Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout19990757 Ver 1_Complete File_19990713mitigation request ilk s Suej, Subject: mitigation request Date: Tue, 09 Jan 200108:26:14 -0500 From: Jeff Jurek <jeff.jurek@ncmail.net> Organization: NC Wetlands Restoration Program-DENR To: Steve Mitchell <steve.mitchell@ncmail.net>, Rob Ridings <rob.ridings@ncmail.net> The purpose of this email is to notify you of the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program's (NCWRP.) intention to accept payment into the Wetland Restoration Fund for compensatory mitigation for stream/wetland impacts for the following project: Project name: TIP# R-2906 NC 55 Widening River Basin: Cape Fear 8digit catalog unit: 03030002 County: Wake/Durham DWQ Project # (if known): COE Project # (if known): 199920092 CAMA Project # (if known): Wetland impact: 0.79 ac riparian wl Stream impact: 2652 ft Wetland mitigation: 0.79 ac Stream mitigation: 2652 ft If for any reason you feel that the NCWRP should not accept payment for the above project, please notify me (Jeff Jurek) by email or phone 919 733-5316 within 5 working days upon receipt of this message. If no response is received within 5 working days, NCWRP assumes you concur with this payment. E 1 Jeff Jurek <jgff.jurek@ncmail.net> 1 of 1 1/9/01 8:34 AM State of North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Wayne McDevitt, Secretary Kerr T. Stevens, Director NCDENR NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES July 23, 1999 Wake County DWQ Project # 990575 APPROVAL of 401 Water Quality Certification Bill Gilmore NC DOT PO Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Gilmore: You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions, to place fill material in 0.25 acres of wetlands or waters for the purpose of a road widening, as you described in your application dated July 6, 1999. After reviewing your application, we have decided that this fill is covered by General Water Quality Certification Number 3127. This Certification allows you to use National Pemiit Number 23 when the Corps of Engineers issues it. In addition, you should get any other federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your project including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control, Coastal Stormwater, Non-Discharge and Water Supply Watershed regulations. Also this approval will expire when the accompanying 404 or CAMA permit expires unless otherwise specified in the General Certification. This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application. If you change your project, you must notify us and send us a new application. If the property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this Certification and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all conditions. If total wetland fills for this project (now or in the future) exceed one acre, compensatory mitigation may be required as described in 15A NCAC 2H .0506 (h). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed in the attached certification. This approval shall expire when the corresponding Nationwide Permit expires or as otherwise provided in the General Certification. If you do not accept any of the conditions of this certification, you may ask for an adjudicatory hearing. You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. To ask for a hearing, send a written petition which conforms to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes to the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7447. This certification and its conditions are final and binding unless you ask for a hearing. This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. If you have any questions, please telephone John Dorney at 919-733-1786. Sincerely, Stevens 5 Attachment cc: Wilmington District Corps of Engineers Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office Raleigh DWQ Regional Office Mr. John Dorey Central Files 990757.1tr Division of Water Quality • Non-Discharge Branch 4401 Reedy Creek Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607 Telephone 919-733-1786 FAX # 733-9959 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer • 50% recycled/10% post consumer paper http://h2o.enr.state.ne.us/wetlandc.html 14 -74 J9 . r-"? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTNffiNT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. GovERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 June 11, 1999 US Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office 6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120 Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 ATTENTION: Mr. Eric C. Alsmeyer. NCDOT Coordinator Dear Sir: DAVID MCCOY ACTING SECRETARY RF??-?? r Subject: Wake County, Widen NC 55 From the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1, Federal Project No. MA-55(4), State Project No. 8.1403 T.I.P. No. R-2905. Please find enclosed three copies of the project planning report for the above referenced project. The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to widen existing NC 55 for a distance of approximately 1.6 miles to five lanes to improve traffic flow and to enhance safety. Approximately 0.1 hectares (0.25 acres) of jurisdictional wetlands and 456 feet of jurisdictional streams will be affected by the construction of the proposed project. The stream impacts are associated with two culvert extensions. We have minimized the effects on the stream to the greatest extent possible by removing the riprap except at the outlet of the culvert. We have relocated approximately 190 feet of the stream into a meandering channel that is the same width as the existing channel. The bottom of the relocated channel will have substrate similar to that in the existing stream. We will mitigate the stream impacts for the remaining 266 feet of stream by using the North Carolina Wetland Restoration Program at a ratio of 2:1. In addition to the CE, we have also included copies of permit drawings (Sheet 1 to 8) that depict the impacts. . US ! The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit, but propose to proceed under Nationwide Permit 23 in accordance with the Federal Register of December 13, 1996, Part VII, Volume 61, Number 241. We anticipate a 401 General Certification will apply to this project, and are providing one copy of the CE document to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, as a courtesy copy for their review. If you have any questions or need additional information please call Ms. Alice N. Gordon at 733-7844 Ext. 307. Sincerely, William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch cc: w/attachment Mr. David Franklin, Corps of Engineers, Wilmington Field Office Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, Division of Water Quality Mr. Whit Webb, P.E., Program Development Branch Mr. R. L. Hill, P.E.,.Highway Design Branch Mr. A. L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. Tom Shearin, P.E., Roadway Design Unit Mr. W. S. Varnadoe, P.E., Division 5 Engineer Mr. Jay Bissett, P.E., P & E Project Planning Engineer MAP N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS WAKE COUNTY 1500m 0 3000m PROJECT R-2905 NC 55 FROM THE PROPOSED HOLLY 1100,000 SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US I o oJ= P7- < N 0 = ? Cr< LO L&J Lij 03>- O O? 0oz N OZ ?L=iU ?O 0 x t? W W OzQ W o 2 N NQ Q F- N3 x O CL > p CL O >- min L p L- L 5 M Z L.LJ Z O CL = N V) w N a 3 co co Q ? LO k_ W y. ' Lli f I X 1 Q W 0 (f) 1 to C) Z ? V) J N l Z 0- _ rJ ` J O 2 O t? Y b i]3HS 1135 0 0? =o >v-, ° W = a Ln to ?- CL con I Z I Z o=Z N OZ o II a=o °C aO O LLJ U O °4 W I F U ?oa ~a to 3 ? M CL (6 aC LO a- 5: a crm Lu- R U- U ?t7 00 t,'fZ ?c/ ?N?' I I / / z z? i? \\ i l o ,: w LE V) ° 3 LC) i? •c > W w U a W i Q N LA- / N Z / / I 4 W I / ? ti a zo o= Q N i- CC< =o - ? Z o Z 0 CV o Oc O O Z ix 0-0 O Z Y F.- LLI H N a? C a Mn. cc Go - p0 LL.N U Z LO Z Ix V a Z V) W J Q> L-Li cr- ? Z Q W E W z co ? O V o LLJ LLI z W Q) 61 U V/ Q_ i 1 . 1 1 ? M 1 « C « « •J h , W / 1 ?F ' I I` 1]3HS O « « • r • • V TIS Z J? O O Z LL O W= (LX - s92z C" N CLO oz Q= = = O ti U = ?-- F - ? U W pZ w =V) ?-N Q d 1-in3 Z M a. W> p a- o ?m ? O N U n Z 1 Z cr- L) Z N ,w ` I o_ W o 0 (n O Ln W r cr- N \ m W' N d ~ Q Z W J f" O W U 2 Q Q 3 Na ct :3 Z - QW N 2 J W J Z LL :2 - U- V) LN U N w w? W F- F- 0: F- O O Q O z zw z w w J W C3 0 U O • I _j V) Z J I O =O I W a W I I ?Q Lin N w 0 31: >- 0 I W VOZ N OZ I i 0 U : I (.., w D U N I 0 w zle --j ~ V f I W 3 CC M CL I I I a> °' zm p? ? (n I W Lin U to o I 1 I Z It I W Z to m • I • I • • I • M R ? g I Lij W p I • t - • ? O WWi C v ' NM13lI a• = W } I Q CL I 0 0.. I W Z W Q ~V) T I I 0 z C3 LLJ ~ WZ 3 N W J Z~ I Q W = Z I J 3 J W n Lj_ z V) V) - N N Z I F- 1= I I Z z w U D IOW fl I I I •. W O 3 Z J O 0 M LA- ?Oti f a- 3: N W= CLO <= 04 Ix O Z w p U W = '`E E //? W W Zbd H W 1 -N E SE / in ? 3 a o LL- / Z Ln z U 0- ZV) d 8 / Q / I / • / / o in ' • / • - / Ln G• w / a W } / a WW / 'I 0 W V C' / ` t W W O 3 NQ ouC W w Q Z Z? as ? ?y Q W N J I `? X W J ? W i?F W 3 lL ? Z W 4 J CL N N O N p CCC w h- H X FW- W' O O Q O a ® . E? g Z ZW Z LAI DU 0 LLJ 0 I I m ccE rn cR o L n rn ° in m ti w U v f/7 0-6 N N H U l0 C C R E O O O r O a U a ui ? W F C C ?+ H 0 p E v O ccn J ( ? uSU W C p L O O O O vs u. 3: R ° W) M ° c w 10 ? t O O O O Z O C C IL v ' N C ? r (O M Of R C N = C CID O r O co O V d U ° 0 0 6 m m? v c c ? t R i.. _ O O O O Q m N y c U y Q c G C z o 0 0 0 > X > Q Z W c g E H c 'a c N C N C14 IV) U') ) y O O O O lL m C o o O m 7 m U N 7 w , ? a J J , o t ° :°. o o v uoi U `- o 10 + + + M cn N J w C . Z J O O ~ Q N O 03>- O O? ZOZ N OZ = a o ? ?o LL U E- La l 1-- LA- H Y w N O Z F-tN? 2a. 0'5 _ CL ? Q LL N Q a U ? Z - _ Z U Z a- N f_ I i z W J ? °tS Q LLI V) a_ LLI a_ o k X M N N ? M ? N D ? Q > N N ? QV J N Z YZ N fr i 3 aQ ? O aZ Q -J ? U to O - ? W } - O ? LL Z W W ? ? Q Q Z Y ? Y w O ? v N W ? ? W m Z Q Q O O ? O O Z ? W O N .6 Q tD U a ~ } Cl = m NC 55 From the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US I Wake County Federal Aid Project MA-55(4) State Project No. 8.1403301 TIP Project No. R-2905 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and N. C. Department of Transportation Division of Highways 744-77 Date F p. H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch C ,,?--- V? /1A/ cholas L. Graf, P. E. Date 0't- I Division Administrator, FHWA NC 55 From the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1 Wake County Federal Aid Project MA-55(4) State Project No. 8.1403301 TIP Project No. R-2905 lk ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION July, 1997 Documentation Prepared in the Planning and Environmental Branch by: Aileen S. Mayhew Project Planning Engineer rJect A. Hunkins, P. E. Planning Unit Head Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E. Assistant Branch Manager 001151?U"tA r` ' ',H?C A Rot /A,*, ??.•?FESStOiyN a4 SEAL 9l t 18496 E A. ???jq1 Summary Categorical Exclusion Prepared by the Planning and Environmental Branch of the North Carolina Department of Transportation in Consultation with the Federal Highway Administration This is a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Administrative Action, Categorical Exclusion. 2. DESCRIPTION OF A TION The Federal Highway Administration and the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) propose to widen existing NC 55 to five lanes to improve traffic flow and to enhance safety. The project begins at the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass, approximately 390 meters (1280 feet) north of SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road), and ends just north of US 1 in Apex, Wake County. The current termini appear in the 1998-2004 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The proposal includes replacement of Bridge No. 71 (the existing bridge on NC 55 over US 1). The US 1 interchange will be improved by upgrading the diamond configuration at the interchange to meet current design standards (lengthening and widening and/or realigning of the ramps). The recommended ramp improvements will improve the level of service of the US 1 interchange. Intersection improvements will occur at the NC 55/SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection. Approximately 350 m (1148 ft) of SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) will be realigned so that the new intersection of NC 55 and SR 1158 is approximately 140 m (460 ft) north of the existing intersection. The total cost of the proposed improvements is $7,798,750, which includes $948,750 for right of way and $6,850,000 for construction. The 1998-2004 NCDOT TIP includes a total funding of $8,020,000 for the project, including $1,170,000 for right of way and $6,850,000 for construction. Right-of-way acquisition and construction are scheduled in the 1998-2004 TIP to begin in Fiscal Years 1998 and 2000, respectively. 11 3. SUMMARY OF SPECIAL PROJECT COMMITMENTS a. Permits It is anticipated that a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) Nationwide 14 Permit (minor road crossings) will be required for the project. A Section 401 Water Quality Certification will be required from the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR) - Division of Water Quality (DWQ), formerly known as the Division of Environmental Management (DEM), for activities resulting in a discharge into any of the streams involved with this project. b. Federally-Protected Species Four federally-protected species were listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for Wake County as of May 2, 1997. This project will have no effect on the dwarf wedge mussel, bald eagle, red-cockaded woodpecker, or Michaux's sumac. C. Wetland Impacts and Mitigation It is anticipated that less than 0.1 hectare (0.1 acre) of wetlands will be impacted by the proposed project. The final decision concerning compensatory mitigation for the wetland impacts lies with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. d. Stream Impacts and Mitigation Stream impacts will result with implementation of the proposed project. These impacts are associated with the extension of culverts and/or pipes. The details of stream involvement and modification will be detailed in the application for the 401 Water Quality Certification, and compensatory mitigation with regard to stream mitigation is left to the discretion of DWQ. NCDOT will coordinate with DWQ to fulfill the necessary requirements regarding stream mitigation. e. Bicycle Accommodations and Sidewalks . 00 To accommodate bicycle traffic, the lanes along NC 55 will be striped as follows: 3.9-meter (13-foot) outside through lanes, 3.3-meter (11-foot) inside through lanes, and a 3.6-meter (12-foot) center turn lane. Bridge No. 71 on NC 55 over US 1 will accommodate bicycle traffic with 3.9-meter (13-foot) outside through lanes, 3.3-meter (11-foot) inside through lanes, 3.6-meter (12-foot) left-turn lanes, and 0.6 m (2 ft) of lateral clearance on each side. The structure will also include 1.5-meter (5-foot) sidewalks on both sides. Bicycle- safe drainage grates will be specified as a safety feature to be included in the iii design, as well as "Share the Road" signs. A three-bar metal handrail at pedestrian height (1067 millimeters [42 inches]) will also be provided. f. Best Management Practices NCDOT's Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters and Sedimentation Control guidelines will be strictly enforced during the construction stage of the project in order to minimize impacts to water resources in the study area. w g. Underground Storage Tank and Hazardous Material It is anticipated that the proposed improvements to NC 55 will encroach upon three (3) properties identified as Underground Storage Tank (UST) sites. The project will be designed to avoid impacts to these sites to prevent the possibility of long-term, costly remediation. However, if impacts to these sites are unavoidable, a more detailed geotechnical evaluation of UST involvement will be required before right-of-way acquisition is initiated. h. Geodetic Survey Markers Currently, it is anticipated that three geodetic survey markers will be impacted by this project. The North Carolina Geodetic Survey will be contacted prior to construction regarding the relocation of these markers along the project. 4. Ai TE NATIVE CON In .RAT) Three widening alternatives were initially considered: symmetrical, east side and west side widening. Cursory consideration was given to widening NC 55 symmetrically the entire length of the project. Early on, it was determined that Bridge No. 71 over US 1 would need to be phase constructed; therefore, widening symmetrically was not prudent and was removed from further evaluation. The two remaining widening alternatives considered were: Alternative A: East Side Widening (Recommended) Alternative B: West Side Widening The above alternatives involve widening the existing roadway to five lanes with curb and gutter, the replacement of the existing bridge, and additional improvements to selected intersections and the US 1 interchange. Traffic signals will also be added at two intersections: the intersection of NC 55 with the US 1 eastbound ramp terminal and the intersection with SR 1444 (Lufidn Road). In addition to the widening alternatives, postponement of the proposed action, a "do nothing" alternative, and alternate modes of transportation were considered. IV Alternative A (east side widening) is recommended because it reduces residential impacts and utilizes the abandoned railroad right of way. It also avoids impacts to the power substation on the west side of NC 55 just south of the US 1 interchange, is less costly, and has the best overall design. 5. SUMMARY OF BENEFICIAL. AND ADVER ENVIRONMENTAL IMPA Ts The proposed improvements will allow more efficient vehicular operation and reduced travel time, resulting in road-user cost savings. Traffic safety will be enhanced. Access to homes, businesses, and public facilities in the area will be improved. Also, increased vertical clearance under the proposed NC 55 bridge will offer additional safety improvements to motorists traveling on US 1. The project will also provide an improved link between the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass (TIP Project No. R-2541) and the proposed widening of NC 55 from US 1 north to US 64 (TIP Project No. U-2901). Approximately 2.5 hectares (6.1 acres) of additional right of way will be required. No prime farmland or state and locally important farmland will be taken. Less than 0.1 hectare (0.1 acre) of wetlands will be impacted. It is anticipated that two businesses will be relocated as a result of this project. No Section 4(f) properties will be impacted. None of the residences or businesses along the project will experience a "substantial increase" in noise impact due to the project, according to the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA's) noise abatement criteria (NAC) guidelines; however, a maximum of seventeen homes and businesses will experience noise levels above the NAC in the design year. Four federally-protected species were listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for Wake County as of May 2, 1997. This project will have no effect on the dwarf wedge mussel, bald eagle, red-cockaded woodpecker, or Michaux's sumac. 6. COORDINATION The project has been coordinated with the following federal, state, and local agencies: Environmental Protection Agency - Atlanta * U.S. Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers - Wilmington District * U.S. Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service * N.C. Department of Administration, State Clearinghouse * N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, Division of Archives and History * N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources * Division of Water Quality (formerly Division of Environmental Management) * N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission Geological Survey - Raleigh I& Triangle J Council of Governments Wake County Town of Apex Town of Holly Springs Those who provided input into the project study are denoted with an asterisk (*). 7. BASIS FOR CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION On the basis of planning and environmental studies, it is anticipated this project will not have a substantial detrimental effect on the quality of the natural or human environment. The proposed project will cause no substantial changes in route classification and land use and is not controversial in nature. The project has been reviewed by federal, state, and local agencies, and no objections have been raised. No major objections to the project were voiced at the Citizens Informational Workshop held on June 11, 1996. For these reasons, it is concluded that a Categorical Exclusion is applicable to the project. 8. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The following persons can be contacted for additional information concerning this proposal and statement: Mr. Nicholas L. Graf, P. E. Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration 310 New Bern Avenue Suite 410 Raleigh, North Carolina 27601 Telephone 919/856-4346 Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways Transportation Building P. O. Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Telephone 919/733-3141 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 1. NEED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT 1 A. General Description of Project 1 B. Purpose of Project I C. Project Status and Historical Resume 1 D. Existing Conditions I I . Length of Roadway Section Studied 1 2. Route Classification I 3. Existing Typical Section 2 4. Existing Right of Way 2 5. Access Control 2 6. Speed Limits 2 7. Bridges and Drainage Structures 2 8. Traffic Data 3 9. Horizontal and Vertical Curvature 3 10. Intersecting Roadways 3 11. Degree of Roadside Interference 4 12. Degree of Utility Conflicts 4 13. Railroad Crossings 4 14. School Bus Data 4 15. Airports 5 16. Sidewalks and Greenways 5 E. Capacity Analysis 5 I . Mainline Analysis 5 2. Intersection Analysis 6 F. Accident Analysis 7 G. Project Terminals 8 H. The Greater Raleigh Urban Area Thoroughfare Plan 8 II. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS 9 A. General Description 9 B. Length of Project 9 C. Project Termini and Independent Utility 9 D. Typical Section Description 10 E. Design Speed I 1 F. Right of Way I 1 G. Access Control 1 I H. Construction Limits I I ii CG TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE I. Intersection / Interchange Treatment 12 J. Bridges and Drainage Structures 13 K. Special Permits Required 13 L. Changes in the State Highway System 14 M. Bikeways 14 N. Sidewalks 14 0. Greenways 14 P. Landscaping 14 Q. Noise Barriers 14 R. Degree of Utility Conflicts 14 S. Cost Estimates 15 T. Other Proposed Highway Improvements in the Area 15 U. Anticipated Design Exceptions 16 III. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION 16 A. Recommended Improvements 16 B. Other Design Alternatives 16 C. Bridge Rehabilitation vs. Bridge Replacement 17 D. Postponement of Project 17 E. "Do Nothing" Alternative 18 F. Alternative Modes of Transportation 18 IV. SOC IAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 18 A. Social Effects 18 1. Land Use 18 a. Existing Land Use 18 b. Future Land Use 19 2. Boundaries and Population 19 3. Relocatees 19 4. Environmental Justice 20 5. Public Facilities 20 6. Social Impacts 20 7. Cultural Resources 21 a. Historic Architectural Resources 21 b. Archaeological Resources 21 8. Section 4(f) Resources 22 iii L TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 9. Section 6(f) Resources 22 B. Economic Effects 22 C. Environmental Effects 22 1. Biological Resources 22 a. Terrestrial Communities 23 b. Aquatic Communities 25 C. Summary of Anticipated Impacts 26 d. Federally-Protected Species 28 e. Federal Species of Concern 31 2. Geological Resources 33 a. Soils 33 b. Mineral Resources 33 C. Erosion Control 34 3. Wetlands 34 a. Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters 34 b. Summary of Anticipated Impacts 34 4. Permits 37 a. Nationwide 14 Permit 37 b. 401 Water Quality Certification 38 C. Wetland Mitigation 38 (1) Avoidance 38 (2) Minimization 38 (3) Compensatory Mitigation 39 d. Coordination with Other Agencies 39 5. Flood Hazard Evaluation 40 6. Water Resources 40 a. Characteristics 40 b. Best Usage Classification 41 C. Water Quality 42 d. Summary of Anticipated Impacts 42 iv TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 7. Farmland 43 8. Highway Traffic Noise and Construction Noise Analysis 44 a. Characteristics of Noise 44 b. Noise Abatement Criteria 45 C. Ambient Noise Levels 46 d. Procedure for Predicting Future Noise Levels 46 e. Traffic Noise Impact Analysis 48 (1) Highway Alignment 49 (2) Traffic System Management Measures 49 (3) Noise Barriers 49 f. "Do Nothing" Alternative 50 g. Construction Noise 50 h. Summary 51 9. Air Quality Analysis 51 10. Stream Modification 54 11. Hazardous Materials 54 12. Geodetic Survey Markers 55 13. Construction Impacts 55 V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION 57 A. Comments Received from Federal, State, and Local Agencies 57 B. Citizens Informational Workshop 58 C. Public Hearing 58 TABLES Table 1 Bridge / Culvert - Structural Data 3 Table 2A Mainline Capacity Analysis 6 Table 213 Unsignalized Intersection Capacity Analysis 6 Table 2C Signalized Intersection Capacity Analysis 7 Table 3 Accident Rates (Per 100 Million Vehicle Kilometers) 8 Table 4 Project Cost and Impact Summary 17 Table 5 Anticipated Biotic Community Impacts 27 Table 6 Federally-Protected Species for Wake County 28 Table 7 Federal Species of Concern for Wake County 32 Table 8 Mapping Units Found Within the Project Area 33 Table 9 Wetland Impacts 35 V TABLES (continued) Table 10 Surface Water Impacts 36 Table 11 Culvert - Hydraulic Data 40 Table 12 Stream Characteristics 41 Table 13 One-Hour CO Concentrations (PPM) 53 MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS Figure 1 Vicinity Map Figure 2 Aerial Mosaic of Project (Proposed Improvements) Figure 3 Project Average Daily Traffic Volumes Figure 4 The Greater Raleigh Urban Area Thoroughfare Plan Figure 5 Photos of Existing Conditions Figure 6A Proposed 5-Lane Typical Section Figure 6B Proposed Bridge Typical Section Figure 7A Proposed Intersection Geometry Figure 7B Proposed Interchange Geometry Figure 8 Other Proposed Highway Improvements in the Vicinity of TIP Project No. R-2905 Figure 9 Wetland and Surface Water Impact Areas Figure 10 Approximate 100-Year Floodplain Limits APPENDICES Appendix A Relocation Reports Appendix B Discussion of Division of Highways Relocation Programs Appendix C Comments Received from Federal, State, and Local Agencies Appendix D Citizens Informational Workshop Appendix E Traffic Noise Analysis Data Appendix F Air Quality Analysis Data Appendix G Hazardous Materials Evaluation I. NEED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT A. General Description of Project The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to widen NC 55 from the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass, north of SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road), to north of US 1, approximately 300 meters (984 feet) north of the intersection with NC 55 and SR 1158 (South Hughes Road), in Wake County. The project area is shown on Figure 1. The proposed improvements are shown on Figure 2. For the purpose of this document, NC 55 will be described as a north/south highway. B. Pose of Project The primary purpose of the project is to provide a safer highway for motorists. The widening of NC 55 will improve the level of service of the facility by providing additional through lanes and a center turning lane for the anticipated traffic increase. The proposed upgrading of NC 55 will improve access to homes, businesses, and public services in the area. C. Project Status and Historical Resume The 1998-2004 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) calls for the widening of the existing two-lane roadway to a five-lane curb and gutter facility and the replacement of Bridge No. 71 over US 1. Right-of-way acquisition and construction are scheduled to begin in Fiscal Years 1998 and 2000, respectively. The TIP includes a total funding of $8,020,000 for the project, including $1,170,000 for right of way and $6,850,000 for construction. The total cost of improvements recommended in this report is $7,798,750, which includes $948,750 for right of way and $6,850,000 for construction. D. Existing Conditions 1. Length of Roadway Section Studied The length of the studied section of NC 55 is approximately 2.3 kilometers (1.4 miles). Photographs of existing conditions along the project are shown on Figure 5. 2. Route Classification NC 55 has two classifications within the project limits. From the south terminal to US 1, NC 55 is classified as a Minor Arterial. From US 1 to the north terminal, NC 55 is classified as an Other Principal Arterial. 3. Existing Typical Section The southern terminus of the project has two lanes and a pavement width of approximately 6.6 m (22 ft) plus 0- to 0.6-meter (0- to 2-foot) paved shoulders and 1.8- to 2.4-meter (6- to 8-foot) grassed shoulders. Just south of the US 1 interchange, NC 55 widens to three lanes. On each side of the US 1 interchange, the typical section of NC 55 is a three-lane section, with 3.9-meter (IMoot) travel lanes and a 3.3-meter (11-foot) center turn lane, plus 1.2- to 1.5-meter (4- to 5-foot) paved shoulders. Near the northern terminus of the project, NC 55 tapers back to two lanes with a pavement width of approximately 6.6 m (22 ft) plus 0- to 0.6-meter (0- to 2-foot) paved shoulders and 1.8- to 2.4-meter (6- to 8-foot) grassed shoulders. 4. Existing Right of Way The right-of-way width along NC 55 is approximately 30 m (100 ft) along the project. The right of way at the US 1 interchange is variable. 5. Access Control The US 1 interchange has full control of access. Otherwise, there is no control of access along the project. 6. Speed Limits The posted speed limit is 70 kilometers per hour (km/h) (45 miles per hour [mph]) within the Apex town limits and 90 km/h (55 mph) outside the town limits. 7. Bridges and Drainage Structures One bridge and one reinforced concrete box culvert are located within the project limits. General information about these structures is listed in Table 1. The locations of the bridge and culvert are shown on Figure 2. TABLE 1: BRIDGE / CULVERT - STRUCTURAL DATA SITE LOCATION/ DATE STRUCTURE SUFFICIENCY VERTICAL NO. BRIDGENO. BUILT LENGTH/CLEAR RATING CLEARANCE ROADWAY WIDTH (BRIDGE); SIZE (CULVERT) 1 Bridge No. 71 1962 71 m by 8.5 in 75.9 4.6 m* Over US 1 (233 ft by 28 ft) (15'-4")* East End of the US 1 N/A 1 @ 2.4 in by 1.8 m N/A N/A 2** Interchange Ramps (8 ft by 6 ft) Over Middle Creek (t) NOTES: denotes that the bridge has insufficient vertical clearance. The standard vertical clearance for a bridge over interstates, freeways, and arterials is 5.0 m (16'-6") to 5.2 m (179-011). "**" denotes existing culvert. "t" denotes tributary of creek. "N/A" denotes that information is not available. 8. Traffic Data The current (1997) traffic along NC 55 ranges from 19,900 vehicles per day (vpd) just north of the NC 55/SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road) intersection to 16,990 vpd just north of the NC 55/SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection. NC 55 is expected to generate from 34,800 vpd just north of the NC 55/SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road) intersection to 26,100 vpd just north of the NC 55/SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection by the year 2020. Truck traffic comprises approximately seven percent of these volumes (4 percent dual-tired vehicles [DUAL] and 3 percent truck-trailer semi-trailer [TTST]). Projected traffic volumes, major turning movements, truck data, and design hour data are shown on Figure 3. For the purpose of this document, traffic studies along NC 55 will be for the years 2002 (the project "Build" year) and the design year (2020). 9. Horizontal and Vertical Curvature The existing horizontal and vertical curvature is fair along the project. 10. Intersecting Roadways An interchange exists at US 1 and NC 55. All other highway intersections along the project are at-grade. 4 The intersection of NC 55 with the US 1 westbound ramp terminal is currently signalized. All other intersections are stop sign controlled. 11. Decree of Roadside Interference The southern terminus of the project is predominantly residential. Development along NC 55 becomes slightly heavier traveling north toward the US 1 interchange. In the vicinity of the US 1 interchange, development along NC 55 is moderate and mostly commercial in nature. North of the US 1 interchange, roadside development transitions to a lighter nature. 12. Degree of Utility Conflicts Multiple telephone cables are located along both sides of NC 55 for the length of the project, along with buried fiber service along the west side of NC 55. From US 1 to Dixie Pipeline, a 152-mm (6-inch) gas pipe follows NC 55 on the west side. Three gas lines cross NC 55 just south of SR 1444 (Lufldn Road). A 152-mm (6-inch) high pressure pipe crosses under NC 55 and serves Dixie Pipeline's pumping and storage station east of NC 55. The line is encased in 14.6 in (48 ft) of 254-mm (10-inch) encasements. A three-phase Carolina Power & Light (CP&L) distribution/service system exists 15 in (50 ft) west of the centerline of NC 55. Cable television service is also attached to the CP&L poles. A 102-mm (4-inch) water line runs on the west side of NC 55 from Rigsbee Auto Parts to the south. From north of US 1 to just north of SR 1444 (Lufldn Road), a 305-mm (12-inch) water line runs on the east side of NC 55; a 406-mm (16-inch) water line runs along the east side of NC 55 from SR 1444 (Lufidn Road) south to Holly Springs; a 152-mm (6-inch) water line runs from SR 1444 (Luflcin Road) south to Rigsbee Auto Parts; and a 152-mm (6-inch) water line crosses NC 55 just north of SR 1444 (Luflcin Road). Therefore, based on this information, the degree of utility conflicts is anticipated to be moderate to high along this segment of NC 55. 13. Railroad Crossings The CSX Transportation previously owned the railroad tracks that paralleled much of the project. These tracks have now been abandoned and removed. There are no railroad crossings on this project. 14. School Bus Data Fifteen (15) school buses traveling to and from six schools utilize this section of NC 55 each day in Wake County. 5 15. Airports The project is outside the critical air space regulated by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA). 16. Sidewalks and Green=s Sidewalks currently exist in front of Wicker Mart/Amoco on the west side of NC 55, south of the US 1 interchange, for a distance of approximately 54 m (178 ft). Sidewalks also currently exist in front of Burger King and Pizza Inn on the east side of NC 55, north of the US 1 interchange, for a distance of approximately 93 m (306 ft). No greenways exist within the project limits. E. Capacity Analysis The concept of level of service (LOS) is defined as a qualitative measure describing operational conditions within a traffic system and how these conditions are perceived by motorists and/or passengers. A level of service definition generally describes these conditions in terms of such factors as speed, travel time, freedom to maneuver, traffic interruptions, comfort, convenience, and safety. Six levels are defined for each type of facility for which analysis procedures are available. They are given letter designations from A to F, with LOS A representing the best operation conditions and LOS F representing the worst. 1. Mainline Analysis Mainline capacity analyses were performed for the existing two-lane highway and the proposed five-lane undivided highway with the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass in place. The analyses were performed for the years 2002 (the project "Build" year) and the design year (2020). The results of these studies represent the worst case "peak" scenario and are shown in Table 2A. 6 TABLE 2A: MAINLINE CAPACITY ANALYSIS SEGMENT OF 2002 /2020 LOS 2002 /2020 LOS NC SS (EXISTING (PROPOSED (FROM/ TO) 2-LANE 5-LANE FACILIT19 FACILITI) SR 1448 / SR 1444 E/F B/C SR1444/US1 E/F B/C US 1 /SR 1158 E/F B/C SR 1158 / North E / F B / B Terminal (3) NOTES: (1) denotes project segment with highest 2002 projected ADT. (2) denotes project segment with highest 2020 projected ADT. (3) denotes project segment with lowest 2002 & 2020 projected ADT. The results show that the widening of NC 55 to five lanes will substantially improve the level of service of the facility. 2. Intersection Analysis Capacity analyses were also performed for three major unsignalized and the three signalized intersections for the existing two-lane highway and the proposed five-lane undivided highway. The results represent the worst case "peak" scenario. See Tables 2B and 2C for results of these analyses. TABLE 2B: UNSIGNALIZED INTERSECTION CAPACITY ANALYSIS INTERSECTION 2002 2020 2002 2020 WITH NC 55 NO NO WITH WITH IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT IMPROVEMENT SR 1444 E / C F / F ,.::}'.•: ;,}}'r;.f..:.:.... 4 • X ' ;S • ' rte:>x. <:,.:,. .y }F4 (Luflcin Road) } .v . i . ; r :y ;: +7 n .; , :?r?:. f `• ::'':jf•{T •SA:•sy.{+'':'.}'C?}'?\: 00 ??:}.h.:??:>«:??:??' , 4 . 1 Eastbound F /F F / F •`•frf .:,?.,,"?:,,'.''`•:: ?;,>:'.:::...,:.,: ??:::` Ramp •x?: : ., .?r: . ? f£;:r:.:. f ?:>;::? SR 1158 (South Hughes D/C F/E D/C F/F* Road) NOTES: All level of service results are divided into two parts: left and right turns (minor streets) / left turns (NC 55). "*" will be monitored for future signalization. 7 TABLE 2C: SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION CAPACITY ANALYSIS INTERSECTION 2002 / 2020 2002 / 2020 WITH NC SS (EXISTING (PROPOSED 2-LANE FACILIT19 S-LANE FACILITY SR 1444 :.....ti:::.::::.:<.:.4:.:.:.4:;: A.::. (Lufkin Road }St'?h" . ...''v+.i?:'tiisti,ilrj.?:'•?y-:{•:12,?s4,::i?' ?'::??::• ':? : ?:' '>?:`::::: US 1 Eastbound ..?4+. C / C US 1 Westbound F/ F B/ C Ramp NOTE: denotes that LOS results include the recommended addition of an exclusive right-tum lane onto the side road (see Section IM). The intersection capacity analyses show that the level of service for the traffic movements addressed will increase slightly,or remain basically the same due to the proposed widening, with the exception of the SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection. The intersection of NC 55 with SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) will not be signalized as a part of this project. However, once this intersection is signalized, the capacity analysis shows that the level of service for the year 2002 and the design year 2020 would be a LOS B. This intersection will be reviewed by the Traffic Engineering Branch as traffic increases, and a signal will be considered when warranted. F. Accident Analysis A comparison of accident rates along NC 55 with average statewide rates for urban and rural two-lane "NC" routes are shown below in Table 3. The accident rates for NC 55 are based on the period from January, 1994, to December, 1996. The statewide averages were generated from data for the years 1994-1996. TABLE 3: ACCIDENT RATES (PER 100 MILLION VEHICLE KILOMETERS) ACCIDENT RATES AVERAGE AVERAGE TYPE ALONG NC SS STATEWIDE STATEWIDE RATES FOR RATES FOR URBAN RURAL "NC ROUTES" "NC ROUTES" All Accidents 157.14 188.20 134.39 Fatal 2.38 0.56 1.59 Non-fatal 57.14 79.22 62.23 Nighttime 38.10 35.74 43.39 Wet Conditions 40.48 40.04 29.60 The comparison shows that the overall accident rate along the subject segment of NC 55 is lower than the urban statewide rate and higher than the rural statewide rate. There were sixty-six accidents reported within the studied period; approximately 51.5 percent of the accidents were rear-end, slow or stop accidents. Twenty-five accidents were located at the US 1 bridge ramp terminals. It is anticipated that the proposed widening of the existing roadway will reduce the likelihood of these types of accidents by adding through lanes and a center left-turn lane. The accidents at the US 1 interchange ramps may be reduced with the exclusive left-turn lanes extending the length of the bridge. G. Protect Terminals The southern terminus of the project is located approximately 390 m (1280 ft) north of the SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road) intersection with NC 55. NC 55 is currently two lanes at this location but will be widened south of the intersection as a part of TIP Project No. R-2541 (Proposed Holly Springs Bypass). This project is proposed to have a two- lane facility on a multi-lane right of way on new alignment. The northern terminus of TIP Project No. R-2905 ends approximately 300 m (984 ft) north of the intersection with NC 55 and SR 1158 (South Hughes Road). The existing roadway is currently two lanes at this location; however, north of this terminal, NC 55 will be widened to three lanes and ultimately to five lanes under TIP Project No. U-2901. H. The Greater Raleigh Urban Area Thorou re PI n The Greater Raleigh Urban Area Thoroughfare Plan was updated in 1995 and now includes the Apex area (see Figure 4). NC 55 is identified as a major thoroughfare in this plan. The Thoroughfare Plan recommends a five- or six-lane cross section for NC 55 along the project. II. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS A. General Description Proposed improvements to NC 55 include widening the existing roadway to five lanes with curb and gutter from the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to north of US 1 in Wake County. The proposal also includes replacement of Bridge No. 71 (the existing bridge on NC 55 over US 1), the US 1 interchange will be improved by upgrading the diamond configuration at the interchange to meet current design standards (lengthening and widening and/or realigning of the ramps), and the relocation of approximately 350 m (1148 R) of SR 1158 (South Hughes Road). The proposed improvements are shown on Figure 2. B. Length of Project The length of roadway to be improved is approximately 2.3 km (1.4 mi). C. Project Termini and Independent Utility The southern terminus of the project is located approximately 390 m (1280 ft) north of the SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road) intersection with NC 55 and will tie into TIP Project No. R-2541 (Proposed Holly Springs Bypass). TIP Project No. R-2905 includes the widening of NC 55 northward from the vicinity of TIP Project No. R-2541 (Proposed Holly Springs Bypass). Improvements to the US 1 interchange were incorporated into this project due to the extensive improvements needed for this interchange to operate at an acceptable level of service in the design year. The northern terminus of the project is located approximately 300 m (984 ft) north of the intersection of NC 55 with SR 1158 (South Hughes Road). Due to the adverse impact of traffic operations north of the US 1 westbound ramp terminal, particularly at the intersection of NC 55 with SR 1158 (South Hughes Road), it was necessary to extend the limits of TIP Project No. R-2905 northward for a distance of approximately 300 m (984 ft) beyond the SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection with NC 55. Extending the northern terminus of the project will provide lanes with adequate storage for turning traffic. The northern terminus of the project will tie into TIP Project No. U-2901. TIP Project No. R-2541 (Proposed Holly Springs Bypass) is scheduled in the current TIP to be under construction prior to the commencement of construction for TIP Project No. R-2905. The five-lane and multi-lane cross sections for these projects are compatible. These improvements are part of a program to upgrade NC 55 to a multi-lane facility from Fuquay Varina to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in Durham. 10 According to Title 23 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR) Part 771.111 (f), "...in order to ensure meaningful evaluation of alternatives and to avoid commitments to transportation improvements before they are fully evaluated... shall: (1) Connect a logical termini and be of sufficient length to address environmental matters on a broad scope; (2) Have an independent utility or independent significant, i.e., be usable and be a reasonable expenditure even if no additional transportation improvements in the area are made; and (3) Not restrict consideration of alternatives for other reasonably foreseeable transportation improvements." This project will connect a planned multi-lane roadway adjacent to NC 55 north of Holly Springs (TIP Project No. R-2541 [Proposed Holly Springs Bypass]) with a planned five-lane facility along NC 55 north of SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) (TIP Project No. U-2901). As noted above, this project is part of a program to upgrade NC 55 from Fuquay Varina to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in Durham to a multi- lane facility. The environmental impacts of the other portions of this program (TIP Project No. R-2541 and TIP Project No. U-2901) to widen NC 55 are being addressed under separate National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents. The proposed project (TIP Project No. R-2905) can stand alone as a functioning project and is designed to be compatible with the other TIP projects along NC 55. NCDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) have determined this project meets the criteria set forth in 23 CFR 771.111(f). D. Typical Section Description It is recommended that NC 55 be widened to a five-lane, 19.2-meter (64-foot) (face to face) curb and gutter section. This width includes 3.9-meter (13-foot) outside through lanes to accommodate bicycle traffic, 3.3-meter (11-foot) inside through lanes, and a 3.6-meter (12-foot) center turn lane. The berm width will be 3 m (10 ft). The proposed typical section is shown on Figure 6A. Bridge No. 71 on NC 55 over US 1 will be replaced and will provide six lanes. The lane configuration will consist of two through lanes in each direction and a left-turn lane in each direction. The proposed structure will have a clear roadway width of 22.8 m (76 ft). This width will accommodate bicycle traffic with 3.9-meter (13-foot) outside through lanes, 3.3-meter (11-foot) inside through lanes, 3.6-meter (12-foot) left-turn lanes, and 0.6 m (2 ft) of lateral clearance on each side. The structure will also include 1.5-meter (5-foot) sidewalks on both sides. The proposed typical section is shown on Figure 6B. The proposed lane configuration is shown on Figure 7B. II The project will be widened on the east side the entire length of the project, tying in with the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass at the southern terminus and with the existing roadway at the northern terminus. E. Design Speed The design speed is approximately 80 km/h (50 mph) for the entire length of the project. F. Right of Wav_ The proposed right-of-way width will be 36.6 m (120 ft) along the entire length of the project. Approximately 2.5 hectares (6.1 acres) of additional right of way will be required. In addition, some temporary easements may be required for this project. G. Access Control The control of access will not differ from the existing conditions. H. Construction Limit Along NC 55, the construction limits are the same as the project termini. Ramp work associated with raising the grade on Bridge No. 71 over US 1, to provide increased vertical clearance, will be required in order to tie the ramp terminals into the proposed bridge. The diamond configuration at the US 1 interchange will be upgraded to meet current design standards (lengthening and widening and/or realigning of the ramps). Additional lanes will be incorporated onto both ramps on the east side of NC 55 (quadrants A and B ramps) and the ramp in the southwest quadrant of NC 55 (quadrant C ramp). The ramp improvements in quadrant A will extend approximately 400 m (1312 ft) eastward along US 1 from the ramp intersection with NC 55. The ramp improvements in quadrant B will continue for approximately 762 m (2500 ft) eastward from the ramp gore area along US 1. The ramp improvements in quadrants C and D will not extend past the existing gore areas for those ramps. The ramp and quadrant designations are shown on Figure 2. No other roadway improvements to US 1 will be included as a part of this project. Intersection improvements will occur at the NC 55/SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection. SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) will be realigned so that the new intersection of NC 55 and SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) is approximately 140 in (460 ft) north of the existing intersection. The existing intersection is approximately 100 in (330 ft) from the intersection of NC 55 with the US 1 interchange westbound ramp terminal. The realignment will continue approximately 350 m (1148 ft) along SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) from its intersection with NC 55. 12 I. Intersection / Interchange Treatment One intersection with NC 55 is currently signalized and will remain signalized at the US 1 westbound ramp terminal. The US 1 eastbound ramp terminal intersection and the SR 1444 (Lufkin Road) intersection will be signalized as a part of this project. An exclusive right-turn lane will be added to the intersection of SR 1444 (Lufkin Road) with NC 55. The proposed lane configuration is shown on Figure 7A. The existing US 1/NC 55 interchange configuration will remain the same. The US 1 interchange will be improved by upgrading the diamond configuration at the interchange to meet current design standards (lengthening and widening or realigning of the ramps). The ramp improvements include widening the ramps in quadrants B and C (see Figure 2) to accommodate two lanes of traffic. The ramp in quadrant B will taper from two lanes to one lane and then merge with the US 1 traffic; this tapering will occur for approximately 762 m (2500 ft) eastward from the ramp gore area along US 1 in quadrant B. The off-ramp in quadrant A will accommodate four lanes of in-coming traffic: two exclusive right-turn lanes, a shared through and left-turn lane, and one exclusive left-turn lane. The ramp improvements in quadrant A will continue for approximately 400 m (1312 ft) eastward along US 1 from the ramp intersection with NC 55. The intersection of NC 55 with the ramp in quadrant D will shift slightly to the north to tie in with NC 55 and the ramp intersection of quadrant A. The ramp improvements in quadrants C and D will not extend. past the existing gore areas for those ramps. The recommended ramp improvements will improve the level of service of the interchange. Exclusive right-turn lanes will be added to both on-ramp intersections. The proposed lane configuration is shown on Figure 7B. No other roadway improvements to US 1 will be included as a part of this project. The existing bridge will be replaced with a wider structure which will accommodate six lanes (two through lanes and a left-turn lane in each direction) with differential striping for bicycles. The intersection of NC 55 with SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) is located approximately 100 m (330 ft) from the intersection of NC 55 with the US 1 interchange westbound ramp terminal. This distance is not adequate because queues from the US 1 interchange ramp terminal are expected to adversely impede traffic operations at this intersection. Therefore, intersection improvements will occur at the NC 55/SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection. SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) will be realigned so that the new intersection of NC 55 and SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) is approximately 140 m (460 ft) north of the existing intersection. The realignment will continue approximately 350 m (1148 ft) along SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) from its intersection with NC 55; a cul-de-sac will be constructed at the eastern end of existing SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) close to where it currently intersects with NC 55 (see Figure 2). 13 Raised monolithic islands will be incorporated on NC 55 south of the US 1 interchange between the ramp terminal and SR 1444 (Lufkin Road) and north of the US 1 interchange between the ramp terminal and SR 1158 (South Hughes Road). These islands will prevent left-turning vehicles from impeding the flow of traffic near the US 1 interchange area. J. Bridges and Drainage Structures The existing Bridge No. 71 over US 1 will be replaced with a new structure. The new structure will have a clear roadway width of approximately 22.8 in (76 ft), including 0.6 m (2 ft) of lateral clearance on each side (see Figure 6B). The proposed bridge will be raised approximately 0 to 1.2 m (0 to 4 ft) to provide additional vertical clearance, as needed, over US 1. The current vertical clearance for Bridge No. 71 is 4.6 m (15'4"), which is below the standard of 5.0 m (16'-6") to 5.2 m (17%0"). The proposed vertical clearance for Bridge No. 71 is 5.0 m (16'-6"). The new structure will be striped to provide six lanes (two through lanes and a left-turn lane in each direction) with differential striping to accommodate bicycle traffic. The proposed lane configuration is shown on Figure 7B. The new structure will also include a 1.5-meter (5-foot) raised sidewalk in each direction. NC 55 is anticipated to be widened on the east side. The replacement bridge (Bridge No. 71) will include 1067-mm (42-inch) pedestrian safe rails, as per American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials' (AASHTO) standards. Bridge No. 71 over US 1 will be phase constructed in order to maintain traffic throughout the construction period. A portion of the proposed structure will be constructed on the east side of the existing bridge. Roadway approaches will be constructed and traffic will be diverted onto a portion of the new structure. The existing structure will be removed. The remaining proposed structure and approaches will be constructed. A culvert exists at the US 1 interchange in quadrant B. The existing culvert will be lengthened, as needed, to accommodate ramp improvements. A pipe exists at the US 1 interchange in quadrant A and approximately 915 m (3000 ft) eastward from the ramp gore area along US 1 in quadrant B. These pipes will also be lengthened, as needed, to accommodate ramp improvements. K. Special Permits Required It is anticipated that a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) Nationwide 14 Permit (minor road crossings) will be required for the project. A Section 401 Water Quality Certification will be required from the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR) - Division of Water Quality (DWQ), formerly known as the Division of Environmental Management (DEM), for activities resulting in a discharge into any of the streams involved with this project. 14 L. Changes in the State Highway System No changes in the state highway system are anticipated. M. Bil g=s NC 55 from US 64 in Apex south to Fuquay Varina is listed in the 1998-2004 TIP as needing an incidental bicycle safety accommodation when sections of this roadway are proposed for improvement. Incidental bicycle improvements for NC 55 are proposed as part of this project. The improvements include: wider outside lanes, bicycle-safe drainage grates, and "Share the Road" signs. To accommodate bicycle traffic, the lanes along NC 55 will be striped as follows: 3.9-meter (13-foot) outside through lanes, 3.3-meter (11-foot) inside through lanes, and a 3.6-meter (12-foot) center turn lane. Bridge No. 71 over US 1 will be striped as follows to accommodate bicycle traffic: 3.9-meter (1 Moot) outside through lanes, 3.3-meter (11-foot) inside through lanes, and 3.6-meter (12-foot) left-turn lanes. The replacement bridge (Bridge No. 71) will include 1067-mm (42-inch) pedestrian safe rails. The replacement bridge does not need AASHTO standard rails to accommodate the bicycle traffic since sidewalks will separate bicycle traffic from the bridge rail. N. Sidewalka NCDOT will replace existing sidewalks that are disturbed by project construction. The replacement bridge over US 1 (Bridge No. 71) will include 1.5-meter (5-foot) sidewalks on both sides. No additional sidewalks will be incorporated into this project. 0. Green=s No greenways are planned in conjunction with this project. P. Landscaping No unique landscaping is proposed for this project. Q. Noise Barriers No noise barriers are proposed for this project. R. Degree of Utility Conflicts The degree of utility conflicts is anticipated to be moderate to high along this segment of NC 55. The recommended improvements will minimize impacts to adjacent utilities. 15 S. Cost Estimates The cost estimates for the proposed improvements are as follows: Construction: NC 55 widening & replacement of Bridge No. 71 over US 1 $ 5,400,000 US 1 interchange ramp improvements 1,250,000 Realignment of SR 1158 200,000 Total Construction Cost: $ 6,850,000 Right of Way: NC 55 widening & replacement of Bridge No. 71 over US 1 $ 528,750 US 1 interchange ramp improvements 200,000 Realignment of SR 1158 220,000 Total Right-of-Way Cost: $ 948,750 Total Cost: $ 7,798,750 T. Other Proposed Highway Improvements in the Area There are several TIP projects in the project area; these projects are shown on Figure 8 and are described below: 1. TIP Project No. R-2500: Widening of US 1 to a four-lane divided freeway from north of US 15-501 to US 64, Wake County. Sections A, B, and C are currently under construction. 2. TIP Project No. R-2541: Proposed Holly Springs Bypass, proposed two- lane facility on multi-lane right of way on new alignment, Wake County. Right-of-way acquisition and construction are scheduled for Fiscal Years 1996 and 1998, respectively. 3. TIP Project No. R-2635: Proposed Western Wake Expressway, proposed four-lane divided freeway on new alignment from US 1 south of Apex to NC 55, in Wake County. Right-of-way acquisition and construction are scheduled for post year (after Fiscal Year 2004). 4. TIP Project No. R-2906: Widening of NC 55 to multi-lanes from US 64 in Wake County to SR 1121 in Durham County. Right-of-way acquisition is scheduled for Fiscal Year 2003 and construction is scheduled for post year. 16 5. TIP Project No. R-2907: Widening of NC 55 to a five-lane curb and gutter facility from SR 1108 in Fuquay Varina to SR 1114 at the proposed Holly Springs Bypass, Wake County. Right-of-way acquisition and construction are scheduled for Fiscal Years 1998 and 2001, respectively. 6. TIP Project No. U-2901: Interim widening of NC 55 (Williams Street) to a three-lane shoulder section, with an ultimate five-lane curb and gutter facility section from US 1 to US 64, in Wake County. Right-of-way acquisition and construction are scheduled for post year. Section A is currently under construction by the Division. U. Anticipated Design Exceptions No design exceptions are anticipated for this project. III. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION A. Recommended Improvements It is recommended that NC 55 be widened to five lanes from the Proposed Holly Springs Bypass, north of SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road), to north of US 1, approximately 300 m (984 ft) north of the intersection with NC 55 and SR 1158 (South Hughes Road). The roadway will be widened to the east. This widening recommendation will minimize overall environmental impacts, right-of-way damages, and project costs. The proposed improvements of the project are explained in Section II and are shown on Figure 2. B. Other Design Alternatives Three widening alternatives were initially considered. Cursory consideration. was given to widening NC 55 symmetrically the entire length of the project. However, Bridge No. 71 over US 1 will be phase constructed in order to maintain traffic throughout the construction period; therefore, widening symmetrically is not prudent and was not evaluated further. The two remaining widening alternatives considered were: Alternative A: East Side Widening (Recommended) Alternative B: West Side Widening The total cost, estimated number of relocatees, and summary of impacts associated with each alternative are shown in Table 4: 17 TABLE 4: PROJECT COST AND IMPACT SUMMARY CONSTRUCTION, NUMBER OF AREA OF HISTORIC ALTERNATIVE RIGHT OF WAY, RELOCATEES WETLANDS SITES & TOTAL COSTS (ResidentiaU IMPACTED IMPACTED Business) hectares(acres) $ 6,850,000 A* $ 948,750 0/2 <0.1 (<O.1) 0 $ 7,798,750 $ 7,050,000 B $ 1,017,500 0/0 <0.1 (<O.1) 0 $ 8,067,500 NOTE: "*" denotes recommended alternative. Alternative A is recommended as the preferred alternative because it is the least costly alternative. C. Bridge Rehabilitation vs. Bridge Replacement The existing Bridge No. 71 has an asphalt overlay and would require rehabilitation and a latex modified concrete overlay. The structure also has a severely deteriorated red lead paint system that will require removal, containment, and disposal. These factors contribute to an estimated cost of $1,230,000 to retain and widen the existing bridge. The existing Bridge No. 71 would also need to be raised to provide an adequate vertical clearance above US 1. In addition, raising and rehabilitation of the existing bridge would create challenges and difficulties in maintaining traffic through the project site during construction. A new replacement bridge is estimated to cost $1,000,000 including removal of the old bridge. Therefore, a new replacement bridge is recommended in lieu of rehabilitating Bridge No. 71. D. Postponement of Pject Postponement of the project would result in a continuing deterioration of traffic capacity and safety conditions in the future as traffic demands increase. Therefore, this alternative is not recommended. 18 E. "Do Nothing" Alternative Although this alternative would avoid the limited adverse environmental impacts that are anticipated as a result of the project, there would be no positive effect on the traffic capacity and safety of the highway. Therefore, this alternative is not recommended. F. Alternative Modes of Tranap ation No alternate mode of transportation is considered to be a practical alternative. Highway transportation is the dominant mode of transportation in the project area. There is currently no mass transit system in existence or planned in the project area due to the low population density of the area. Staggering work hours, car-pooling, and van-pooling are possible ways to reduce highway congestion; however, these congestion management measures are not within the control of NCDOT and cannot be incorporated into this project. IV. SOCIAL._ ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL FFFEC S A. Social Effects 1. Land Use The proposed improvements are located within the municipal limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction of the Town of Apex. The Town has an active planning program and adopted the 2010 Land Use Plan in 1989. The town adopted and enforces zoning regulations. a. Existing Land Use The project area is generally urbanized, with a substantial amount of industrial development fronting the roadway throughout the length of the project. A small section of residential development is located at the project's southern terminus, north of SR. 1448 (Bobbitt Road). Industrial development composes the remainder of the area fronting the roadway south of the interchange with US 1. There are highway commercial developments at the US 1 interchange. The project area is predominantly wooded and undeveloped north of SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) to the northern project terminal. 19 b. Future Land Use The project area is subject to the Town of Apex's zoning ordinance. Generally, the existing land uses along the roadway are consistent with the current zoning districts. Expansion of primarily industrial uses with some areas of commercial and residential uses is permitted by the zoning ordinance in undeveloped areas adjacent to these existing uses. 2. Boundaries and Population Wake County is bounded by Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Granville, Harnett, Johnston, and Nash Counties. The Bureau of Census 1990 population for Wake County, North Carolina is 423,380. 3. Relocatees It is anticipated that two businesses will be relocated as a result of the construction of Recommended Alternative A. The right of way needed for this project will reduce the size of these business properties; therefore, a final determination on whether these businesses require relocation will be conducted during the right-of-way acquisition phase. However, for the purpose of estimating impacts, an assumption was made that these two businesses will require relocation. No rlocatees are anticipated with the implementation of Alternative B. Appendix A, pages A-1 and A-2, includes the relocation report for Alternative A (Recommended) and Alternative B. It is the policy of the North Carolina Department of Transportation to insure that comparable replacement housing will be available prior to construction of state and federally-assisted projects. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has the following three programs to minimize the inconvenience of relocation: (1) Relocation Assistance (2) Relocation Moving Payments (3) Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement See Appendix B for further discussion of the NCDOT Relocation Programs (pages B-1 and B-2). According to the relocation report, there are suitable business sites available for those businesses who will be displaced by this project. 20 4. Environmental Justice Executive Order 12898 requires that each federal agency, to the greatest extent allowed by law, administer and implement its programs, policies, and activities that affect human health or the environment so as to identify and avoid "disproportionately high and adverse" effects on minority and low-income populations. The proposed project will not require the relocation of any minority or low-income populations nor will it segment an existing minority community or separate residential areas from nearby services, such as schools, businesses, or parks. The proposed action does not require any right of way or easements from minority or low-income populations. A Citizens Informational Workshop was held on June 11, 1996 (see Section V. Comments and Coordination), to gather input from the public on the proposed project. The project has also been coordinated with the Town of Apex. Input solicited as a result of the workshop has been considered and incorporated into the project, as practicable. Based on studies and public involvement incorporated into this project's development, this project has been implemented in accordance with Executive Order 12898. 5. Public Facilities No public facilities are located adjacent to the existing highway. 6. Social Impacts The proposed roadway improvements will help to alleviate some of the highway congestion along existing NC 55. The overall safety of the facility will be enhanced by providing a storage area for turning movements, thus keeping vehicles out of the traffic flow. Motorists will be able to reach their destinations with greater efficiency. The proposed widened facility will provide increased comfort, convenience, and safety in travel. The proposed action will not disrupt community cohesion and will not interfere with accessibility to facilities and services. 21 7. Cultural Resources a. Historic Architectural Resources This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 35 CFR Part 800. Section 106 requires that if a federally- funded, licensed, or permitted project has an effect on a property listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation will be given an opportunity to comment. To comply with Section 106, the area of potential effect (APE) of the subject project was surveyed by the Historic Architectural Resources section of NCDOT. The research revealed no properties listed on either the National Register of Historic Places or the State Study List. Only one property, the Rogers Hack House, is over fifty years of age. A written description of the property and an evaluation of its integrity were requested by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), in lieu of a complete Phase II Report. The property was found not eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places due to numerous character- altering changes it has undergone. Therefore, NCDOT and FHWA have determined that no properties within the APE are eligible. The SHPO has concurred with the above findings (see pages C-16 through C-19 in Appendix Q. This action completes compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. b. Archaeological Resources This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 35 CFR Part 800 regarding any archaeological resources within the APE. No previously known archaeological sites are located within the APE. Under the advisement of the SHPO, no further investigation was conducted in connection with this project. This correspondence from the SHPO is contained in Appendix C (pages C-16 and C-17). This completes compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 for archaeological sites. 22 8. Section 4(f) Resources Section 4(f) of the U.S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966 specifies that publicly owned land from a public park, recreation area, historic site, or wildlife and waterfowl refuge of national, state, or local significance may be used for a federal aid project only if: (1) There is no feasible and prudent alternative to the use of such land, and (2) Such highway program or project includes all possible planning to minimize harm of Section 4(f) lands resulting from such use. There are no Section 4(f) properties located within the project corridor; therefore, a Section 4(f) evaluation is not required. 9. Section 6(f) Resources Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 states that "no property acquired or developed with assistance under this section shall, without the approval of the Secretary [of the Department of the Interior], be converted to other than public outdoor recreation uses." There are no known properties within the proposed project corridor which have been acquired or developed with assistance of Section 6(f) funds. B. Economic Effects North Carolina Preliminary Civilian Labor Force Estimates (Preliminary Data for November 1996) indicated that Wake County had a labor force of 300,930. Out of the labor force for the county, 295,360 persons were gainfully employed, with 1.9 percent of the work force unemployed. A variety of industries and businesses are scattered throughout the project. The existing highway is inadequate by current design standards and often crowded during business hours. The proposed widening will enhance the business community by providing a wider and safer facility for movement of commercial traffic. In addition, businesses along the proposed project will have improved accessibility. C. Environmental Effects 1. Biological Resources This section describes the ecosystems encountered and the relationships between vegetative and faunal components within terrestrial and aquatic 23 ecosystems. Descriptions of the terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications. Representative animal species which are likely to occur in these habitats are cited, along with brief descriptions of their respective "roles" within that community. Animals that were observed during site visits are denoted by an asterisk (*) in the text. Sightings of spoor evidence are equated with sightings of individuals. Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are used for plant and animal species described. Subsequent references to the same organism include common name only. a. Terrestrial Communities Two distinct terrestrial communities were identified in the project study area: (1) Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest and (2) Disturbed Community. Many faunal species are highly adaptive and may populate the entire range of the two terrestrial communities discussed. (1) Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest Within the project area, large tracts of mixed pine/hardwood forest occur on xeric upland sites characterized by a dominant loblolly pine (Pi= tac&) canopy with some short-leaf (R. =hi=) and Virginia pine (P. virginiana) interspersed throughout. Hardwood and shrub species that form the canopy and subcanopy layer include sweetgum (L`quidambar st, ra?ci W, blueberry (Vaccinium sp.), black haw (Viburnum dola=), willow oak ( uerm phellos), black cherry (Pn= serotina), persimmon (iospyros virginiana), mockernut hickory (Czya tomentosa), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera), red maple ($m rubrum), blackjack oak (Q, marilandica), northern red oak Q. nra), white oak (Q. alba), and dogwood (Cornus fl,Qdda). A sparse herbaceous and vine layer is present in this xeric community. Dominant plants observed include Christmas fern (Iolystichum acrosticoides), ebony spleenwort (©gpplenium plea yneuron), bracken fern (Plmdm a), and Japanese honeysuckle (L,oni= japolka)• Mammalian species commonly occurring in forested habitats often include white-tailed deer* (Odocoileus virginiana), southern short-tailed shrew (Blaring carolinensis), and white- footed mouse eromyscus leucopus). Shrews and smaller mice prefer forests with a thick layer of leaf litter. Carolina chickadee (pma carolinensis), northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), tufted titmouse (Fxua bicolor), and blue jay (C• anocitta cristata) 24 are common permanent residents of deciduous or mixed woodlands. The spring peeper (Hyh crucifer) inhabits woodlands where it may be observed under forest litter or brushy undergrowth. (2) Disturbed Community This community encompasses several habitats that have recently been or are currently impacted by human disturbance. Roadside shoulder/maintained lawn, powerline right of way, and successional habitats are included in this portion of the project study area. Roadside shoulder/maintained lawn is a community in which the vegetation is kept in a low-growing, disclimax to early- successional state. This portion of the project study area is regularly mowed and may receive frequent herbicide application. This habitat is located immediately adjacent to NC 55 and in front of residential/commercial structures fronting NC 55. Several herbs, including bush clover (Lesped= sp.), fescue fta= sp.), broomsedge (Andropogon yirginicus), dandelion (Taraxacum officionale), horseweed (EfL&= canadensis), dog fennel (Funatorium capillifolium), goldenrod (Solid= sp.), and bahia grass (paspalum sp.), are common throughout. Soft rush (Juncus effusus) and sedges (Cvnerus spp.) are located in lower areas adjacent to unnamed tributaries (UT) and roadside ditches. A powerline right of way parallels NC 55 along the western-most edge of the project study area. Several species of herbs, shrubs, and saplings less than 1 m (3 ft) tall are located in this habitat, indicating that it receives infrequent maintenance (i.e. mowing and application of herbicides). Herbaceous species located here include dog fennel, bracken fern, winged sumac (Rho copallina), sunflower (Heliant = sp.), goldenrod, rabbit tobacco (Qnaphalium obtusifolium), beggar's tick (Desmodium sp.), fescue, plume grass (EdmUm sp.), strawberry (Fragaria virginiana), St. John's wort (Hypericum sp.), bush clover, and broomsedge. Shrubs and saplings located in this community include blackberry (Rub= sp.), mockernut hickory, sweetgum, privet (Lig m si==), black cherry, wax myrtle, willow oak, and silverling (accharis hWimillia). Successional habitats are regeneration areas that prosper along the abandoned railroad track that parallels NC 55 in the southeastern portion of the project study area. Upland cut ditches 25 are located adjacent to portions of the railroad track. These ditches were created during construction of the railroad track as the fill was subsequently used to raise the grade of the railroad track. Due to its abandonment in the recent past, several species of trees, shrubs, and opportunistic herbs have overtaken here. Broomsedge, panic grass, bahia grass, fescue, bush clover, foxtail grass (Setaria sp.), dog fennel, horseweed, mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris), elephant's foot (Elephantopus tomentosus), catbrier (Smilm rotundifolia), Japanese honeysuckle, and yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) are vines and herbs located in this habitat. Additional species observed here include blackberry, silverling, loblolly pine, Virginia pine, persimmon, red maple, sweetgum, privet, and wax myrtle. White-tailed deer* and raccoon* (rocyon 1=) carrion was observed along a roadside shoulder adjacent to NC 55. The raccoon, as well as Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), forage nocturnally in this habitat and are often observed as roadkill on adjacent roadways. The least shrew (C1yp1otis parva), eastern cottontail* (SylyiLU= Baddam), eastern harvest mouse (Reithrodontomvs humWia), 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 (1w=phis siddia) may venture into this community to feed on small mammals and insects. The mourning dove (Zenaida asiatica) is a consumer of weed seeds often inhabiting fields, woodland margins, and suburban neighborhoods. Turkey vultures (Cathartes am) forage almost exclusively on carrion. b. Aquatic Communities Three aquatic community types are present in the project study area: Piedmont intermittent stream, Piedmont perennial stream, and a small pond. 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. 26 A higher diversity of species can be found in streams shaded by a dense canopy of trees and shrubs. Amphibians commonly observed in and adjacent to intermittent streams include northern dusky salamander ( esmognathus fuscus) and two-lined salamander (~mycea bisline=). Southern leopard frogs (E= sphenocephalla), which forage on insects, are common throughout this community. Fish diversity in intermittent streams is relatively depauperate; however, their proximity to ponds in the vicinity of the project may allow certain species of fish, such as sunfish (j epomis sp.), to immigrate into the upper reaches of these tributaries. Perennial streams support an assemblage of fauna that require a constant source of flowing water. Amphibians and reptiles commonly observed in and adjacent to perennial streams include northern dusky salamander, three-lined salamander (Emlycea guttolineata), pickerel frog (R= per), and northern water snake erodia sipedon). According to Fish (1968), largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) have been collected along Middle Creek in the project vicinity. Members of the sunfish (Loomis sp.) genera, as well as the black crappie (PlQ&Q1nis nigwmaculatus), may inhabit the pond located in the project study area. C. Summary of Anticipated Impacts 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 to each community. Project construction will result in the clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Table 5 summarizes the potential quantitative losses to these biotic communities, resulting from project construction. Estimated impacts are derived using the proposed right-of-way (ROW) width of 36.6 m (120 ft), of which 7.2 m (24 ft) is already paved. Usually, project construction does not require the entire ROW width; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. 27 TABLE 5: ANTICIPATED BIOTIC COMMUNITY IMPACTS COMMUNITY IMPACT Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest Disturbed Community 2.1 ha (5.3 ac) 13.1 ha (32.2 ac) Total Impact: 15.2 ha (37.5 ac) NOTE: Impacts are in hectares (acres). The biotic communities found within the project area will be altered as a result of project construction. The terrestrial communities serve as nesting, foraging, and shelter habitat for faunal organisms. 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 and after project construction. The proposed construction will result in habitat reduction for faunal species. Individual mortalities are likely to occur to terrestrial animals (moles, shrews, snakes, etc.) from construction machinery used during clearing activities. Strict erosion and sedimentation controls will be maintained during clearing activities. All cleared and grubbed areas along the roadways will be revegetated prior to 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 also impact filter feeders inhabiting the streams. These impacts eventually are magnified throughout the food chain and ultimately affect faunal organisms located in higher trophic levels such as fish; mammals, and reptiles. 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 non-mobile organisms. Toxic runoff from spills, construction runoff, and highway spills may result in mortality to aquatic species inhabiting the water resources located in the project area. Strict adherence to Best 28 Management Practices (BMPs) will be enforced during the construction phase of this project. d. Federally-Protected 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 development. Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect a 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. Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE), and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of May 2, 1997, the USFWS lists four federally-protected species for Wake County (see Table 6). A brief description of the characteristics and habitat of the listed species follows. TABLE 6: FEDERALLY-PROTECTED SPECIES FOR WAKE COUNTY SCIENTIFICNAME COMMONNAME STATUS Alasmidonta heterodon dwarf wedge mussel E Haliaeetus leucocephalus bald eagle T Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker E Rhus michauxii Michaux's sumac E NOTES: "E" denotes Endangered (a species that is threatened with extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range). "T" denotes Threatened (a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range). Alasmidonta heterodon (dwarf wedge mussel) E Animal Family: Unionidae Date Federally Listed: March 14, 1990 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. 29 Known populations of the dwarf wedge mussel in North Carolina are found in the Neuse River Basin (including Middle Creek) and in the Tar River system. This mussel is sensitive to agricultural, domestic, and industrial pollutants and requires a stable silt-free streambed with well oxygenated water to survive. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT Unnamed tributary (UT) # 1 is a perennial tributary of Middle • Creek. Known populations of dwarf wedge mussel are located in Middle Creek, but these populations are downstream of the project in Johnston County. The portion of Middle Creek located in the project study area was surveyed during the most recent site visit by NCDOT biologists Chris A. Murray and Mark A. Hartman. This survey included in-stream searches for mussels and searches for mussel middens along the streambanks. The project site is adjacent to areas undergoing rapid development. This stream was channelized and exhibited sedimentation, which is likely attributable to adjacent land clearing activities. No mussel populations were observed in the project study area. The UT # 2 is an intermittent headwater of Middle Creek which does not provide a sufficient or constant water flow necessary to support the dwarf wedge mussel. It can be inferred that suitable habitat for the dwarf wedge mussel does not exist at the site. A review of the database of the N.C. Natural Heritage Program Rare Species and Unique Habitats (NHP) revealed no known populations of dwarf wedge mussels within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. Impacts to this species are not expected from project construction. Haliaeetus leucocephalus (bald eagle) T Animal Family: Accipitridae Date Federally Listed: March 11, 1967 Adult bald eagles can be identified by their large white head and short white tail. The body plumage is dark-brown to chocolate-brown in • color. In flight, bald eagles can be identified by their flat wing soar. Eagle nests are within 0.8 kilometer (a half mile) to open water with a clear flight path to the water, in the largest living tree in an area, and having an open view of the surrounding land. Human disturbance can cause an eagle to abandon otherwise suitable habitat. The breeding season for the bald eagle begins in December or January. Fish are the major food source for bald eagles. Other sources include coots, herons, and wounded ducks. Food may be live or carrion. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT 30 A small pond is located in the project study area. Additionally, several unnamed ponds are located in the project vicinity. These water bodies are too small to provide suitable foraging and/or nesting habitat for the bald eagle. A review of the NHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed no known populations of bald eagles within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. Therefore, no impacts to this species are expected from project construction. Picoides borealis (red-cockaded woodpecker) E Animal Family: Picidae Date Federally Listed: November 13, 1970 The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has a plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of the RCW is black and white with horizontal stripes. The breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat. The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pi= palustri s), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be appropriate habitat for the RCW. These birds nest exclusively in trees that are 2:60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 200 hectares (500 acres). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in colonies from 3.6 to 30.0 in (12 to 100 ft) above the ground and average 9.1 to 15.2 m (30 to 50 ft) high. They can be identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree. The RCW lays its eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38 days later. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT Suitable nesting and foraging habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers, in the form of old growth pine forests, is not located in the project study area. There were no pines of sufficient size and density located in the project study area or nearby vicinity. A review of the NHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed no known 31 populations of RCW within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. Impacts to this species are not expected from project construction. Rhus michauxii (Michaux's sumac) E Plant Family: Anacardiaceae Date Federally Listed: September 28, 1989 Flowers Present: June Michaux's sumac is a densely pubescent rhizomatous shrub. The bases of the leaves 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 mixed pine/hardwood forest. A plant-by-plant survey was conducted at the project study area by Chris A. Murray and Phillip C. Todd on November 30 and December 6, 1995, and by Chris A. Murray and Mark A. Hartman on October 24,1996, and by Chris A. Murray on June 11, 1997. A known population of Michaux's sumac 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. e. Federal Species of Concern There are nine federal species of concern (FSC) listed for Wake County. FSC 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. FSC are defined as organisms which are vulnerable to extinction although no sufficient data currently exists to warrant a listing 32 of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, or Proposed Threatened. Organisms which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T) or Special Concern (SC) by the Natural Heritage Program List of Rare Plant and Animal Species of North Carolina, 1993, are afforded state protection under the State Endangered Species Act and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. Table 7 lists Federal Species of Concern for Wake County, the species' state status (if afforded state protection), and the existence of suitable habitat for each species in the project study area. This species list is provided for information purposes as the status of these species may be upgraded in the future. TABLE 7: FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN FOR WAKE COUNTY SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMONNAME N.C. STATUS SUITABLE HABITAT Myotis austroriparius southeastern myotis SC No Aimophila aestivalis Bachman's sparrow SC No Fusconaia masoni Atlantic pigtoe T No Lasmigona subviridus green floater E No Elliptio lanceolata yellow lance T No Speyeria diana * diana fritillary SR Yes butterfly Heterodon simus* Southern hognose snake SR ? Trillium pusillum var. Carolina least trillium E No pusillum Monotro sis odorata Sweet inesa C No NOTES: "SC" denotes that species is of Special Concern and requires monitoring. "SR" denotes that species is Significantly Rare and has not been listed as an Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern species, but has been determined by the NHP to need monitoring. "C" denotes that species is a Candidate species which is very rare in North Carolina. denotes that species not observed in Wake County in at least 50 years. denotes that species not evaluated. Surveys for these species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were any of these species observed. A review of the database of the N.C. Natural Heritage Program Rare Species and Unique Habitats revealed a population of rigid sedge (Carex tetanica) within the project study area. This plant is listed as "Significantly Rare" in Wake County. 33 There are no additional records of North Carolina rare and/or protected species or unique habitats in or near the project study area. 2. Geological Resources a. &ih The project study area is located within the Mayodan-Granville- Creedmoor association. This association contains deep or moderately f deep, well-drained and moderately well-drained soils that have a subsoil of friable sandy clay loam to very firm clay. The soils present here are derived from sandstone, shale, and mudstone. Refer to Table 8 for soil mapping units found along the project area. TABLE 8: MAPPING UNITS FOUND WITHIN THE PROJECT AREA MAP UNIT SYMBOL SPECIFIC MAPPING UNIT PERCENT SLOPE HYDRIC CLASSIFICATION MgB Mayodan gravely 2-6 - sandy loam MgB2 Mayodan gravely 2-6 - sandy loam, eroded CrB2 Creedmoor sandy 2-6 - loam, eroded CrC2 Creedmoor sandy 6-10 - loam, eroded WsB2 White Store sandy 2-6 - loam, eroded WsC2 White Store sandy 6-10 - loam, eroded CtC Creedmoor silt loam 6-10 - CtB Creedmoor silt loam 2-6 - NOTE: "-" denotes a map unit that is a non-hydric soil. b. Mineral Resources There are no mineral resources of economic significance known to be within the project corridor. 34 C. Erosion Control Surface drainage is well established along the project corridor due to the relief and friable nature of the soils and subsoil. Rainfall is freely absorbed preventing surface wash. Erosion and sedimentation will be controlled through the appropriate specification, installation, and maintenance of standard erosion and sedimentation control measures. 3. Wetlands a. Characteristics of Wetland and Surface Water Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States," as defined in Title 33 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR) Part 328.3, 1987 Guidelines. Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR 328.3, are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated conditions. Any action that proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). Wetlands were also rated in accordance with methodologies recommended by DEHNR-DWQ and Cowardin classification system. b. Summary of Anticipated Impar Jurisdictional wetlands and surface waters will be impacted by the widening of NC 55. Wetland impacts are summarized in Table 9; surface water impacts are summarized in Table 10, and the location of the sites are shown on Figure 9. Actual impacts may be less than reported because the entire right of way is often not impacted by construction projects. Two mechanisms are currently being used to describe wetlands: a classification system developed by Cowardin (1979) and a numerical rating system developed by the North Carolina Division of Water Quality. The Cowardin system provides a uniform approach in describing concepts and terms used in classifying wetland systems. The DWQ rating scale gauges wetland quality using a numerical rating system (0-100 with 100 being the highest value) that emphasizes water storage, bank/shoreline stabilization, pollutant removal, wildlife habitat, aquatic life values, and recreation/education potential. 35 TABLE 9: WETLAND IMPACTS SITE NO. WETLAND IMPACT (HECTARES /ACRES) DWQ RATING COWARDIN CLASSIFICATION() Wetland 1 <0.1 / <0.1 28 PEM2C Wetland 2 <0.1 / <0.1 28 PEM2C Wetland 3 <0.1 / <0.1 24 PFO 1 C NOTE: (t) Cowardin values are as follows: P = Palustrine EM = Emergent 2 = Non-Persistent C = Seasonally Flooded FO = Forested 1 = Broad Leaved Deciduous WETLAND SITE 1: West Side of NC 55 South of the US 1 Interchange and Just South of the Wicker Mart/Amoco station: This wetland is currently dominated by hydrophytic vegetation, including soft rush (hmm effusus), sedge (Cyprus spp.), seedbox (jzLwigia sp.), Japanese grass (Microstegium vimineum), and elderberry (Sambucus canadgnsis). The sandy clay loam soil present exhibited a matrix color of l OYR 6/1 with a mottle color of l OYR 6/8, a color that is indicative of a hydric soil. Evidence of wetland hydrology included saturation within 30 cm (12 in). This wetland is providing an important ecological function to the stream. The recommended widening to the east will not impact this site. WETLAND SITE 2: East Side of NC 55 North of the US 1 Interchange and Just North of The Inspection Center: This wetland is currently dominated by hydrophytic vegetation, including soft rush, common cat-tail (Iynha latifolia), and false nettle (Boehmeria gylindrio). The clay loam soil present exhibited a matrix color of l OYR 5/1 with a mottle color of l OYR 6/6, a color that is indicative of a hydric soil. Evidence of wetland hydrology included saturation within 30 cm (12 in). This wetland is providing an important ecological function to the stream. The recommended widening to the east will impact this site; however, this widening will minimize wetland impacts to Wetland Site 1, and the recommended widening to the east will be tying into existing NC 55 at Wetland Site 2. 36 WETLAND SITE 3: East Side of NC 55 North of the US 1 Interchange and Just North of the Gore Area of the Interchange Ramp in Quadrant A: This wetland is currently dominated by hydrophytic vegetation, including black gum vssa sylvatica), red maple (Am rubrum), sweetgum liquidambar Mmciflua), jewel weed (Impatiens cnensis), sedge (Carex spp.), and maiden cane (Arundinaria gigs=). The sandy clay loam soil present exhibited a color of IOYR 4/1, a color that is indicative of a hydric soil. Evidence of wetland hydrology included saturation within 30 cm (12 in), water stained leaves, and inundation. This wetland is providing an important ecological function to the stream. The recommended widening of the US 1 interchange ramp in quadrant A will impact this site. TABLE 10: SURFACE WATER IMPACTS SITE SURFACE WATER IMPACTS UT # 1 118 m (390 ft) UT#2 15m(50ft) Pond <0.1 ha (<O.1 ac) NOTES: Values for the unnamed tributaries are in linear meters (feet). Values for the pond are in hectares (acres). Actual impacts to surface waters have been calculated using the proposed right-of-way widths and may be less than reported because the entire right-of-way widths are often not impacted by construction projects. The amount of surface water impacts may be modified by any changes in roadway design. Culvert/pipe extension is planned for all stream crossings. This will affect the quality of the functioning stream systems. In addition to decreasing the total area of the natural streambed, it also constitutes potential impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity. Potential impacts resulting from the modification. of NC 55 include: (1) sedimentation from fill material and surrounding bare soils during construction; (2) possible chemical and toxic infiltration of elements from construction activities; 37 (3) channel relocation; (4) changes in hydraulic regimes; and (5) losses of biodiversity. Stream impacts will result with implementation of the proposed project. These impacts are associated with the extension of culverts and/or pipes. The details of stream involvement and modification will be detailed in the application for the 401 Water Quality Certification, and compensatory mitigation with regard to stream mitigation is left to the discretion of DWQ. NCDOT will coordinate with DWQ to fulfill the necessary requirements regarding stream mitigation. 4. 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 COE for discharge of dredge or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Section 404 Nationwide 14 Permit (minor road crossings) may be applicable to the project. Final decisions concerning applicable permits rest with the COE. a. Nationwide 14 Permit A Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 CFR 330.5(a) (14) authorizes fill for roads crossing Waters of the United States, including wetlands and other aquatic sites. Standard conditions include: (1) the width of the fill is limited to the minimum necessary for the actual crossing; (2) the fill placed in Waters of the United States is limited to a filled area of no more than 0.1 ha (0.34 ac); (3) no more than a total of 61.0 linear meters (200.0 ft) of the fill for the roadway can occur in special aquatic sites, including wetlands; (4) the crossing is culverted, bridged, or otherwise designed to prevent the restriction of, and to withstand, expected high flows and tidal flows and movement of aquatic organisms; and (5) the crossing, including all attendant features, both temporary and permanent, is part of a single and complete project for crossing of a Water of the United States. 38 b. 401 Water Quality Certification This project will require a Section 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 licensed activity that may result in a discharge into Waters of the United States. The issuance of a Section 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 permit. C. Wetland Mitigation The COE has adopted, through the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wedind mitigation policy which embraces the concept of "no net loss of wetlands" and sequencing. The purpose of this policy is to maintain and restore the chemical, biological, and physical integrity of Waters of the United States, specifically wetlands. Mitigation of wetland impacts has been defined by the CEQ to include: avoidance, minimization and compensatory mitigation (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these three aspects must be considered sequentially. (1) Avoidance Avoidance mitigation examines all appropriate and practicable possibilities of averting impacts to Waters of the United States. According to a 1990 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the COE, in determining "appropriate and practicable" measures to offset unavoidable impacts, such measure should be appropriate to the scope and degree of those impacts and practicable in terms of cost, existing technology, and logistics in light of overall project purposes. Avoidance of Wetland Site 1 has been achieved by recommending the alternative which utilizes the existing roadway bed and widens NC 55 on the east side. The wetland is located on the west side of NC 55. Wetland Sites 2 and 3 cannot be avoided due to their proximity to the existing roadway and due to the limited space needed to complete the improvements associated with this project. NCDOT will continue to minimize impacts through the use of Best Management Practices. (2) Minimization Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to Waters of the 39 United States. Implementation of these steps will be coordinated through project modifications and permit conditions. Practical means to minimize impacts to surface waters and wetlands impacted by the proposed project include: (a) Decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of ROW widths and/or fill slopes. (b) Installation of temporary silt fences, earth berms, and temporary ground cover during construction. (c) Strict enforcement of sedimentation and erosion control BMPs for the protection of surface waters and wetlands. A five-lane shoulder section was initially proposed for the subject project. However, the northern terminus of the project is urban in nature, and continued urbanization is expected to occur along the rest of the project. Therefore, the existing roadway typical section was decreased and a five-lane curb and gutter section was proposed to reduce the amount of right of way required, impacts to businesses, and other potential project-related impacts to the natural environment. (3) Compensatory Mitigation Compensatory mitigation is not normally considered until anticipated impacts to Waters of the United States have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent possible. It is recognized that "no net loss of wetlands" functions and values may not be achieved in each and every permit action. Appropriate and practicable compensatory mitigation is required for unavoidable, adverse impacts which remain after all appropriate and practicable minimization has occurred. Compensatory actions often include restoration, creation, and enhancement of Waters of the United States. Such actions should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or contiguous to the discharge site. Actions authorized under Nationwide Permits may require compensatory mitigation. The final decisions concerning compensatory mitigation rest with the COE and the DWQ. d. Coordination with Other Agencies No special coordination with other agencies is required for the proposed project. 40 5. Flood Hazard Evaluation Both Apex and Wake County are participants in the National Flood Insurance Program. The entire project runs along a ridge. There is one major stream crossing associated with this project, which is located on the east side of NC 55 under the east end of the US 1 interchange ramps over a tributary of Middle Creek (see Table 11 for specific information regarding the crossing, Figure 2 for the location of the crossing, and Figure 10 for the approximate location of the floodplain limits). TABLE 11: CULVERT -HYDRAULIC DATA SITE ISSTRUCTURE ABOVE DESIGNATED SUBSTANTIAL HYDRAULICALLY HEAD- FLOOD CHANNEL ADEQUATE? WATERS? HAZARD MODIFICATION AREA? REQUIRED? Middle Creek Yes Yes No No Tributary Refer to Section I.D.7 of this document for additional information regarding the culvert. The portion of roadway proposed for improvement is located in the jurisdiction of two National Flood Insurance Program participating communities, which are the town of Apex and Wake County. From a review of Panel 491 of the March 1992 Wake County, North Carolina and Incorporated Areas Flood Insurance Rate Map, the road is not located in an identified flood hazard area. There are no buildings in the vicinity of the tributary crossing with floor elevation below the 100-year level, and any extension of the existing culvert to accommodate the proposed highway improvements will not have a significant impact on the existing floodplain nor on the existing flood hazard. 6. Water Resources a. Characteristics Water resources located within the project study area include one unnamed tributary of Middle Creek (UT # 1), one unnamed intermittent tributary of Middle Creek (UT # 2), and a pond (see Figure 9). The 41 unnamed tributary of Middle Creek is a perennial stream. The UT # 2 has recently been channelized within the project area, as part of the widening of US 1 (TIP Project No. R-2500). The streambed of UT # 2 is underlain by riprap. The proposed project is located along a topographic ridge. The unnamed tributaries of Middle Creek (UT # 1 and UT # 2) are located in the Neuse River Drainage Basin. The unnamed tributary of Middle Creek and the unnamed intermittent tributary of Middle Creek both originate approximately 915 m (3000 ft) north of US 1. The UT # 1 crosses under US 1 at the east end of the interchange ramps. The UT # 2 crosses under US 1 approximately 915 m (3000 ft) east of the interchange ramps, specifically under the ramp in quadrant B. The portion of the tributaries of Middle Creek located within the project area are channelized. A small pond is located near the northern terminus of the project. Additional information concerning these tributaries is presented in Table 12. TABLE 12: STREAM CHARACTERISTICS Tributary Creek Width Creek Depth Substrate Flow UT # 1 2.0 m (7.0 ft) 0.2 m (0.5 ft) Sand, Gravel, Moderate Cobble, Stone UT # 2 0.8 m (2.5 ft) 0.2 m (0.5 ft) Riprap, Cobble, Moderate Gravel, Sand b. Best Usaee Classification Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the Division of Water Quality (DWQ). The best usage classification of unnamed tributaries is the same as the water body to which they are a tributary. According to the DWQ, the best usage classification of Middle Creek (DWQ Index 2743-15-1) is C NSW. Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. NSW is a supplemental classification indicating nutrient sensitive waters (NSW) which require limitations on nutrient inputs. Neither Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II), Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), nor High Quality Waters (HQW) occur within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. 42 C. Water Quality The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) is managed by the DWQ 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 are reflections of water quality. A monitoring station is located on SR 1301 (Sunset Lake Road) over Middle Creek. This monitoring site is located approximately 4.3 km (2.6 mi) south of where Middle Creek crosses the project along the US 1 interchange ramps. This site received a bioclassification of poor in May 1986. 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; however, one discharger is located within the project vicinity, downstream of the proposed project. The Apex Wastewater Treatment Plant is a permitted discharger located approximately 0.7 km (0.4 mi) south of where Middle Creek crosses the project along the US 1 interchange ramps. This facility is permitted to discharge up to 3.6 million gallons/day. d. Summary of Anticipated Impacts Potential impacts to water resources in the project study area are dependent on final construction limits. Existing culvert intakes and outfalls do not extend more than 1.0 m (3.0 ft) beyond the existing edge of pavement. These culverts will have to be extended, thus increasing the amount of impacts to water resources. Construction related impacts to water resources include reduced water clarity which can be attributed to increased sedimentation and erosion during activities conducted in and adjacent to streams. 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. 43 Activities in the streams often result in alterations of the water level due to interruptions or additions to surface and/or groundwater flow. In addition, the destruction of natural substrates often occurs during the installation of culverts and pipes. Removal of streamside canopy during construction typically results in decreases in dissolved oxygen (due to increased water temperature), temperature instability of the stream, and increases in sedimentation resulting from devegetation of stream banks. The unnamed tributary of Middle Creek, the unnamed intermittent tributary of Middle Creek, and the pond will be affected by road construction and widening. Precautions will be taken to minimize impacts to water resources in the study area. NCDOT's Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters and Sedimentation Control guidelines will be strictly enforced during the construction stage of the project. This includes: (1) Reduction and elimination of direct and non-point discharge into the water bodies and minimization of activities conducted in streams. (2) Installation of temporary silt fences, dikes, and earth berms to control runoff during construction. (3) Placement of temporary ground cover or re-seeding of disturbed sites to reduce runoff and decrease sediment loadings. (4) Elimination of construction staging areas in floodplains or adjacent to streams which would reduce the potential of accidental discharge of toxins into water bodies. 7. Farmland The Farmland Protection Policy Act of 1981 requires all federal agencies to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime and important farmland soils, as designated by the Natural Resource Conservation Service (formerly the U.S. Soil Conservation Service). Farmland soils located in an urbanized area or in an area committed to urban development by the local governing body is exempt from the requirements of the Act. The proposed widening of NC 55 is located in an intensely urbanized area. Although some vacant land remains in some areas, this land is also slated for industrial, commercial or residential development. Therefore, no further consideration to prime or important farmland soils is required. 44 8. Highway Traffic Noise and Construction Noise Analysis This analysis was performed to determine the effect of the proposed widening of NC 55, from approximately 390 m (1280 ft) north of the SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road) intersection to approximately 300 m (984 ft) north of the SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection with NC 55 in Wake County, on noise levels in the immediate project area. The project location and ambient measurement sites are shown on Figure N1 (see Appendix E, page E-1). This investigation includes an inventory of existing noise sensitive land uses and a field survey of ambient (existing) noise levels in the study area. It also includes a comparison of the predicted noise levels and the ambient noise levels to determine if traffic noise impacts can be expected resulting from the proposed project. Traffic noise impacts are determined from the current procedures for the abatement of highway traffic noise and construction noise, appearing as Part 772 of Title 23 of the Code of Federal Register (CFR). If traffic noise impacts are predicted, examination and evaluation of alternative noise abatement measures for reducing or eliminating the noise impacts must be considered. a. Characteristics of Noise Noise is basically defined as unwanted sound. It is emitted from many sources including airplanes, factories, railroads, power generation plants, and highway vehicles. Highway noise, or traffic noise, is usually a composite of noises from engine exhaust, drive train, and tire-roadway interaction. The magnitude of noise is usually described by its sound pressure. Since the range of sound pressure varies greatly, a logarithmic scale is used to relate sound pressures to some common reference level, usually the decibel (dB). Sound pressures described in decibels are called sound pressure levels and are often defined in terms of frequency weighted scales (A, B, C, or D). The weighted-A decibel scale is used almost exclusively in vehicle noise measurements because it places the most emphasis on the frequency range to which the human ear is most sensitive (1,000-6,000 Hertz). Sound levels measured using a weighted-A decibel scale are often expressed as dBA. Throughout this report, all noise levels will be expressed in dBAs. Several examples of noise pressure levels in dBA are listed in Table N 1 (see Appendix E, page E-2). Review of Table N1 indicates that most individuals in urbanized areas are exposed to fairly high noise levels from many sources as they go about their daily activities. The degree of disturbance or annoyance of unwanted sound depends essentially on three things: 45 (1) The amount and nature of the intruding noise. (2) The relationship between the background noise and the intruding noise. (3) The type of activity occurring when the noise is heard. In considering the first of these three factors, it is important to note that individuals have different sensitivity to noise. Loud noises bother some more than others and some individuals become upset if an unwanted noise persists. The time patterns of noise also enter into an individual's judgment of whether or not a noise is offensive. For example, noises occurring during sleeping hours are usually considered to be more offensive than the same noises in the daytime. With regard to the second factor, individuals tend to judge the annoyance of an unwanted noise in terms of its relationship to noise from other sources (background noise). The blowing of a car horn at night when background noise levels are approximately 45 dBA would generally be more objectionable than the blowing of a car hom in the afternoon when background noises might be 55 dBA. The third factor is related to the interference of noise with activities of individuals. In a 60 dBA environment, normal conversation would be possible while sleep might be difficult. Work activities requiring high levels of concentration may be interrupted by loud noises while activities requiring manual effort may not be interrupted to the same degree. Over time, particularly if the noises occur at predicted intervals and are expected, individuals tend to accept the noises which intrude into their lives. Attempts have been made to regulate many of these types of noises, including airplane, factory, railroad, and highway traffic noise. In relation to highway traffic noise, methods of analysis and control have developed rapidly over the past few years. b. Noise Abatement Criteri a In order to determine whether highway noise levels are or are not compatible with various land uses, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has developed noise abatement criteria (NAC) and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways. These abatement criteria and procedures are set forth in the aforementioned Federal reference (Title 23 CFR Part 772). A summary of the noise abatement criteria for various land uses is presented in Table N2 (see Appendix E, page E-3). The Leq, or equivalent sound level, is the level of constant sound which, in a given situation and time period, has the same energy as does time 46 varying sound. In other words, the fluctuating sound levels of traffic noise are represented in terms of a steady noise level with the same energy content. C. Ambient Noise Levels Ambient noise measurements were taken in the vicinity of the project to determine the existing background noise levels. The purpose of this noise level information was to quantify the existing acoustic environment and to provide a base for assessing the impact of noise level increases. The existing Leq noise levels along NC 55 as measured at 15 m (49.2 ft) from the roadway were approximately 70 dBA north of US 1 and 71 dBA south of US 1. The existing roadway and traffic conditions were used with the most current traffic noise prediction model in order to calculate existing noise levels for comparison with noise levels actually measured. The calculated existing noise level averaged approximately 3.4 dBA higher than the measured noise level for the locations where noise measurements were obtained. Differences in dBA levels can be attributed to "bunching" of vehicles, low traffic volumes, and actual vehicle speeds versus the computer's "evenly-spaced" vehicles and single vehicular speed. The calculated noise levels presented the worst possible case and were thus used in determining site impacts. d. Procedure For Predicting Future Noise Levels In general, the traffic situation is composed of a large number of variables which describe different cars driving at different speeds through a continual changing highway configuration and surrounding terrain. Due to the complexity of the problem, certain assumptions and simplifications must be made to predict highway traffic noise. The procedure used to predict future noise levels in this study was the Noise Barrier Cost Reduction Procedure, STAMINA 2.0 and OPTIMA (revised March, 1983). The Barrier Cost Reduction (BCR) procedure is based upon the FHWA Highway Traffic Noise Prediction Model (FHWA- RD-77-108). The BCR traffic noise prediction model uses the number and type of vehicles on the planned roadway, their speeds, the physical characteristics of the road (curves, hills, depressed, elevated, etc.), receptor location and height, and, if applicable, barrier type, barrier ground elevation, and barrier top elevation. In this regard, it is to be noted that only preliminary alignment was available for use in this noise analysis. The project proposes to widen the 47 existing two lanes of NC 55 to a five-lane curb and gutter facility from approximately 390 m (1280 ft) north of the SR 1448 (Bobbitt Road) intersection to approximately 300 m (984 ft) north of the SR 1158 (South Hughes Road) intersection. Only those existing natural or man-made barriers were included in setting up the model. The roadway sections and proposed intersections were assumed to be flat and at-grade. Thus, this analysis represents the "worst case" topographical conditions. The noise predictions made in this report are highway-related noise predictions for the traffic conditions during the year being analyzed. Peak hour design and level of service (LOS) C volumes were compared, and the volumes resulting in the noisiest conditions were used with the assumed posted speed limit of 90 km/h (55 mph). The highest posted speed limit of 90 km/h (55 mph) currently along NC 55 was utilized to determine the results in the noise analysis since this value yields the noisiest conditions. Hence, during all other time periods, the noise levels are not anticipated to be greater than those indicated in this report. The STAMINA 2.0 computer model was utilized in order to determine the number of land uses (by type) which would be impacted during the peak hour of the design year 2020. A land use is considered to be impacted when exposed to noise levels approaching or exceeding the FHWA noise abatement criteria and/or predicted to sustain a substantial noise increase. The basic approach was to select receptor locations such as 7.5, 15, 30, 60, 120, 240, and 480 meters (24, 49, 98, 197, 394, 787, and 1574 feet) from the center of the near traffic lane (adaptable to both sides of the roadway). The location of these receptors was determined by the changes in projected traffic volumes and/or the posted speed limits along the proposed project. The result of this procedure was a grid of receptor points along the project. Using this grid, noise levels were calculated for each identified receptor. The Leq traffic noise exposures associated with this project are listed in Table N3.A (Alternative A - East Side Widening) and Table N3.B (Alternative B - West Side Widening) (see Appendix E, pages E-4 and E-5). Information included in these tables consists of listings of all receptors in proximity to the project, their ambient and predicted noise levels, and the estimated noise level increase for each. The maximum number of receptors in each activity category that are predicted to become impacted by future traffic noise is shown in Table N4 (see Appendix E, page E-6). These are noted in terms of those receptors expected to experience traffic noise impacts by approaching or exceeding the FHWA NAC or by a substantial increase in exterior noise levels. Under Title 23 CFR Part 772, there are 17 impacted receptors 48 along Alternative A and 18 impacted receptors along Alternative B, due to highway traffic noise in the project area. The maximum extent of the 72 and 67 dBA noise level contours are 33 and 58 meters (108 and 190 feet), respectively, from the center of the proposed roadway. This information should assist local authorities in exercising land use control over the remaining undeveloped lands adjacent to the roadway within local jurisdiction. For example, with the proper information on noise, the local authorities can prevent further development of incompatible activities and land uses with the predicted noise levels of an adjacent highway. Table N5 (see Appendix E, page E-7) indicates the exterior traffic noise level increases for the identified receptors in each roadway section. No receptor is expected to experience a substantial increase in their exterior noise level. The predicted noise level increases for this project range from +4 to +8 dBA. When real-life noises are heard, it is barely possible to detect noise level changes of 2-3 dBA. A 5 dBA change is more readily noticeable. A 10 dBA change is judged by most people as a doubling or a halving of the loudness of the sound. e. Traffic Noise Impact Analysis Traffic noise impacts occur when the predicted traffic noise levels either: [a] approach or exceed the FHWA noise abatement criteria (with "approach" meaning within 1 dBA of the Table N2 value), or [b] substantially exceed the existing noise levels. The NCDOT definition of substantial increase is shown in the lower portion of Table N2. Consideration for noise abatement measures must be given to receptors which fall in either category. In accordance with NCDOT Traffic Noise Abatement Policy, federal/state governments are no longer responsible for providing noise abatement measures for new development which building permits are issued within the noise impact area of a proposed highway after the Date of Public Knowledge. The Date of Public Knowledge of the location of a proposed highway project will be the approval date of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents (such as a Categorical Exclusion, Finding of No Significant Impact, or Record of Decision) or the Design Public Hearing, whichever comes later. For development occurring after the Date of Public Knowledge, local governing bodies are responsible to insure that noise compatible designs are utilized along the proposed facility. If traffic noise impacts are predicted for buildings with permits issued before the Date of Public Knowledge, noise abatement measures to reduce or eliminate these noise impacts must be considered. In the project 49 area, there are 17 and 18 such receptors impacted along Alternative A and Alternative B, respectively. Possible noise abatement measures are discussed below: (1) Highway Alignment Highway alignment selection involves the horizontal or vertical orientation of the proposed improvements in such a way as to minimize impacts and costs. The selection of alternative alignments for noise abatement purposes must consider the balance between noise impacts and other engineering and environmental parameters. For noise abatement, horizontal alignment selection is primarily a matter of siting the roadway at a sufficient distance from noise sensitive areas to minimize noise impacts to those areas. It is anticipated that no substantial increase in noise impacts will result from the implementation of either of the studied alternatives. Therefore, changing the horizontal alignment will not be considered as an alternative for noise abatement. (2) Traffic System Management Measures Traffic management measures which limit vehicle type, speed, volume and time of operations are often effective noise abatement measures. For this project, traffic management measures are not considered appropriate for noise abatement due to their effect on the capacity and level of service on the proposed roadway. For example, lowering the traffic speed on the roadway would reduce noise impacts to the area; however, the resulting capacity and level of service for the roadway would decrease. (3) Noise Barriers Physical measures to abate anticipated traffic noise levels can often be applied with a measurable degree of success by the application of solid mass, attenuable measures to effectively diffract, absorb, and reflect highway traffic noise emissions. Solid mass, attenuable measures may include earth berms or artificial abatement walls. For a noise barrier to provide sufficient noise reduction, it must be high enough and long enough to shield the receptor from substantial sections of the highway. Access openings in the barrier severely reduce the noise reduction provided by the barrier. It then becomes economically unreasonable to construct a barrier for a small noise reduction. Safety at access openings (driveways, 50 crossing streets, etc.) due to restricted sight distance is also a concern. Furthermore, to provide a sufficient reduction (at least 5 dBA's, but preferably 8 dBA's), a barrier's length would normally be eight times the distance from the barrier to the receptor. For example, a receptor located 15 in (49.2 ft) from the barrier would normally require a barrier 120 in (393.6 ft) long to provide sufficient noise reduction. An access opening of 12 in (39.4 ft) (10 percent of the area) would limit its noise reduction to approximately 4 dBA (FUNDAMENTAL AND ABATEMENT OF HIGHWAY TRAFFIC NOISE, Report No. FHWA-HHI- HEV-73-7976-1, USDOT, Chapter 5, Section 3.2, pages 5-27). Most commercial establishments and residences along NC 55 will have direct access connections to the proposed roadway, and all intersections will adjoin the project at grade, with the exception of the US 1 interchange. In addition, businesses, and other related establishments located along a particular highway normally require accessibility and high visibility. Solid mass, attenuable measures for traffic noise abatement would tend to disallow these two qualities, and thus, would not be acceptable abatement measures in this case. f. "Do Nothing" Alternative The traffic noise impacts for the "do nothing" or "no-build" alternative were also considered. If the proposed widening did not occur, the noise levels of three receptors would approach or exceed the FHWA NAC. Exterior noise level increases for the "no-build" alternative are approximately +1 dBA. g. Construction Noise The major construction elements of this project are expected to be earth removal, hauling, grading, and paving. General construction noise impacts, such as temporary speech interference for passers-by and those individuals living or working near the project, can be expected particularly from paving operations and from the earth moving equipment during grading operations. However, considering the relatively short-term nature of construction noise, these impacts are not expected to be substantial. The transmission loss characteristics of nearby natural elements and man- made structures are believed to be sufficient to moderate the effects of intrusive construction noise. 51 h. Sumni= Based on these preliminary studies, traffic noise abatement is not recommended, and no noise abatement measures are proposed. This evaluation completes the highway traffic noise requirements of Title 23 CFR Part 772. 9. Air Quality Analysis Air pollution originates from various sources. Emissions from industrial and internal combustion engines are the most prevalent sources. Other origins of common outdoor air pollution are solid waste disposal and any form of fire. The impact resulting from highway construction ranges from intensifying existing air pollution problems to improving the ambient air conditions. The traffic is the center of concern when determining the impact of a new highway facility or the improvement of an existing highway facility. Motor vehicles emit carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NO), hydrocarbons (HC), particulate matter, sulfur dioxide (SOD, and lead (Pb) (listed in order of decreasing emission rate). Automobiles are considered to be the major source of CO in the project area. For this reason, most of the analysis presented is concerned with determining expected carbon monoxide levels in the vicinity of the project due to traffic flow. In order to determine the ambient CO concentration for the receptor closest to the highway project, two concentration components must be used: local and background. The local concentration is defined as the CO emissions from cars operating on highways in the near vicinity (i.e., distances within 100 m [328 ft]) of the receptor location. The background concentration is defined by the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources as "the concentration of a pollutant at a point that is the result of emissions outside the local vicinity; that is, the concentration at the upwind edge of the local sources." In this study, the local concentration was determined by the NCDOT Traffic Noise/Air Quality Staff using line source computer modeling, and the background concentration was obtained from the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR). Once the two concentration components were resolved, they were added together to determine the ambient CO concentration for the receptor in question and compared to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Automobiles are regarded as sources of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides. Hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides emitted from cars are carried into the atmosphere, where they react with sunlight to form ozone and nitrogen dioxide. Automotive emissions of HC and NO are expected to decrease in the future due to the continued installation and maintenance of pollution control devices on new 52 cars. However, regarding area-wide emissions, these technological improvements may be offset by the increasing number of cars on the transportation facilities of the area. The photochemical reactions that form ozone and nitrogen dioxide require several hours to occur. For this reason, the peak levels of ozone generally occur 10 to 20 kilometers (6.2 to 12.4 miles) downwind of the source of hydrocarbon emissions. Urban areas as a whole are regarded as sources of hydrocarbons, not individual streets and highways. The emissions of all sources in an urban area mix together in the atmosphere, and in the presence of sunlight, the mixture reacts to form ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and other photochemical oxidants. The best example of this type of air pollution is the smog which forms in Los Angeles, California. Automobiles are not regarded as substantial sources of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. Nationwide, highway sources account for less than seven percent of particulate matter emissions and less than two percent of sulfur dioxide emissions. Particulate matter and sulfur dioxide emissions are predominantly the result of non-highway sources (i.e., industrial, commercial, and agricultural). Because emissions of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide from automobiles are very low, there is no reason to suspect that traffic on the project will cause air quality standards for particulate matter and sulfur dioxide to be exceeded. Automobiles without catalytic converters can burn regular gasoline. The burning of regular gasoline emits lead as a result of regular gasoline containing tetraethyl lead, which is added by refineries to increase the octane rating of the fuel. Newer cars with catalytic converters burn unleaded gasoline eliminating lead emissions. Also, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has required the reduction in the lead content of leaded gasoline. The overall average lead content of gasoline in 1974 was 0.53 gram per liter. By 1989, this composite average had dropped to 0.0035 gram per liter. In the future, lead emissions are expected to decrease as more cars use unleaded fuels and as the lead content of leaded gasoline is reduced. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 make it unlawful to sell, supply, or transport leaded gasoline or lead additives. Because of these reasons, it is not expected that traffic on the proposed project will cause the NAAQS for lead to be exceeded. A microscale air quality analysis was performed to determine future CO concentrations resulting from the proposed highway improvements. "CAL3QHC - A Modeling Methodology For Predicting Pollutant Concentrations Near Roadway Intersections" was used to predict the CO concentration at the nearest sensitive receptor to the project. Inputs into the mathematical model to estimate hourly CO concentrations consisted of a level roadway under normal conditions with predicted traffic 53 volumes, vehicle emission factors, and worst case meteorological parameters. The traffic volumes are based on the annual average daily traffic projections. Carbon monoxide vehicle emission factors were calculated for the year 2000 and the design year 2020 using the EPA publication "Mobile Source Emission Factors" and the MOBILE 5A mobile source emissions computer model. The background CO concentration for the project area was estimated to be 1.8 parts per million (ppm). Consultation with the Air Quality Section, Division of Water Quality, North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources indicated that an ambient CO concentration of 1.8 ppm is suitable for most suburban/rural areas. The worst case air quality scenario was investigated at the interchange of NC 55 and US 1. The "build" and "no build" one-hour CO concentrations for the worst case receptor located in the vicinity of the right of way for the years 2000 and 2020 are shown in Table 13. TABLE 13: ONE-HOUR CO CONCENTRATIONS (PPM) NEAREST SENSITIVE 2000 2020 RECEPTOR Build 6.9 7.1 No Build 5.9 6.5 Comparison of the predicted CO concentrations for the build scenario with the NAAQS (maximum permitted for 1-hour averaging period = 35 ppm; 8-hour averaging period = 9 ppm) indicates no violation of these standards. Since the results of the worst case 1-hour CO analysis for the "build" option is less than 9 ppm, it can be concluded that the 8-hour CO level will not exceed the standard. See Tables Al through A6, pages F-1 through F-12, in Appendix F for input data and output. The project is located in Wake County, which is within the Raleigh- Durham nonattainment area for ozone (03) and carbon monoxide (CO), as defined by the EPA. The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) designated these areas as "moderate" nonattaininent areas for 03 and CO. However, due to improved monitoring data, these areas were redesignated as "maintenance" for 03 on June 17, 1994, and "maintenance" for CO on September 18, 1995. Section 176(c) of the CAAA requires that transportation plans, programs, and projects conform to the intent of the North Carolina State Implementation Plan (SIP) for Air Quality. The current SIP does not contain any transportation control measures for Wake County. The Capital Area 1996 Transportation Improvement Program 54 (TIP) has been determined to conform to the intent of the SIP. The Municipal Planning Organization (MPO) approval date for the TIP is July 20, 1995. The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) approval date of the TIP is April 4, 1997. The current conformity determination is consistent with the final conformity rule found in 40 CFR Part 51. There has been no substantial changes in the project's design concept or scope, as used in the conformity analyses. 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 SIP for Air Quality in compliance with 15 North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC) 2D.0520. Care will be taken to insure that burning will be done at the greatest practical distance from dwellings and not when atmospheric conditions are such as to create a hazard to the public. Burning will only be utilized under constant surveillance. Also during construction, measures will be taken to reduce the dust generated by construction when the control of dust is necessary for the protection and comfort of motorists or area residents. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements for air quality of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, and no additional reports are necessary. 10. Stream Modification It is anticipated that no creeks along the project will involve any major stream modification. If the final design shows major modifications are necessary, the issue will be coordinated with the Division of Water Quality (DWQ) and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). 11. Hazardous Materials A field reconnaissance survey conducted by the NCDOT Geotechnical Unit along the project corridor identified six potential sites for underground storage tanks (USTs) (see Appendix G, pages G-1 through G-3, for a list of the sites). Of these sites, three are still operational facilities. The proposed project will avoid impacts to these properties as much as possible. Any impacted sites will be reevaluated prior to right-of-way acquisition for the project. Remains of a pump island are located on the east side of NC 55, across from the Apex Veterinary Hospital. The pumps and vent piping have been removed. No evidence of fill ports was observed. There was some evidence that the tanks at this location have been removed, but this has not been confirmed. Additional investigation may be required if the widening of NC 55 extends more than 23 in (75.4 ft) to the east side of the existing roadway. 55 12. Geodetic Survey Markers This project will impact three geodetic survey markers. The North Carolina Geodetic Survey will be contacted prior to construction regarding the relocation of survey markers along the project. 13. Construction Impacts To minimize potential adverse effects caused by construction of the proposed project, the following measures, along with those already mentioned, will be enforced during the construction phase: a. All possible measures will be taken to insure 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 properties. C. The contractor shall be required to observe and comply with all laws, ordinances, regulations, orders and decrees, including those of the N.C. 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, N.C. 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. Such approval will not be permitted when, in the opinion of the Engineer, it will result in excessive siltation or pollution. 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 service. 56 f. During construction of the proposed project, all materials resulting from clearing and grubbing, demolition, or other operations will be disposed of by the contractor. The contractor will be encouraged to sell timber rather than burning to minimize the need for piling and burning during construction. If any burning is needed, this activity will be done in accordance with applicable local laws and ordinances and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for Air Quality. Care will be taken to insure 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. g. Prior to construction, a determination will be made regarding the need to relocate or adjust any existing utilities in the project area. A determination of whether the NCDOT or the utility owner will be responsible for this work will be made at that time. h. Borrow pits and all ditches will be drained as possible to alleviate breeding areas for mosquitoes. i. An extensive rodent control program will be established if structures are to be removed or demolished. j. Care will be taken not to block existing drainage ditches. k. 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. Temporary erosion control measures, such as the use of berms, dikes, dams, silt basins, etc., will be used as needed. 1. Trees should be protected from construction activities to avoid: Skinning of tree trunks by machinery. Soil compaction and root exposure or injury by heavy equipment. Adding layers of fill dirt over the root systems of trees, a practice that impairs root aeration. Accidental spilling of petroleum products or other damaging substances over the root systems of trees. 57 M. 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, 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 source. n. All borrow/waste areas will 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 DWQ. o. Traffic service in the immediate project area may be subjected to brief disruption during construction of the project. Every effort will be made to insure that the transportation needs of the public will be met both during and after construction. V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION A. Comments Received from Federal, State. and Local Agencies The project has been coordinated with appropriate federal, state, and local agencies. Comments were received from the following agencies: U.S. Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers - Wilmington District U.S. Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service N.C. Department of Administration, State Clearinghouse N.C. Department of Cultural Resources, Division of Archives and History N.C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources DEHNR - Regional Office Division of Water Quality (formerly Division of Environmental Management) Division of Forest Resources Division of Land Resources Wildlife Resources Commission Refer to pages C-1 through C-19 in Appendix C for the agency's comments. 58 B. Citizens Informational Workshop A Citizens Informational Workshop was held on June 11, 1996, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Apex Town Hall Board Room (see pages D-1 and D-2 in Appendix D for news releases concerning the workshop). A Public Officials Meeting was held prior to the workshop from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the same location as the workshop. Thirteen people attended the officials meeting, including nine NCDOT representatives; approximately nineteen people attended the workshop, including six NCDOT representatives. Each attendee at the Citizens Informational Workshop was given the opportunity to review maps showing the project limits and the proposed typical sections for each alternative, ask questions, and make comments. In addition, handouts were made available to all meeting attendees (see pages D-3 through D-12 in Appendix D). Each handout contained a comment sheet which could be completed and submitted to the Division of Highways. Comments received on the proposed roadway improvements were generally favorable. Those who attended the workshop felt that the widening of NC 55 was needed. C. Public Hearing A Public Hearing will be held following the completion of this report to provide additional information on the proposed project to local citizens and to gather further input. Input from the hearing and other sources will aid NCDOT in making further design modifications to address the concerns and needs of interested parties. ASM/am R-2905 FIGURES IF HIGHWAYS AND ENVIRONMENTAL NC 55 FROM PROPOSED HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US 1 WAKE COUNTY TIP PROVECT NO. R-2905 a r _ -du t? "Aa 'E 1 VISIT; ?,r'? goll, 11*1 Mm WAS jot ? W 1 Ah - 1hk ? •? 9 1, ??: we 1 4 A TO W TIP PROJECT NO. R-2905 NC 55, WAKE COUNTY PROJECT AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC VOLUMES WITH PROPOSED HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS ESTIMATED ADT 1997/2002/2020 END PROJECT 1980 2420 4000 SR 1158 - (SOUTH HUGHES RD.) US 1 8120 9920 16400 NC 55 16990 18970 110 26100 130 2000 18940 1960 21280 2360 29700 3800 1090 6050 1310 7170 2100 `11' 200 1 1 8020 870 1430 9580 1700 15200 20700 2070 23440 2490 33300 14000 i 20230 24510 39000 US 1 98o lino 19900 1900 23140 34800 BEGIN OJECT 110 220 130 260 200 400 3050 3670 5900 SR 1444 (LUFKIN RD.) SR 1448 (BOBBITT RD.) I PR ? 110 1130 200 19900 14000 23140 14220 16500 34800 16780 TOT 25MO 1 J _ PROPOSED HOLLY 220 I SPRINGS BYPASS 210 500 6120 I 6920 soo 100 I 2" 110 9800 oo O 260 200 130 1100 300 I? 400 1100 '? iloo 8001 00 SR 1191 1I0 sooo I Tm (TECHNOLOGY DR.) 130 I 6120 6620 14720 98oo 17280 126500 NC 55 DRAWING NOT TO SCALE 1997/2002/2020 DHV 10% DUAL 4% TTST 3% FIGURE 3 / - \ j4p e . - `' • ..•+4l Jit• lt.l M7rbr AT• -Ty?.Y• 14 Ij. . 1'( ?`?-+ ` \ ? _?•}or ? `. T : . era or.u?..? iV W.. ?/ls•.. .. ,1.../ ?,.__ /. f fin, ` ? .j +' K 11 I' 1 ? \t ? T ? 1' I q? 1(` _ _ ? '.?? ` ` Ff 1 T.J, . y r i{ t u toi.? _? r???..• n ? + . 1 1 ? n 0 [+'1 yr\ ?vr ,??? i?° F/! 1..TS" S ,w ??. _ ' f ?l _ `mod z e - 1 i I { ? ?1 II SST • t-C 't? T? ? ? ? ? ?Oy. S ¦ r .rwsah ?t , .? q • • • ' ?-_r r S a , r rouu° ` rye ° S ? . • Q '? 1 i I .t•r•? t 1- • 1 ,r I 1 ( V tY' ? ? j /t I r • ?y?,,?? .?A ??? ?. r j ? i r ?' ae BSI . .???!' ? r, ?: //'/ L , C ? '/? + s -7 • : . 6 %? ..[IOC. Ipr / 1 r R . + , ? • 1. ? ? `I__-? ? ? r+lt V N ? 1 1 Yrl .. q ?a sAiS b LL ? ••• 'trt O+.W' '' I ?" • ? • , ?r.rrrr. rrr.rr.rr / . ? , 1 _ q 3= 6 ? ' / II g - -j -__ uttsi r f a ae c¦ it a ±'A ?$?'p3 li 41 S ?? m z A at m al -1 0 a I iMlQ , O?III sa ?'?I#rKF? =Tpr ^1111 ; ?? ? ? : ?+ 1=???? m m > ct i III, 11I4031l' NO. R-2905 PHOTOS OF EXISTIN(; CONDITION'S C' S5, :1T BRIDGE: NO. 7 1 OVER US 1, INTE.RSE CTION k'17TI1 "[I's"1,1301 NI) RA'DII', LOOKING SOI 'I'll NC 55, 1N I F. RSE(`TI0N NVITFI SR 1158, LOOKING NORTII N(' S5, ON BRIDGE. NO. ?1 OVER US I, INTERSECTION XNATH EAS.FI601 NI) RA t1 P. LOOKING SOt 'I'll EI(ITItE:S 4 Z O H Z LO W 0 0 ?0 N (5 W Q cn oC Z U °C p Z - W M Z 0 F- ?° . F- U ? w° Z ) O LO W oC U 'n = CL Z pU W Z LIJ J 0 6 O cr CL * U-j cc E 4? w O O m ri Et- co 0 C\l O O cr 0 O 107 O n` W Ci N * E rn w 4- vi CO m D U E? (? T O w w O U E c0 N LL C9 m w F- o ? cwn 0 00 CL z O Q d CO m D U O z z w 0 0 'w VJ O CL O cr- d H z W 2 w Q CL 0 Z H X ? / W w ? F- 1? ~ W D co 0 O p CL z Oa CC m D U .R Y E N -? T ? co M N of * * } r= 4 Q rnM T co W O H ' ( 3 E O N 0 0 ?. 117 O L E O O E ?i N O T Ai vim Q co W D 0 LL CO W J U U_ m w Q O O U Q Q O Q = O m C9 z J '?^ Q V/ Z X O w H LL O W Q Z LU w -J m w J z U Z w U * 'K * LL s cc Z O F- M 4- U M T LO w 0 VJ CV _I r 4- O Q M T ? Z U - O Z - Z W ? `L ?- Cf) J Q F LL C,i N .. U U U F w (D A L m uj L O ? U ? L w o 0 LJ N ? T U m ?' o Z Q U Q CL w L - U) CFJ wC 6 T ?? I J J CL A L wa O # 00 C r r` W I co p_ 0 W M T Q Q cc w F- a O J c0 LL LL. U o N Z ACC L LL iC it T S m t0 W m LL TIP PROJECT NO. R-2905 INTERSECTION OF NC 55 AND SR 1444 (LUFKIN ROAD) PROPOSED INTERSECTION GEOMETRY NC 55 .......:... Y' '`3 J r 1 I I I f I I I FIGURE 7A L -------------- TIP Project No. R-2905 NC 55 at US 1 Proposed Interchange Geometry I I I I ' US 1 I I I t Westbound Ramp • I I I I I I I I US 1 Eastbounc D '11 TIT I I ? i ? I I I ? , I I I i , I I ? I I , I I , , I I , I I I , 1 I I i I I I I I I , I I I I I i Bridge No. 71 over US 1 I I ? I I ? I I I I NC 55 FIGURE 713 ca T 1?i1 O C O O J `? r o II 1 w I ? I a oo I a? 7D 1 o z H 00 ?t w k .1 W c ? p,oc? N m . .? ?a ? O O rn m ? ? rn O rn v N b y O C) y O z 'y O Z Z y kr1 t,j O ` j O INN R u ; Z m ?? I < , . -- \ ?,? ?` f B s h f O. ax, J.:? Ij \J ?I Ir``.\`- F!? • :,' rV ti L-""?.-. ) - v? ? -? ; ,.?L G'/i'•'?\ •' f ,??? `- _ V !lull ??`? ?:.. J- yqM 7 '••' 1 1494/ '?? ? r" ?'? , `. ?i i_?((f-??" ?r lh ,?`Sr ••'C'?• miry r'/'`- / I? ,^?? FF.-- ? ''?\?.??•,`?-?-?. ? ?' (? P /?S^ P N? 1'II ., ?, `010 -- ^ r/. ,, r` ?--, -? \ ????\??Way ?? yv' Q/ +M3 .-`Q'?tFlihh??!?•''-i i-? ,iii' i ??'?? ?^ ^-``?"?J ^ > '?? C_ f 1\ WETLAND SITE # Trailer ?, Vr?l?\ \ al-' 1 « /\ / t n6 der Park a WETLAND SITE # 3 ` -11si END J < \ \ PROJECT 41158 Tr iler, ark - POND ?; l ).', I (j/ ` jrn?i?! ", ?•??.? .o, _ \ ?,/? ??• '?;° ?-. a.\ - I o;t?`i l?\1` `fi'r, (r\ Tankt `!f? - r; ?? ? ` ?, ?, h'?r?_ - \ D\^ _ ? ? / '? ?5? '•\ To' erg.. I \ `.• `? \ ?_1 D ,o •?? 1171 ,\ J ? / - ., ? . ?_ ? , , (' : , ???-, ? ? -. a??\ 1 = / \ \ /f V? S?t1b tas ?i?s \. \?i' 1. % ??/ /?; ??% l ?:• it 1153 ___. % ._ \ ^ ? j 17 ? ?? l 1 ?! ? ? ? ?--• ',1 ??\ -?4r/ ?/,i .. 428 .. - Q \_ _ WETLAND SITE # 1 j ? •Tow6\ BEGIN !/??? PROJECT !•.y?? _?;, p ??. t ) ? i r {% i ice. ?'_.•-.?:ti./- ?_\-?^': / ! \ ? ?..- / ?\ ...'? ? _ •/r 4 f \? ?1 ?1 f - \SK f fw; NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF DMSION OF EUGHWAYS 'EAL f _ LEGF?NIT BEAif7; NC 55, FROM PROPOSED WETLAND SITE ,? -- HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US f UNNAMED TRIBUTARY tj WAKE COUNTY NC 55 WIDENING ••••••• (? , _% WETLAND/SURFACE WATER IMPACT AREAS US I RAMP IMPROVEMENTS TIP PRO.YECT Mi R-2905 l l / & SR, 1158 REALIGNMENT 1:24,000 ` FIGURE. 9 /i'? ,?? t?? f l\ \\?? ? ?, .?(?i ? rte.: =", r?--?' -?•'%/ ./?, ? ?i% .. } ? \ \ 1 1 "r..- ? -r! f f ^' ?? / ?' ? .t ••N I,?? ?. ?? 1?•` ?-II?`\-?'?? -- - -' ?J-?-\• • ••.?••., • •? ? .?- 1. :\ 1\ ?t 1 /' / • ??, ? `\' ? / - _. s=??\?•\ 11 IN Sch ^ ?i'..e,, J• ? - i5f ? ?i'-?l?'?I , \/?? i1A 11 ?-.-'.'?^ -\ •\\. ?O •i r :'"rte\.- j? S H? _ ? , ?? , ..? ? J ???? \ - "'-•-? ?C??- ? 1''I 1135 i ?1? ? 1/'` :,-?? = J? ?? ??'1?.'_-? e- e V, ??? 'i i1t=r / ryy, ? I .lam//° l ?'? i:1- •%-^ o )?/1?1??,? ?•:??' N .??,.'?% ?? \\??-??\ r( :, t,? I •? ?? ?._. ice'/i'?1?5 , \\ < ?? j `4\ 'SCh ' ?,"•• 1 130$ --'??' _ r c ? JIi q •y I ? - -? '-=?1 ?3z'•%' ..``,\1' .\I '?/?'?J /?• ."?`?? ?- 450- •1157 -•• \? :°) 1 I " `i < \, r ?? T. •'???. ?\ r it t• -?.?'? . , ? --_ J _ ( _._453• . _ = ---; ,' rt ?` ??,? , u \? , ??, J .R,' ,?,! ?`O ,i / i ?-: •\ 7r it -?29 m' • ?., _ v _ ----? a ?.` ji \4:/ ?f?'? ?'r.\ - ./?. ,•1158_ ??7 •-=-?.U?% I ?I ?\?..^i?1145 ?.\ .:? -•? - - i?? ? 4f 118('. _? \'• K .?? O ? , ?L' ?• ? ? / 11 - ' ?_ 1 '~?' •_ - Ste ,? END _ ank PROJECT ?' `?,?• _ \ •I' ?' ?Nyi •' T. er-T, - _ x`.=yS??A". ;I ?i?? ':?, I, ? '/ "` ?? \ - \/ ? ?.rg! \ 1171' it. tas ?_ (y Ois ow r BEGIN V PROJECT ;.? ,.. Jam. / ?: -',' '? ? ? •- _ %'/ ?.\,. . L•?? ? ?.?-:.' - : I ? .Q • ?----- / l?f! `.1 -/• '\ ? \J?" ?? - ?- • .. 'ate .? , /? / ?1 -?+ .303 ?i ?' ? ??/ ( ?j /Chapel ? ? / '?'' ! 1153' LEGEND: ?\ -1 n e FLOODPLAIN LIMTS NC 55 s ( , f? , Feiwnvl`Ile 130 , I R-2905 APPENDIX A RELOCATION REPORTS 77RELOCATION REPORT a E.I.S. E] CORRIDOR [:]DESIGN North Carolina Department of Transportation AREA RELOCATION OFFICE PROJECT: 8.1403301 COUNTY Wake Alternate A of Alternate I.D. NO.: R-2905 F.A. PROJECT MA-55(4) DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: NC 55 from proposed Holly springs Bypass to North of US 1, Apex ...y-::::.:....:?: rf.??.'ii::i,.is:{:i;i:}? ?i:?••vi-- i f:>.--vvy::: y:; .. . ESTtMATED>715PLAGEES< ...... ..... ...:JNCQME LEVEL... .:: . Type of Displacees Owners Tenants Total Minorities 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential 0 0 0 0 Businesses 1 1 2 0 ::.:...1/A1.UE:OF VMLii1NG .....::. DWECUNG: A1tA1LABE E :::.:.:. Farms Owners Tenants For S ale For R ent Non-Profit 0-20m $ 0450 0-20m $ 0450 :.... ...... ANSWE ............. ...... < R fiF3:`QiJESiTOt1iS .. . . 2040M 150-250 20-40M 150-250 Yes No Explain all "YES" answers. 40-70M 250400 40-70M 250-400 X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100M 400.600 70400m 400-600 X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up 600 UP 100 UP 600 UP displacement? TOTAL X 3. Will business services still be available after ..: ::(Respond by 1. 1 ......... project? 3. Both will have reduced-size property from which they x 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, in fact may not have to relocate. ..................... indicate size, type, estimated number of employees, minorities, etc. 4. (A) A & K Food Mart is clear of RM, but canopy and x 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? 1 of 3 pump islands would be lost. 4-6 employees. j?; 6. Source for available housing (list). X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? (B) Apex Detail & Auto Sales is clear of R/W; however, X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? front yard is used for cars for sale. Property X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. appears large enough to accommodate continued families? operation. 2-4 employees. X 10 . Will public housing be needed for project? X 11 . Is public housing available? 14. A few business sites are available per signs in the X 12 . Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing area. housing available during relocation period? X 13 . Will there be a problem of housing within financial means? X 14 . Are suitable business sites available list source). 15 . Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION? SIX (6) Relocation Agent, A. M. Simpson Date `><« Approved by Date Form 15.4 Revised 02195 d Original & 1 Copy: State Relocation Agent 2 Copy Area Relocation Office A-1 RELOCATION REPORT ED E.I.S. [D CORRIDOR [3 DESIGN North Carolina Department of Transportation AREA RELOCATION OFFICE PROJECT: 8.1403301 COUNTY Wake Alternate B Of Alternate I.D. NO.: R-2905 F.A. PROJECT MA-55(4) DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: NC 55 from`°proposed Holly springs Bypass to North of US 1, Apex : ` ? ? ? %%?y ?i:nw::i?::.%{S::.hv:t4y •u%:::;.i::} : ,•:4:•it::. ?i::i. i::; ii}::jjti::i: ESTIMAT ED DISPLACEE$ IINCOME LEVEL Type of Displacees Owners Tenants Total Minorities 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential Businesses VALUE OF TIM. .. ... .......... ..D ..f11ELLlNG AV. LAS..:::::.: Farms owners Tenants For S ale For R ent Non-Profit 0-20m $ 0450 0-20m $ 0450 ::::..:::: :............:..: iBfNSiIYE .. :.: R f?LicQlJEStif3 > : - ::::::: 2040M 150-250 20-40M 150-250 Yes No Explain all "YES" answers. 40-70M 250400 40-70M 250-400 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70400m 400.600 70-100M 400.600 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up 600 up 100 up 600 UP Mom displacement? TOTAL 3............ . 3. Will business services still be available after :::::..:.:::: .................. ..... ... ::: ..EMais (rtespond:by >vumberj::a ... ......:....project? ............. 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, .................... indicate size, type, estimated number of NEGATIVE REPORT employees, minorities, etc. 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? ..................... 6. Source for available housing (list). 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. families? 10. Will public housing be needed for project? 11. Is public housing available? 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing .............. housing available during relocation period? 13. Will there be a problem of housing within ............... financial means? 14. Are suitable business sites available (list ............... source). ::.:: .. 15. Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION? ?nw 6-17-96 Relocation Agent, A. M. Sim son Date Approved b Date Forth 15.4 Revised 02195 d Original & 1 Copy: State Relocation Agent 2 Copy Area Relocation Office A-2 R-2905 APPENDIX B DISCUSSION OF DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS RELOCATION PROGRAMS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS RELOCATION PROGRAMS It is the policy of the NCDOT to ensure that comparable replacement housing will be available prior to construction of state and federally-assisted projects. Furthermore, the North Carolina Board of Transportation has the following three programs to minimize the inconvenience of relocation: * Relocation Assistance, * Relocation Moving Payments, and * Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement. With the Relocation Assistance Program, experienced NCDOT staff will be available to assist displacees with information such as availability and prices of homes, apartments, or businesses for sale or rent and financing or other housing programs. The Relocation Moving Payments Program, in general, provides for payment of actual moving expenses encountered in relocation. Where displacement will force an owner or tenant to purchase or rent property of higher cost, or to lose a favorable financing arrangement (in cases of ownership), the Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or the Rent Supplement Program will compensate up to $22,500 to owners who are eligible and qualify, and up to $5,250 to tenants who are eligible and qualify. The relocation program for the proposed action will be conducted in accordance with the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646), and the North Carolina Relocation Assistance Act (GS- 133-5 through 133-18). The program is designed to provide assistance to displaced persons in relocating to a replacement site in which to live or do business. At least one relocation officer is assigned to each highway project for this purpose. The relocation officer will determine the needs of displaced families, individuals, businesses, non-profit organizations, and farm operations for relocation assistance advisory services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The NCDOT will schedule its work to allow ample time, prior to displacement, for negotiations and possession or replacement housing which meets decent, safe, and sanitary standards. The displacees are given at least a 90-day written notice after the NCDOT purchases the property. Relocation of displaced persons will be offered in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial facilities. Rent and sale prices of replacement property will be within the financial means of the families ' and individuals displaced and will be reasonably accessible to their places of employment. The relocation officer will also assist owners of displaced businesses, non- profit organizations, and farm operations in searching for and moving to replacement property- B-1 All tenant and owner residential occupants who may be displaced will receive an explanation regarding all available options, such as (1) purchase of replacement housing, (2) rental of replacement housing, either public or private, or (3) moving existing owner- occupant housing to another site (if possible). The relocation officer will also supply information concerning other state or federal programs offering assistance to displaced persons and will provide other advisory services as needed in order to minimize hardships to displaced persons in adjusting to a new location. The Moving Expense Payments Program is designed to compensate the displacee for the costs of moving personal property from homes, businesses, non-profit organizations and farm operations acquired for a highway project. Under the Replacement Program for Owners, the NCDOT will participate in reasonable incidental purchase payments for replacement dwellings such as attorney's fees, surveys, appraisals and other closing costs and, if applicable, make a payment for any increased interest expenses for replacement dwellings. Reimbursement to owner-occupants for replacement housing payments, increased payments, and incidental expenses may not exceed $22,500 (combined total), except under the Last Resort Housing provision. A displaced tenant may be eligible to receive a payment, not to exceed $5,250, to rent a replacement dwelling or to make a down payment, including incidental expenses, on the purchase of a replacement dwelling. The down payment is based upon what the state determines is required when the rent supplement exceeds $5,250. It is the policy of the state that no person will be displaced by the NCDOT's state or federally-assisted construction projects unless and until comparable replacement housing has been offered or provided for each displacee within a reasonable period of time prior to displacement. No relocation payment received will be considered as income for the purposes of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or for the purposes of determining eligibility of any person for assistance under the Social Security Act or any other federal law. Last Resort Housing is a program used when comparable replacement housing is not available, or when it is unavailable within the displacee's financial means, and the replacement payment exceeds the federal/state legal limitaion. The purpose of the program is to allow broad latitudes in methods of implementation by the state so that decent, safe, and sanitary replacement housing can be provided. Adequate replacement • housing will be available for all relocatees. Last Resort Housing will be considered if the financial situation of tenants or owners warrant such action. B-2 R-2905 APPENDIX C COMMENTS RECEIVED FROM FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL AGENCIES DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS 50` P.O. BOX 1890 .l? a '°°°•"`° WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890 REPAY TO ATTENTION OF July 3, 1995 Special Studies and Flood Plain Services Section GE /\ Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager ? UUL u 6 1995 Planning and Environmental Branch 2 North Carolina Division of Highways ? DWISIC!gr . Post Office Box 25201 Cc>' ''?IGLIVVAYs: Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 ?N?ll?p?lt Dear Mr. Vick: This is in response to your letter of May 12, 1995, requesting our comments on "NC 55, From Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1, Wake County, Federal-Aid Project No. MA-55(4), State Project No. 8.1403301, TIP Project No. R-2905" (Regulatory Branch Action I.D. No. 199503168). Our comments involve impacts to flood plains and jurisdictional resources, including waters, wetlands, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects. The proposed roadway does not cross any Corps-constructed flood control or navigation project. Enclosed are our comments on the other issues. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of further assistance, please contact us. Sincerely, 6 1?JM ? William R. Dawson, P.E. Chief, Engineering and Planning Division Enclosure Primed as. 9 Recycled Paper C-1 July 3, 1995 Page 1 of 1 U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, WILMINGTON DISTRICT, COMMENTS ON: "NC 55, From Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1, Wake County, Federal-Aid Project No. MA-55(4), State Project No. 8.1403301, TIP Project No. R-2905" (Regulatory Branch Action I.D. No. 199503168) 1. FLOOD PLAINS: POC - Bobby L. Willis, Special Studies and Flood Plain Services Section, at (910) 251-4728 The portion of roadway proposed for improvement-is located in the jurisdiction of two National Flood Insurance Program participating communities, which arc the town of Apex and Wake County. From a review ;,f Panel 491 of the March 1992 Wake County, North Carolina and Incorporated Areas Flood Insurance Rate Map, the road is not located in an identified flood hazard area. This is confirmed by a review of the pertinent United States Geological Survey topo map of the area. 2. WATERS AND WETLANDS: POC - 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. The project is located on a ridge between the drainage basins of Little Branch and Middle Creek, above headwaters. b. Prior Department of the Army permit authorization, pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended, would be required for any discharge of excavated or fill material into waters and/or wetlands in' conjunction with this project, including the disposal of construction debris. 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 probable, 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. C-2 Unh:ei! States Department of the Interior s G E I F 64 Post Raleigh Field Office Mr. H. Franklin Vick North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Vick: This is in response to your May 12, 1995 letter requesting U.S. Fish and•Wildlife Service (Service) comments on the proposed improvements to NC 55 from Holly Springs Bypass to north of US 1 Wake County, North Carolina. These comments are provided in accordance with the provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 661-667d) and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) (Act). The attached page identifies the Federally-listed endangered (E) and candidate (C) species that are known to occur in Wake County. Candidate species refers to any species being considered by the Service for listing as endangered or threatened but not yet the subject of a proposed rule. These species are not legally protected under the Act or subject to its provisions, including Section 7, until formally proposed or listed as threatened or endangered. Although candidate species have no legal status and are accorded no protection under the Act, their inclusion will alert you of potential proposals or listing. Therefore, it would be prudent for you to avoid any adverse impacts to candidate species or their habitat. The Federally-listed red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) is known to occur in Wake County. If any of the road widening plans include removing pine trees greater than or equal to 30 years of age in pine or pine/hardwood habitat, surveys should be•conducted for active red-cockaded woodpecker cavity trees in appropriate habitat within a one-half mile radius of the project boundaries. If red-cockaded woodpeckers are observed within the project area or active cavity trees are found, you should contact this office for further information. Additionallv, the Federally-listed endangered Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii) c zuntrr. at=e=== to he c;= a cs t upon some form of disturbance to maintain the open quality of habitat. Disturbed areas, such as maintained railroad and highway rights-of-way, are providing some of the openings historically provided by periodic fires. These disturbed areas have little competition for light by other plant species. Michaux's sumac is known to occur in areas of sandy or rocky open woods in association with basic soils. If potential habitat exists for the above listed species and the results of surveys indicate that Federally-listed species are located within the project area, the project has the potential to adversely affect Federally-listed species, and you should contact this office for further consultation before proceeding with the project. The Service's review and. comment on the endangered species section of any environmental document could be expedited if it contained the following information: FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE ? Office Box 33726 ? ? • JUN Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726 l? 2 ? 19Ar June 22, 199 _ ? Dt1/(S? J, 7•i ' o ? :.,, Gv of ? .?:,GN 4• '- ?^?r Lys yS ?2, ??GNDrE`? ??, C-3 i. A review of the literature and other information; 2. A description of any listed species or critical habitat that may be aflectsd b_r the action: 3. An analysis of the "effect of the action", as defined by CFR 402.02, on the species and habitat including consideration of direct, indirect, cumulative effects, and the results or related Studies; 4. A description of the manner in which the action may affect any species or critical habitat; 5. Summary of evaluation criteria used as a measure of potential effects; and 6. Determination statement based on evaluation criteria. If any wetland habitats are to be impacted by the proposed project, including the following information in the environmental assessment would great facilitate our review: 1. A description of the fishery and wildlife resources within existing and required additional right-of-way and any areas, such as borrow areas, which may be affected directly or indirectly by the proposed project. A list and acreage of the wetland types which will be impacted. Wetland types should follow the wetland classification scheme of the National Wetlands Inventory. This list should also give the acreage of each wetland type to be affected by the project as determined by the Federal Manual for Identifvina and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands. 3. Engineering techniques which will be employed for designing and constructing any wetland crossings and/or relocated stream channels along with the linear feet of any water courses to be relocated. 4. The cover types of upland areas and the acreage of each type which would be impacted by the proposed project. 5. Mitigation measures which will be employed to avoid, eliminate, reduce, or compensate for habitat value losses associated with the project. These measures should include plans for replacing unavoidable wetland losses. 6. The environmental impacts which are likely to occur after construction as a direct result of the proposed project (secondary impacts) and an assessment of the extent to which the proposed project will add to similar environmental impacts produced by other, completed projects in the area (cumulative impacts). The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. Please continue to advise us of the progress of this project, including your official c- -= "r3=== :- tai= :f cur cf i== can V_-;7.!-,r an- additional ^information or clarification,` please contact Kate Looney, the biologist reviewing this project, at 919-856-4520 (ext. 16). 'Sincerely, L.R. Mike Gantt Supervisor C-4 Wake County Birds Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocenhalus) - E Red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) - E Plants Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxiii) - E Clams Dwarf wedge mussel (Alasmidonta heterodon) - E There are species which, although not Raw 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. Birds Bachman's sparrow (Aimoohila aestivalis) - C2* Mammals Southeastern bat (Mvotis austrorioarius)- - C2 Insects Diana fritillary butterfly (Soeveria diana) - C2 Clams Atlantic pigtoe (mussel) (Fusconaia masoni) - C2 Green floater (Lasmiaona subviridis) - C2 Neuse slabshell (Elli do iudithae) - C2 Yellow lance (mussel) (Elliotio lanceolata) - C2 Plants Carolina trillium (Trillium pusiilum var. pusiilum) - C2 *Indicates no specimen in at least 20 years from this county. C-5 NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF.ADMINISTRATION 116 NEST JONES STREET RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003 07-07-95 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COMMENTS MAILED TO FROM N-C- DEPT* OF TRANSPORTATION MRS. CHRYS BAGGETT FRANK VICK DIRECTOR PLANN. S ENV- BRANCH N C STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TRANSPORTATION BLDG-/INTER-OFF RECD PROJECT DESCRIPTION SCOYING - PROPCSED IMPROVEMENTS TO NC 551 FROM PROPO •D HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TC NORTH OF US 1, TIP #R-2905 2 Jul J ?, SAI NO 95E42200E47 PROGRAM TITLE - SCOPING ?''S'/C1,r• THE ABOVE PROJECT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE NORTH CARCLI14TAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS- AS A RESULT OF THE REVIEW. THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED t ) NO COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED ( X ) COMMENTS ATTACHED SHOULC YOU HAVE A?iY QUESTIONS? PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE (919) 733-7232. C.C. R_GION J R C-6 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Legislative Affairs James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary Henry Lancaster, Director MEMORANDUM A4 ?EHNR TO: Chrys Baggett State Clearinghouse FROM: Melba McGee l_ Project Review Coordinator RE: 95-0847 - Scoping, Widening of NC 55 on the South Side of Apex, Wake County DATE: June 27, 1995 The Department of Environment, Health, and has reviewed the proposed scoping notice. The list and describe information that is necessary to evaluate the potential environmental impacts More specific comments will be provided during review. Natural Resources attached comments for our divisions of the project. the environmental Thank you for the opportunity to respond. The applicant is encouraged to notify our commenting divisions if additional assistance is needed. RECEIVED attachments JUG! 2 " 1995 N.C. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-7687 Telephone 919-733-4984 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper C-7 Clayton, North Carolina May 25, 1995 MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee, Office of Leg. Affairs FROM: Don K Robbins, Staff Forester bQ?? SUBJECT: DOT EA Scoping for Widening of NC 55 on the South Side of Apex in Wake County PROJECT: #95-0847 DUE DATE: 6-26-95 To better determine the impact to forestry in this urban setting, the Environmental Assessment should contain the following information concerning the proposed project. 1. The total forest land acreage by types that would be taken out of forest production as a result of new right-of-way purchases and all construction activities. 2. The productivity of the forest soils as indicated by the soil series that would be involved within the proposed project. 3. The impact upon existing greenways within the area of the proposed project. 4. The provisions that the contractor will take to sell any merchantable timber that is to be removed. This practice is encouraged to minimize the need for piling and burning during construction. If any burning is needed, the contractor should comply with all laws and regulations pertaining to debris burning. . 5. The provisions that the contractor will take during the construction phase to prevent erosion, sedimentation and construction damage to forest land outside the right-of-way and construction limits. Trees outside the construction limits should be protected from construction activities to avoid: a. Skinning of tree trunks by machinery. b. Soil compaction and root exposure or injury by heavy equipment. C. Adding layers of fill dirt over the root systems of trees, a practice that impairs root aeration. d. Accidental spilling of petroleum products or other damaging substances over the root systems of trees. We would-hope that the widening would have the least impact to forest and related resources in that area. pc: Warren Boyette - CO Albert Coley - Wake County C-8 laeriewing ?ptLEIG1i REGIONAL OFFICE f North Carolina ' f=a S r. tate o ecst:.lCA , artment of Environment. Hesff+ and Naturaf?Bes iii • Due Date: De mber t N p . u projec INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS the EIiNR permit(s) andlor approvals indicated may need to be o btained in project it has been determined that e he form. fter review of this rder for this project to comply with North Carolina Law. on the reverse R h ional Office indi ated eg e uestions regarding. these permits should be addressed to t available from the sam uidelines relative to these plans and pef are d Normal Process Time g It applications, information an egiCflal Off ice. TION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time Rory mit) SPECIAL APPLICA PERMITS Application 90 days before begin construction or award of n ti 30 days o to construct a operate wastewater treatment construction contracts On-site inspection. Post-applica pearl °0 days! ( i IaciUtiss. sewer system extensions. i sewer technical conference usual systems not discharging into state surface waters. to acttvit On-site inspection. NPOES • permit to discharge into surface water and/or Pral?Op??cat c?edays ofn ence psual. Additionally. obtain permit to R l !)0•(20 days (N,AI ep y permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities construct wastewater treatment facility-granted after NPOES dtsctsarginq into stale surface waters. time. 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPOES permit-whichever is later. ' 30 days Pre-application technical conference usually necessary (NIA) Water Use Permit 7 days Complete application must be received and permit issued to the installation of a well- t (15 days! prior Well Construction Permi must be served on each adjacent riparian property Application c. ci tion conference usual. Filling li 55 days ca Dredge and Fill Permit owner. On•site inspection. Pre-app I may require Easement to Fill from N.C. Department of (00 pays! Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. I I 60 days Permit to construct b operate Air Pollution Abatement NIA l90 days( facilities andlor Emission Sources as per 15A NCAC 21H. Any open burning associated with subject proposal must be in compliance with 15A NCAC 2DA520• Demolition or renovations of structures containing 60 days asbestos material must be in compliance with 15A NIA NCAC 2D.0525 which requires notification and removal prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos Control Group (9C days! 919.733.0920 1:?P?61s ?cji c za. 3 Complex Source Permit required under 15A NCAC 2D.0600. The Sedimm-ilation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be property addressed for any land disturbing activity An erosion d sedinentauo 20 days I control plan wilt be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Ouality Sect I at least 30 130 dasc days belz.re be innino activity A fee of 130 for thelirst acre and 520.00 for each additional acre or part in : accdmoanv the oian (30 days! ffi? "T he.Sedime.:?tior• -ollution Controi Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the referrenced Local Ordinance: t On-site tnspectiori:usual. Surety bond.filed'witn EHNR. Bond amount - 3G days it i es with type•`ithe find 'number of acrei'of affected.lane Any area _ Mince y =„!?ii} mimid greater ilmb bfA ieri: rt:st be;.0ermtt%C. The appropriate bonU ( -60 day., • •'Aoo's( p!reia''y)" • . 0, tft ermit can'be.tstued i.4?;3n%-N.C;.blv?ston.Fofjst Resource9 tt tiettrit 1 ray (N AI 1 Nonn 'ri: 't?:mong permit stcedit43;j"days -' - - d Cte lns(wetffy by W& Eivislo., Fw a1 tlquirrid•";r6`:ire 1 day • .On sas ;?'r iiaut+ areeri:e y Burning Pe e It ?• Z2 • Inspc_ua` = (Ni:•? :: :than t: idrbi bl priiurld clianng activ':ias site in .=at*l N.C. with organic sOio° invdved. ` 1' •al hum is •`shoutd t1e ?elei=`n`s1 less, ter tlay..+;` ot'e•?csa_ • 90.120 Lay -i ? - ? n?r?e-+'? _..a.r?••.!?- - (NIA) + NIA n .0" ;6d:=-n Far lttt:: - If peffil ,tlpuS(t!d. 11001i"d6ri W c3ys-befdi% kilft t:0?_.rueLa`. s AphGan! must err! N G 1441&AI*Cz*nrl.,eet to: ?t :arhK z':; loy 30 Cay_ :inspecticu?s:nlciton.dirtnt; n: tu't!uavaet 110 ?' ,to Ili.: ),oyrin• Antl (60 days) Darn Safety Permit sip plena. Mat.f!'•frl(iequite 111C:Mr 1!undel' a4u-pirrnit (tpmvdits o: rc gi:f;rs. ri'R,speatf6n is s:tr i:, r .Ces- r_ ¢Srt/•tl:.7rUY ;i.tzaiib''Ctasrf .atm-%. A minrlitu l 44to ?t°`'2 ??1?"r red ac t ar• Cpr,?v?th6 KapNnn: tt'i xditi?riai brtt!esrni IC., ' CO51 AJII 0e ?urreti ?ADn?9?'?'IWn _ .. wt-wiiw? pT'Shs? (Jt'r11 '^r? 11;5 _ ..- _. tpntinuee on reverse n C-9 EHNR - ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 20 .0800 History Note: Filed as a Temporary Amendment Eff. March 8, 1994 for a Period of 180 Days or Until the Permanent Rule is Effective, Whichever is Sooner; ' Statutory Authority G.S. 143-213; 143-215.3(a)(1); 143-215.109; Eff. February 1, 1976; Amended Eff. July 1, 1994; July 1, 1984. .0803 ?iIGHWAY PROJECTS Environmental assessments regarding highway projects shall be rev' ed in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and e North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. If there is no assessment, or if an assessment shows that there may be a problem in complying with an ambient air quality standard, or if the environmental impact assessment fails to show that the highway project will not result in violations of applicable portions of the control strategy, and will.not interfere with attainment or maintenance of a national standard, then the following regulatory provisions shall apply: (1) A person shall not construct or modify any highway if that highway will result in a contravention of ambient air quality standards; (2) Before construction or modification of any highway with an expected maximum traffic volume of 2,000 vehicles per hour or more within 10 years, a person shall apply for and have received a permit as described in 15A NCAC 2Q .0600 , and shall comply with any terms and conditions therein. History Note: Filed as a Temporary Amendment Eff. March 8, 1994 for a Period of 180 Days or Until the Permanent Rule is Effective, Whichever is Sooner; Statutory Authority G.S. 143-215.3(a)(1); 143=215.109; Eff. February 1, 1976; Amended Eff. July 1, 1994; July 1, 1984. .0804 AIRPORT FACILITIES Before constructing or modifying any airport facility designed to have at least 100,000 annual aircraft operations, or at least 45 peak-hour aircraft operations (one operation equals one takeoff or one landing) , the owner or developer of the airport facility shall apply for and have received a permit as described in 15A NCAC 2Q .0600, and shall comply with all terms and conditions therein. History Note: Filed as a Temporary March 8, 1994 for a Until the Permanent Whichever is Sooner; Amendment Eff. Period of 180 Days or Rule is Effective, NORTH CAROLINA ADMINISTRATIVE CODE S 27 D-800-2 C-10 State of North'Carolina 4C. ` . Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources ". ; Division of Land Resources' lames G. Martin, Govemor PROJECT REV18W COMIU TS Chaiies K Gardner y MMam W. Cobey, Jr., Sea+ebW ti.. Director' .,-. ?e .Project Number: Oef4/7 County: /to"? -V;, Project' Name: / Geodetic Su w l This project will impact 3 geodetic survey markers. N.C. Geodetic' ' 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. Reviewer Date Erosion and Sedimentation.Control No comment This proje9E 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 16cated 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. A? -Q Gt)4,461; S/Z el / 9 5 Reviewer Date' - P.O. Box 27687.• Raleigh. N.C- 27611-7687 • Telephone (919) 733-3833 .Az Equal Opportunity Affirm. C-11 . in Employer P'1/1' North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs FROM: David Cox, Highway Project Coor & ator Habitat'Conservation Program DATE: June 21, 1995 SUBJECT: Request for information from the N. C. Department of Transportation (NCDO`Q regarding fish and wildlife concerns for NC 55 improvements, from the proposed Holly Springs Bypass to north of US 1, Wake County, North Carolina. TIP No. U-2905, SCH Project No. 95-0847. 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. Staff biologists with the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the proposed improvements, and our comments are 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 (43 Stat. 401, as amended, 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). NCDOT proposes to widen NC 55 to a five-lane shoulder facility from just north of US 1 to the proposed Holly Springs Bypass. The existing bridge over US I will also be rehabilitated or replaced. At this time we have no specific recommendations or conecrns regarding the subject project. However, to aid in document preparation, 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 for project 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 C-12 Memo P. 0. Box 27687 Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919) 733-7795 and, NCDA Plant Conservation Program P. 0. Box 27647 Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919) 733-3610 June 21, 1995 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 filling 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. Potential borrow sites should be 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, minirnizing 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 effects 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 developirient 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 me at (919) 528-9886. cc: Mike Scruggs, District 3 Wildlife Biologist .Wayne Jones, District 3 Fisheries Biologist Randy Wilson, Noneame/Lndangered Species Program Mgr. Howard Hall, U.S. Dish and Wildlife Service, Raleigh C-13 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources 4 7• ? 95'A Division of Environmental Management A James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary E3 E H N R A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director June 27, 1995 TO: Melba McGee, Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs FROM: Monica Swihart, 'Water Quality Planning SUBJECT: Project Review #95-0847; Scoping Comments - NC DOT R Proposed Improvements to NC 55, Wake County TIP No. R-2905 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 channelizationsk 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. 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 Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-c onsumer paper r-1 A Melba McGee June 27, 1995 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 impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. 10956.mem cc: Eric Galamb C-15 •?Fo? North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. HuaL Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary April 6, 1995 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal. Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: NC 55 from proposed Holly Springs bypass to north of US 1, Wake County, R-2905, Federal Aid Project No. MA-55-(4), State Project No. 8.1403301, ER 95-8490 Dear Mr. Graf: Division of Archives and History William S. Price, Jr., Director On March 30, 1995, Debbie Bevin of our staff met with North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) staff for a meeting of the minds concerning the above project. We reported our available information on historic architectural and archaeological surveys and resources along with our recommendations. NCDOT provided project area photographs and aerial photographs at the meeting and for our use afterwards. Based upon our review of the photographs and the information discussed at the meeting, we offer our preliminary comments regarding this project. In terms of historic architectural resources, we are aware of no historic structures located within the area of potential effect. We recommend that no historic architectural survey 'be conducted for this project. There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based on our present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely that any archaeological resources which may be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by the project construction. We, therefore, recommend that no archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with this project. Having provided this information, we look forward to receipt of either a Categorical Exclusion or Environmental Assessment which indicates how NCDOT addressed our comments. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions C-16 109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 Nicholas L. Graf April 6, 1995, Page 2 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. Si ly, avi Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:slw cc: H. F. Vick B. Church T. Padgett bc: Brown/Bevin Claggett/Hall County RF C-17 ^aSfAlFo d .,, a y North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary August 22, 1996 Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director MEMORANDUM G E I V TO: Charles Bruton, Environmental Unit Head Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways Department of Tre"rm ortation 4 1996 Qua 2 FROM: David Brook G? clom Deputy State istoric Preservation Officer aN1, OF G' G {-ttG1? ? ??? SUBJECT: NC 55 from Holly Springs Bypass to north of US 1, Wake County, R-2905, Federal OR'- Aid Project MA-55(4), State Project 8.1403301, ER 97-7297 Thank you for your memorandum of August 14, 1996, concerning the above project. At our August 8, 1996, meeting with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), we discussed the Rogers-Hack House, a property within the above project's area of potential effect that NCDOT believes is not eligible due to a loss of integrity. Since the house is included in The Historic Architecture of Wake County, we believe it merits a written evaluation. We agreed that a brief evaluation of the Rogers-Hack House would be sufficient to determine its eligibility and that as Phase II report would be unnecessary. 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. DB:slw cc: N. Graf C-18 109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 ??V s t=,?? g North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary December 6, 1996 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: Historic Structures Survey Report for widening of NC 55 from Holly Springs Bypass to north of US 1, Wake County, R-2905, Federal Aid Project MA-55(4), State Project 8.1403301, ER 97- 7923 Dear Mr. Graf: Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director G E !\ O >?fC 1 ? 1996; D'VISICN OF HIGHWAYS 4 Thank you for your letter of November 25, 1996, transmitting the historic structures survey report by Ed Davis concerning the above project. We concur that the Rogers-Hack House (WA 856) is not eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places because it has undergone numerous character- altering changes. Therefore, there are no properties listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register within the project's area of potential effect. The report in general meets our office's guidelines and those of the Secretary of the Interior. 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: VH. F. Vick B. Church Wake County Historic Preservation Commission 109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601 2507 g33 C-19 R-2905 APPENDIX D CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP NOTICE OF A CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP FOR WIDENING OF NC 55 FROM THE PROPOSED HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US 1 NEAR APEX Project 8.1403301 R-2905 Wake County The North Carolina Department of Transportation will hold the above Citizens Informational Workshop on June 11, 1996 between the hours of 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM in the Apex Town Hall Board Room, 205 Saunders Street. Interested individuals may attend this informal drop-in workshop at their convenience during the above stated hours. Department of Transportation representatives will be present to answer questions and receive comments relative to the proposed project. There will be no formal session held. Under this project, it is proposed to widen NC 55 and the bridge over US 1 to a five lane section. Comments received from the public at this workshop will be used in the preparation of the environmental document being developed for this project. Anyone desiring additional information may contact Ms. Aileen Scott, P. 0. Box 25201, Raleigh, NC 27611 or phone (919) 733-3141. NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services for disabled persons who wish to participate in the meeting to comply with the American Disabilities Act. To receive special services, please contact Ms. Scott at the above address or phone number or fax (919) 733-9794 as early as possible so that arrangements can be made. N D-1 Highway 55 continued from page I D QT representative AiII-en Mayhew heard valuable comments on the Hwy. 55 widening project from Apex residents and businesses at a recent citizens infonnational workshop. The insight regard im, the location of an historic building and suggested locations for traffic lights is typical of the types of information DOT is presentlr soliciting. '.?•_ Planning and environmental studies for the improvements To NC 55 are currently in progr.ss. DOT ha- indicated that communication :. citizens is most appropriate cu-,c.g this planning phase in>pite of ,i:: f:^ct that specific right-of-way impacts to individual propeiies is not i;-sov n. To express ti'our corrrrr.n+s. concerns or questions regarding "III' Prqiect R-?905 call Aileen Maybe«•, 75 3 -314 1, or writ-. her at: Aileen S. Mayhew Planning & Environmental Branch Division of Highways NC Departnicgt of Transportation Post Office Rox `5201 Raleigh, NC 27611 The planning, studies and conclusions will address the impact the proposed hight.ay project may have on the natural and human environment and will be summarized in a document to be completed in Scptember, 1996. A public hearing for the project will be held in late 1996. In T.I.P. Project No. R=2905 the:: NCDOT proposes to. "improve the existing two-lane facility from tha proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1 by widening the facility. A five-lane facility will be constructed the entire length of the project, and Bridge No. 71 over US 1 will be replaced and widened to five lanes." It is anticipated that a tnaximurri of an additional 20 fc t ofriig.lit-of way acquisition, if iiriy, may be rep cssa:ti to accommodate the five hi,ne5. Specific right-of-Way impacts to individual, proreriieswill be presented at the public haring. The lengt;i of the project is approximartlti' 1.6 miles an..,' the right-of- way acquisition is scheduled to begin in 1). jC onstru_.tior. is plar.+.,;.d for th,Q year 2004. ?tG$ The first phase of NC ti; comiructi-oin begin= this r'-. Jl v ith the widenirq ofthe section between Hughes St. and the Salem Se. bridge to time lades. As Hvly. 545 is a state road; any questions Ie'Laro.ng the impending i4iiSiTlr?ti0r1 and its impact on business aczess, etc., should be dire:tcd to DOT. Apex will be the beneficiary of numerous mit,or DOT proiects for tJ'.e next several years. The widening of NC 145 from US I to US' 64 is on the Transportation Improvement Program schedule to b gin planning in 1998; `viih righ*.-of ?vay acqui:i rn in 200'. The Holly Sprints Bypass is currcntlv in the planning stage, with right-of-hay acquisition scheduled for 1996 and construction bi 1998. The Westtni NVakle Expressway, US 1 (South) to NC 5-44., isn't scheduled to begin until after 2003. D-2 North Carolina Department of Transportation Planning and Environmental Branch OR 0 WAS COUNTY t NC 55 WIDENING FROM THE PROPOSED HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US 1 T. I. P. NO. R-2905 JUNE 119 1996 Citizens Informational Workshop D-3 CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP NC 55 FROM THE PROPOSED HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US 1 WAKE COUNTY FEDERAL AID PROJECT NO. MA-55(4) STATE PROJECT NO. 8.1403301 T.I.P. ID NO. R-2905 Purpose of the Citizens Informational WorkshoR The purpose of the 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 (NCDOT) know. A comment sheet is provided for you to write your questions or concerns so that we can keep a record of and fully consider your ideas, comments, and suggestions. The NCDOT 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 NCDOT 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 Division of Highways North Carolina Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 A summary regarding NCDOT's public involvement and project planning process is attached for your information. Description and Purpose of the Project The North Carolina Department of Transportation's (NCDOT) 1996-2002 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) proposes to widen existing NC 55 between the proposed Holly Springs Bypass and US 1, and widen Bridge No. 71 over US 1. The NCDOT proposes to widen NC 55 from a two-lane facility to a five-lane facility (see attached Figure 1). D-4 The alternatives being considered are: 1. Widen existing NC 55 to a five-lane facility symmetrically the entire length of the project. 2. Widen existing NC 55 to a five-lane facility on the east side the entire length of the project. 3. Widen existing NC 55 to a five-lane facility on the west side the entire length of the project. It is anticipated that a maximum of an additional 20 feet of right-of-way acquisition, if any, may be necessary to construct the five-lane facility. The length of the project is approximately 1.6 miles. The purpose of the project is to provide a safer facility for local and regional users and to accommodate traffic anticipated to be generated by the Holly Springs Bypass at the southern project terminal. The proposed Holly Springs Bypass (T.I.P. ID NO. R-2541) is currently in the planning process. Project Schedule and Cost The schedule for right-of-way acquisition and construction of the proposed improvements to NC 55, as well as current cost estimates based on preliminary design, are summarized below: PROJECT SCHEDULE AND ESTIMATED COST PROJECT STAGE PROGRAM SCHEDULE CURRENT COST RIGHT OF WAY ACQUISITION FY 1999 $ 740,000 CONSTRUCTION FY 2000 $ 3,250,000 TOTAL PROJECT COST $ 3,990,000 Current Status Currently, planning and environmental studies for the improvements to NC 55 are in progress. Planning studies and conclusions regarding this project will be summarized in an environmental assessment document, which addresses the impacts that a proposed highway project may have on the natural and human environment. The environmental assessment is scheduled to be completed in September, 1996. A public hearing for the project will be held in late 1996. The improvements currently under study are described below. D-5 Proposed Improvements The NCDOT proposes to improve the existing two-lane facility from the proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1 by widening the facility. A five-lane facility will be constructed the entire length of the project, and Bridge No. 71 over US 1 will be replaced and widened to five lanes. Anticipated Right-of-WaYImpacts . The proposed improvements to NC 55 will require a maximum additional right-of- way width of approximately 20 feet, if any, and may necessitate the relocation of residences or businesses in some areas along the project. However, until both environmental studies and preliminary designs are completed, specific right-of-way impacts to individual properties cannot be determined. Anticipated impacts to individual properties will be presented at the public hearing, currently scheduled for late 1996. D-6 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND THE PROJECT PLANNING PROCESS PROJECT PLANNING Planning/environmental studies for highway projects are conducted in order to comply with either the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. The type of document published following the planning study depends on the magnitude of the project and its expected environmental impact. These documents may be one of the following types: ' EIS Environmental Impact Statement EA Environmental Assessment CE Categorical Exclusion These documents discuss the purpose. and need for the proposed improvements, evaluate alternatives, and analyze the project's impact on both-the human and natural environment. Areas of concern which these documents address include: - Efficiency and safety of travel - Neighborhoods, communities - Relocation of homes and businesses - Economy of project area - Historic properties, sites - Wetlands - Endangered species - Wildlife/plant communities - Water quality - Floodplains - Farmland, land use plans of project area - Hazardous materials involvement - Traffic noise/air quality PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT IN PROJECT PLANNING As stated above, project planning/environmental studies are conducted in order to comply with NEPA. NEPA requires that "agencies make diligent efforts to involve the public in preparing and implementing their NEPA procedures." Public Involvement is an integral part of NCDOT's project planning process. The concerns of citizens and interest groups are always considered during project planning studies. Additional alternatives are of,-en studied for projects, or recommended alternatives chanced, based on comments received from the public. D-7 OPPORTUNITIES FOR PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT NCDOT provides a number of opportunities for citizen and interest group participation during project planning. Some of these opportunities are listed below: SCOPING LETTER Published in N. C. Environmental Bulletin. This letter notifies agencies and groups on the State Clearinghouse mailing list that a project study has been initiated and solicits comments from them. CITIZENS Informal meeting with the public.. NCDOT staff conduct INFORMATIONAL these workshops to speak one-on-one with citizens WORKSHOP about projects. Comment sheets are provided for citizens to write down their questions, comments, and concerns. The number of workshops scheduled for a project depends on the scope and anticipated impact of the project. NEWSLETTERS On some projects, newsletters are sent to area residents and interest groups. Newsletters-describe the project, discuss the project's status, and outline the alternatives being studied. DOCUMENT Copies of environmental documents are submitted to the DISTRIBUTION State Clearinghouse for distribution and a notice is published in the N. C. Environmental Bulletin. Upon request, NCDOT will provide copies of the document to the public. Copies are available for public viewing at NCDOT Raleigh and Division offices, at the State Clearinghouse, council of government offices for the project area, local government offices; and sometimes in local public libraries. SMALL GROUP Presentations are given at the request of neighborhood MEETINGS associations or other interest groups. PUBLIC HEARING One or more formal public hearings for the public record are held. Format typically involves a short presentation followed by an opportunity for citizens to comment. CITIZEN LETTERS Citizens are encouraged to write NCDOT and provide information and express their concerns regarding proposed improvements. Correspondence from citizens and interest groups is considered during the course of the planning study and are included in the project file. D-8 `:OR'nl CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSrORTA' IO' eG= DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL nRANC1I NC 55 FR (l PROPOSED HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US 1 WAKE COUNTY T.1. P. PROJECT NO. R .2905 T n Engineer: Mayhew COMMENT SHEET NC 55 FROM THE PROPOSED HOLLY SPRINGS BYPASS TO NORTH OF US 1 WAKE COUNTY TIP NO. R-2905 JUNE 11, 1996 (You do not have to answer all the questions on these sheets, but please take the time to give us your comments and concerns regarding this project. Please continue any responses on the back of this sheet.) NAME: ADDRESS: COMIvIENTS, CONCERNS AND/ OR QUESTIONS REGARDING PROJECT R-2905: WE WOULD APPRECIATE YOUR RESPONSES TO THE QUESTIONS ON THE FOLLOWING PAGES. 11 D-10 WAS THE PROJECT ADEQUATELY EXPLAINED TO YOU? WERE NCDOT REPRESENTATIVES UNDERSTANDABLE AND CLEAR IN THEIR EXPLANATIONS? PLEASE EXPLAIN. 41 WERE DISPLAY MAPS EASY TO READ AND UNDERSTAND? PLEASE EXPLAIN. WERE NCDOT REPRESENTATIVES COURTEOUS AND HELPFUL? EXPLAIN. HOW MIGHT WE BETTER PRESENT PROPOSED PROJECTS AND ADDRESS CITIZEN'S CONCERNS IN FUTURE INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOPS? HOW DID YOU HEAR ABOUT THIS MEETING TODAY? DO YOU FEEL THE MEETING WAS ADEQUATELY PUBLICIZED? PLEASE EXPLAIN. ADDITIONAL COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS: THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS RELATE TO TRANSPORTATION IN YOUR AREA AND NORTH CAROLINA IN GENERAL. WHAT IS YOUR AREA'S MOST PRESSING TRANSPORTATION NEED? WHAT IS NORTH CAROLINA'S MOST PRESSING TRANSPORTATION NEED? PLEASE D-11 HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE CONDITION OF THE ROADS IN YOUR AREA? GOOD FAIR POOR WHY? WHAT ROAD IN YOUR AREA NEEDS THE MOST IMPROVEMENT? WHY? HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE CONDITION OF THE ROADS IN NORTH CAROLINA? GOOD FAIR POOR WHY? WHAT ROAD IN NORTH CAROLINA NEEDS THE MOST IMPROVEMENT? WHY? DO YOU HAVE ANY COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS REGARDING ANY TRANSPORTATION RELATED SUBJECT? Additional comments can be sent to Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager of the Planning and Environmental Branch, North Carolina Department of Transportation, P. 0. Box 25201, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611. D-12 R-2905 APPENDIX E TRAFFIC NOISE ANALYSIS DATA FIGURE N1 PROJECT LOCATION & AMBIENT MEASUREMENT SITES NC 55 From Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1 Wake County TIP# R-2905 State Project # 8.1403301 E-1 TABLE Nl HEARING: SOUNDS BOMBARDING US DAILY I 140 Shotgun blast, jet 30 m away at takeoff PAIN Motor test chamber HUMAN EAR PAIN THRESHOLD 130 Firecrackers 120 Severe thunder, pneumatic jackhammer Hockey crowd Amplified rock music UNCOMFORTABLY LOUD 110 Textile loom 100 Subway train, elevated train, farm tractor Power lawn mower, newspaper press Heavy city traffic, noisy factory LOUD 90 D Diesel truck 65 kmph 15 m away E 80 Crowded restaurant, garbage disposal C Average factory, vacuum cleaner I Passenger car 80 kmph 15 m away MODERATELY LOUD B 70 E Quiet typewriter L 60 Singing birds, window air-conditioner S Quiet automobile Normal conversation, average office QUIET 50 Household refrigerator Quiet office VERY QUIET 40 Average home 30 Dripping faucet Whisper 1.5 m away 20 Light rainfall, rustle of leaves AVERAGE PERSON'S THRESHOLD OF HEARING Whisper JUST AUDIBLE 10 0 THRESHOLD FOR ACUTE HEARING Sources: World Book, Rand McNally Atlas of the Human Body, Encyclopedia Americana, "Industrial Noise and Hearing Conversation" by J. B. Olishifski and E. R. Harford (Researched by N. Jane Hunt and published in the Chicago Tribune in an illustrated graphic by Tam Heinz.) i E-2 TABLE N2 NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA) Activity Category Leq(h) Description of Activity Category A 57 Lands on which serenity and quiet are of extraordinary significance and serve an important public (Exterior) need and where the preservation of those qualities is essential if the area is to continue to f serve its intended purpose. B 67 Picnic areas, recreation areas, playgrounds, active sports areas, parks, residences, motels, (Exterior) hotels, schools, churches, libraries, and hospitals. C 72 Developed lands, properties, or activities not included in Categories A or B above. (Exterior) D -- Undeveloped lands E 52 Residences, motels, hotels, public meeting rooms, schools, churches, libraries, hospitals, and (Interior) auditoriums. Source: Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 772, U. S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration DEFINITION OF SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE Hourly A-weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA) Existing Noise Level Increase in dBA from Existing Noise in Leq(h) Levels to Future Noise Levels < 50 > 15 > 50 > 10 Source: North Carolina Department of Transportation Noise Abatement Guidelines. E-3 TABLE N3.A Leq TRAFFIC NOISE EXPOSURES NC 55 From SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) Wake County, State Project # 8.1403301, TIP #R-2905 ALTERNATIVE A - EAST SIDE WIDENING AMBIENT NEAREST RECEPTOR INFORMATION NEAREST ROADWAY NOISE PROPOSED ROADWAY PREDICTED NOISE LEVELS ID # LAND USE CATEGORY NAME DISTANCE (m) LEVEL STA DISTANCE (m) -L- -Y- MAXIMUM SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) to US 1 18 Residence B NC 55 38.0 L 64 19 Residence B 90.0 L 56 20 Residence B 46.0 L 62 21 Business C 30.0 L 66 22 Residence B 33.0 L 65 23 Residence B 30.0 L 66 24 Business C 45.0 L 62 25 Residence C 40.0 L 64 26 Business C 45.0 L 62 27A Business C 30.0 L 66 27B Business C 30.0 L 66 28A Business C 45.0 L 62 28B Business C 34.0 L 65 29 Business C 23.0 R 68 30 Business C 58.0 R 60 31A Business C 35.0 R 65 31B Business C 37.0 R 64 32 Business C 82.0 R 57 33 Business C 32.0 R 65 34 Business C 40.0 R 64 35 Business C 30.0 L 66 36 Business- C 40.0 L 64 37 Business C 60.0 L 60 38 Business C 25.0 R 67 US 1 to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) 39 Business C NC 55 36.0 L 66 40 Business C " 17.0 R 71 41 Business C 30.0 R 67 42 Business C 30.0 R 67 43 Business C 35.0 R 66 NOTE S: Distances are from center of the existing or proposed roadways. All noise levels are hourly A•weighted noise levels. Category E noise levels shown as exteriorlinterior (58/48). . 1/2 NOISE LEVEL INCREASE NC 55 33.0 L - - • 71 + 7 " 85.0 L - - 62 + 6 " 41.0L - - •69 +7 " 25.0 L - - • 73 + 7 " 28.0 L - - • 72 + 7 " 25.0 L - - • 73 + 7 " 40.0 L - - 69 + 7 " 35.0L - - •71 +7 " 40.0 L - - 69 + 7 " 25.0 L - - • 73 + 7 " 25.0 L - - • 73 + 7 " 40.0 L - - 69 + 7 " 29.0 L - - • 72 + 7 " 28.0 R - - • 72 + 4 " 63.0 R - - 65 + 5 " 40.0 R - - 69 + 4 " 42.0 R - - 69 + 5 " 87.0 R - - 62 + 5 " 37.0 R - - 70 + 5 " 45.0 R - - 68 + 4 " 25.0 L - - ' 73 + 7 " 35.0L - - •71 +7 " 55.0 L - - 66 + 6 " 30.0R - - •72 +5 NC 55 31.0 L - - • 72 + 6 " 22.0 R - - • 75 + 4 " 35.0R - - •71 +4 " 35.0R - - •71 +4 " 40.0 R - - 70 + 4 -L=> Proposed roadway's noise level contribution. -Y=> Noise level from other contributing roadways. • => Traffic noise impact (per 23 CFR Part 772). E-4 • TABLE N3.B Leq TRAFFIC NOISE EXPOSURES NC 55 From SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) Wake County, State Project # 8.1403301, TIP #R-2905 G Ai T ERNeT VE B -WEST SIDE WIDENIN AMBIENT NEAREST RECEPTOR INFORMATION NEAREST ROADWAY NOISE PROPOSED ROADWAY PREDICTED NOISE LEVELS M # LAND USE CATEGORY NAME DISTANCE (m) LEVEL STA DISTANCE (m) -L- Y- MAXIMUM SR 1448 (Bobbin Rd.) to US 1 18 Residence B NC 55 38.0 L 64 19 Residence B 90.0 L 56 20 Residence B 46.0 L 62 21 Business C 30.0 L 66 22 Residence B 33.0 L 65 23 Residence B 30.0 L 66 24 Business C 45.0 L 62 25 Residence C 40.0 L 64 26 Business C 45.0 L 62 27a Business C 30.0 L 66 27b Business C 30.0 L 66 28a Business C 45.0 L 62 28b Business C 34.0 L 65 29 Business C 23.0 R 68 30 Business C 58.0 R 60 31a Business C 35.0 R 65 31b Business C 37.0 R 64 32 Business C 82.0 R 57 33 Business C 32.0 R 65 34 Business C 40.0 R 64 35 Business C 30.0 L 66 36 Business C 40.0 L 64 37 Business C 60.0 L 60 38 Business C 25.0 R 67 US 1 to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) 39 Business C NC 55 36.0 L 66 40 Business C 17.0 R 71 41 Business C 30.0 R 67 42 Business C 30.0 R - 67 43 Business C 35.0 R 66 NOT ES: Distances are from center of the existing or proposed roadways. All noise levels are hourly A-weighted noise levels. Category E noise levels shown as exterior/mterior (58/48). 2/2 NOISE LEVEL INCREASE NC 55 43.0 L - - ' 69 + 5 " 95.0 L - - 61 +5 " 51.0 L - - •67 +5 " 35.0 L - - 71 +5 " 38.0 L - - ' 70 + 5 " 35.0 L - - •71 +5 " 50.0 L - - 67 + 5 " 45.0 L - - 68 + 4 " 50.0 L - - 67 +5 " 35.0 L - - •71 + 5 " 35.0 L - - '71 +5 " 50.0 L - - 67 +5 " 39.0 L - - 70 + 5 " 18.0R - - •75 +7 " 53.0 R - - 67 + 7 " 30.0 R - - • 72 + 7 " 32.0R - - •71 +7 " 77.0 R - - 63 + 6 " 27.0 R - - •73 +8 " 35.0R - - •71 +7 " 35.0 L - - '71 +5 " 45.0 L - - 68 +4 " 65.0 L - - 65 +5 " 20.0 R - - • 75 + 8 NC 55 41.0 L - - 70 +4 " 12.0 R - - • 77 + 6 " 25.0 R - - ' 74 + 7 " 25.0R - - •74 +7 " 30.0 R - - ' 72 + 6 -L=> Proposed roadway's noise level contribution. -Y=> Noise level from other contributing roadways. • _> Traffic noise impact (per 23 CFR Part 772). E-5 TABLE N4 FHWA NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA SUMMARY NC 55 From SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) Wake County, State Project # 8.1403301, TIP # R-2905 Description ALTERNATIVE A - EAST SIDE WID 1. SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) to US 1 2. US I to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) ALTERNATIVE B - WEST SIDE WIDENING 1. SR 1448 (Bobbin Rd.) to US 1 2 US 1 to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) Maximum Predicted Contour Leq Noise Levels Distances dBA (Maximum) 15m 30m . 60m 72 dBA 67 dBA Approximate Number of Impacted Receptors According to Title 23 CFR Part 772 A B C D E 75 71 65 30.8 m 54.4 m 0 4 9 0 0 75 71 66 33.4 m 58.0 m 0 0 4 0 0 Total 0 4 13 0 0 75 71 65 30.8 m 54.4 m 0 4 10 0 0 75 71 66 33.4 m 58.0 m 0 0 4 0 0 Total 0 4 14 0 0 NOTES - 1. 15m, 30m and 60m distances are measured from center of nearest travel lane. 2.72 dBA and 67 dBA contour distances are measured from center of proposed roadway. 0 A E-6 TABLE N5 TRAFFIC NOISE LEVEL INCREASE SUMMARY NC 55 From SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) to SR 1158 (South Hughes Rd.) Wake County, State Project # 8.140330 1, TIP # R-2905 RECEPTOR EXTERIOR NOISE LEVEL INCREASES s Substantial Impacts Due Noise Level to Both Section <=O 1-4 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 r- 25 Increases i Criteria 2 ALTERNATIVE A - EAST SI 1. SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) DE WIDEN 0 G IN 3 21 0 0 0 0 0 0 to US 1 2. US I to SR 1158 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 (South Hughes Rd. ) TOTALS 0 7 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 ALTERNATIVE B - WEST SI 1. SR 1448 (Bobbitt Rd.) DE WIDEN 0 G IN 2 22 0 0 0 0 0 0 to US 1 2. US I to SR 1158 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 (South Hughes Rd.) TOTALS 0 3 26 0 0 0 0 0 0 NOTES- As defined by only a substantial Increase (See bottom of Table N2). 2 As defined by both criteria in Table N2. E-7 R-2905 APPENDIX F AIR QUALITY ANALYSIS DATA TABLE Al CAL3QHC: LINE SOURCE DISPERSION MODEL - VERSION 2.0, JANUARY 1992 PAGE 1 t If JOB: Wake Co RUN: NC 55 / US 1 BUILD 1995 SITE i METEOROLOGICAL VARIABLES ------ -- ------------------- VS = .0 CM/S --- VD - .0 CM/S ZO - 108. CM U - 1.0 M/S CLAS - 4 (D) ATIM - 60. MINUTES MIXH - 1000. M AMB - 1.8 PPM LINK VARIABLES --LINK DESCRIPTION * LINK COORDINATES (M) * LENGTH ERG TYPE VPH EF H W V/C QUEUE * X1 Y1 X2 Y2 * (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (M) (M) (VEH) -------------------------- 1. NC 55 NB APPR * -105.0 -477.0 35.0 109.0 * 602. 13. AG 455. 16.3 .0 13.2 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 32.0 100.0 27.5 81.5 * 19. 193. AG 1108. 100.0 .0 7.2 .25 3.2 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 27.0 100.0 12.5 40.4 * 61. 194. AG 1148. 100.0 .0 3.6 1.54 10.2 4. NC 55 NB DEP * 35.0 109.0 150.0 570.0 * 475. 14. AG 800. 16.3 .0 13.2 5. NC 55 SB APPR * 130.0 572.0 24.0 110.0 * 474. 193. AG 800. 16.3 .0 13.2 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 24.0 119:0 32.4 154.7 * 37. 13. AG 1108. 100.0 .0 7.2 .49 6.1 7. NC 55 SB DEP * 24.0 110.0 -120.0 -475.0 * 602. 194. AG 1055. 16.3 .0 13.2 8. Ramp(55to US 1) * 18.0 119.0 -285.0 -40.0 * 342. 242. AG 45. 16.3 .0 9.6 9. NC 55 WB APPR * 215.0 89.0 32.0 117.0 * 185. 279. AG 645. 16.3 .0 9.6 10. WB Queue * 41.0 117.0 77.9 111.1 * 37. 99. AG 655. 100.0 .0 3.6 .51 6.2 11. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 48.0 111.0 82.2 101.5 * 36. 106. AG 715. 100.0 .0 3.6 .50 5.9 ADDITIONAL QUEUE LINK PARAMETERS --------------------- LINK DESCRIPTION ----- * ------ CYCLE RED CLEARANCE APPROACH SATURATION IDLE SIGNAL ARRIVAL * LENGTH TIME LAST TIME VOL FLAW RATE EM FAC TYPE RATE * (SEC) (SEC) (SEC) (VPH) (VPH) (9m/hr) ---------------------- -- ----------------------------------------- -------------------- --------------- ---- 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 120 55 2.0 415 1600 450.70 1 3 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 120 114 2.0 40 1600 450.70 1 3 6. NC 55 SE, QUEUE * 120 55 2.0 800 1600 450.70 1 3 10. WB Queue * 120 65 2.0 345 1600 450.70 1 3 11. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 120 71 2.0 300 1600 450.70 1 3 RECEPTOR LOCATIONS ------------------ * COORDINATES (M) RECEPTOR * X Y Z ------------------------- *------------------------------- ------* 1. R1 (NE CORNER) * 71.0 200.0 1.8 2. R/W (NW CORNER) * 6.0 170.0 1.8 3. R/W (SW CORNER) * .0 100.0 1.8 4. R/W (SE CORNER) * 40.0 100.0 1.8 F-1 TABLE Al (Cont'd) MODEL RESULTS ------------- REMARKS : In search of the angle corresponding to the maximum concentration, only the first angle, of the angles with same maximum concentrations, is indicated as maximum. WIND ANGLE RANGE: 0.-360. WIND * CONCENTRATION ANGLE * (PPM) (DEGR)* REC1 REC2 REC3 REC4 ------*------------------------ MAX * 3.8 4.2 4.4 7.6 DEGR. * 205 150 100 232 THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION IS 7.60 PPM AT 232 DEGREES FROM REC4 . PAGE 2 P I F-2 TABLE A2 CAL3QHC: LINE SOURCE DISPERSION MODEL - VERSION 2.0, JANUARY 1992 JOB: Wake Co SITE 6 METEOROLOGICAL VARIABLES ------------------------------- t VS . .0 CM/S VD - .0 CM/S U = 1.0 M/S CLAS = 4 (D) LINK VARIABLES -------------- RUN: NC 55 / US 1 BUILD 2000 ZO - 108. CM ATIM = 60. MINUTES MM = 1000. M AMB = 1.8 PPM PAGE 3 LINK DESCRIPTION * LINK COORDINATES (M) * LENGTH BRG TYPE VPH EF H W V/C QUEUE * X1 Yl n Y2 * (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (M) (M) (VEH) ------------------------ *-- --------- ----------------------------- *------------------------------------ -------------------- 1. NC 55 NB APPR * -105.0 -477.0 35.0 109.0 * 602. 13. AG 622. 12.9 .0 13.2 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 32.0 100.0 25.9 74.5 * 26. 193. AG 873. 100.0 .0 7.2 .35 4.4 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 27.0 100.0 5.0 10.0 * 93. 194. AG 905. 100.0 .0 3.6 1.88 15.4 4. NC 55 NB DEP * 35.0 109.0 150.0 570.0 * 475. 14. AG 994. 12.9 .0 13.2 - 5. NC 55 SB APPR * 130.0 572.0 24.0 110.0 * 474. 193. AG 994. 12.9 .0 13.2 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 24.0 119.0 34.4 163.4 * 46. 13. AG 873. 100.0 .0 7.2 .61 7.6 7. NC 55 SB DEP * 24.0 110.0 -120.0 -475.0 * 602. 194. AG 1302. 12.9 .0 13.2 S. Ramp(55to US 1) * 18.0 119.0 -285.0 -40.0 * 342. 242. AG 55. 12.9 .0 9.6 9. NC 55 WB APPR * 215.0 89.0 32.0 117.0 * 185. 279. AG 784. 12.9 .0 9.6 10. NC 55 WB QUEUE * 41.0 117.0 86.0 109.8 * 46. 99. AG 516. 100.0 .0 3.6 .62 7.6 11. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 48.0 111.0 89.4 99.5 * 43. 106. AG 564. 100.0 .0 3.6 .61 7.2 ADDITIONAL QUEUE LINK PARAMETERS ---------------------- LINK DESCRIPTION ---- * ------ CYCLE RED CLEARANCE APPROACH SATURATION IDLE SIGNAL ARRIVAL * LENGTH TIME LAST TIME VOL FLOW RATE EM PAC TYPE RATE * (SEC) (SEC) (SEC) (VPH) (VPH) (9m/hr) ------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------- --- 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 120 55 2.0 573 1600 355.20 1 3 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 120 114 2.0 49 1600 355.20 1 3 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 120 55 2.0 994 1600 355.20 1 3 10. NC 55 WB QUEUE * 120 65 2.0 421 1600 355.20 1 3 11. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 120 71 2.0 363 1600 355.20 1 3 RECEPTOR LOCATIONS ------------------ * COORDINATES (M) RECEPTOR * X Y Z ----------------------- -- *- --------- ---------------------------* 1. R1 (NE CORNER) * 71 .0 200.0 1.8 2. R/W (NW CORNER) * 6 .0 170.0 1.8 3. R/W (SW COMM) * .0 100.0 1.8 4. R/W (SE CORNER) * 40 .0 100.0 1.8 F-3 TABLE A2 (Cont'd) MODEL RESULTS ------------- REMARKS : In search of the angle corresponding to the maximum concentration, only the first angle, of the angles with same maximum concentrations, is indicated as maximum. WIND ANGLE RANGE: 0.-360. WIND * CONCENTRATION ANGLE * (PPM) (DEGR)* REC1 REC2 REC3 REC4 ------*------------------------ MAX * 3.8 3.8 4.1 6.9 DEGR. * 209 144 100 220 THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION IS 6.90 PPM AT 220 DEGREES FROM REC4 . PAGE 4 P .i F-4 TABLE A3 q CAL3QHC: LINE SOURCE DISPERSION MODEL - VERSION 2.0, JANUARY 1992 JOB: RUN: NC 55 / US 1 BUILD 2020 ZO = 108. CM ATIM - 60. MINUTES MM - 1000. M AMB - 1.8 PPM PAGE 5 -- * LINK COORDINATES (M) * LENGTH BRG TYPE VPH EF H W V/C QUEUE LINK DES CRIPTION * (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (M) (M) (VEH) * Xi Y1 X2 Y2 ---------- ------- ------------------- ---------------- ---- ---------- ------ NC 55 1 NB APPR * -105.0 -477.0 35.0 109.0 * 602. 13. AG 1131. 10.1 .0 13.2 . 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 32.0 100.0 21.3 55.1 46. 193. AG 704. 100.0 .0 7.2 .62 7.7 0 * 27 100 0 -36.4 -159.9 * 268. 194. AG 763. 100.0 .0 3.6 6.54 44.6 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE . 0 * 35 . 109.0 150.0 570.0 * 475. 14. AG 1770. 10.1 .0 13.2 4. NC 55 NB DEP . 0 * 130 0 572 24.0 110.0 * 474. 193. AG 1770. 10.1 .0 13.2 5. NC 55 SB APPR . * . 0 119 6 83 373.6 * 262. 13. AG 704. 100.0 .0 7.2 1.05 43.6 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE 24.0 . . 7. NC 55 SB DEP * 24.0 110.0 -120.0 -475.0 * 602. 194. AG 2290. 10.1 .0 13.2 8. Ramp(5 5to US 1) * 18.0 119.0 -285.0 -40.0 * 342. 242. AGr 95. 10.1 .0 9.6 NC 55 9 WB APPR * 215.0 89.0 32.0 117.0 * 185. 279. AG 1340. 10.1 .0 9.6 . 0 * 41 0 117 335.6 69.6 * 298. 99. AG 438. 100.0 .0 3.6 1.09 49.7 10. NC 55 WB QUEUE . * . 0 111 239 1 57.7 * 198. 106. AG 478. 100.0 .0 3.6 1.05 33.1 11. NC 55 WBLT QUE 48.0 . . ADDITIONAL QUEUE LINK PARAMETERS --------------------- LINK DESCRIPTION -----°---- * CYCLE RED CLEARANCE APPROACH SATURATION IDLE SIGNAL ARRIVAL * LENGTH TIME LAST TIME VOL FLAW RATE EM PAC TYPE RATE * (SEC) (SEC) (SEC) (VPH) (VPH) (9m/hr) -- ---------- -------------- *------------------- ------------ ---------- ---------- ---------- --------------- -- 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 120 53 2.0 1046 1600 297.00 1 3 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 120 115 2.0 85 1600 297.00 1 3 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 120 53 2.0 1770 1600 297.00 1 3 10. NC 55 WB QUEUE * 120 66 2.0 725 1600 297.00 1 3 11. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 120 72 2.0 615 1600 297.00 1 3 RECEPTOR LOCATIONS -------- ---------- * COORDINATES (M) RECEPTOR * X Y Z ---------- --------------- *---------- ---------------------------* 1. R1 (NE CORNER) * 71 .0 200.0 1.8 2. R/W (NW CORNER) * 6.0 170.0 1.8 3. R/W (SW CORNER) * .0. 100.0 1.8 4. R/W LSE CORNER) * 40.0 100.0 1.8 Wake Co SITE 6 METEOROLOGICAL VARIABLES ------------------------------- VS = .0 CM/S VD - .0 CM/S U - 1.0 M/S CLAS - 4 (D) LINK VARIABLES F-5 TABLE A3 (Cont'd) MODEL RESULTS ------------- REMARKS : In search of the angle corresponding to the maximum concentration, only the first angle, of the angles with same maximum concentrations, is indicated as maximum. WIND ANGLE RANGE: 0.-360. WIND * CONCENTRATION ANGLE * (PPM) (DEGR)* REC1 REC2 REC3 REC4 ------*------------------------ MAX * 4.2 4.0 4.6 7.1 DEGR. * 200 129 94 211 THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION IS 7.10 PPM AT 211 DEGREES FROM REC4 . PAGE 6 r l F-6 TABLE A4 CAL3QHC: LINE SOURCE DISPERSION MODEL - VERSION 2.0, JANUARY 1992 PAGE 7 JOB: Wake Co RUN: NC 55 / US 1 NO BUILD 1995 SITE 6 METEOROLOGICAL VARIABLES --- --------------------° VS = .0 CM/S ---- VD ° .0 CM/S ZO - 108. CM U - 1.0 M/S CLAS - 4 (D) ATIM - 60. MINUTES MIXH - 1000. M AMB - 1.8 PPM LINK VARIABLES -------------- LINK DESCRIPTION * LINK COORDINATES (M) * LENGTH BRG TYPE VPH EF H W V/C QUEUE * X1 Y1 X2 Y2 * (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (M) (M) (VEH) ---------------------- -- *------------- ------------------ --------- *------------------------------------ --------- ----------- 1. NC 55 NB APPR * -102.0 -477.0 32.0 109.0 * 601. 13. AG 495. 10.1 .0 9.6 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 29.0 100.0 23.0 73.4 * 27. 193. AG 363. 100.0 .0 3.6 .43 4.6 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 27.0 100.0 2.1 -2.3 * 105. 194. AG 1159. 100.0 .0 3.6 3.08 17.5 4. NC 55 NB DEP * 32.0 109.0 147.0 570.0 * 475. 14. AG 800. 10.1 .0 9.6 5. NC 55 SB APPR * 133.0 572.0 27.0 110.0 * 474. 193. AG 800. 10.1 .0 9.6 6. NC 55 SS QUEUE * 27.0 119.0 37.9 165.7 * 48. 13. AG 363. 100.0 .0 3.6 .75 8.0 7. NC 55 SB DEP * 27.0 110.0 -123.0 -475.0 * 604. 194. AG 1055. 10.1 .0 9.6 8. Ramp(55to US 1) * 27.0 119.0 -285.0 -40.0 * 350. 243. AG 45. 10.1 .0 9.6 9. NC 55 WB APPR * 215.0 89.0 44.0 155.0 * 183. 291. AG 645. 10.1 .0 9.6 10. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 48.0 111.0 96.2 97.5 * 50. 105. AG 897. 100.0 .0 3.6 .84 8.3 ADDITIONAL QUEUE LINK PARAMETERS --------------------- LINK DESCRIPTION ----- * ------ CYCLE RED CLEARANCE APPROACH SATURATION IDLE SIGNAL ARRIVAL * LENGTH TIME LAST TIME VOL FLOW RATE EM PAC TYPE RATE * (SEC) (SEC) (SEC) (VPH) (VPH) (gm/hr) ------------------------ -- --------------------------------------- --------------------------------------- 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 120 36 2.0 455 1600 450.70 1 3 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 120 115 2.0 40 1600 450.70 1 3 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 120 36 2.0 800 1600 450.70 1 3 10. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 120 89 2.0 300 1600 450.70 1 3 i RECEPTOR LOCATIONS ------------------ * COORDINATES (M) RECEPTOR * X Y Z ------------------------- *-------------------------------------* 1. R1 (NE CORNER) * 71.0 200.0 1.8 2. R/W (NW CORNER) * 6.0 170.0 1.8 3. R/W (SW CORNER) * .0 100.0 1.8 4. R/W (SE CORNER) * 40.0 100.0 1.8 F-7 TABLE A4 (Cont'd) MODEL RESULTS REMARKS : In search of the angle corresponding to the maximum concentration, only the first angle, of the angles with same maximum concentrations, is indicated as maximum. WIND ANGLE RANGE: 0.-360. WIND * CONCENTRATION ANGLE * (PPM) (DEGR)* REC1 REC2 REC3 REC4 MAX * 3.1 3.0 3.6 5.2 DEGR. * 194 171 99 219 THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION IS 5.20 PPM AT 219 DEGREES FROM REC4 . PAGE 8 P .l F-8 TABLE A5 CAL3QHC: LINE SOURCE DISPERSION MODEL - VERSION 2.0, JANUARY 1992 PAGE 9 JOB: Wake Co RUN: NC 5 5 / US 1 NO BUILD 2000 SITE 6 METEOROLOGICAL VARIABLES ----- -------------------------- VS - .0 CM/S VD .0 CM/S ZO - 108. CM U = 1.0 M/S CLAS - 4 (D) ATIM - 60. MINUTES MIXH - 1000. M AMID - 1.8 PPM ' LINK VARIABLES -------------- LINK DESCRIPTION * LINK COORDINATES (M) * LENGTH BRG TYPE VPH EF H W V/C QUEUE * X1 Y1 X2 Y2 * (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (M) (M) (VEH) ------------------------ *-- ------------------------------ -------- *----------------------------------- --------------- -------- 1. NC 55 NB APPR * -102.0 -477.0 32.0 109.0 * 601. 13. AG 622. 16.3 .0 9.6 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 29.0 100.0 21.4 66.5 * 34. 193. AG 363. 100.0 .0 3.6 .54 5.7 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 27.0 100.0 -5.6 -33.8 * 138. 194. AG 1159. 100.0 .0 3.6 3.77 23.0 4. NC 55 NB DEP * 32.0 109.0 147.0 570.0 * 475. 14. AG 994. 16.3 .0 9.6 5. NC 55 SB APPR * 133.0 572.0 27.0 110.0 * 474. 193. AG 994. 16.3 .0 9.6 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 27.0 119.0 44.7 194.5 * 78. 13. AG 363. 100.0 .0 3.6 .93 12.9 7. NC 55 SB DEP * 27.0 110.0 -123.0 -475.0 * 604. 194. AG 1302. 16.3 .0 9.6 S. Ramp(55to US 1) * 27.0 119.0 -285.0 -40.0 * 350. 243. AG 55. 16.3 .0 9.6 9. NC 55 WB APPR * 215.0 89.0 44.0 155.0 * 183. 291. AG 784. 16.3 .0 9.6 10. NC 55 WELT QUE * 48.0 111.0 138.8 85.7 * 94. 106. AG 897. 100.0 .0 3.6 1.01 15.7 ADDITIONAL QUEUE LINK PARAMETERS -------------------------- LINK DESCRIPTION * ------ CYCLE RED CLEARANCE APPROACH SATURATION IDLE SIGNAL ARRIVAL * LENGTH TIME LOST TIME VOL FLOW RATE EM PAC TYPE RATE * (SEC) (SEC) (SEC) (VPH) (VPH) (9m/hr) ------------------------ ----------------------------------------- -------------------- --------------- ---- 2. NC 55 NS QUEUE * 120 36 2.0 573 1600 450.70 1 3 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 120 115 2.0 49 1600 450.70 1 3 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 120 36 2.0 994 1600 450.70 1 3 10. NC 55 WELT QUE * 120 89 2.0 363 1600 450.70 1 3 i RECEPTOR LOCATIONS ------------------ * COORDINATES (M) ' RECEPTOR * X Y Z ------------------------- *- ------------------------------ ------ * 1. R1 (NE CORNER) * 71.0 200.0 1.8 * 2. R/W (NW CORNER) * 6.0 170.0 1.8 * 3. R/W (SW CORNER) * .0 100.0 1.8 * 4. R/W (SE CORNER) * 40.0 100.0 1.8 * F-9 TABLE A5 (Cont'd) MODEL RESULTS REMARKS : In search of the angle corresponding to the maximum concentration, only the first angle, of the angles with same maximum concentrations, is indicated as maximum. WIND ANGLE RANGE: 0.-360. WIND * CONCENTRATION ANGLE * (PPM) (DEGR)* REC1 REC2 REC3 REC4 MAX * 3.8 3.3 4.0 5.9 DEGR. * 203 171 93 221 THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION IS 5.90 PPM AT 221 DEGREES FROM REC4 . F10 PAGE 10 i i c TABLE A6 CAL3QHC: LINE SOURCE DISPERSION MODEL - VERSION 2.0, JANUARY 1992 Z JOB: Wake Co SITE & METEOROLOGICAL VARIABLES ------------------------------- VS = .0 CM/S VD = .0 CM/S U - 1.0 M/S CLAS - 4 (D) LINK VARIABLES -------------- RUN: NC 55 / US 1 PAGE 11 NO BUILD 2020 20 108. CM ATIM = 60. MINUTES MIXH = 1000. M AMB = 1.8 PPM LINK DESCRIPTION * LINK COORDINATES (M) * LENGTH BRG TYPE VPH EF H W V/C QUEUE * Xi Y1 X2 Y2 * (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (M) (M) (VEH) ------------------------ *------------------------------- --------- *----------- ----------------------------------------------- 1. NC 55 NB APPR * -102.0 -477.0 32.0 109.0 * 601. 13. AG 1311. 42.1 .0 9.6 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 29.0 100.0 10.0 16.3 * 86. 193. AG 226. 100.0 .0 3.6 .96 14.3 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 27.0 100.0 -36.4 -159.9 * 268. 194. AG 763. 100.0 .0 3.6 6.54 44.6 4. NC 55 NB DEP * 32.0 109.0 147.0 570.0 * 475. 14. AG 1170. 42.1 .0 9.6 5. NC 55 SB APPR * 133.0 572.0 27.0 110.0 * 474. 193. AG 1170. 42.1 .0 9.6 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 27.0 119.0 530.7 2271.8 * 2211. 13. AG 226. 100.0 .0 3.6 1.62 368.5 7. NC 55 SB DEP * 27.0 110.0 -123.0 -475.0 * 604. 194. AG 229. 42.1 .0 9.6 8. Ramp(55to US 1) * 27.0 119.0 -285.0 -40.0 * 350. 243. AG 95. 42.1 .0 9.6 9. NC 55 WB APPR * 215.0 89.0 44.0 155.0 * 183. 291. AG 1340. 42.1 .0 9.6 10. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 48.0 111.0 961.4 -143.9 * 948. 106. AG 597. 100.0 .0 3.6 1.78 158.0 ADDITIONAL QUEUE LINK PARAMETERS -------- - -----------------°--- LINK DESCRIPTION - * CYCLE RED CLEARANCE APPROACH SATURATION IDLE SIGNAL ARRIVAL * LENGTH TIME LAST TIME VOL FLOW RATE EM FAC TYPE RATE * (SEC) (SEC) (SEC) (VPH) (VPH) (gm/hr) ------------------------ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2. NC 55 NB QUEUE * 120 34 2.0 1046 1600 297.00 1 3 3. NC 55 NBLT QUE * 120 115 2.0 85 1600 297.00 1 3 6. NC 55 SB QUEUE * 120 34 2.0 1770 1600 297.00 1 3 10. NC 55 WBLT QUE * 120 90 2.0 615 1600 297.00 1 3 r RECEPTOR LOCATIONS ------------°---- * COORDINATES (M) * RECEPTOR * X Y Z ------------------------- *--------- ----------------------------* 1. R1 (NE CORNER) * 71.0 200.0 1.8 2. R/W (NW CORNER) * 6.0 170.0 1.8 3. R/W (SW CORNER) * .0 100.0 1.8 4. R/W (SE CORNER) * 40.0 100.0 1.8 F-11 TABLE A6 (Cont'd) MODEL RESULTS ------------- REMARXS : In search of the angle corresponding to the maximum concentration, only the first angle, of the angles with same maximum concentrations, is indicated as maximum. WIND ANGLE RANGE: 0.-360. WIND * CONCENTRATION ANGLE * (PPM) (DEGR)* RECI REC2 REC3 REC4 ------*------------------------ MAX * 5.2 4.8 4.5 6.5 DEGR. * 203 111 94 207 THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION IS 6.50 PPM AT 207 DEGREES FROM REC4 . PAGE 12 i Z t F-12 R-2905 APPENDIX G HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EVALUATION Aft, Af!k 'ex 10-1 GE O r- STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT. JR. GOVERNOR POOL BOX 25201. RALEIGH. N.C 27611-5201 April 4, 1995 OR 1 1 1995 DIVISION OF Q? i4IGHWAYS O 0. 411 NNIEV.16P R- SAMUEL HUNT I ( I SECRETARY State Project: 8.1403301 95 F. A. Project: MA-55(4) County: Wake Description: NC 55 from Proposed Holly Springs Bypass to North of US 1 Subject: Hazardous Materials Evaluation The purpose of this report is to describe any potential environmental hazards that may affect the widening and construction of the proposed roadway. Geotechnical Unit personnel have conducted a' field reconnaissance within project limits and have reviewed files of appropriate environmental agencies in order to identify any possible hazards. Hazardous Materials Inventory Underground 4t?ge Tank (i , 'l'? Facilit;Pc The field reconnaissance identified six (6) facilities with USTs within project limits. 1. Kenan Transport Co. 1710 East Williams Highway 55 Apex, NC UST Owner: Kenan Transport Co. P.O. Box 2729 Chapel Hill, NC Facility ID#: 0-000585 This facility is located on the west side of NC 55 north of SR 1448. There are five USTs registered with the NCDEM at this site. Three tanks are used to store diesel fuel, one for new motor oil and one for new/used oil mixture. Tank capacities range from 3,790 to 37,850 liters. The tanks are situated behind and beside the two story, metal building, at least 70 meters from the NC 55 centerline. G-1 r R-2905 Hazardous Materials Evaluation Page 2 2. Rigsbee Auto Parts Highway 55 East P.O. Box 327 Apex, NC Facility ID#: Unknown UST Owner: Ervin Rigsbee Highway 64 East Knightdale, NC This facility is located on the west side of NC 55, south of the Apex Veterinary Hospital. There are at least two USTs on the property that are no longer in service. They are located in the grassed island in front of the facility, approximately 11.9 meters from the NC 55 centerline. NCDEM registry information is not currently available. 3. Ryder Truck Rental UST Owner: Ryder Truck Rental, Inc. Route 55 P.O. Box 2586 Apex, NC Highway 301 Bypass North Rocky Mount, NC Facility ID#: 0-005391 This two story, metal building is located on the east side of NC 55 approximately 450 meters south of the NC 55/US 1 interchange. There are four USTs registered with the NCDEM at this site. The tanks are used to store diesel fuel, new oil and new/used oil mixtures and range in capacity from 7,570 to 45,420 liters. The tank bed and pump islands are located behind the building, approximately 75 meters from the NC 55 centerline. 4. Apex Detail and Auto Sales Highway 55 & US 1 Apex, NC Facility ID#: Unknown UST Owner: Ms. Hat (?) Apex, NC This facility is located in the western quadrant of the NC 55/US 1 interchange. It is currently operated as a used car dealership and auto detailing shop. There are two USTs in front of the station building that were used to store fuel for sale. They are located approximately 22 meters from the NC 55 centerline. A third UST used to collect used oil is immediately in front of the service bays, nearly 27.4 meters from NC 55. The station no longer dispenses petroleum. NCDEM registry information is not currently available. 5. F & S Exxon Service Station 1306 East Williams Apex, NC Facility ID#: 0-005168 UST Owner: Kenan Oil Co., Inc. 100 Europa Drive, Suite 450 Chapel Hill, NC G-2 R-2905 Hazardous Materials Evaluation Page 3 This out of business station is located in the southwest quadrant of the NC 55/SR 1158 intersection. Five UST's are registered with the NCDEM. They were used to store gasoline, new/used oil mixture and heating oil, and had capacities ranging from 2,080 to 22,710 liters. Based on the condition of the parking area, it appears that the USTs have been removed from the property. All pump heads and vent piping have been removed and no fill ports were seen. 6. A & K Food Mart P.O. Box 220 Apex, NC UST Owner: L. G. Jordan Oil Co., Inc. P.O. Box 220 314 North Hughes Street Apex, NC Facility ID#: 0-005385 This active convenience store is located on the northeast side of NC 55 at -the intersection with SR 1158. There are five USTs registered with the NCDEM at this location which are used to store gasoline, diesel fuel and kerosene. The tanks range in capacity from 3,780 to 37,850 liters and are located approximately 32 meters from the NC 55 centerline. The closest point of the UST system to the road is the pump island in front of the building. It is approximately 20.4 meters from the NC 55 centerline. Additional right of way acquisition should not be allowed to encroach upon the UST's associated with these facilities. Purchasing properties with UST's may expose the NCDOT to the liabilities associated with their leakage, removal or abatement. Other Potential Environmental Hazards On the east side of NC 55, across from the Apex Veterinary Hospital, are the remains of a pump island. The pumps and vent piping have been removed. No evidence of fill ports was observed. There was some evidence that the tanks at this location have been removed, but this has not been confirmed. If the widening of IBC 55 extends more than 23 meters to the east side of the existing roadway additional investigation may be warranted. No other potential environmental hazards were indicated within the project corridor during the reconnaissance or records search. No landfills, dumpsites or Superfund sites were identified within project limits. G-3