportation '?SEARC? `,'' P.O.-Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Hr. Ward: US 221-NC 226 BETWEEN SR 1434 and NC 226 NORTH OF MARION, HCDOWELL COUNTY, R-2020, STATE PROJECT #6.819001T This is response to your May 14 request for TVA's comments-on the states proposal to widen the subject highway. This project is located outside the Tennessee River drainage area and TVA's power service area. Therefore, we have no comments. Please let us know if we may be of further assistance. Sincerely, Truitt if. Fore, Manager Property Management and Administration Department Land Resources An Equal Opportunity Employer North Carolina Department of Administration James G. Martin, Govgmor James S. Lofton, Secretary July 5, 1990 TO: L.J. Ward, N.C Dept. of Transportation r. FROM: Chrys Baggett, State Clearinghouse RE: SCH #90-E-4220-0915; Scoping - US 221 Upgrade McDowell County Attached are additional comments which were submitted following our clearance letter on your: Notification to Clearinghouse of Intent to Apply for Assistance x Environmental Review Other If you have questions regarding these comments, please contact me at (919) 733-0499. CB/jt Attachment 116 West Jones Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003 • Telephone 919-733-7232 An Equal Opportunity ! Affirmative Action Employer is t:3 ,? JUI'1 1990 , c RECEIVED .?..,... Sc n`-,, DOA j. ? State of North Carolina kkk Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources . 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor Edythe M. McKinney William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Assistant Secretary for Environmental Protection MEMORANDUM TO: Chrys Baggett State Clearinghouse FROM: Melba McGee il?-"'' Project Review Coordinator RE: 90-0915 Scoping - US 221 Upgrade in McDowell County North of Marion DATE: June 25, 1990 The attached comments were submitted to this office after the state's review period. The Department of Transportation is requested to adequately address these comments. bb: MM attachment N) Rus 27 os-, K116. 0i North C ondin., 27f.11 7t?87 Idephone ')I') 7? 3-a')ti 1 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT June 19, 1990 MEMORANDUM 1980 .?= J1 Do ?'rFfCi. Cr? TO: Melba McGee FROM: Steve Tedder SUBJECT: Project No. 90-090• US 221 U Scoping Comments for Proposed Pgrade in McDowell County North of Marion The following DEM comments address potential impacts to water quality and wetlands. er Surface Water Quality The extreme northern end of the just north of Woodlawn, will cross Armstrong road improvements, classified WS-III Tr. The classification meansethaththe is is used as a water supply and is suitable for trout NCDOT should strive to stream project on Armstrong minimize the water quality impactsgoflthe Construction impacts can be reduced through strict adherence to required sediment control measures. This i important in light of the trout classifications especially ce Loer nonpoint source impacts associated with highway usencan berm minimized by avoiding use of curb and pollutants on the road surface and gutter, which traps waters, and instead giving considera pies to receiving filter strips along the road shoulders. tion toemaintaining vegetated g Wetlands The brief project suinmar whether any wetlands may be impacted. by NCDOT does not indicate certification will be required if a Sectiont404 permit required by the US Army Corps of Engineers. issuance of the certification will be assurances permit is followed the Clean Water Act's A that site to 404(b)(1) lithat and NCDOT that has mitigation, if necessary, is a guidelines and that should clearly delineate the boundarieseandTn this regard, the EA of the type(s) of wetlands, if an provide a de y, the impacted by this project. It shouldabe notedathat sediment may be control and wetland avoidance would not consitute Mitigation wetlands. ediment for We appreciate the opportunity to project during the plannin provide comments on this if you have any questions g phase. Please contact m,- • (733-5083) • Alan Clark. ?..5 At, State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources 512 North Salisbury Street 9 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Douglas G. Lewis Director MEMORANDUM Planning and Assessment TO: Chrys Baggett FROM: Melba McGee le RE: 90-0915 Improving U.S. 221/NC 226 McDowell County DATE: June 19, 1990 The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed scoping notice. Comments from our divisions have been attached and should be adequately addressed in the environmental document. bb: mm attachments PO 1,,\ 271,87. P lcigh North Carulina 271dl i,N' 'Iclcphonc')N-733 i.?-,, ,r?.. ST. Tr 4 ?4,My .n IVY gwr,w.Y State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Water Resources 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor John N. Morris William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Director June 7, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGeei? FROM: John Sutherland/' G SUBJECT: 90-0915, Improving U.S. 221/NC 226 in McDowell County We have the following comments on the above project: 1. At stream and wetland crossings, utilize bridges whenever possible to minimize habitat losses and floodplain encroachment. 2. Minimize the loss of timber and prime farmland. 3. Provide vegetation buffers when highway passes close to residential areas. 4. Mitigate the loss of wetlands and forests. 5. Minimize the use of curb and gutter; maximize the use of porous pavement and grass swales. 6. Involve local landowners in gathering data on impacts; be flexible on location of alternatives adjust them to meet local concerns. P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh. North Carolina 27611.7687 Telephone 919.733.4064 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH Project Number AND NATURAL RESOURCES 90 _ DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Coun ye Inter-Agency Project Review Response r ' I 31",,,4P- 1134 Project Name l t y N (? ?(p 01 .?26 Type of Project The following are our comments on the above referenced subject. The applicant should be advised that plans and specifications for all water system improvements must be approved by the Division of Environmental Health prior to the award of a contract or the - Initiation of construction (as required by 10 NCAC IOD .0900 et. seq.). For information, contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919) 733-2460. Several water lines possibly are located in the path of an adjacent to the proposed project. Due to a possible rupture during construction, the contractor should contact the appropriate water system officials to specify a work schedule. The proposed project will be constructed near water resources which are used for drinking. Precautions should be taken to prevent contamination of the watershed and stream by oil or other harmful substances. Additional information Is available by contacting the Public Water Supply Section at (919) 733-2321. Back flow preventors should be Installed on all incoming potable water IInes. Additional Information is available by contacting the Public Water Supply Section at (919) 733-2321. This project will be classified as a community public water supply and must comply with state and federal drinking water monitoring requirements. For more information the applicant should contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919) 733-2321. If this project is constructed as proposed, we will recommend closure of feet of adjacent waters to the harvest of shellfish. For information regarding the shellfish sanitation program, the applicant should contact the Shellfish Sanitation Branch (919) 726-6827. The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding their requirements for septic tank installations (as required under 10 NCAC l0A .1900 et. seq. and/or sanitary facilities requirements for this project if applicable.) For Information concerning septic tank and other on-site waste disposal methods, contact the On-site Sewage Branch at (919) 733-2895. V The applicant should be advised that prior to the removal or demolition of dilapidated structures, an extensive rodent control project may be necessary In order to prevent the migration of the rodents to adjacent areas. For Information concerning rodent control, contact the local health department or the Public Health Pest Management Section (919) 733-6407. The spoll disposal area(s) proposed for this project may produce a mosquito breeding problem. For )nformalton concerning appropriate mosquito control measures, the applicant should contact the Public Health Pest Management Section at (919) 733-6407. Reviewer Branc /Un t ?j Date V.t ( ,?,- NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE FM208 06/13/90 DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION t 116 WEST JONES STREET G'? v RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 27611 r INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COMMENT S_= GAL. MAILED TO FROM t}. S N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION MRS. CHRYS*.flAGGyT L.J. WARD DIRECTOR '" - PLANNING E RESEARCH BRANCH ?r`?`' N C STATE CL E AR?Q,U SE HIGHWAY BLDG./INTER-OFFICE PROJECT DESCRIPTION 0 SCOPING FOR COMMENTS ON IMPACT OF PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO US 221-NC 226 BETWEEN SR 1434 AND NC 226 NORTH OF MARION - (TIP R-2020) SA I NO 90E 422 00915 PROGRAM TITLE - S COPI NG THE ABOVE PROJECT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE NORTH CAROLINA INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS. AS A RESULT OF THE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED ( ) NO COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED ( X) COMMENTS ATTACHED SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE (919) 733-0499. C.C. REGION C I !? 1 J .:? '?`? ?? r? 1411". ?'?< .t'??'}?' ??'} { ?. ?:.?' t ® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee, Planning Dept. of Environment, FROM: W. Don Baker, Program Division of Boating a; and Assessment Health & Natural Resources Manag ad Inla isheries DATE: May 29, 1990 SUBJECT: US 221-NC 226 Between SR 1434 and NC 226 North of Marion, McDowell County. (90-0915) These comments are provided in response to your request of May 21, 1990, for information for input relating to fish and wildlife concerns for the proposed subject project. Wildlife Resources Commission review of the environmental document would be greatly facilitated if it contained: 1. A description of fishery and wildlife resources, including habitats, existing within, or impacted by the project. 2. The quantity of wetlands, streams, lakes, ponds and other fish or wildlife habitats to be graded, ,filled or otherwise disturbed. 3. Stream relocations, crossings or other proposed construction activity that may impact them. . 4. Acreage of upland habitat impacted by cover type. 5. Mitigation measures proposed to avoid, eliminate, reduce, or compensate for fish and wildlife habitat losses. Thank you for the opportunity for input during the pre-planning stage for this project. We will be happy to assist in any manner feasible during all phases of the project. WDB/lp M STA1Z O North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James G. Martin, Governor Patric Dorsey, Secretary November 8, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways Department of Transportation William S. Price, Jr. ??a Division of Archives and History William S. Price, Jr., Director SUBJECT: US 221-NC.226 between SR 1434 and NC 226 north of Marion, R-2020, 6.879001T, McDowell County, CH 90-E-4220-0915, GS 91-0035 We have reviewed your letter of October 12, 1990, and concur that there are no National Register-listed properties in the area of potential effect and further compliance with G.S. 121-12(a) is not necessary. These comments are made in accord with G.S. 121-12(a) and Executive Order XVI. If you have any questions regarding them, please contact Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley,.environmental review coordinator, at 733-4763. WSP:slw cc: B. Church 109 EastJones Street 0 Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 ST^rro C7"r-Z71z, C_,-)e6_ , bn North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James G. Martin, Governor Patric Dorsey, Secretary Division of Archives and History William S. Price, Jr., Director September 28, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways Department of Transportation , i , FROM: David Brook, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer SUBJECT: Improvements to US 221-NC 226, R-2020, McDowell County, CH 90-E-4220-0915, ER 91-7342 Thank you for your letter of September 11, 1990, transmitting the archaeological survey report by Thomas Padgett concerning the above project. During the course of the survey no archaeological sites were located within the project area. Mr. Padgett has recommended that no further archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with this project. We concur with this recommendation since this project will not involve significant archaeological resources. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comments, please contact Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. DB:slw cc: T. Padgett 109 EastJones Street o Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 s.w STATE,, North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James G. Martin, Governor Division of Archives and History Patric Dorsey, Secretary William S. Price, Jr., Director June 15, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Research Branch Division of Highways Department of Transportation FROM: David Brook, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer SUBJECT: US 221-NC 226 between SR 1434 and NC 226 north of Marion, R-2020, 6.879001T, McDowell County CH 90-E-4220-0915 We have received notification from the State Clearinghouse concerning the-above project. We have conducted a search of our files and are aware of no structures of historical or architectural importance located within the planning area. However, since a comprehensive historical architectural inventory of McDowell County has never been conducted, there may be structures of which we are unaware located within the planning area. We recommend that the Department of Transportation retain'a qualified architectural historian to define and survey the area of potential effect of this project. This consultant should coordinate the survey with Martha Fullington of our Western Office in Asheville. Ms. Fullington can be reached at 704/298-5024. Portions of the proposed project area are considered to have a high probability for the location of significant archaeological resources. This is particularly true for the northern and of the project. We recommend that a comprehensive archaeological survey be conducted prior to the start of construction activities. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106,.codified at 36 CFR Part 800. 109 Easdones Street * Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 Page Two Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. DB:slw cc: State Clearinghouse cd-wood Stone Barbara Church d CITY OF MARION P.O. Drawer 700 Marion, North Carolina 287S2 May 21, 1990 Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E. Manager of Planning & Research NC Department of Transportation PO Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 OFFICE OF THE MAYOR r ?. -? MAY 2 9 1990 DlVISIQN QF r? =?? NfGt I44'AYS P , AESci?C-?GN ,. SUBJECT: US 221-NC-226 Between SR 1434 and NC 226 North of Marion, McDowell County, R-2020, State Project #6.879001T Dear Mr. Ward: I am in receipt of your letter of May 14, 1990 concerning the above referenced project. I would like to take this means to let you know that I can see no problems with the project at this time. I heartily endorse the project and would like to see work begin as soon as possible. If I can be of any assistance to you, please do not hesitate to call. Sincerely, A. E erette Clark Mao r ' - AEC/lae