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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19980066 Ver 1_Complete File_19980127 US 401 From SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road) Louisburg Franklin County Federal Aid Project No. STP-401(8) State Project No. 8.1360701 TIP Project R-2814 E i CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION AND N.C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Approved: • 3 -IF-17 U. DATE La ?. H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager J Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT r 3M/17 DATE L. Graf, P.E. ?cholas vision Administrator, FHWA US 401 From SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road) Louisburg Franklin County Federal Aid Project No. STP-401(8) State Project No. 8.1360701 TIP Project R-2814 E CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION MARCH, 1997 Documentation Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By: I oil '(N CAR p4 ?.GSS/OA! ?r'?JJ ./•9 'vim -,,?? -J Edward B. McFalls, P.E. SEAL i Project Planning Engineer 022546 t y•?NGINE??'?Q?v?? ` 8/9 ? W' son Stroud Project Planning Unit Head Lubin V. Prevatt, P.E., Assistant Manager Planning and Environmental Branch TABLE OF CONTENTS I. II III. PAGE SPECIAL PROJECT COMMITMENTS 1 NEE D FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT 2 A. General Description of the Project 2 B. Project Status and Historical Resume 2 C. Purpose of the Proposed Project 2 D. Existing Conditions 3 1. Length of Roadway Section Studied 3 2. Route Classification 3 3. Existing Typical Section 3 4. Existing Right of Way 3 5. Access Control 3 6. Speed Limits 3 7. Bridges and Drainage Structures 3 8. Traffic Data 4 9. Horizontal and Vertical Curvature 4 10. Intersecting Roadways 4 11. Degree of Roadside Interference 5 12. Railroad Crossings 5 13. School Bus Information 5 14. Airports 5 15. Geodetic Markers 5 16. Sidewalks 6 E. Capacity Analysis 6 1. Mainline Analysis 6 2. Intersection Analyses 6 F. Accident Analysis 9 G. Project Terminii 10 H. Thoroughfare Plan 10 1. Benefits to the State, Region, and Community 10 J. Other Proposed Highway Improvements in the Area 10 PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS 11 A. General Description 11 TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) PAGE IV V B. Length of the Proposed Project C. Proposed Typical Section D. Design Speed 12 E. Right of Way 12 F. Access Control 12 G. Intersection Treatments 12 1. SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) 12 2. NC 56 / SR 1229 (South Main Street) 12 3. Edward Lane 13 4. NC 39 (Bunn Road) 13 5. Median Openings 13 H. Drainage Structures 13 I. Special Permits Required 13 J. Changes to the State Highway System 14 K. Sidewalks 14 L. Landscaping 14 M. Noise Barriers 14 N. Degree of Utility Conflicts 14 0. Cost Estimates 14 P. Anticipated Design Exceptions 15 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION 15 A. Recommended Improvements 15 B. Design Alternatives 15 1. Widening Alternatives 15 2. Alternative US 401 / NC 56 Intersection Design 16 C. Postponement of the Proposed Action 16 D. "Do Nothing" Alternative 16 E. Alternative Modes of Transportation 16 SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 16 A. Social Effects 16 1. Land Use 16 2. Relocatees 17 TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) PAGE 3. Environmental Justice 17 4. Public Facilities 17 5. Historic and Cultural Resources 18 a. Architectural/Historical Resources 18 b. Archaeological Resources 18 • 6. Section 4(f) Properties 19 B. Economic Effects 19 C. Environmental Effects 19 1. Biotic Resources 19 a. Terrestrial Communities 20 b. Aquatic Communities 22 C. Summary of Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Resources 23 2. Threatened and Endangered Species 24 a. Federally Protected Species 25 b. Federal Species of Concern and State Protected Species 27 3. Water Resources 28 a. Characteristics of Water Resources 28 b. Best Usage Classification 29 C. Water Quality 29 d. Summary of Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources 30 4. Jurisdictional Wetlands 31 5. Permits 32 6. Soils 33 7. Flood Hazard Evaluation 33 • 8. Stream Modification 34 9. Farmland 34 10. Traffic Noise 34 11. Air Quality Analysis 34 12. Hazardous Materials and Storage Tanks 35 13. Construction Impacts 35 TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) PAGE VI. Comments and Coordination 37 A. Comments Received from Federal, State, and Local Agencies 37 B. Citizens Informational Workshop 37 C. Public Hearing 38 VII. Conclusion 38 FIGURES Figure 1 Vicinity Map Figure 2 Aerial Mosaic Figure 3 Average Daily Traffic Volumes Figure 4 Peak Hour Traffic Volumes Figure 5 Existing Intersection Configuration (US 401 / NC 56 / SR 1229) Figure 6 Proposed Intersection Configuration (US 401 / NC 56 / SR 1229) Figure 7 Louisburg Thoroughfare Plan Figure 8 Proposed Typical Sections Figure 9 Location of Wetlands and Stream Resources Figure 10 Approximate Floodplain Limits TABLES Table I Levels of Service on US 401 6 Table 2 Average Vehicle Delays at the Intersection of 8 US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 (Existing Configuration) Table 3 Average Vehicle Delays at the Intersection of 8 US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 (Proposed Configuration) Table 4 Accident Rate Summary 9 Table 5 TIP Project R-2814 Information I 1 Table 6 Project Costs 14 Table 7 Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities 23 Table 8 Federally Protected Species for Franklin County 25 Table 9 Federal Species of Concern for Franklin County 27 Table 10 Stream Resource Information 28 Table 11 Soils Located in the Project Study Area 33 APPENDICES Appendix A Comments from Federal, State, and Local Agencies Appendix B Citizens Informational Workshop Information US 401 From SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road) Louisburg Franklin County Federal Aid Project No. STP-401(8) State Project No. 8.1360701 TIP Project R-2814 E 1. SPECIAL PROJECT COMMITMENTS A. The proposed project will impact four geodetic survey markers. The North Carolina Geodetic Survey will be contacted prior to project construction at Post Office Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27611. B. In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean WaterAct, a permit will be required from the United States Army Corps of Engineers for the proposed project. A Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 CFR 330.5(x) (23) will likely be applicable for all impacts to Waters of the United States found in the project study area. C. This project will require a 401 Water Quality Certification from the DWQ prior to the issuance of the Nationwide Permit. D. A copy of NCDOT's Pedestrian Policy Guidelines has been forwarded to the Town of Louisburg. If the Town of Louisburg requests sidewalks and submits the documentation outlined in the guidelines, NCDOT will consider their request. E. The Town of Louisburg has landscaped the existing intersection of US 401, NC 56 and SR 1229. As requested by the Town, NCDOT will retain as much of the existing landscaping as possible. In addition, prior to construction, NCDOT will give the Town an opportunity to relocate plantings that would otherwise be destroyed by the proposed project and coordinate any NCDOT landscaping plans with them. F. According to General Statute 136-27.1., the North Carolina Department of Transportation shall pay the nonbetterment cost for the relocation of the water and sewer lines that are located within existing NCDOT right of way, since they are owned by the Town of Louisburg, which has a population of less than 5500 persons. G. During design phase, efforts will be made to avoid the above ground and underground storage tanks located along the project. H. In order to minimize impacts to water resources in the entire impact area and because of the presence of the Tar spinymussel proposed critical habitat, NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters and High Quality Water (HQW) guidelines (Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds) will be strictly enforced during the entire life of the project. 1. Since approximately 100 m (328 feet) of stream relocation is necessary, NCDOT will coordinate with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission with reference to the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (stream relocation guidelines). II. NEED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT A. General Description of the Project The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to symmetrically widen US 401 to a multilane curb and gutter facility from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road). Between SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and a point approximately 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road), a four-lane divided roadway is proposed with a raised median varying in width from 1.2 m (4-feet) to 9 m (29.5 feet). From 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road), US 401 will be widened to a five-lane, undivided, curb and gutter facility with a center left turn lane. Also as a part of the project, the intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 will be reconfigured. NCDOT plans to create two "T" intersections at this location. In the vicinity of this intersection, both directions of US 401 will be routed to follow an alignment that will follow the present alignment of the northbound lane of US 401. NC 56 will be extended to intersect US 401, and SR 1229 (Main Street) will be realigned to intersect NC 56. The project is located within the town limits of Louisburg in Franklin County and is approximately 1.1 km (0.7 mile) in length. The project's location is shown on the vicinity map included as Figure 1. The proposed improvements to US 401 are described in more detail in subsequent sections of this report and are shown in Figure 2. B. Project Status and Historical Resume The proposed project is included in the 1997-2003 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The 1997-2003 TIP includes $ 100,000 for right of way acquisition, which is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 1998, and $ 1,500,000 for construction, which is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 1999. Thus, the TIP includes a total funding of $ 1,600,000 for the proposed project. Construction and right of way estimates were updated during the planning process. The current right of way cost estimate is $ 450,000. The current construction cost estimate is $ 2,300,000. The total estimated cost of the proposed project is $ 2,750,000, which is $ 1,150,000 more than the amount programmed in the TIP. C. Purpose of the Proposed Project The purpose of the proposed project is to provide safer and more efficient travel through the area by increasing the traffic carrying capacity of the subject section of US 401 and improving the existing channelized intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229. The construction of an additional through lane in each direction of travel and the proposed provisions for left turning cars will accommodate the anticipated increase in traffic volumes and will improve the level of service of the facility (see Section II.E.). The reconfigured intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 will provide motorists a more efficient and safer intersection. The new intersection will provide a higher level of 2 service, and, since its design is simpler than the existing design, accidents related to driver confusion will be reduced. D. Existing Conditions Length of Roadway Section Studied Planning and environmental studies were conducted on US 401 from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road), a length of 1.1 km (0.7 mile). 2. Route Classification US 401 is classified as a rural minor arterial in the statewide functional classification system. 3. Existing Typical Section US 401 is a two-lane roadway with a 6.7 in (22-foot) travelway. The existing roadway has 2.4 in (8-foot) shoulders; 0.9 in (3 feet) of each shoulder is paved. 4. Existing Right of Way The existing right of way width on this section of US 401 is 30.5 in (100 feet). 5. Access Control US 401 has no access control in the vicinity of the proposed project. 6. Speed Limits The speed limit on US 401 is 72 km/h (45 mph). 7. Bridges and Drainage Structures One drainage structure is located along this section of US 401. An intermittent stream, located approximately 9 in (30 feet) north of Edward Lane, is crossed by US 401. The drainage structure at this stream crossing is a 2.4 in X 1.8 m (8 ft. X 6 ft.) corrugated metal arch culvert. This arch culvert is hydraulically adequate for the anticipated discharge at this location and appears to be in good structural condition. Therefore, this culvert will be retained and extended. 8. Traffic Data In 1999, the anticipated construction year of the proposed project, the average daily traffic along the proposed project is anticipated to vary from 8,800 vehicles per day (on US 401 between SR 1700 and NC 56) to 15,320 vehicles per day (on US 401, just north of the US 401/NC 56/SR 1229 intersection). In 2019, the average daily traffic along this section of US 401 is anticipated to vary from 13,480 vehicles per day (on US 401 between SR 1700 and NC 56) to 23,280 vehicles per day (on US 401, just north of the US 40I NC 56/SR 1229 intersection). Projected average daily traffic volumes for the years 1999 and 2019 are shown in Figures 3A and 313, respectively. Truck percentages are also shown on this figure. Peak hour data for the years 1999 and 2019 are shown in Figures 4A and 413, respectively. 9. Horizontal and Vertical Curvature US 401 traverses rolling terrain. Sight distance is not limited by horizontal and vertical curves. 10. Intersecting Roadways Four intersections are located along the proposed project. Each of these intersections is discussed below. SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) The intersection of US 401 and SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) is the southern terminal of the proposed project. The intersection is not signalized. SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) is a two-lane roadway; no left turn lanes are currently provided on any of the intersection approaches. A stop sign is located on SR 1700 (Fox Park Road). NC 56 / SR 1229 (South Main Street) The intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 (South Main Street) is a complicated, unsignalized intersection. Traffic movements are channelized through the intersection and are controlled by several stop and yield signs. A detail of the intersection is included as Figure 5. Only one traffic movement, traffic moving north of US 401, can proceed through the intersection without stopping or turning. Edward Lane Edward Lane is a two-lane road that intersects US 401 near the northern terminal of the proposed project. The intersection is not signalized and 4 none of the intersection approaches have been widened to accommodate left turn lanes. A stop sign is located on Edward Lane. NC 39 (Bunn Road) The intersection of US 401 and NC 39 (Bunn Road), a four-leg, signalized intersection, is the northern terminal of the proposed project. The northbound, eastbound, and westbound approaches to this intersection each have one through-right lane and a left turn lane. The southbound approach to this intersection has one through lane, a left turn lane, and a right turn lane. 11. Degree of Roadside Interference Roadside interference is moderate along US 401 between SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and NC 39 (Bunn Road). Several businesses with one or more driveways are located along this section of roadway. 12. Railroad Crossings No railroad crossings are located along the proposed project. 13. School Bus Information Information about the proposed project was forwarded to Franklin County Schools. Mr. Russell E. Allen, the school superintendent, discussed the project with Mr. Rick Smith, the Director of Transportation. Neither Mr. Allen nor Mr. Smith feel that the proposed project will impact bus transportation in the area. Moreover, the proposed project will not affect any existing or proposed school sites. 14. Airports No airports are located in the immediate vicinity of the proposed project. Franklin County Airport is located approximately 5 km (3 miles) west of the proposed project and Ball Airport is located approximately 6 km (4 miles) north of the proposed project. The proposed project will not affect these airports. 15. Geodetic Markers The proposed project will impact four geodetic survey markers. The North Carolina Geodetic Survey will be contacted prior to project construction at the following address: North Carolina Geodetic Survey Post Office Box 27687 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 (919) 733-3836 16. Sidewalks No sidewalks are located along this section of US 401. E. Capacity Analysis The traffic carrying capacity of a roadway is described with a level of service rating, a qualitative measure of the roadway's operational conditions and how these conditions are perceived by motorists. Level of service is determined using conditions such as speed, travel time, freedom to maneuver, traffic interruptions, convenience, and safety. Six levels of service are defined and are assigned letter designations from A to F. Level of service A represents the best operating conditions, and level of service F represents the worst operating conditions. Using the traffic data described in Section II.D.8. and included in Figures 3 and 4, capacity analyses for the years 1999 and 2019 were performed for US 401 between SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and NC 39 (Bunn Road). These capacity analyses were done using both the existing and proposed lane configurations. 1. Mainline Analysis Mainline capacity analyses were performed for US 401. The results of these analyses are summarized in Table 1. TABLE 1. LEVELS OF SERVICE ON US 401 EXISTING CONDITIONS WITH PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS 1999 2019 1999 2019 E E A B These results illustrate that the proposed project will improve the level of service on this section of US 401. If the proposed improvements are not made, US 401 will operate at level of service E. With the proposed improvements, the facility will operate at level of service B in the design year. 2. Intersection Analyses Capacity analyses were performed for the two major intersections located along the project. The intersection of US 401 and NC 39 was analyzed in both the construction year and design year as a signalized intersection. The intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 was analyzed as a series of unsignalized 6 intersections in the construction year and as a signalized intersection in the design year. The results of these analyses are discussed below in the next two sections. a. Intersection of US 401 and NC 39 Capacity analyses were conducted for the intersection of US 401 and NC 39 with and without the proposed improvements in the construction year 1999 and the design year 2019. The existing intersection would provide a level of service of C in the construction year 1999. The existing intersection would provide a level of service of E in the design year 2019. With the proposed improvements, the intersection will function at level of service B in the construction year, 1999, and level of service D in 2019, the design year. b. Intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 The existing intersection consists of several unsignalized intersections controlled by yield and stop signs (see Figure 5). In order to compare this intersection with the proposed intersection configuration, average vehicle delays were calculated for motorists travelling through the intersection. Table 2 summarizes the number of stops and the delays experienced by each movement. The reported delays do not include the time it would take to proceed from one unsignalized intersection to the next or the delay experience at yield signs; the delay reported is just the delay experienced at stop signs within the intersection. The proposed configuration of the intersection of US 401, SR 1229, and NC 56 consists of a signalized intersection at the junction of US 401 and NC 56 and an unsignalized intersection at the junction of NC 56 and SR 1229 (as described in Section III.G.2. and shown in Figures 2 and 6). The delays and levels of service experienced by each movement are summarized in Table 3. Together, the two intersections are anticipated to operate at level of service B in the design year 2019. The two tables illustrate that, for the most part, in the design year, the average vehicular delays experienced for each traffic movement are significantly less with the proposed intersection configuration. 7 TABLE 2. AVERAGE VEHICLE DELAYS AT THE INTERSECTION OF US 401, NC 56, AND SR 1229 (EXISTING CONFIGURATION) MOVEMENT NO. OF TOTAL DELAY IN SECONDS / VEHICLE LEVEL OF SERVICE STOPS REQUIRED IN 1999 IN 2019 IN 1999 IN 2019 Traffic continuing north on US 401 0 0 0 A A Traffic continuing south on US 401 1 9 26 B D Traffic moving from eastbound 2 15 47 C F NC 56 to northbound US 401 Traffic moving from eastbound 1 7.5 30 B D NC 56 to southbound US 401 Traffic moving from eastbound 2 14.5 43 C E NC 56 to northbound SR 1229 Traffic moving from southbound 0 0 0 A A SR 1229 to westbound NC 56 Traffic moving from southbound 1 7.5 17 B C SR 1229 to northbound US 401 Traffic moving from southbound 0 0 0 A A SR 1229 to southbound US 401 Traffic moving from northbound 3 20 45 C E US 401 to westbound NC 56 Traffic moving from northbound 2 11 19 C C US 401 to northbound SR 1229 Traffic moving from southbound 1 9 26 B D US 401 to westbound NC 56 Traffic moving from southbound 0 0 0 A A US 401 to northbound SR 1229 TABLE 3. AVERAGE VEHICLE DELAYS AT THE INTERSECTION OF US 401, NC 56, AND SR 1229 (PROPOSED CONFIGURATION) MOVEMENT TOTAL DELAY IN SECONDS / LEVEL OF SERVICE VEHICLE IN 1999 IN 2019 IN 1999 IN 2019 Traffic continuing north on US 401 5.3 5.8 B B Traffic continuing south on US 401 5.3 5.8 B B Traffic moving from eastbound 9.6 10.4 B B NC 56 to northbound US 401 Traffic moving from eastbound 8.8 9.3 B B NC 56 to southbound US 401 Traffic moving from eastbound 3 4 A B NC 56 to northbound SR 1229 Traffic moving from southbound 3.5 4 A B SR 1229 to westbound NC 56 Traffic moving from southbound 11 26 B D SR 1229 to northbound US 401 Traffic moving from southbound 16.8 31.3 C D SR 1229 to southbound US 401 Traffic moving from northbound 5.5 7.5 B B US 401 to westbound NC 56 Traffic moving from northbound 5.5 7.5 B B US 401 to northbound SR 1229 Traffic moving from southbound 5.6 6.4 B B US 401 to westbound NC 56 Traffic moving from southbound 5.6 6.4 B B F. Accident Analysis An accident study for US 401 was conducted by the Accident Studies Section of the Traffic Engineering Branch of the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the time period from June 1, 1991 to May 31, 1994. A summary of the accident rates (in number of accidents per 100 million vehicle kilometers (ACC/100MVK)) is presented in Table 4. In Table 4, these accident rates are compared to the average statewide accident rates for two-lane, rural US routes. TABLE 4. ACCIDENT RATE SUMMARY Accident Type Rate Along US 401 ACC/100MVK * Average Statewide Rate for Rural, Two-Lane US Routes ACC/100MVK * Total 490 107.77 Fatal 0 1.55 Non-fatal Injury 225 51.09 Wet 66 30.45 Night 119 25.79 ACC/100MVK = Accidents per 100 million vehicle miles A total of thirty-seven accidents were reported on US 401 between SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and NC 39 (Bunn Road). None of these accidents were fatal. The total accident rate on this section of US 401 (490 ACC/ 100MVM) is more than four times the statewide average accident rate for rural, two-lane US routes. As shown in Table 4, the non-fatal injury, wet, and night accident rates are also significantly higher than their comparable average statewide rates. The majority of the accidents along this section of US 401 occurred at its intersections with NC 56 and NC 39. Sixteen accidents (43 percent of the total number of accidents) occurred at the intersection of US 401 and NC 56. Eighteen accidents (49 percent of the total number of accidents) occurred at the intersection of US 401 and NC 39. Accidents involving angle collisions accounted for 32.4 percent of the accidents on this section of US 401. Accidents involving left turning vehicles also accounted for 32.4 percent of the accidents. Rearend collisions involving slowing or stopped vehicles accounted for 16.2 percent of the accidents. The proposed improvements will enhance the safety of this section of US 401. The improvements proposed at the US 401 intersections with NC 56 and NC 39 (see Section III.G. of this report), as well as the construction of a continuous left turn lane, are anticipated to alleviate driver confusion and reduce accident rates. 9 G. Project Terminii The southern terminal of the proposed project is the intersection of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and US 401. At this terminal and south of it, US 401 is a two-lane roadway. South of this terminal, an adjacent project, TIP Project R-2814, is anticipated to widen US 401 to a four-lane divided facility with a 14 in (46-foot) median. The northern terminal of the proposed project is the intersection of US 401 and NC 39 (Bunn Road). Just north of this intersection, US 401 (South Bickett Boulevard) is a five-lane, undivided, curb and gutter facility. H. Thoroughfare Plan This segment of US 401 is shown as a major thoroughfare in the Louisburg Thoroughfare Plan adopted by the North Carolina Department of Transportation on September 9, 1988. This thoroughfare plan is currently being updated. US 401 is anticipated to remain classified as a major thoroughfare. A copy of the thoroughfare plan is included as Figure 7. Benefits to the State Region, and Community The proposed improvements to US 401 will benefit the region and local community by providing safer and more efficient travel. The increased capacity of US 401 will enhance the accessiblity of properties located along the proposed project. In addition, the improvements proposed as a part of this project, in conjunction with the improvements anticipated to be constructed under TIP Projects R-2814 and R-2425, will benefit the region by improving travel on US 401 between Raleigh and Louisburg. Other Proposed Highway Improvements in the Area TIP Project R-2814 calls for the widening of US 401 to multilanes from SR 2044 (Ligon Mill Road) in Wake County to SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) in Franklin County. Planning studies for this project are underway. Besides TIP Project R-2814 E, TIP Project R-2814 has four segments. The limits of and schedules for each of these segments are presented in Table 5. TIP Project R-2425 will widen US 401 from US 1 in Raleigh to SR 2044 (Ligon Mill Road) to a multilane facility. Right of way acquisition for this project is underway. Construction on this project is anticipated to begin in fiscal year 1997. 10 TABLE 5. TIP Project R-2814 Information Project Limits of the Segment Right of Way Construction Segment Acquisition Schedule Schedule R-2814 A SR 2044 (Wake Co.) to SR FY 2000 FY 2002 2226 Wake Co. R-2814 B SR 2226 (Wake Co.) to NC 96 FY 2003 Post Year* Wake Co. R-2814 C NC 96 (Wake Co.) to SR 1103 Post Year* Post Year* Franklin Co. R-2814 D SR 1103 (Franklin Co.) to SR Post Year* Post Year* 1700 Franklin Co. Post year projects are projects which are not currently funded within the years scheduled in the TIP. However, the TIP is updated each year, and, as funds become available, post year projects may be funded. III. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS A. General Description The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to symmetrically widen US 401 to a mulitlane curb and gutter facility from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road). Between SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and a point approximately 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road), a four-lane divided roadway is proposed with a raised median varying in width from 1.2 m (4 eet) to 9 m (29.5 feet). From 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road), US 401 will be widened to a five-lane, undivided, curb and gutter facility with a center left turn lane. Also as a part of the project, the intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 will be reconfigured. NCDOT plans to create two "T" intersections at this location (see Figure 6). In the vicinity of this intersection, both directions of US 401 will be routed to follow an alignment that will follow the present alignment of the northbound lane of US 401 at the existing intersection. NC 56 will be realigned to intersect US 401, and SR 1229 (Main Street) will be realigned to intersect NC 56. The recommended improvements are shown in Figure 2. B. Length of the Proposed Project US 401 will be widened from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road), a length of 1.1 km (0.7 mile). C. Proposed Typical Section Two typical sections will be used to widen this section of US 401. Between SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and a point approximately 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road), a four-lane divided roadway with a raised median varying in width from 1.2 in (4 feet) to 9 m (29.5 feet) will be constructed. The typical section will provide two 3.6 in (12-foot) through lanes in each direction and also allows for left turn lanes to be provided at median openings. Proposed locations of median openings along the project 11 are discussed in Section III.G. of this report. From approximately 880 in (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road), a five-lane undivided facility with a center left turn lane will be constructed. The two proposed typical sections are shown in Figure 8. D. Design Speed The proposed design speed for the project is 80 km/h (50 mph). E. Right of Way The proposed project will only require minor amounts of additional right of way. Additional right of way will be needed at US 401's intersections with SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and NC 39 (Bunn Road) in order to maintain sight distance. In addition, a 5 m (16.4-foot) wide strip of additional right of way will be needed along the west side of SR 1229 (Main Street) for a distance of approximately 130 in (426 feet) and along the east side of US 401 just north of SR 1700 for a distance of 70 m (230 feet). Construction easements with widths ranging up to 15 in (49.2 feet) will be needed along both sides of US 401 for the entire length of the proposed project. The approximate limits of the existing and proposed right of way for the project are shown on Figure 2. F. Access Control US 401 has no contol of access in the vicinity of the proposed project. No changes in access control are proposed as a part of this project. G. Intersection Treatments SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) In the vicinity of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road), US 401 will be widened to a four-lane divided faclity with a 9 in (29.5-foot) raised median. A median opening and a left turn lane will be provided on US 401 at this intersection. No improvements to SR 1700 are anticipated to be included as a part of the project. 2. NC 56 / SR 1229 (South Main Street) The intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 will be reconfigured. Two "T" intersections will be created at this location. Both directions of US 401 will be routed to follow an alignment that will follow the present alignment of the northbound lane of US 401 at the existing intersection. NC 56 will be realigned to intersect US 401, and SR 1229 (Main Street) will be realigned to intersect NC 56. Figure 6 illustrates the reconfiguration of this intersection. A traffic signal will be installed at the new intersection of US 401 and NC 56. 12 Edward Lane In the vicinity of Edward Lane, US 401 will be widened to a five-lane undivided facility with a center left turn lane. In addition, Edward Lane will be slightly realigned so that it will intersect US 401 approximately 12 m (39 feet) north of its existing intersection with the roadway. No other improvements to this intersection are currently proposed. 4. NC 39 (Bunn Road) NC 39 (Bunn Road) is the northern terminal of the proposed project. The northbound approach will accommodate two northbound through lanes and a left turn lane. A 1.2 m (4-foot) wide monolithic island will be constructed along the last 40 m (131 feet) of this approach to the intersection. In addition, the southbound approach to the intersection will be reconfigured to accommodate a through-right lane, a through lane, and a left turn lane. No other improvements to this intersection are anticipated. 5. Median Openings The North Carolina Department of Transportation currently plans to provide median openings at SR 1700 (Fox Park Road), NC 56, and the southernmost entrance to the National Guard Armory. From 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 to the northern project terminal, the proposed five-lane, undivided typical section will provide a continuous center left turn lane that will serve both directions of travel. H. Drainage Structures A 2.4 m X 1.8 m (8'X6') corrugated metal arch culvert is located approximately 9 m (10 feet) north of Edward Lane. The culvert is hydraulically adequate and will be extended to accommodate the widening project. No other drainage structures are located along the project. 1. Special Permits Required In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean WaterAct, a permit will be required from the United States Army Corps of Engineers for the proposed project. A Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 CFR 330.5(a) (23) will likely be applicable for all impacts to Waters of the United States found in the project study area. A 401 Water Quality Certification from the Division of Water Quality will be required prior to the issuance of the Nationwide Permit. 13 J. Changes to the State Highway System No changes to the state highway system are proposed as a part of this project. K. Sidewalks No sidewalks are proposed as a part of TIP Project R-2814 E. A copy of NCDOT's Pedestrian Policy Guidelines has been forwarded to the Town of Louisburg. If the Town of Louisburg requests sidewalks and submits the documentation outlined in the guidelines, NCDOT will consider the request. L. Landscaping The Town of Louisburg has landscaped the existing intersection of US 401, NC 56 and SR 1229. As requested by the Town, NCDOT will retain as much of the existing landscaping as possible. In addition, prior to construction, NCDOT will give the Town an opportunity to relocate plantings that would otherwise be destroyed by the proposed project and coordinate any NCDOT landscaping plans with them. M. Noise Barriers No noise barriers are proposed for this project. N. Degree of Utility Conflicts The proposed project is anticipated to have a medium impact on utilities in the project vicinity. Normal coordination with appropriate utility companies will be required. In addition, according to General Statute 136-27.1., the North Carolina Department of Transportation shall pay the nonbetterment cost for the relocation of the water and sewer lines that are located within the existing State highway right of way, since they are owned by the Town of Louisburg, which has a population of less than 5500 persons. 0. Cost Estimates Right of way and construction costs for the proposed project were updated during the planning process. The table below presents the construction and right of way costs for the proposed improvements. TABLE 6. PROJECT COSTS Project Costs CONSTRUCTION $ 2,300,000 RIGHT OF WAY $ 450,000 TOTAL COST $ 2,750,000 14 P. Anticipated Design Exceptions No design exceptions are anticipated as a part of the proposed project. If, during the design process, any design exceptions are determined to be necessary, they will be coordinated with the Federal Highway Administration. IV. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION A. Recommended Improvements The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to symmetrically widen US 401 to a mulitlane curb and gutter facility from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road). Between SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) and a point approximately 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road), a four-lane divided roadway is proposed with a raised median varying in width from 1.2 m (4 feet) to 9 m (29.5 feet). From 880 m (2890 feet) north of SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road), US 401 will be widened to a five-lane, undivided roadway with a center left turn lane. Also as a part of the project, the intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 will be reconfigured. NCDOT plans to create two "T" intersections at this location. In the vicinity of this intersection, both directions of US 401 will be routed to follow an alignment that will follow the present alignment of the northbound lane of US 401 at the existing intersection. NC 56 will be realigned to intersect US 401, and SR 1229 (Main Street) will be realigned to intersect NC 56. B. Design Alternatives 1. Wideninp, Alternatives The proposed improvements were selected after two widening alternatives were considered for the proposed project. Initially, widening the subject section of US 401 to a five-lane undivided facility was considered. This alternative would provide two through lanes in each direction and a center left turn lane serving both directions of traffic. This alternative would not change access to any properties along the proposed project. When representatives of NCDOT discussed the proposed project with representatives of the Town of Louisburg, the Town requested consideration of a raised median along this section of US 401. In a letter to NCDOT that is included as page A-4 in Appendix A, the Town cited controlling traffic movements along the facility in a safe manner as the primary purpose for the median. A divided typical section would provide two through lanes in each direction of travel and would include a raised median of varying width. A combination of the undivided and divided alternatives was selected in order to control traffic movements without adversely affecting access to several large businesses along the project. 15 Alternative US 401 / NC 56 Intersection Design A signalized, conventional four-legged intersection was considered as an alternative to the proposed intersection configuration. An adequate level of service could be obtained using this intersection geometry. The Traffic Engineering Branch of NCDOT was asked to review both configurations and favored the proposed improvements over the four-legged intersection. The proposed configuration favors the heavier north/south US 401 traffic volumes, provides continuity for motorists following the US 401 highway routing, minimizes signal complexity, and reduces vehicle queues. For these reasons, the improvements described in Section III.G. of this report are recommended. C. Postponement of the Proposed Action Postponement of the proposed project would result in the continuing deterioration of traffic conditions and safety along this section of US 401. As discussed in Section II.D. of this report, traffic volumes along this roadway are anticipated to continue to increase. Thus, postponing the project would only intensify traffic problems in the area. D. "Do Nothing" Alternative Although this alternative would avoid the limited adverse environmental impacts that are anticipated to result from the project, there would be no positive effect on the traffic capacity and safety of the highway. Therefore, this alternative is not recommended. E. Alternative Modes of Transportation No alternative modes of transportation are considered to be practical. The proposed project will widen an existing highway to increase its traffic carrying capacity. US 401 serves regional and local traffic. Trip origins and destinations are widespread throughout the general project area and region. Alternatives to the automobile would not provide cost-effective relief for this segment of US 401. V. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS A. Social Effects Land Use a. Existing Land Use Most of the project area is urbanized and is dominated by industrial and commercial land uses. No residential land uses are located in the project area. Industrial land uses are located on the west side of the project 16 corridor. The east side of the project corridor is primarily wooded with some commercial land uses. A National Guard Armory is also located on the west side of the project corridor. b. Existing Zug The project area is zoned for a mix of land uses. The area is zoned for highway commercial and heavy to light industrial land uses. Institutional uses are also possible. Proposed Land Use Local planning officials expect industrial and commercial development to continue to grow in the project area. The east side of the project corridor will likely experience higher amounts of growth since much of the land is still available for development. d. Project Compatibility with Local Plans The proposed project is located in the planning and zoning jurisdiction of the City of Louisburg. The City adopted the Louisburg Land Use Plan in 1979. The plan was updated in 1989 and is scheduled to be updated again in the 1996-1997 fiscal year. The proposed project has been coordinated with the Town of Louisburg and is compatible with their plans. 2. Relocatees No relocatees are anticipated as a result of the proposed project. 3. Environmental Justice Environmental Justice refers to an executive order that requires federal agencies to administer their programs and activities so that minority and low- income populations are not disproportionately affected. The project complies with the Executive Order. 4. Public Facilities No public parks or recreation areas are located in the immediate project vicinity. However, the National Guard Armory is located on the west side of the roadway. The proposed project is anticipated to require the acquisition of construction easements at the armory, but is not anticipated to adversely impact the facility. The proposed improvements were described to Major Dan Hassell of the North Carolina National Guard Engineering Office in Raleigh, North Carolina 17 to solicit his comments. His comments on the proposed project are attached as page A-24 in Appendix A. 5. Historic and Cultural Resources a. Architectural/Historical Resources The proposed project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, and Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966, as amended. On December 8, 1995 representatives of the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the State Historic Preservation Office met to discuss the proposed project. After a review of photographs taken along the project, representatives of NCDOT and SHPO agreed that no properties listed in or eligible to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places are located along the proposed project. Furthermore, both parties agreed that no properties over fifty years of age are located within the project's area of potential effect. Thus, no historic architectural resources are located within the project's area of potential effect. A concurrence form was completed for the proposed project on December 15, 1995 and is included in Appendix A as page A-1. b. Archaeological Resources An archaeological survey was conducted to determine whether or not any archaeological resources that could qualify for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by the proposed project. The archaeological survey methodology was designed to locate, identify, and delineate any cultural resources located along the project, especially those that possess the quality of significance as defined by the National Register of Historic Places Criteria (36 CFR 60.4 [a-d]). The scope of archival and archaeological investigations were consistent with the guidelines issued by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (Treatment of Archaeological Properties), the Department of Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Archaeology and Historic Preservation Projects (48 FR44739), and the Federal Highway Administration's Guidelines on the Consideration of Historic and Archaeological Resources in the Highway Development Process (HPP-04, January 25, 1989). No archaeological resources were identified within the project's area of potential effect. The project area was found to be disturbed by the placement of roadside drainage ditches, residential and commercial development, and the previous construction and maintenance of US 401. Selective shovel tests placed within and immediately adjacent to the area 18 of potential effect failed to uncover any cultural material or features. Therefore, no further archaeological investigations are necessary or warranted. A report detailing the survey methodology and findings was forwarded to the State Historic Preservation Office. The State Historic Preservation Office concurred with the report's findings on August 20, 1996. A copy of the concurrence letter is included as pages A-2 and A-3 of Appendix A. 6. Section 4(f) Properties Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 requires that impacts to public parks, public recreation areas, historic resources, and wildlife / waterfowl refuges be avoided or minimized wherever it is feasible and practicable to do so. No Section 4(f) properties are located along the proposed project. B. Economic Effects US 401 is a major thoroughfare and serves as the primary route of travel to and from the Town of Louisburg. In the vicinity of the proposed project, US 401 serves several commercial and industrial establishments. The proposed project will increase the traffic carrying capacity of the roadway and is not anticipated to adversely impact any businesses along the proposed project. In combination with the remainder of TIP Project R-2814 and Project R-2425, the proposed project will provide a multilane roadway between Raleigh and Louisburg. This four-lane facility will make Louisburg more accessible to motorists and may enhance the business community. C. Environmental Effects 1. Biotic Resources Biotic resources include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This section describes the ecosystems encountered in the study area, as well as the relationships between fauna and flora within these ecosystems. Composition and distribution of biotic communities throughout the project area are reflective of topography, hydrologic influences, and past and present land uses. Descriptions of terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications. Dominant flora and fauna likely to occur in each community are described and discussed below. Fauna observed during field investigations are denoted with an asterisk (*). Scientific nomenclature and common names, when applicable, are provided for each animal and plant species described. 19 a. Terrestrial Communities Four terrestrial communities were identified in the project study area: mesic mixed hardwood forest, pine forest, disturbed community, and alluvial floodplain. Many faunal species are highly adaptive and may populate all of the terrestrial communities discussed. Disturbed Community This community encompasses two types of habitats that have recently been or are currently impacted by human disturbance: roadside shoulder and maintained lawn. Roadside shoulders are land parcels in which vegetation is irregularly maintained and may receive periodic herbicide application. Maintained lawns receive general maintenance. A groomed herbaceous layer is present along with native and exotic shrubs and trees. Several plants are located in the herbaceous layer, including fescue (Festuca sp.), broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), wild onion (Allium canadense), buckhorn plantain (Plantago lanceolata), mouse-ear chickweed (Cerastium sp.), strawberry (Fragaria virginiana), blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium sp.), dock (Rumex sp.), and vetch (Vicia sp.). Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) is located throughout this habitat. Trees observed in the maintained lawn community include crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), red maple (Acer rubrum), dogwood (Cornusllorida), and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Raccoon (Procyon lotor) forage nocturnally in these habitat types and are often observed as roadkill on adjacent roadways. The least shrew (Cryptotis parva), eastern harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys humulis), and hispid cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus) frequent disturbed or open areas dominated by herbaceous vegetation which provide foraging and nesting habitat. Snakes such as the black racer (Coluber constrictor) and eastern garter (Thamnophis sirtalis) may venture into this community to feed on small mammals and insects. The mourning dove (Zenaida asiatica) and cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) inhabit suburban neighborhoods where they feed on seeds. Mockingbird* (Mimus polyglotios) and American robin* (Turdus migratorius) are commonly observed along roadsides Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest Mesic mixed hardwood forest habitat in the project study area is restricted to the east of US 401. Dominant hardwoods in the canopy layer include white oak (Quercus alba), southern red oak (Q. falcata), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and mockernut hickory (Carya 20 tomentosa). Red maple, loblolly pine, sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), black cherry (Prunus serotina), red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), American holly (Ilex opaca), and winged elm (Ulmus alata) are common throughout the subcanopy/sapling layer. Japanese honeysuckle, muscadine grape (Vitis rotundifolia), and greenbrier (Smilax sp.) are vines common in this habitat. Crane fly orchid (Tipularia discolor) and strawberry bush (Euonymus americanus) are located in the herbaceous layer. Mammalian species commonly occurring in these forested habitats may include southern short-tailed shrew (Blarina carolinensis), gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), and white-footed mouse (Perom sy cus leucopus). Shrews and smaller mice prefer forests with a thick layer of leaf litter. Raccoon* is commonly observed in wooded thickets adjacent to streams. Rufous-sided towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus) are commonly observed in wooded thickets, where a nest of bark strips, grasses, and dead leaves is built near or on the ground. The white-throated sparrow* (Zonotrichia albicollis) was observed in a wooded thicket adjacent to the unnamed tributary in the project area. The spring peeper (Hyla crucifer) inhabits woodlands where it may be observed under forest litter or brushy undergrowth. Pine Forest The pine forest has a canopy dominated by loblolly pine with a sparse understory/shrub layer comprised of black cherry, southern red oak, blackgum, sweet gum, willow oak (Quercus phellos), red cedar, American holly, downy arrowwood (Viburnum rafinesquianum), winged sumac (Rhus copallina), and privet (Ligustrum sinense). Greenbrier, Japanese honeysuckle, yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) are common vines. The sparse herb layer is dominated by panic grass (Panicum sp.), broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus), pipsissewa (Chimaphila maculata) and crane fly orchid. The barred owl (Strix varia), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), brown- headed nuthatch (Sitta pusilla), pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), pine siskin (Carduelis pinus), and pine warbler (Dendroica pinus) are all residents of pine forests throughout the south. A Carolina chickadee* (Parus carolinensis) was observed in this community. The ground skink (Scincella lateralis) and mole kingsnake (Lampropeltis calligaster) inhabit open pine forests. An eastern cottontail* (Sylvilagus j<loridanus) was observed in the pine forest. 21 Alluvial Forest This habitat, which is intermittently flooded, occurs as a narrow floodplain east of US 401 and adjacent to the unnamed tributary. The canopy and subcanopy, which is a mixture of bottomland and mesophytic species, is dominated by river birch (Betula nigra), tag alder (Alnus serrulata), Virginia bay (Magnolia virginiana), red maple, sweetgum and sycamore (Platanus occidentalis). Japanese honeysuckle and greenbrier are observed in the vine layer. The sparse to dense herbaceous layer is dominated by Japanese grass (Microstegium vimineum), violet (Viola sp.), wild onion, and jewelweed (Impatiens capensis). The deciduous forests that develop on the moist, fertile floodplains of streams act as natural corridors for vertebrate migration. Typical residents include golden mouse (Ochrotomys nuttali), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)*, and white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus). Birds commonly observed in this community include American robin* (Turdus migratorius), downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens)*, and rufous-sided towhee*. Spotted salamander (Ambystoma maculata), two-lined salamander (Eurycea bislineata), and marbled salamander (Ambystoma opacum) can often be observed under logs or stumps in moist habitats adjacent to streams. Ephemeral pools formed in floodplain depressions are commonly utilized by northern cricket frog (Acris crepitans) and spring peeper. b. Aquatic Communities One aquatic community type, piedmont intermittent stream, is located in the project study area. Physical characteristics of the water body and condition of the water influence floral and faunal composition of the aquatic communities. Terrestrial communities adjacent to a water resource also greatly affect aquatic communities. Intermittent streams often experience interruption of flow during dry spells. Periods of flow interruption are generally seasonal, with the summer months being drier than the winter. During dry spells, streams often retain water in shallow pools along their course. It is these pools, which are influenced in size and depth by climatological events, that provide habitat for a great diversity of aquatic and semiaquatic species. A higher species diversity can be found in streams which have a dense canopy of trees and shrubs. Amphibians commonly observed in and adjacent to intermittent streams include northern dusky salamander (Desmo ng athus fuscus) and 22 two-lined salamander. Southern leopard frogs (Rana sphenocephala), which forage on insects, may be found throughout this community. Fish diversity in intermittent streams is relatively depauperate. The slow flow rate and shallow depth of water in intermittent tributaries typically restricts the migration of fish. However, during severe storm events and throughout the spring and early summer, several species of fish, including bluegill Le omis macrochirus) and members of shiner otro is spp.) genera, may immigrate into the upper reaches of the intermittent stream located along the project. C. Summary of Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Resources Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic resources described. Any construction related activities in or near these resources have the potential to impact biological functions. This section quantifies and qualifies impacts to the natural resources in terms of the ecosystems affected. Temporary and permanent impacts are considered here as well. Calculated impacts to terrestrial communities reflect the relative abundance of each community. Project construction will result in the clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Estimated impacts are derived using the entire proposed right of way width. Table 7 summarizes potential impacts to these biotic communities. In addition to impacts shown in the table, approximately 2.1 ha (5.2 ac) of disturbed community will be impacted by the realignment of the intersection of US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 TABLE 7. ANTICIPATED IMPACTS TO BIOTIC COMMUNITIES Community Quantified Impacts for the Proposed Improvements hectares acres Disturbed Community 1.6(3.9) Mixed Hardwood Forest 0.3(0.7) Pine Forest 0.6 1.4 Alluvial Forest 0.2(0.3) TOTAL 2.7(6.3) Land in the project study area to the west of US 401 is primarily disturbed, except for a band of pine forest near the US 401 /NC 56/SR 1229 intersection. Land to the east of US 401 is a mixture of all four habitat types along with the vast majority of stream resources. The alluvial floodplain and stream resources are inherently important to the Tar spinymussel proposed critical habitat. The flora of 23 the floodplain moderates stream temperatures, anchors streambanks, and reduces sedimentation by trapping soil particles. The biotic communities found within the project area will be altered as a result of project construction. Terrestrial communities serve as nesting, foraging, and shelter habitat for fauna. However, the majority of the project study area is in a highly altered state, and plants and animals here are well adapted to disturbed conditions. Flora and fauna occurring in the disturbed community are common throughout North Carolina because of their ability to persist in disturbed habitats. Therefore, it is likely that the plants and animals inhabiting the disturbed community will be temporarily displaced during project construction. The proposed construction will result in habitat reduction for faunal organisms. Individual mortalities are likely to occur to terrestrial animals (moles, shrews, snakes, etc.) from construction machinery used during clearing activities. All cleared and grubbed areas along the roadways will be revegetated soon after project completion to reduce loss of wildlife habitat. Construction activities will invariably impact the water resources located at the project area as well as those downstream. Increased sedimentation and siltation is often directly attributable to construction activities. The suspended particles will clog the feeding mechanisms of benthic organisms, fish, and amphibians. These impacts eventually are magnified throughout the food chain and ultimately affect faunal organisms located in higher trophic levels. Strict erosion and sedimentation controls will be maintained during clearing activities. Construction activities often affect water level and flow due to interruption and/or additions to surface and groundwater flow. The change in water level may severely impact spawning activities of mobile and sessile organisms. Toxic runoff from construction runoff and highway spills may result in mortality to aquatic species inhabiting the water resources located in the project area. Due to the presence of the Tar spinymussel proposed critical habitat, strict adherence to Best Management Practices and High Quality Water guidelines will be enforced during the construction phase of this project. 2. Threatened and Endangered Species Some populations of fauna and flora have been in, or are in, the process of decline either due to natural forces or their inability to coexist with human activities. Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act [ESA] of 1973, as amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect a 24 species classified as federally-protected, be subject to review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Other species may receive additional protection under separate state laws. a. Federally Protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the ESA. As of August 23, 1996, the USFWS lists three federally-protected species for Franklin County (Table 8). TABLE 8. FEDERALLY-PROTECTED SPECIES FOR FRANKLIN COUNTY Common Name Scientific Name Status Dwarf wedge mussel Alasmidonta heterodon E* Tar s in mussel Elli do steinstansana E* Michaux's sumac Rhus michauxii E* "E" denotes Endangered (a species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range). Alasmidonta heterodon (dwarf wedge mussel): Endangered Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: 14 March 1990 Distribution in N.C.: Franklin, Granville, Halifax, Johnston, Nash, Vance, Wake, Warren, Wilson. The dwarf wedge mussel is a small mussel having a distinguishable shell noted by two lateral teeth on the right half and one on the left half. The periostracum (outer shell) is olive green to dark brown in color and the nacre (inner shell) is bluish to silvery white. Known populations of the dwarf wedge mussel in North Carolina are found in portions of the Neuse and Tar River systems. This mussel is sensitive to agricultural, domestic, and industrial pollutants and requires a stable silt free streambed with well oxygenated water to survive. The mussel inhabits streams down to 2 m in size. Substrate varies from sand to pea-sized gravel. Biological Conclusion: No Effect The water resources located in the project study area are intermittent streams less than 2 m (6.6 feet) wide; thus, suitable habitat for the dwarf wedge mussel does not exist at these sites. A review of the Natural Heritage Program rare species and unique habitat database, which was conducted before the site visit, did not reveal any populations of dwarf wedge mussel within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. This species is not expected to be impacted by project construction. 25 Elli do steinstansana (Tar spinymussel): Endangered Animal Family: Unionidae Date Listed: 29 July 1985 Distribution in N.C.: Edgecombe, Franklin, Halifax, Nash, Pitt, Vance, Warren. The Tar spinymussel is endemic to the Tar River drainage basin, from Falkland in Pitt County to Spring Hope in Nash County. Populations of the Tar River spinymussel can be found in streams of the Tar River Drainage Basin and of the Swift Creek Drainage Sub-Basin. This mussel requires a stream with fast flowing, well oxygenated, circumneutral pH water. The stream bottom must be composed of uncompacted gravel and coarse sand. The water needs to be relatively silt- free. This species is known to rely on a species of freshwater fish to act as an intermediate host for its larvae. The Tar spinymussel is a very small mussel and is named for its spines which project perpendicularly from the surface and curve slightly ventrally. As many as 12 spines can be found on the shell which is generally smooth in texture. The nacre is pinkish (anterior) and bluish- white (posterior). Biological Conclusion: Not Likely to Adversely Affect Suitable habitat for the Tar spinymussel is not present in the project study area. The unnamed tributaries are intermittent and do not represent the fast flowing, oxygenated flow necessary for this mussel. However, stream resources in the project study area are located in the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission proposed critical habitat of the Tar spinymussel. A review of the National Heritage Program database of rare species and unique habitats revealed no known populations of Tar spinymussel within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. Because of the presence of the Tar spinymussel proposed critical habitat, NCDOT's Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters and High Quality Water guidelines (Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds) will be strictly enforced during the entire life of the project. Given that there is a lack of suitable habitat for Tar spinymussel located in the project study area, the streams impacted by the proposed project are intermittent, and NCDOT's Best Managemen Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters and High Quality guidelines will be strictly enforced, project construction is not likely to adversely affect the Tar spinymussel. The United States Fish and Wildlife Service concurred with this determination in their March 5, 1997 letter that is included as page A-23 in Appendix A. Rhus michauxii (Michaux's sumac): Endangered Plant Family: Anacardiaceae Federally Listed: 28 September 1989 Flowers Present: June Distribution in N.C.: Davie, Durham, Franklin, Hoke, Lincoln, Moore, Orange, Richmond, Robeson, Scotland, Wake, Wilson. 26 Michaux's sumac is a densely pubescent rhizomatous shrub. The bases of the leaflets are rounded and their edges are simply or doubly serrate. The flowers of Michaux's sumac are greenish to white in color. Fruits, which develop from August to September on female plants, are a red densely short-pubescent drupe. This plant occurs in rocky or sandy open woods. Michaux's sumac is dependent on some sort of disturbance to maintain the openness of its habitat. It usually grows in association with basic soils and occurs on sand or sandy loams. Michaux's sumac grows only in open habitat where it can get full sunlight. Michaux's sumac does not compete well with other species, such as Japanese honeysuckle, with which it is often associated. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Habitat for Michaux's sumac does exist in the project study area, notably in ecotonal areas of open disturbed habitat and forest habitats. A plant-by-plant survey was conducted at the project study area by Chris A. Murray on 25 March 1996. A known population of Michaux's sumac outside of the project area was visited prior to the site visits. No populations of Michaux's sumac were identified in the project study area. A review of the NHP rare species and unique habitat database, which was conducted before the site visit, did not reveal any populations of Michaux's sumac within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. Impacts to this species are not expected from project construction. b. Federal Species of Concern and State Protected Species Federal Species of Concern (FSC) are those plant and animal species which may or may not be listed in the future. Four FSC are listed in Franklin County (Table 9). FSC species are not afforded federal protection under the Endangered Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. Organisms which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T), or Special Concern (SC) by the NHP list of Rare Plant and Animal species are afforded state protection under the State ESA and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979; however, the level of protection given to state listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities. TABLE 9. FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN FOR FRANKLIN COUNTY Common Name Scientific Name NC Status Habitat Yellow lance Elli do lanceolata T No Atlantic i toe Fusconaia masoni T No Yellow lam mussel Lam silis cariosa T No Wa leaf wild quinine Parthenium rad ordii W2 No Threatened (T) species are a native species of wild animal which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future 27 throughout all or a significant portion of its range, or one that is designated as a threatened species pursuant to the ESA. Species listed as Watch Category 2 (W2) includes species with questionable taxonomy, including taxa of dubious validity and taxa under study and potentially to be named. A review of the NHP database of rare species and unique habitats did not reveal the presence of these species or unique habitats in or near the project study area. Surveys for these species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were these species observed during the site visit. Populations of yellow lance and Atlantic pigtoe were identified where US 401 crosses the Tar River, approximately 1.1 km (0.7 mi) northeast of the project study area. 3. Water Resources This section contains information concerning water resources likely to be impacted by the project. Water resource information encompasses the resources' relationship to major water systems, its physical aspects, Best Usage Classification, and water quality of the resources. Probable impacts to these water bodies are also discussed, as are means to minimize impacts. Characteristics of Water Resources Water resources located within the project study area lie in the Tar- Pamlico River Drainage Basin. Six unnamed intermittent tributaries (UTs 1-6) to the Tar River are located in the project study area. There are no streams located in the US 401, NC 56, and SR 1229 intersection realignment portion of the project study area. UT 4 originates at a man-made lake located approximately 183 m (600 ft) south of the project study area. This tributary continues to the northeast approximately 2.1 km (1.3 mi) where it reaches its confluence with the Tar River. The remainder of the UTs originate at or near US 401 and flow to the south where they reach their confluence with UT 4. The approximate locations of UTs located in the project study area are depicted in Figure 9. Additional information concerning stream resources is located in Table 10. TABLE 10. STREAM RESOURCE INFORMATION UT # Width m/ft Depth m/ft Substrate* Seasonality 1 2.0(6.0) 0.2(0.5) CI,Sa Si Intermittent 2 0.3(l.0) <0.1 0.2 Gr,Sa Si Intermittent 3 0.6 2.0 0.1 0.3 Co,Gr,Sa Intermittent 4 1.0(3.5) 0.2(0.5) CI,Sa Si Intermittent 5 0.6(2.0) <0.1 2) 1 Co,Gr,Sa Intermittent 6 0.5 1.5 <0.1 (0.2) 1 Gr.Sa,Si Intermittent Substrate Classifications: Si=Silt, CI=Clay, Sa=Sand, Gr-Gravel, Co=Cobble. 28 b. Best Usage Classification Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the Division of Environmental Management (DEM). The best usage classification of unnamed tributaries is the same as the water body to which they are a tributary. According to the DEM, the best usage classification of the portion of the Tar River into which the unnamed tributaries drain (DEM Index No. 28-(24.7)) is WS-V NSW. Class WS-V waters are protected as water supplies which are generally upstream and draining to Class WS-IV waters. No categorical restrictions on watershed development or treated wastewater discharges are required; however, the Commission or its designee may apply appropriate management requirements as deemed necessary for the protection of downstream receiving waters. These waters are suitable for all Class C uses. Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. NSW (Nutrient Sensitive Waters) is a supplemental classification indicating waters which require limitations on nutrient inputs. No water resources classified as High Quality Waters (HQW's), Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW's) are located within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. C. Water Quality The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) is managed by the Division of Environmental Management and is part of an ongoing ambient water quality monitoring program which addresses long term trends in water quality. The program assesses water quality by sampling for selected benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites. Macroinvertebrates are sensitive to very subtle changes in water quality; thus, the species richness and overall biomass of these organisms are reflections of water quality. There are no monitoring sites located in the vicinity of the project study area. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. Any discharger is required to register for a permit. There are no permitted dischargers that will impact water bodies located in the project area. Non-point source runoff from impervious surfaces may be a source of water quality degradation in the tributaries located in the project vicinity. 29 d. Summary of Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources Potential impacts to water resources in the project study area are dependent upon final construction limits. Roadway construction in and adjacent to tributaries located in the project study area will result in water quality impacts. Clearing and grubbing activities will directly result in soil erosion leading to increased sedimentation and turbidity. These effects may extend downstream for considerable distance with decreasing intensity. UT 4 is located within a forested alluvial floodplain on the east side of US 401 (see Figure 9). Removal of streamside vegetation will have a negative effect on water quality. The vegetation typically shades the water's surface from sunlight, thus moderating water temperature. The removal of streamside canopy during construction will result in more extreme fluctuating water temperatures. During warmer portions of the year, the water temperature will increase, resulting in a decreases in dissolved oxygen because warmer water holds less oxygen. Streambank vegetation stabilizes streambanks and reduces sedimentation by trapping soil particles. Locally, the construction of this project will increase the amount of impervious area in the project study area and, ultimately, vehicular use of the roadway. This will directly lead to an increase in concentrations of toxic compounds (gas, oil, and highway spills) which may be carried into nearby water resources via precipitation, sheet flow, and subsurface drainage. Increased amounts of toxic materials can adversely alter the water quality of any water resource, thus impacting its biological and chemical functions. The installation and/or extension of culverts and pipes and other in-stream disturbance during project construction will result in resuspension of existing sediments and subsequent turbidity. The placement of culverts and pipes in streams typically results in alterations of the water level. Stream flow is typically reduced downstream of the project while temporary diversions of water flow will raise the water level upstream from the project. Additionally, pipes and culverts accelerate water flow during storm events, leading to streambank and substrate disturbance. Impacts to surface waters typically extend beyond the project study area. Indirect impacts to surfaces waters exist both upstream and downstream of the project study area. Indirect impacts may include changes in flooding regime, discharge, erosion, and sedimentation patterns. 30 Stream resources in the project study area are located in the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (WRC) proposed critical habitat (PCH) of the Tar spinymussel (Elliptio steinstansana). Because of the presence of this habitat and in order to minimize impacts to water resources, NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters and High Quality Water (HQW) guidelines (Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds) will be strictly enforced during the entire life of the project. Approximately 100 m (328 feet) of stream channel relocation along UT 4 is anticipated during project construction. Since stream relocation is necessary, NCDOT will coordinate with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission with reference to the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (stream relocation guidelines). The NCDOT, in cooperation with the North Carolina Division of Water Quality, has developed a sedimentation control program for highway projects which adopts formal Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the protection of surface waters. The following actions are methods to reduce sedimentation and water quality impacts: -reduction and elimination of direct and non-point discharge into the water bodies and minimization of activities conducted in streams. -installation of temporary silt fences, dikes, and earth berms to control runoff during construction. -placement of temporary ground cover or re-seeding of disturbed sites to reduce runoff and decrease sediment loadings. -reduction of clearing and grubbing along streams. -elimination of construction staging areas in floodplains or adjacent to streams which would reduce the potential of accidental discharge of toxins into water bodies. 4. Jurisdictional Wetlands Criteria to determine the presence of jurisdictional wetlands include evidence of hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and hydrology. A portion of the alluvial floodplain in the widening portion of the project study area is considered a jurisdictional wetland (see Figure 9). This wetland is located to the east of US 401 approximately 134 m (440 feet) south of Edward Lane. The forested wetland is dominated by mesophytic and bottomland species including river birch, red maple, tag alder, sycamore, and Virginia bay. The sandy clay loam soil 31 present in this wetland exhibited a matrix color of 10YR5/1 with a mottle color of 10YR6/6 at a depth of 30 cm (12 in). Evidence of wetland hydrology include saturation within 30 cm (12 in), drainage pattern within the wetland, and drift lines. Approximately 0.1 ha (0.3 ac) of this wetland will be impacted by the proposed project. The wetland is associated with an unnamed tributary (see UT 4 on Figure 9) that lies within the existing highway right of way. Approximately 100 in (328 feet) of this stream will be relocated as discussed in Section V.C.8. Widening to the west side of US 401 at this location was briefly considered to minimize impacts to the wetland. Widening to the west side would adversely affect several industries located along the west side of US 401; as a result, west side widening was eliminated from consideration. 5. Permits Impacts to surface waters and wetlands are anticipated from project construction. In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, a permit will be required from the United States Army Corps of Engineers for discharge of dredge or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 CFR 330.5(a) (23) will likely be applicable for all impacts to Waters of the United States found in the project study area. This permit authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed in whole, or part, by another Federal agency or department where: (1) that agency or department has determined that pursuant to the council on environmental quality regulation for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act; (2) that the activity, work, or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which neither individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and; (3) that the office of the Chief of Engineers has been furnished notice of the agency' or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concurs with that determination. This project will require a 401 Water Quality Certification from the DWQ prior to the issuance of the Nationwide Permit. Section 401 of the CWA requires that the state issue or deny water certification for any federally permitted or license activity that may result in a discharge to Waters of the United States. The i 32 issuance of a 401 permit from the DEM is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 permit. 6. Soils A published soil survey for Franklin County has not been completed; however, preliminary soil mapping for the project study area was obtained from the Natural Resource Conservation Service. Table 11 provides an inventory of specific soil types which occur in the project study area. Site index information, which is useful in assessing woodland productivity, is not currently available for Franklin County. TABLE 11. SOILS LOCATED IN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA M8 Unit Map Unit S mboI Percent Slope Hydric Class. Wedowee-urban land-Udorthents complex 134C 2-10 a* Wedowee sand loam 135C 2-6 a' Wake-Saw-Wedowee complex 62B 2-8 a* Helena sand loam 51B 2-6 a* Chewacla and Wehadkee soils, frequently flooded 86A 0-3 b* Notes: "a" denotes a map unit that is a non-hydric soil. "b" denotes a map unit that is a hydric soil. 7. Flood Hazard Evaluation Franklin County is not currently a participant in the National Flood Insurance Regular Program; however, the Town of Louisburg is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Regular Program. Neither the minor stream crossing (located approximately 150 m south of NC 39) nor the intermittent tributary to the Tar River that parallels US 401 on he east side (UT 4) is in a designated flood hazard zone or a detailed flood study. The approximate limits of the 100-year floodplain in the vicinity of the project are shown in Figure 10. The proposed project is above headwaters and is not anticipated to require an individual environmental permit. Since the proposed project is not in a water supply watershed or a high quality water zone, erosion and sedimentation would normally be controlled through the implementation of standard erosion and sedimentation control measures. However, because of the presence of proposed critical habitat for the Tar spinymussel in the project area, NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMPs) for the Protection of Surface Waters and High Quality Water (HQW) guidelines will be used. Existing drainage patterns will be maintained to the extent practicable, and groundwater resources are not anticipated to be affected by the project. 33 8. Stream Modification Approximately 100 m (328 feet) of an unnamed, intermittent tributary to the Tar River (designated as U.T. 4 on Figure 9) will need to be relocated as a part of the proposed project. The unnamed tributary is located south of Edward Lane approximately 15 m (50 feet) east of the existing US 401 centerline. The section of the stream to be relocated is above headwaters. 9. Farmland The Farmland Protection Policy Act of 1981 requires all federal agencies or their representatives to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime and important farmland soils. Land which has been previously developed or planned for development by the local governing body is exempt from the requirements of the Act. The entire project area is developed or designated for urban development; therefore, no further consideration of potential farmland impacts is required. 10. Traffic Noise A "worst-case" noise analysis determined that only four commercial receptors are expected to be impacted by highway traffic noise. The transmission loss characteristics of these structures, however, are believed to be sufficient to moderate effects of intrusive traffic noise. The maximum extent of the 72 and 67 dBA noise level contours are 23.2 m (76 feet) and 42.5 m (139 feet), respectively, from the center of the proposed roadway. This information should assist local authorities in excercising land use control over the remaining undeveloped lands adjacent to the roadway within their local jurisdiction. Noise levels could increase during construction, but this increase would be temporary. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements for highway traffic noise (23 CFR Part 772) and no additional reports are required. 11. Air Quality Analysis The proposed project is located in Franklin County, which has been determined to be in compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. 40 CFR, Part 51 is not applicable, because the proposed project is located in an attainment area. The proposed project is not anticipated to create any adverse effect on the air quality of this attainment area. The air quality programs MOBILESA and CAL3QHC revealed that the one-hour carbon monoxide concentrations for the years 2000 and 2020 (2.9 ppm and 3.0 ppm, respectively) are well below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. 34 If vegetation is disposed of by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina State Implementation Plan for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements for air quality (1990 CAAA and NEPA) and no additional reports are required. 12. Hazardous Materials and Storage Tanks A reconnaissance survey was conducted to locate and identify underground storage tanks and hazardous materials sites within the project corridor. Six underground storage tanks are registered with the Division of Environmental Management at the Food-A-Rama Convenience Store located in the northeast quadrant of the intersection of US 401 and SR 1700 (Fox Park Road). According to the Division of Environmental Management's database, three of the gasoline tanks were permanently closed in January, 1988. The remaining three tanks, each storing 30,240 liters of gasoline, are located on the south side of the convenience store building approximately 39.6 m (130 feet) from the centerline of existing US 401. Five above ground storage tanks (ASTs) are located south of the Louisburg Exxon which is located in the southeast quadrant of the intersection of US 401 and NC 39. The above ground storage tanks are used as primary storage by the Warren Oil Company. The above ground storage tanks are located approximately 15.8 m (52 feet) from the centerline of existing US 401. During the design phase of the proposed project, efforts will be made to avoid the above ground and underground storage tanks. No other environmental hazards were identified in the project area. 13. Construction Impacts In order to minimize potential adverse effects caused by construction, the following measures, along with those already mentioned, will be enforced during the construction of the proposed project: a. All possible measures will be taken to ensure that the public's health and safety will not be compromised during the movement of any materials to and from construction sites along the project and that any inconveniences imposed on the public will be kept to a minimum. b. Dust control will be exercised at all times to prevent endangering the safety and general welfare of the public and to prevent diminishing the value, utility, or appearance of any public or private property. C. The contractor shall be required to observe and comply with all laws, ordinances, regulations, orders, and decrees, including those of the 35 North Carolina State Board of Health, regarding the disposal of solid waste. All solid waste will be disposed of in accordance with the Standard Specifications of the Division of Highways. These specifications have been reviewed and approved by the Solid Waste Vector Control Section of the Division of Health Services, North Carolina Department of Human Resources. d. 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 or special provisions or unless disposal within the right of way is permitted by the Engineer. Disposal of waste and debris in active public waste or disposal areas will not be permitted without prior approval by the Engineer. e. The construction of the project is not expected to cause any serious disruptions in service to any of the utilities serving the area. Before construction is started, a preconstruction conference involving the contractor, pertinent local officials, and the Division of Highways will be held to discuss various construction procedures, including a discussion of precautionary steps to be taken during the time of construction that will minimize interruption of utility services. f. Prior to construction, a determination will be made regarding the need to relocate or adjust any existing utilities in the project area. A determination as to whether the North Carolina Department of Transportation or the utility owner will be responsible for this work will be made at that time. g. During construction of the proposed project, all materials resulting from clearing and grubbing, demolition, or other operations will be removed from the project, burned, or otherwise disposed of by the contractor. Any burning will be done in accordance with applicable local laws and ordinances and regulations of the North Carolina State Implementation Plan for Air Quality. Care will be taken to ensure burning will be done at the greatest distance practicable from dwellings and not when atmospheric conditions are such as to create a hazard to the public. Burning will be performed under constant surveillance. h. An erosion control schedule will be devised by the contractor before work is started. The schedule will show the time relationship between phases of the work which must be coordinated to reduce erosion and shall describe construction practices and temporary erosion control measures which will be used to minimize erosion. In conjunction with the erosion control schedule, the contractor will be required to follow those provisions of the plans and specifications which pertain to erosion and siltation. These contract provisions are in accordance with the strict erosion control measures as outlined in the Department of Transportation's FHPM 6-7-3-1. Temporary erosion control measures such as the use of berms, dikes, dams, silt basins, etc. will be used as needed. i. Prior to the approval of any borrow source developed for use on this project, the contractor shall obtain a certification from the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources certifying that the removal of material from the borrow source will have no effect on any known district, 36 site, building, structure, or object that is included or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. A copy of this certification shall be furnished to the Engineer prior to performing any work on the proposed borrow site. j. Traffic service in the immediate project area may be subjected to brief disruption during construction of the project. Every effort will be made to ensure that the transportation needs of the public will be met both during and after construction. VI. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION A. Comments Received from Federal, State, and Local Agencies The proposed project has been coordinated with appropriate federal, state, and local municipalities and agencies. Comments were requested from the municipalities and agencies listed below. Asterisks denote that written responses were received and are in Appendix A. Town of Louisburg* Franklin County Commissioners Kerr-Tar Regional Council of Governments N.C. National Guard Engineering Office* N.C. Department of Cultural Resources * N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs * North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Division of Environmental Management Division of Land Resources * N.C. Department of Administration -- State Clearinghouse N.C. Department of Public Instruction U.S. Army Corps of Engineers -- Raleigh U.S. Army Corps of Engineers -- Wilmington U.S. Environmental Protection Agency -- Atlanta U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service -- Raleigh U.S. Geological Survey -- Raleigh B. Citizens Informational Workshop A Citizens Informational Workshop was held on July 11, 1996 in the Employee Training Center at the Louisburg Police Department at 104 Wade Avenue in Louisburg. The purpose of the workshop was to present the proposed improvements to the community and solicit comments and input from local citizens. Approximately 20 citizens attended the workshop, which was advertised in the Raleigh News and Observer. The news release for the workshop is included in Appendix B as page B-1. Each attendee was given the opportunity to review aerial photographs showing the proposed improvements to US 401 and ask questions and make comments. In addition, handouts 37 were available to all meeting attendees. These handouts, which are included on pages B-2 through B-8 in Appendix B, included a description of the project, a cost estimate for the project, current project schedules, and a comment sheet which could be completed and returned to the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Comments received on the proposed improvements were generally favorable. Most citizens recognized the need for the widening project. However, several business owners along the proposed project were concerned about potential impacts to their properties. Businesses such as Boston Gear, Toney Lumber Company, and Toney Ace Hardware favor the widening of this section of US 401. Toney Lumber Company and Toney Ace Hardware both voiced their support for a five-lane undivided facility rather than a four-lane roadway with a raised median. Warren Oil Company expressed concern that any widening of the roadway might impact one or more of their above-ground storage tanks. The oil distributor was also concerned that trucks would not be able to enter and exit his property. The owners of Moss Foods expressed concern about access to their property after the construction of the project. Their business is located adjacent to the intersection of US 401, SR 1229, and NC 56, which will be realigned. Access will be maintained to their business. Moss Foods also expressed interest in buying any excess right of way from NCDOT to expand their parking facilities. Representatives of the Town of Louisburg expressed support for widening the subject section of US 401 to a four-lane roadway with a raised median, where feasible. An additional comment was received from the owner of a potentially historic property located south of the proposed project. TIP Project R-2814 will widen the roadway in the vicinity of her property; therefore, her comments will be considered during the planning of that project. C. Public Hearing A public hearing will be held following the completion of this report to provide more information on the proposed project to local citizens. VII. CONCLUSION The proposed widening of US 401 to a multilane facility and the reconfiguration of the intersection of US 401, SR 1229 (Main Street), and NC 56 will increase the traffic carrying capacity and improve safety along the facility. The proposed widening project is anticipated to require minor amounts of additional right of way and easements in some locations; however, no residences or businesses are anticipated to be relocated. Although some additional right of way will be required, the proposed project is not anticipated to result in any significant impacts to the human or natural environment and is considered to be a "categorical exclusion", as defined by the Federal Highway Administration's environmental guidelines (23 CFR 771.117). EBM/- 38 _ _ _ ? 39om lert r Centervill 'Wood y Ingl Wde 3 / 1 5 I 1 /r I F R N, \I(?L I N +Louisbur 56 / nklmton,/ 56 B I ` r % 5 a} 9 Me0leville Justice r Younasville 10 3910 ? t ? IA s ?1 - New ove Bun S0T FRANKLIN "--J COUNTY _ U!Y 5 6 98 ?? Pa rtes / Pilot 1 1 , i 1211 1230 / Ir r 1 \ . , ? 1 ' Y 0 1 00 56 39 i ? c'S I 1 1 1 122e - I 1264 1 1 '37 it 1229 / r 0 N I 4? 1226 i _ ?° ? 10 ? ? 06 i 1230 i r / 6 ' • ? ; ?.? ? /• ? END 56 ? , t PROJECT 1 / 401 1 I 56 1 tp 1 I (V I ---- % 1 ?' 1 I 1 I BEGIN - - - ' - 62 PROJECT ?3 ?, R-2814 E 1700 cn 160 39 tp ?9 401 1775 of • \ 4? NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF , \ 1772 TRANSPORTATION 1700 A DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS \ PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH US 401 SR 1700 TO NC 39 IN LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY T.I.P. PROJECT NO. R-2814 E f - - - FIG. 1 e o0l Li " F -„ - • a ? ? e ? 4a ? ?' ao3 Aax o o oGG ? a 0 ? U v W J r Q W 2 aa?c aF,?r O 2? ?oc? v ? U a nom. ? w0 w o• N _ ry o a ' x ?: rP -ALA- I I Q? ka r? v GG O 5 8 0 u 2y d • ? O_ ?. v 1J cf) v y by •" cd ?b ?5 off) 3?no •? H Q o4 0 U cn ?... a a?i >, S Q , c O 10 0 A l? . 1 C1 ON `" O O Cn b o? ? ° ?b? aw b.a d ?? v C C ti LI) t0 ? b ? ,?l1 ? •? L3, ? c? N O o U W H F. c`d oG 3 -- ? p•' Z `I r 1 r' I ? r 1 ? ' r l AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES FOR THE YEAR 1999 (REPORTED IN VEHICLES PER DAY) N 00 O 2 s?o0 O 9ho ti?1° O ? ??1?? /s0 ?, s o 0 0 ^bb 4 I ?r.9 b0 9r? s? J AQ 00 A G?'1o ?qo 90? ? ?1 ? tP ?O f s? {2 `''o /A . Ao Dpi Qo a° a° `" n?°) s?so o \O /o Oti, /O NOq? so ss ono so 9 ?o ?o TRUCK PERCENTAGES ON THIS SECTION OF US 401 TYPE PERCENTAGE DUALS 1.1 TtST 3.3 0 4A 404 o` ^O Noho -41 50 ?O ? ,60 ^b0 O ? O \ 11O P??OF pOR7f{ C'90 y NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION g = DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS d ,?gP? g PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH OF 7Rp/ AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES: 1999 US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 F. NO SCALE FIGURE 3A AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES FOR THE YEAR 2019 (REPORTED IN VEHICLES PER DAY) N 50 ''s?, 'L5 bo 0? ? ati a?,So ?o alb bo ? /asp ° TO s \ o S? 1 ??9 a0 91? s? J 5 6) p0 6) ?O 1 120 113/ 90 by-0 Ob\O \Ob\O O ? ???'6. App Gn?o) *10 /O \1p?? `00 O/ \O 60 s° 6p 9 TRUCK PERCENTAGES ON THIS SECTION OF US 401 TYPE PERCENTAGE DUALS 1.1 TTST 3.3 O? O? 4P O? 4 ^?O 541 / '/ ° \10 .TJ6p O ? ? \\b?0 \ - 60/O O/ O ?, O O sa OF NORTH e,9o y NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION = DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH OF TRA'QO? AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES: 2019 US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 F. NO SCALE FIGURE 313 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES FOR THE YEAR 2019 (REPORTED IN VEHICLES PER DAY) N O 2J- X55 b° O 'l ?o atibo o l?s b o ,.r ?, , o ??o ° ?? s? X19 a° r? ??b 9f? s? J 5 6) p0 6) Gh? 5?5° p° ?r .fJ, O ?? \ -19 TO 0 /O AJ. SO. O /O NZ10 aa1o b° s? r? ?o 21110 60 s q°O 06° ?O .9 q? ?O o°i O? Q¢ 004 4 o? ^O ?b?° ?4ti TRUCK PERCENTAGES ON THIS SECTION OF US 401 TYPE PERCENTAGE. DUALS 1.1 TTST 3.3 b? 1?0? NOR7H C,g90 y NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION O = DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS ^b PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH 9???OF TR??'QO? AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES : 2019 US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E NO SCALE FIGURE 3B AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES FOR THE YEAR 2019 (REPORTED IN VEHICLES PER DAY) N 0 ?s '15? o ? 'ro 'Lb ?p? Aso ?? ?? b b?,?o 0 b?bp p ? ? ??s so b o 60 s .? o ?` .' o ,? S? j?9 bo 9r? s? J 5 6) 90 6) G?'b 5^?p Ao ? IrO & ?p O 11 60 \4%,\ v boo 60'O ?O 5/J \ s6 O O /O \ 0 ?0 1^ 6O \ pb1 60 44,\ bo ? ` l? 2/9, O 0 s qp0 060 10 9 0 ?O TRUCK PERCENTAGES ON THIS SECTION OF US 401 TYPE PERCENTAGE DUALS 1.1 TTST 3.3 O? O? 44' 40+ 100 1 5¢ ?b?p ?j OF NORTH CggO y NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION z DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS 4 PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH P F?OF 7AAQO? bb 1 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES : 2019 US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E NO SCALE FIGURE 313 PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC VOLUMES FOR THE YEAR 1999 (REPORTED IN VEHICLES PER HOUR) N 1? l 1' S9, ? 9 ` 1 r?b s? I s? J vs X66 s? r? /O IP6 !? ? Abp 44, b 9 llp iG OP QP O+ 4 ^4O 1 1? X4 J lj 8 NOR 7I{ 0,90 y Gy NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION q = DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS g PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH '?F?OF 7pANgQO? PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC VOLUMES: 1999 US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E NO SCALE FIGURE 4A PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC VOLUMES FOR THE YEAR 2019 (REPORTED IN VEHICLES PER HOUR) N s ?a 1y 19 s? J a,?o 1p s# ?O f rj I'll !, 5A 00 /ebb / bA O ? b? 9 bb -,?G O1? 4 ) 0 ?4 4P 40+ Ol ^O ?5?' S¢1 a/O 8J ? ?? ,fig \ 66! F2 9 ?o ! ti?O? NOnrh c,9o NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION g = DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS b PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH ' FTgpN°jQ PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC VOLUMES: 2019 US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 F, NO SCALE FIGURE 413 THE EXISTING INTERSECTION CONFIGURATION OF THE INTERSECTION OF US 401, NC 56, AND SR 1229 (MAIN STREET) m SR 1229 U s 401 NC 56 O V1 NOTES: 1. Arrows indicate directions of travel. 2. A single line across a lane represents a yield sign. 3. A double line across a lane represents a stop sign. ? NORTH C ti? 490 O h NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION q d DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH P 7pP'Q OF EXISTING INTERSECTION CONFIGURATION (US 401, NC 56, SR 1229) US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 F NO SCALE FIGURE 5 x u ?D o z L m O o 3 w ao 5 W ? ? aHx ? c?zo 0° c `` `? 0.O i C 'J 0 W z ^ a u Q r? 'L . O G V OpwD O?c-:. G a z U o ? t ego LLB w w ? . . o- o`?NA_: N?blb Q ? p Ej bN w 4 4 O N W i o O a o d 1 Q. `1sz.?EPP. O i I I I I I I I m N N N iD Ln U Z v d N 0 C rn N u w z 1- w =' q m ? ? 1?"pz?? ? pr, O vwi ? u??, W W paw a p u¦ ¦ p z a?z x ' > z I ? 0 xl I w w C O 'ma ' ? ?` ? Z y ? a a ? O na, oo ?' oi<" 0 `00 ao W W n ul u? IK'; ya u WK ?N I?1I .1 ? 8- G ? o ? t U oJNI' No??, rA ? S o 00 10 i ` I 1 ?tM\ ?lI 1 i l S1. Ol/OlN tP? a? N 1 ? N r lam/ ? ? ? ? ? r z - "• l A i 4w I trwr?l` i / y r ? ? 1 IaSN 5 . ¦ .• 0 I \ 1 Il 1 ? _ o¦ ¦ ¦ 1 ?y ¦ O ? ¦ 00 ¦ / 1 '• W ¦ Como 41 Ll IMIT/ 1 .TJ ' y NC ?' s ?A 000 OOL I 00 f •? ? 00000 - -] __ ? ? ? L- - - S ?? f \` W I ,- a s a a H C7 w on PROPOSED TYPICAL SECTIONS IY?? -L-. US 401 TA 14 M I q_') M 14 m 74m 0.6m VAR 1 m to 9Am Obm NC f 3m 03m NC ONC PLANTER ? FOUR-LANE, DIVIDED TYPICAL SECTION WITH A RAISED MEDIAN OF VARIABLE WIDTH V, 2.3 m 2.4 m (8 fee:) ( 9.6 m 9.6 m 1 (8 !eet) (32 feet) I (32 feet) 0.15 m 0.15 m (0.5 feet) (0.5 feet) 9 m t i 9 m (30 feet) I (30 feet) VAR L__j FIVE-LANE, UNDIVIDED, CURB AND GUTTER TYPICAL SECTION ?F'Of NORTH O A y NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF •? TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL OF TAI•N? PROPOSED TYPICAL SECTIONS US 101 FRO' v( SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROAD LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COI.'NTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E v? our ur V r 1 1 END PROJECT • . • _ ?• • t • • `w• • O • ?. • \ L'T6 1 l UT 5 5 0ry /UT 3 UT 1 UT 2 X tij?Wetland 1 a Stream Relocation /?• \ (see Section V.C.8.) 401 • UT4 v • • ,J 39 BEGIN PROJECT NOTE: UT is an abbreviation for an unnamed tributary to the Tar River. A?OF NORTH O,qO a NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS o 4' PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH o? OF: Tgr.NSc LOCATION OF WETLANDS AND STREAM RESOURCES US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 19 (BUNN ROAD) LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E SCALE I inch= 1000 feet FIGURE 9 7rkj\?'1•} `., -? / '//' -? ? ,li I I "'_ - ?BMC 2861 ? ` ?? 0 200 `- _ Fairgrounds f % ?, d y• ?~. T ??, \ J I?' 1111, . ;?, ? ??;?, - ;?, I ?[ ,, ?I-J.? :•1' ?• , \ BM '?_ - ' / ii /; - X11 `? •• . „• ) -00 41 andmg' \\?_'?\\ - r \ III. ?•\ ° ? .4 \ I ewa I 6 BEGM PROJECT "' +• - Drive -in , • ry 11 1 r Arm • END PROJECT ?- 0P + u Ire . /B ater 1\1 / I, u•?? ' nk APPROXIMATE 100-YEAR FLOODPLAM LIMITS 17C W fer M a 160' 09 0 0F NORTH ` o, I y NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ° 75p TRANSPORTATION •` - i - '- i DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS _ PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH OF, To 315 APPROXIMATE FLOODPLAIN LIMITS - u US 401 - s FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 (BUNN ROADr ® 100-year Floodplain LOUISBURG - la?,? _ lay) 77- FNKLIN CO - ? \ I -- I TIP PROJECT R- NT E SCALE I inch = 2000 feet FIGURE 10 APPENDIX A COMMENTS RECEIVED FROM FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL AGENCIES TIP n R- 261q F_ Federal Aid n 8.)Hb3001 County Franklir\ CONCURRENCE FORM FOR PROPERTIES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES Brief Project Description W -1o-ne- ed! USHo1 from a. -iavte_ rC>aLLLua-L a 0-- at curb 3 34-o _r b e_1-.11 er, 52 i--06 a.rLd- QC_ 3 9 % On a 'D ee_ 199S- , representatives of the , ? North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHwA) ? North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) Other reviewed the subject project at A.scoping meeting Historic architectural resources photograph review session/consultation Other All parties present agreed there are no properties over fifty years old within the project's area of potential effect. there at,! no properties less than fifty years old which are considered to meet Criterion Consideration G within the project's area of potential effect. there are properties over fifty years old (list attached) within the project's area of potential effect, but based on the historical information availabie and the photographs of each property, properties identified as are considered not eligible for the National e?ister and no further evaiuation of them is necessary. there are no National Register-listed properties within the project's area of potential effect. Signed:' 1`-l ?_ S Dec- 1995 Represen ti e, : CDOT Date FHWA, Cdr the Division Administrator, or other Federal Agency Date m/8/9S Retprntative, HPO Date State Historic Preservation Officer ate If a survey report is prepared, a final copy of this form and the attached list will be included. A-1 4 North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary August 20, 1996 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: US 401 from SR 1700 to NC 39, Franklin County, Federal Aid Project STP-401(4), State Project 8.1403001, TIP R-2814E, 96-E-4220- 0446, ER 97-7263 Dear Mr. Graf: Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director C4 h 1 4? AUG 2 2 1996 DIVIS!C%, HIr..: of Z" Thank you for your letter of August 12, 1996, transmitting the archaeological survey report by John Mintz concerning the above project. For purposes of compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur that no properties were found which might be considered eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. The report in general meets our office's guidelines and those of the Secretary of the Interior. Specific concerns and/or corrections which need to be addressed in the preparation of a final report are attached for the author's use. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act 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 comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. Sincerely, t David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:slw cc: / F. Vick T. Padgett J. Mintz A-2 109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 1 ?Ga US 401 from SR 1700 to NC 39, Franklin County, Federal Aid Project STP-401(4), State Project 8.1403001, TIP R-2814E Generally a good report--reads well and indicates sound research methods. Two changes necessary: Page 11: "No cultural material was observed in the excavated soil matrix" is repeated. A map showing the location of shovel tests is needed. A-3 1"Aft oa 2"i"" Office of the - Mayor July 19, 1996 Mr. David Allsbrook Division Engineer N. C. Dept. of Transportation P. O. Box 11580 Durham, N. C. 27704 Dear Mr. Allsbrook: Ill. is III s Oi ft&%A e Thank you for involving the Town of Louisburg and affected citizens in the early planning stages for the multi-laning of Bickett Boulevard from N.C. Highway 39 to S.R. 1700 (Fox Park Road), State Project No. 8.1403001. We are pleased to have the widening of N.C. Highway 401 begin in Louisburg, and look forward to completion of the entire project linking our community to Raleigh and the Triangle. As you continue planning, please consider including in the current Bickett Boulevard project: 1. Grass Medians 2. Sidewalks Grass medians would allow for controlled vehicular access to both sides of the road in a much safer manner than the current center turning lane on the existing multi-laned portion of Bickett Boulevard. Sidewalks would assure safety for increasing pedestrian traffic. The Town of Louisburg is most appreciative of the coordinated approach DOT officials are taking to this project and proposed widening of U.S. 401 South in Louisburg's planning jurisdiction. Mr. Eddie McFalls and Mr. John Alford are making every effort to avoid future problems by analyzing every possible contingency now. We look forward to making State Project No. 8.1403001 highly successful. Sincerely, L cy T. llen Mayor LTA/cp A-4 KERR -TAR REGIONAL COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENT'S P.O. S« "I 27f WOOL' STREET NIND"SON' N.t. 2TSK MIoos (919) 4t1491 NW USbq, 06c8dw 0"WtW RECEIVED wMeaII UNIT! r'&Mfles f,?,iWM On1w111f canon v.?a wom mWICI'ALITIE! euM GMdmw Ftwalla a MMdNWw Kltril l Wivir"s MGM Mddt*n Nwlim we 11ae«+ stwo Shall Nap",e" F E 6 i 1" N. C. INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCE55 Review and Comment Form N.C. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE: This office received the attached information about a proposal which could affect your jurisdiction. If you need more inforr.Iation contact the applicant directly. If you wish to comment on this proposed action, c mpl g6 this form with comments and return to this office by - If you need additional time past the due date, please contact our office as soon as possible. this proposal. If no assumed youchavenno icomments received regarding above be State Application Identifier f 96-E-Q222=QAA _ _ Commenters Name , ze, Title '4J?4 Representing o a governmen Address Phone/a1 Date ?- S-- 9? 10 'd COMMENTS: (attach additional page if necessary) / rc. 1 A-5 Otte Z6b 6t6=0I D03 NVI 2asm 01:60 96-bt-ZO FM206 NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATICN 116 WEST JONES STREET RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT MAILED TO N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION FRANK VICK PLANN• E ENV. BRANCH TRANSPORTATION BLDG./INTER-OFFICE FROM MS- JEANETTE FURNEY ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT STATE CLEARINGHOUSE PROJECT DESCRIPTION SCOPING - PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO US 4019 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK RD) TC NC 39 IN LOUISBURG TIP #R-2814E TYPE - SCOPING THE N.C. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE FAS RECEIVED THE ABOVE PROJECT FOR INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW. THIS PROJECT HAS BEEN ASSIGNED STATE APPLICATION NUMBER 96E42200446• PLEASE USE THIS NUMBER WITH ALL INQUIRIES CR CORRESPONDENCE WITH THIS OFFICE. REVIEW OF THIS PROJECT SHOULD BE COMPLETED ON OR BEFORE 02/27/96. SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL (919) 733-7232• GEC V JAN 4 1996 G h ? 6N?fRUN? A-6 14ORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION rM208 116 WEST JONES STREET RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003 02-27-96 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COMMENTS MAILED TO FRCM N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION MRS- CHRYS BAGGETT FRANK VICK DIRECTOR PLANN- ' ENV. BRANCH N C STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TRANSPORTATION BLDG-/INT_R-OFF PROJECT DESCRIPTION SCOPING - PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO US 4011 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK RD) TO NC 39 IN LOUISBURG TIP #R-2814E SAI NO 96E42200446 PROGRAM TITLE - SCOPING 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 AIJY CUESTIONSt PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE (919) 733-7232- . C.C. REGION K -IV FEB 2.9 1996 r DIVISION Or HIGHWAYS ?F RAW ' (P A-7 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor p E ?--? N R Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary Henry M. Lancaster II, Director MEMORANDUM TO: Chrys Baggett State Clearinghouse FROM: Melba McGee Project Review Coordinator RE: 96-0446 scoping Proposed Improvements to US 401 Tar River Basin, Franklin County DATE: February 5, 1996 The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed project. The attached comments are a result of this review. More specific comments will be provided during the environmental review process. Thank you for the opportunity to respond. If during the preparation of the environmental document, additional information is needed, the applicant is encouraged to notify our respective divisions. attachments RECEIVED Ff B 6 N.C. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE A-8 p.0. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-7687 Telephone 919-733-4984 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper r p`HNR ?r Zia. JAN I g oe tate of North Carolina Depar en',?? jepInent, Health, and Natural >?ND Q YD" sign of Land Resources James G. Vemor PROJECT REVIEW COMMENTS L Wllllam W. Cobey, Jr., 5ecretary .Project Number: 76- D (M6 County: JAN QUALITY SEA" Charlestt'Ga'"aer ?' Director Project Name: Geodetic Survey This project will impact geodetic survey markers. N.C. Geodetic -_L?, /?- Survey 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 geodetic survey markers. Other (comments attached) For more information contact the Geodetic Survey office at (919) 733-3836. Avx- Reviewer Date Erosion and Sedimentation Control No comment This project will require approval of an erosion and sedimentation control plan prior to beginning any land-disturbing activity if more than one (1) acre will be disturbed. If an environmental document is required to satisfy Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements, the document must be submitted as part of the erosion and sedimentation control plan. If any portion of 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 control 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 from the North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission. Other (comments attached) For more information contact the Land Quality Section at (919) 733-4574. i- /v - 1ye Reviewer Date P.O. Box 17687 • Uelgh, N.C. 27611-7c A-9 Telephone (919) 733-3833 An Equal Opportunlty Athrmauvc,kctlon Employer State of North Carolina Reviewing Office: Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS I Project Number: I Due Date: After review of this project it has been determined that the EHNR permit(s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in order for this project to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding 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 Normal Process Regional Office. Time PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit( O Permit to construct 6 operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award of 30 days facilities, sewer system extensions, b sewer construction contracts on-site inspection. Post-application systems not discharging into state surface waters, technical conference usual (90 days) NPDES - permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application 180 days before begin activity. On-site inspection. 90120 days O permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities Pre-application conference usual. Additionally, obtain permit to discharging into state surface waters. construct wastewater treatment facility granted after NPDES Reply (NSA) time. 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPDES permit whichever is later. 30 days Water Use Permit Pre application technical conference usually necessary (N:Ai 7 days Well Construction Permit Complete application must be received and permit issued prior to the installation of a well 115 days) Application copy must be served on each adjacent riparian property 55 days O Dredge and Fill Permit owner. On-site inspection. Pre application conference usual Filling may require Easement to Fill from N C. Department of (90 days) Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. ? Permit to construct 8 operate Air Pollution Abatement f il S i i 5A NCAC 21 / E 06 N A 60 days 90 d ities and ac or m on ss ources as per 1 H. / ( ays) Any open burning associated with subject proposal must be in compliance with 15A NCAC 2D.0520. Demolition or renovations of structures containing asbestos material must be in compliance with 15A 60 days NCAC 2D.0525 which requires notification and removal N/A prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos Control Group 919733.0820 (90 days) Complex Source Permit required under 15A NCAC 2D.0800. pQ •, ?-U 10 /JCK 30 c-603 The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion a sedimentatio control plan will be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality Sect l at least 30 20 days days before beginning activity A fee of $30 for the first acre and $2000 for each additional acre or art must accompany the Ian 130 da si r1 L_ 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 L 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 1-1 North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources if permit 1 day exceeds 4 days (N/A) ? Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit • 22 On-site inspection by N.D. Division Forest Resources required "if 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.' NIA 90120 days N/A u Oil Refining Facilities t ) It permit required, application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant must hire N C qualified engineer to prepare plans 30 days r, LJ Dam Safety Permit inspect construction, certify construction is according to EHNR approv ed plans. May also require permit under mosquito control program. And 160 days) a 404 permit from Corps of Engineers An inspection of site is neces . sary to -- - 13zard Classification. A minimum fee of $20000 must ac comps plication. An additional processing fee based on a percen- A-I O 1e total project cost will be required upon completion Continued on itvri N0.,,, 0 Istatutorr PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REOUIREMENTS limit) File surety bond of $5,000 with EHNR running to State of N.C. 10 days Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well conditional that any well opened by drill operator shall, upon abandonment, be plugged according to EHNR rules and regulations (N/Al Geophysical Exploration Permit Application filed with EHNR at least 10 days prior to issue of permit 10 days (NIA) Application by letter. No standard application form. State Lakes Construction Permit Application fee based on structure size is charged. Must include hi 1520 days (NIA) p descriptions 8 drawings of structure 8 proof of owners of riparian property, 60 days 401 Water Quality Certification NIA (130 daysi 55 days CAMA Permit for MAJOR development $250.00 fee must accompany application 1150 days) 22 days CAMA Permit for MINOR development 550.00 fee must accompany application (25 days) Several geodetic monuments are located in or near the project area If any monuments need to be moved or destroyed, please notify. N C Geodetic Survey. Box 27687. Raleigh. N C 27611 Abandonment of any wells, if required, must be in accordance with Title 15A, Subchapter 2C.0100. Notification of the proper regional office is requested if -orphan" underground storage tanks (LISTS) are discovered during any excavation operation 45 days Compliance with 15A NCAC 2H.1000 (Coastal Stormwater Rules) is required. I (NIA) Other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority). FV;k I 0 ? ? ? ? REGIONAL OFFICES Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office marked below._ ? Asheville Regional Office ? Fayetteville Regional Office 59 Woodfin Place Suite 714 Wachovia Building Asheville, NC 28801 Fayetteville. NC 28301 (704) 251.6208 (919) 486.1541 ? Mooresville Regional Office 919 North Main Street, P.O. Box 950 Mooresville, NC 28115 (704) 663.1699 ? Washington Regional Office 1424 Carolina Avenue Washington, NC 27889 (919) 946.6481 ? Raleigh Regional Office 3800 Barrett Drive. Suite 101 Raleigh, NC 27609 (919) 733.2314 ? Wilmington Regional Office 127 Cardinal Drive ExlLnsion Wilmington, NC 28405 (919) 395.3900 ? Winston-Salem Regional Office 8025 North Point Blvd. Suite 100 Winston Salen A_1 1 '106 (919) 8967007 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director A4 ? DE R January 23, 1996 MEMRANDUR TO: Melba McGee, Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs FROM: Monica SwihartvWater Quality Planning SUBJECT: Project Review #96-0446; Scoping Comments - NC DOT Proposed Improvements to US 401, TIP #R-2814E, Tar River Subbasin 03-03-01 The Water Quality Section of the Division of Environmental Management requests that the following topics be discussed in the environmental documents prepared on the subject project: A. Identify the streams potentially impacted by the project. The stream classifications should be current. B. Identify the linear feet of stream channelizations/ relocations. If the original stream banks were vegetated, it is requested that the channelized/relocated stream banks be revegetated. C. Number of stream crossings. D. Will permanent spill catch basins be utilized? DEM requests that these catch basins be placed at all water supply stream crossings. Identify the responsible party for maintenance. E. Identify the stormwater controls (permanent and temporary) to be employed. DEM recommends that no weep holes be installed in bridges that drain directly into surface waters. F. Please ensure that sediment and erosion and control measures are not placed in wetlands. G. Wetland Impacts 1) Identify the federal manual used for identifying and delineating jurisdictional wetlands. 2) Have wetlands been avoided as much as possible? 3) Have wetland impacts been minimized? 4) Discuss wetland impacts by plant communities affected. 5) Discuss the quality of wetlands impacted. 6) Summarize the total wetland impacts. 7) List the 401 General Certification numbers requested from DEM. P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 FAX 919-733-2496 An Equal opportunity Affirmative Action Emplo' A-12 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper Melba McGee January 23, 1996 Page 2 H. Will borrow locations be in wetlands? Borrow/waste areas should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practicable. Prior to approval of any borrow/waste site in a wetland, the contractor shall obtain a 401 Certification from DEM. I. Did NCDOT utilize the existing road alignments as much as possible? Why not (if applicable)? J. To what extent can traffic congestion management techniques alleviate the traffic problems in the study area? K. Please provide a conceptual mitigation plan to help the environmental review. The mitigation plan may state the following: 1. Compensatory mitigation will be considered only after wetland impacts have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent possible. 2. On-site, in-kind mitigation is the preferred method of mitigation. In-kind mitigation within the same watershed is preferred over out-of-kind mitigation. 3. Mitigation should be in the following order: restoration, creation, enhancement, and lastly banking. Please note that a 401 Water Quality Certification cannot be issued until the conditions of NCAC 15A: 01C.0402 (Limitations on Actions During NCEPA Process) are met. This regulation prevents DEM from issuing the 401 Certification until a FONSI or Record of Decision (ROD) has been issued by the Department requiring the document. If the 401 Certification application is submitted for review prior to issuance of the FONSI or ROD, it is recommended that the applicant state that the 401 will not be issued until the applicant informs DEM that the FONSI or ROD has been signed by the Department. Written concurrence of 401 Water Quality Certification may be required for this project. Applications requesting coverage under our General Certification 14 or General Permit 31 will require written concurrence. Please be aware that 401 Certification may be denied if wetland or water impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. 11155.mem cc: Eric Galamb A-13 FALLS LAKE N ? TEL:919-528-9839 Feb 01'96 8:54 No.002 P.06 North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919.733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melha McGee Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DEIINR FROM: David Cox, Highway Project C ator Habitat Conservation Progrant DATE: February 1, 1996 SUBJECT, Rrrlrnrsl thr information from tho N, C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) regarding fish and wildlife concerns for US 401, from SR 17uu (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 in Louisburg, Franklin County, North Carolina, TIP No. R-2814E, SCH Project No. 96-0446. This memorandum responds to a request from Mr. H. Franklin Vick of the NCDOT 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 (NC'WRC) have reviewed the proposed improvements, and our comments arc provided in accordance with provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). At this time the NCWRC has no specific recommendations or concerns regarding the sul?ject project. However, to help facilitate document preparation and the review process, our general informational needs are outlined below: 1. Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a listing of federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concern species. Potential borrow areas to be used Im protect construction should be included in the inventories. A listing of designated plant species can be developed through consultation with: The Natural Heritage Program N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation P. O. Box 27687 Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919) 733-7795 and, A-14 r',FALLS LAKE TEL:919-528-9839 Feb 01'96 8:54 No.002 P.07 Memo 2 February 1, 1996 NCDA Plant Conservation Program P. O. Box 27647 Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919) 733-3610 2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the project. The need for channelizing or relocating portions of streams crossed and the extent of such activities. 3. Cover type maps showing wetland acreages impacted by the project. Wetland acreages should include all project-related areas that may undergo hydrologic change as a result of ditching, other drainage, or tilling for project construction. Wetland identification may be accomplished through coordination with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE). If the COE is not consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be identified and criteria listed. 4. Cover type maps showing acreages of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the proposed project. Pote-ntiAl hnrrnw sims should he included, 5. The extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or fragmentation of wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands). 6. Mitigation for avoiding, it inimizing or compensating for direct and indirect degradation in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses. 7. A cumulative impact assessment section which analyzes the environmental of sects of highway construction and quantifies the contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation. 8. A discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources which will result from secondary development facilitated by the improved road access. 9. If construction of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, municipal, or private development projects, a description of these projects should be included in the environmental document, and all project sponsors should be identified. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early planning stages for this project. if we can further assist your office, please contact David Cox, Highway Project Coordinator, at (919) 528-9886. cc: 1 loward Hall, U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Raleigh A-15 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS P.O. BOX 1890 - WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890 REPLY TO March 4, 1996 ATTENTION OF 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 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Vick: 50' ?E Q? MAC11196 ' `.''y V r L ID `\NVJR0 This is in response to your letter of December 21, 1995, to the Regulatory Branch requesting our comments on "US 401, from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 in Louisburg, Franklin County, Federal Aid Project No. STP-401(4), State Project No. 8.1403001, TIP Project R-2814E" (Regulatory Branch Action I.D. No. 199602010). 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. As requested in our November 13, 1995, letter to you, please provide a copy of future scoping letters and planning-stage environmental review documents to the attention of Mr. Coleman Long of my office, as well as a copy to the appropriate Regulatory Field Office (RFO). We will then coordinate with the RFO to provide a single U.S. Army Corps of Engineers response. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of further assistance, please contact us. Sincerely, C. E. Shuford, Jr., P.E. Acting Chief, Engineering and Planning Division Enclosure A-16 March 4, 1996 Page 1 of 1 U.S ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS WILMINGTON DISTRICT. COMMENTS ON: "US 401, from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 in Louisburg, Franklin County, Federal Aid Project No. STP-401(4), State Project No. 8.1403001, TIP Project R-2814E" (Regulatory Branch Action 1. D. No. 199602010) 1. FLOOD PLAINS: POC - Mr. Bobby L Willis Special Studies and Flood Plain Services Section, at (910) 251-4728 The proposed project is located in Louisburg, which participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. From a review of Panels 1 and 2 and the index of the March 1988 Louisburg Flood Insurance Rate Map, the roadway does not appear to be in an identified flood hazard area. This is confirmed by a review of the pertinent United States Geological Survey topographic map of the area. The road does appear to come close to a small tributary of the Tar River. However, the drainage area is not large enough to pose a significant flooding problem. 2. WATERS AND WETLANDS: POC - Mr. Eric Alsmeyer. Raleigh Field Office. Regulatory Branch, at (919) 876-8441. Extension 23 a. Review of the project indicates that the proposed work would not likely involve the discharge of excavated or fill material into waters and/or wetlands. However, the proposed improvements may come close to an unnamed tributary to the Tar River, above headwaters. b. Prior Department of the Army permit authorization, pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended, will be required for the discharge of excavated or fill material into waters and/or wetlands in conjunction with this project, including the disposal of construction debris. 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. It is likely, if the impacts from the proposed project are minor, that the work could be authorized under one or more nationwide or regional general permits. c. Questions or comments pertaining to permits may be directed to Mr. Alsmeyer. A-17 Copies Furnished (with enclosure and incoming correspondence): JMs. Stephanie Briggs Supervisor, Permits Section Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Division of Highways Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dr. G. Wayne Wright Chief, Regulatory Branch U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington District -2- A-18 ?_w c roff 5 Pt?ENT OF TyF United States Department of the Interior OAP -' /y'` H $ FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Raleigh Field Office Post Office Box 33726 MgOCH Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726 ! co E a? ?I w March 27, 1996 r Mr. H. Franklin Vick MAR 2 b 1995 Planning and Environmental Branch N.C. Division of Highways .--)S1CeN OF P.O. Box 25201 G? 6iRGti?Nf;YS Raleigh, NC 27611 ?Q Subject: Widening of US 401 from SR 1700 to NC 39? Franklin County, North Carolina (TIP No. R-2814) Dear Mr. Vick: This responds to your letter of December 21, 1995 requesting information from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for evaluating the potential environmental impacts of the above-referenced project. This report provides scoping information and is provided in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16 U.S.C. 661-667d) and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543). This report also serves as comments to federal and state resource agencies for use in their permitting and/or certification processes for this project. Preliminary planning by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) calls for the widening of US 401 from a two-lane roadway to a five-lane curb and gutter facility. The Service's mission is to provide the leadership to conserve, protect, and enhance fish and wildlife and their habitats for the continuing benefit of all people. Due to staffing limitations, we are unable to provide you with site- specific comments at this time. However, the following recommendations should help guide the planning process and facilitate our review of the project. Generally, the Service recommends that wetland impacts be avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable as outlined in the Clean Water Act Section 404(b) (1) Guidelines. If unavoidable wetland impacts are proposed, we recommend that every effort be made to identify compensatory mitigation sites in advance. Opportunities to protect target areas in perpetuity, preferably via conservation easement, should be explored at the outset. Regarding avoidance and minimization of impacts, we generally recommend that proposed highway projects be aligned along or adjacent to existing roadways, utility corridors, or previously developed areas in order to minimize habitat fragmentation and encroachment. Areas exhibiting high biodiversity or ecological value important to the watershed and/or region should be avoided. Crossings of streams and associated wetland systems should use existing crossings and/or occur on structure wherever feasible. Where bridging is not feasible, culvert structures that maintain natural water flows and circulation regimes without scouring or impeding fish and wildlife passage should be employed. Highway shoulder and median width should be reduced through wetland areas. Roadway embankments and fill areas should be stabilized by using appropriate erosion control devices and/or techniques. Wherever appropriate, construction in sensitive areas should occur outside of anadromous fish spawning and migratory bird nesting seasons. A-19 We reserve the right to review any required federal or state permits at the time of public notice issuance. Resource agency coordination should occur early in the planning process to resolve land use conflicts and minimize delays. In addition to the above guidance, we recommend that the environmental documentation for this project include the following (the level of detail should be commensurate with the degree of environmental impacts): 1. A clearly defined purpose and need for the proposed project including a discussion of the project's independent utility; 2. An analysis of the alternatives to the proposed project that were considered, including a no action alternative; 3. A description of the fishery and wildlife resources within the action area of the proposed project which may be affected directly or indirectly; 4. The extent and acreage of waters of the U.S., including wetlands, that are to be impacted by filling, dredging, clearing, ditching, and/or draining. Wetland impact acreages should be differentiated by habitat type based on the wetland classification scheme of the National Wetlands Inventory. Wetland boundaries should be determined by using the 1987 Corps of Enaineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and verified by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; 5. The anticipated environmental impacts, both temporary and permanent, that would be likely to occur as a direct result of the proposed project. Also, an assessment should be included regarding the extent to which the proposed project would result in secondary impacts to natural resources and how this and similar projects contribute to cumulative adverse effects; 6. Techniques which would be employed to design and construct wetland crossings, relocate stream channels, and restore, enhance, or create wetlands for compensatory mitigation; 7. Mitigation measures which would be employed to avoid, minimize, rectify, reduce, or compensate for habitat value losses associated with the project. These measures should include a detailed compensatory mitigation plan for offsetting unavoidable wetland impacts. The attached page identifies the Federally-listed endangered, threatened, and candidate species that are known to occur in Franklin County. Habitat requirements for the Federally-listed species in the project area should be compared with the available habitat at the project site. If suitable habitat is present within the action area of the project, field surveys for the species should be performed, and survey methodologies and results included in the environmental documentation for this project. In addition to this guidance, the following information should be included in the environmental document regarding protected species (the level of detail should be commensurate with the degree of environmental impacts): 1. A specific description of the proposed action to be considered; 2. A description and accompanying map of the specific area used in the analysis of direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts; 3. A description of the biology and status of the listed species and of the associated habitat that may be affected by the action, including the results of an onsite inspection; 4. An analysis of the "effects of the action" on the listed species and associated habitat: A-20 a. Direct and indirect impacts of the project on listed species. Indirect effects are those that are caused by the proposed action and are later in time but are still rea$onably certain to occur; b. A discussion of the environmental baseline which includes interrelated, interdependent, past and present impacts of Federal, State, and private activities in the project and cumulative effects area; C. Interrelated actions are those that are part of a larger action and depend on the larger action for their justification; d. Cumulative impacts of future State and private activities (not requiring Federal agency involvement, that will be considered as part of future Section 7 consultation); 5. Summary of evaluation criteria used as a measurement of potential effects; 6. A description of the manner in which the action may affect any listed species or associated habitat including project proposals to reduce/eliminate adverse effects; 7. Based on evaluation criteria, a determination of whether the project is not likely to adversely affect or may affect threatened and endangered species. Candidate species are those plant and animal species for which the Service has sufficient information on their biological status and threats to their survival to propose them as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Although candidate species receive no statutory protection under the ESA, Federal agencies are required to informally confer with the Service on actions likely to jeopardize the continued existence of these species or that may destroy or modify proposed critical habitat. Species of concern include those species for which the Service does not have enough scientific information to support a listing proposal or species which do not warrant listing at the present time. Species of Concern receive no statutory protection under the ESA, but could become candidates in the future if additional scientific information becomes available indicating they are endangered or threatened. Formal listing places the species under the full protection of the ESA, and necessitates a new survey if its status in the project corridor is unknown. Therefore, it would be prudent for the project to avoid any adverse impact to candidate species or their habitat. The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program should be contacted for information on species under State protection. The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. Please continue to advise us of the progress made in the planning process, including your official determination of the impacts of this project. Attachment A-21 REVISED APRIL 19, 1995 Franklin County Clams Dwarf wedge mussel (Alasmidonta heterodon) - E Tar spinymussel (Elliotio steinstansana) - E Plan Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii) - E There are species which, although not now listed or officially proposed for listing as endangered or threatened, are under status review by the Service. These "Candidate"(C1 and C2) species are not legally protected under the Act, and are not subject to any of Its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as threatened or endangered. We are providing the below list of candidate species which may occur within the project area for the purpose of giving you advance notification. These species may be listed in the future, at which time they will be protected under the Act. In the meantime, we would appreciate anything you might do for them. Clams Atlantic plgtoe (mussel) (Fusconaia masoni) - C2 Yellow lampmussel (Lamosilis ri sa) - C2 Yellow lance (mussel) (Elliotio n I a) - C2 Plants Wavyleaf wild quinine (Parthenium radfordii) - C2" "Indicates no specimen in at least 20 years from this county. A-22 E"T °° ryF United States Department of the Interior s FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE _ Raleigh Field Office Post Office Box 33726 North Carolina 27636-3726 h R l i , a e g RCH March 5, 1997 CtWuU H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation PO Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 ATTN: Mr. Eddie McFalls, P.E., Project Planning Engineer RE: Proposed Widening of US401, from SR1700 to Nc 39, Duisburg, Franklin County; TIP Project #R-2814E Dear Mr. Vick: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife (Service) has reviewed your February 20, 1997 letter regarding the above-referenced project in Franklin County in North Carolina. Our comments are provided in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) (Act). Based on the North Carolina Department of Transportation's agreement to implement Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters and High Quality Waters, and the fact that previous and recent surveys have not located the Tar spinymussel in the immediate area of the proposed project, the Service concurs that this project is not likely to adversely affect the Federally-endangered Tar spinymussel (Elliptio steinstansana) or any Federally-listed endangered and threatened species or their formally designated critical habitat. We believe that the requirements of Section 7 of the Act have been satisfied. We remind you that obligations under Section 7 consultation must be reconsidered if: (1) new information reveals impacts of this identified action that may affect listed species or critical habitat in a manner not previously considered; (2) this action is subsequently modified in a manner that was not considered in this review; (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat determined that may be affected by the identified action. Thank you for your cooperation with our agency. Sincerely, ohn M. He er Field Supervisor FWS/R4:CMartino:cm:3-4-97/919-856-4520:WP51:NCDOT:US401Frkln.ne A-23 January 31, 1997 Engineering Office SUBJECT: DOT Project Near Louisburg Armory Mr. Edward B. McFalls Project Planning Engineer Department of Transportation, Division of Highways P.O. Box 25201, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. McFalls: Thank you for informing us of DOT's plan for widening US 401 in Louisburg near the National Guard Armory. 1 have discussed the project with CPT Harris at the armory, and the project should cause no significant hardship for our people. There are two items we would like you to consider when the final design is completed. First of all, the primary entrance to the armory property is the northernmost entrance, i.e., the driveway nearest the main entrance. Your plan calls for the median opening to be provided at the other parking lot entrance, which currently is only a gravel covered area. We feel that the median opening should be placed where the most traffic occurs. Secondly, the volume of traffic in and out of the armory lot after public functions is substantial. We strongly recommend that a traffic light should be installed to make entrance and egress less risky. Thank you again for your efforts to keep us informed. Call me at 919-664-6117 if you have comments or concerns. DANNY W. SELL MAJ, EN, NCARNG Assistant Construction & Facilities Management Officer CF: CPT Harris, Louisburg Armory A-24 APPENDIX B CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP INFORMATION NOTICE OF A CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP FOR THE PROPOSED WIDENING/IMPROVEMENTS OF US 401 FROM FOX PARK ROAD (SR 1700) TO NC 39 IN LOUISBURG Project 8.1403001 R-2814E Franklin County A citizens informational workshop will be held on Thursday, July 11, 1996 in the Employee Training Center at the Louisburg Police Department located at 104 Wade Avenue in Louisburg. This will be an informal open-house workshop conducted between the hours of 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Those wishing to attend may do so at their convenience during these hours. The purpose of this informational workshop is to present information, answer questions, and receive comments during the planning, and early design stages of the proposed widening/improvements of US 401 from Fox Park Road to NC 39 in Louisburg. The project proposes to widen this segment of US 401 to a multi-lane facility. Representatives of the Department of Transportation will be available to discuss the proposed project with those attending. Anyone desiring additional information about the workshop may contact Mr. Eddie McFalls, North Carolina Department of Transportation, Planning and Environmental Branch, P. O. Box 25201, Raleigh, NC 27611 or by telephone at (919) 733-7844 - Extension 245. NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services for disabled persons who wish to participate in the workshop. Tb receive special services, please call Mr. McFalls at the above number to give adequate notice prior to the date of the workshop. B-1 North Carolina Department of Transportation Planning and Environmental Branch m? 1 OF TRA O a jc? 4qr) US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E JULY I I , 1996 CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP B-2 .-4Q RTW CITIZENS INFORMATIONALWORKSHOP US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E Pumose of the Citizens Informational Worksho The purpose of this Citizens Informational Workshop is to involve the public in the project planning process. If you have comments or suggestions about the proposed improvements described in this handout, please let a representative of the North Carolina Department of Transportation know. A comment sheet is provided for you to write down your questions and concerns so that we can keep a record of and fully consider your ideas, comments, and suggestions. The North Carolina Department of Transportation realizes individuals living close to a proposed project want to be informed of the possible effects of the project on their homes and businesses. However, exact information is not available at this stage of the planning process. Additional design work is necessary before the actual right of way limits can be established. More detailed information will be available at a later date. Written comments on this project may be left with North Carolina Department of Transportation representatives at the citizens informational workshop or submitted through the mail. If additional information is needed or you would like to submit comments after the citizens informational workshop, please address your requests and comments to: Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Description and Purpose of the Project The North Carolina Department of Transportation's 1997-2003 Transportation Improvement Program proposes to widen US 401 in Louisburg from SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (see Figure 1). A multilane facility will be constructed to increase the traffic carrying capacity of this section of US 401. Two typical sections are being considered for the proposed roadway: a five-lane undivided curb and gutter facility and a four-lane curb and gutter facility with a raised, grassed median. These typical sections are included as Figure 2 of this handout. The five-lane undivided typical section would provide two through lanes in each direction and a center left turn lane that would serve both directions of travel. This typical section would provide the highest degree of access to adjacent properties. The four-lane divided typical section would provide two through B-3 lanes in each direction but would not provide a continuous left turn lane. Left turn lanes would be provided at a limited number of median openings along the roadway. The raised island provided by this alternative would control left turn movements onto and off of the facility and would result in better operating conditions along the highway than the continuous left turn lane; however, a lesser degree of access to adjacent properties would be provided Also as a part of TIP Project R-2814 E, the intersection of NC 56, SR 1229 (Main Street), and US 401 will be redesigned. Currently, NCDOT plans to create two "T" intersections at this location. In the vicinity of this intersection, both directions of US 401 will be routed to follow an alignment that will closely resemble the present alignment of the northbound lane of US 401 at the existing intersection. NC 56 is anticipated to intersect US 401 and SR 1229 (Main Street) is anticipated to intersect NC 56. Please note that this intersection design is preliminary and may change as more design work is done and comments from citizens and local officials are received. Once TIP Project R-2814 E, the remaining sections of TIP Project R-2814, and TIP Project R-2425 are constructed, US 401 will provide a continuous multilane facility between Raleigh and Louisburg. This multilane roadway will provide more efficient and safer travel for the entire region. Estimated Traffic Volumes on US 401 In 1999, the anticipated construction year of the proposed project, the average daily traffic along the proposed project is anticipated to vary from 8,800 vehicles per day (on US 401 between SR 1700 and NC 56) to 15,320 vehicles per day (on US 401, just north of the US 401/NC 56/SR 1229 intersection). In 2019, the average daily traffic along this section of US 401 is anticipated to vary from 13,480 vehicles per day (on US 401 between SR 1700 and NC 56) to 23,280 vehicles per day (on US 401, just north of the US 401/NC 56/SR 1229 intersection. Transportation Improvement Program Schedules and Costs In the 1997-2003 Transportation Improvement Program, TIP Project R-2814 E is scheduled for right of way acquisition in fiscal year 1998 and construction in fiscal year 1999. TIP Project R-2814 E is a single segment of TIP Project R-2814. Table 1 summarizes the current funding schedules for TIP Project R-2814 E, as well as those of the other project segments. Please note the following: TIP Project R-2814 A will widen , US 401 from SR 2044 to north of SR 2226 in Wake County, TIP Project R-2814 B will widen US 401 from north of SR 2226 to NC 96 in Wake County, TIP Project R-2814 C will widen US 401 from NC 96 in Wake County to SR 1103 in Franklin County, and TIP Project R-2814 D will widen US 401 from SR 1103 to SR 1700 in Franklin County. B-4 TABLE 1. Transportation Improvement Program Schedules and Funding Project Segment Schedule for Right of Way Ac uistion Funding for Right of Way Acquisition Schedule for Project Construction Funding for Construction R-2814 A *FFY 2000 $ 5,000,000 FFY 2002 $ 8,000,000 R-2814 B FFY 2003 $ 4,000,000 PY $ 5,000,000 R-2814 C *PY $ 8,000,000 PY $ 8,800,000 R-2814 D PY $ 7,500,000 PY $ 8,100,000 R-2814 E FFY 1998 $ 100,000 FFY 1999 $ 1,500,000 * FFY denotes "federal fiscal year." PY indicates that the project is "post year" (not currently funded within the seven year TIP. The TIP is updated each year and post year projects may become funded. Notes: 1. Project schedules are subject to availability of funds. 2. Cost estimates will be udpated as a part of the planning process Current Proiect Status A Categorical Exclusion is currently being prepared for the proposed project. This document is anticipated to be completed this summer. This document will summarize the improvements to US 401 that will be included under TIP Project R-2814 E and the resulting environmental impacts. Environmental data is currently being gathered along this section of US 401 in order to prepare this document. This environmental data will be used in conjunction with preliminary design, input from the Town of Louisburg, and input from citizens in the area to determine what improvements will be made. Preliminary design has not yet been completed for the project; therefore, specific impacts to adjacent properties cannot be determined at this time. A separate environmental document, an environmental assessment, will be prepared for the remaining sections of TIP Project R-2814. As a part of its preparation, additional citizens informational workshops will be scheduled. Anticipated Right of Way Impacts The widening of this section of US 401 will require the purchase of additional right of way and easments from adjacent property owners; but, the proposed project is not anticipated to require the relocation of any residences or businesses. Unfortunately, until both environmental studies and preliminary designs are completed, specific right of way impacts to individual properties cannot be determined. t Future Public Coordination After the categorical exclusion is completed for the proposed project (currently anticipated to be completed in the summer of 1996), a public hearing will be scheduled to present NCDOT's recommendations. At that time, more detailed information about the project's impacts will be available. Everyone on the project's mailing list will be notified once the public hearing is scheduled. EBM B-5 - ?. same left 39 - -wood Centervdl Ingleside J / v ?tF R'A-'NSL I N +LowsDury :.ti rYYY 9 nklinton r? U r- 511 56 / A ? ? r?// Ms0levdle lusLCe 96 ? ? Ikk-I @96j Yountsvdle t 39 to p E ,/ ? ? ?'? IA 1 _ ,1 ? New oCe Sp FRANKLIN , Bunn ? / ;?? ?-? COUNTY ? _ 11er?Pe rces 98' 44 F'101 i 1211 / / y 1 / ! I ? 1230 / I 228 / 1264 I 1 •37 11 1229 i ? Q. 1225 c- ?c CC, 1230 / / ` . '? /• END ` O 1 PROJECT :n 401 \?`,2? 1 R-2814E / I 1 r 56 I 1 1 1 1 1 BEGIN - - '? PROJECT R-2814 E 1700 a?1 1775 0) \ ? 4l \ 1772 1700 B-6 r 39 $ NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF I TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH US 401 SR 1700 TO NC 39 IN LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY [ T.I.P. PROJECT NO. R-2814 E i FiG. 1 ALTERNATIVE TYPICAL SECTIONS 2.4 m 2.4 m (8 feet) (e feet) 9.6 m 9.6 m (32 feet) ?- (32 feet) 0.15 m 0.15 m (0.5 feet). (0.5 feet) 9m tIS 9m (30 feet) (30 feet) VZ. ALTERNATIVE 1: FIVE-LANE, UNDIVIDED, CURB AND GUTTER TYPICAL SECTION 2.4 m 2.4 in , 2.4 m , 7.8 m 2.4 m (e feet) 7.8 m (8 fat) (8 fat) (e feet) (26 feet) (26 feet) 7.2m 2.1m 2.1m 7.2m (24 feet) (7 fat) (7 feet) , (24 feet) 0.15 m 0.15 m 0.15 m 0.15 m 0.5 feet) (0.5 leer) (0.5 feet) (0.5 feet) v'vP. ALTERNATIVE 2: t FOUR-LANE, DIVIDED, CURB AND GUTTER TYPICAL SECTION B-7 N. US 401 FROM SR 1700 (FOX PARK ROAD) TO NC 39 IN LOUISBURG FRANKLIN COUNTY TIP PROJECT R-2814 E NO SCALE FIGURE 2 July 11, 1996 TIP Project R-2814 E Louisburg, Franklin County US 401 From SR 1700 (Fox Park Road) to NC 39 (Bunn Road) Citizens Informational Workshop Comment Sheet Comments: Please send comments to: H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 r • B-8