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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20010955 Ver 1_Complete File_20010430 MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR April 11, 2001 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 5 Raleigh Field Office J P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: SUBJECT dM?F? 20 0 1 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION LYNDo TIPPETT SECRETARY 110711 /yh P 0-1 Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment p of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.144270 1, TIP Project No. B-3152. REFERENCE: Categorical Exclusion, March 4, 1999 Original permit application, April 13, 2000 Revised Wetland Restoration Plan, February 6, 2001 Dear Sir: '?7 at n?^ 1;0"1 As referenced in the original permit application, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 on a new, alignment to the west of the existing bridge. The new bridge will be approximately 325 feet long and 30 feet wide. This width will provide for two 12-foot travel lanes and 3- foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24-foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 12 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at a slightly higher elevation than the existing bridge to accommodate hydraulic requirements. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Bridge No. 46 is located on NC 242 over the South River in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. The bridge contains nine spans totaling 308 feet in length. The superstructure is composed of a concrete bridge deck and concrete bridge railings on I- beams. The substructure is composed of timber piles with concrete caps. The bridge railings and timber piles will be removed without dropping any of their components into Waters of the United States. However, there is potential for the components of the bridge MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 FAX: 919-733-9794 WEBSITE. WWW. DOH. DOT. STATE. NC. US LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC I deck and caps to be dropped into Waters of the United States during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the concrete deck and caps will be a maximum of approximately 180 yd3. Any material falling into the water will be removed promptly. The South River [DEM index number 18-68-12-(8.5), 6/1/94] is the only jurisdictional surface water resource that will be impacted. It has a DEM best usage classification of C, SW, and ORW+. The `C' classification denotes waters that are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. `SW' designates swamp waters having low velocities and other natural characteristics, which are different from adjacent streams. `ORWs' are Oustanding Water Resources denoting waters, which are unique and special waters of exceptional state or national recreation or ecological significance which are subject to special management strategies specified in the Outstanding Water Resource Rules established by the NC Sedimentation Control Commission. There are permanent impacts as a result of the proposed bridge replacement. Impacts include 0.53 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.22 acres of mechanized clearing. Since the original design two design revisions have occurred. Revised permit drawings (March 26, 2001) are attached to this application. • A request from the Wildlife Resources Commission caused a redesign to allow for maximization of on-site wetland restoration. The NCDOT has steepened side slopes along the new alignment and added guardrails to allow for maximum restoration of the original roadbed to wetland. Restoration of the total existing roadbed was not feasible due to an overlap with the new roadbed. Resulting onsite riverine wetland mitigation totals 0.25 acres. The . Wetland Restoration Plan is attached to this application. • Also, in order to accommodate a request from the Division of Water Quality Plans, plans to utilize a temporary work pad for construction of the new bridge have been eliminated. Instead, a work bridge will be utilized in place of the causeway. As a result, there will be no temporary impacts. In addition, a deck drain system will be used on the new bridge, preventing stormwater runoff from draining directly into the South River. The balance of wetlands impacted (0.50 acres) will be mitigated for by debiting 1.0 acre of riverine wetland restoration from the Barra Farms Mitigation Site in Cumberland County (Mitigation Banking Instrument approved February 12, 1999). There are a total of 14 acres of riverine wetland restoration available on this site. Heretofore, no other TIP project has debited from the riverine wetland category. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceed under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916, issued December 13, 1996 by the Corps of Engineers. Copies of the CE were provided at the time of the original permit application, one year ago. Additional copies are available upon request. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) will apply to this project, and are providing one copy of this permit application to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their review and concurrence. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension 335. Sincerely, ' William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager J Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head Wetland Restoration Plan Bridge No. 46 over the South River on NC 242 TIP No. B-3152, Cumberland/Sampson Counties Existing Conditions The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee-Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by wetland hardwoods such as mature bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciua), red maple (Acer rubrum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), willow oak (Quercus phellos), and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Dominant sapling species include ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub, vine, and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry (Yaccinium elliotti), pepper bush (Clethera alnifolia), common greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia). Summary of Impacts Wetland impacts for the proposed project include 0.53 ac of permanent fill, 0.19 ac of temporary fill, and 0.27 ac of mechanized clearing. No stream relocation or channel change will be involved. Driven piles, spaced on 6.75 ft centers, will be used for support for the new bridge. In order to set the piles, a temporary causeway will be required. The causeway will consist of clean and washed Class II Rip Rap with 1.5:1 slopes, approximately 24 ft wide at the surface and 50 ft wide near the base with an estimated volume is 1,830 yd3. After the project is completed the causeway will be removed from the creek to the extent practicable without disturbing the creek bottom. Fill will be removed from the wetlands impacted by the temporary causeway, as well as from as much of the old roadbed as is available (0.25 acres): The fill will be removed down to the adjacent wetland elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using the following bottomland hardwood species: Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum), Swamp Blackgum (Nyssa Mora), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata), and Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) (see Reforestation Detail Sheet). Mitigation Parameters • Pictorially measured, photos will be provided at annual monitoring meeting. At the end of the third year, NCDOT, regulatory and resource agencies will meet on site and determine 75% survivability. If wetland areas temporarily impacted by this project have not re-attained wetland jurisdictional status, NCDOT and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shall determine whether compensatory wetland mitigation will be required. • All temporary fill will be placed on a geo-textile fabric. • Temporary causeway will be removed within thirty (30) days following completion of construction. • Plants will come from a North Carolina seed source depending on selected construction contracting firm and availability (see Planting Details). • Stems will be planted 320 stems per acre. • Planting will be completed by the first March 15, following completion of bridge construction. Revised February 6. 2001 ?d w.. m oy6 -? GwxM? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR March 28, 2001 STATE PROJECT: 8.1442701 (B-3152) F. A. PROJECT: MABRSTP-242 (1) COUNTY: Cumberland / Sampson DESCRIPTION: Bridge No. 46 Over South River on NC 242. MEMO TO: Mr. V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D. Assistant Branch Manager, Project Development and Environmental Analysis FROM: Mr. D. R. Henderson, PE State Hydraulics Engineer SUBJECT: PERMIT DRAWINGS LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY Enclosed are revised permit drawings for the above project, as requested by E. Lusk (PD&EA). They reflect a change to a work bridge from rock causeways and work pads. Drawings prepared by: M. T. Shown MTS enclosure cc: Mrs. D. M. Barbour, PE Mr. J. E. Alford, PE Mr. R. Young Project file MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HYDRAULICS UNIT 1590 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1590 TELEPHONE: 919-250-4100 FAX: 919-250-4108 WEBSITE: WWW.DOH.DOT. STATE. NC. US LOCATION: CENTURY CENTER COMPLEX BUILDING B 1020 BIRCH RIDGE DRIVE RALEIGH NC ails Storo 1434 I / 1434 / 1 ?2ti 11330 a SALEMBURG 145 it7ai ! _ Isla 1413 0 1 2033 - 5 ' Rebol 1433 1414 14"47 City to lu. rx ` 14 20:A 1 X34' sit L 411 }=? 143t 14 141 1 1 as 242 tam ? 0{. 1 1 15013 . Y o_? C) END -.L? PROs ?T Ln SR 103 431 6 2r. ?. lain Wig.. 006 237 BEGIN- 1450 - \ -' PROJECT 143 /// )418 SITE l 1a,. 1421 {oils 1 7 i 38 1-k2? 0Cro Dads / U Clern nt '•_ 1 19 1733 -- 1 aLa 142.1 CUMBERLAND CO- BLADEN COUNTY \ 142 ' 210 I4w 1233 1412 - 1?33 1202 1406 r 1611 / I?£ Nayn\ N. C. DEPT.OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS CtrNMERLAINTD / SAMPSON' COUNT't. PROJ f3C1`. 8.1442701, 13-3152 BRIDGE NO.,` ON NC 242 OVI,R TM11, SOUTH RIV11"R - 326 LEGEND - -WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY PROPOSED BRIDGE WL WETLAND PROPOSED BOX CULVERT ® DENOTES FILL IN WETLAND PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT ® DENOTES FILL IN (DASHED EXISTNG LINES DENOTE STRUCTURES) SURFACE WATER ® DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER (POND) SINGLE TREE ® DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND WOODS LINE ® DENOTES WETLAND RESTORATION DRAINAGE INLET ® DENOTES TEMPORARY CE WATERS RF ROOTWAD A FILL IN SU » * » * DENOTES MECHANIZED * •' »*» CLEARING 000p0 VORTEX ROCK WEIR ?- ?- FLOW DIRECTION -T1? TOP OF BANK WE EDGE OF WATER C PROP. LIMIT OF CUT F PROP. LIMIT OF FILL -?-- PROP. RIGHT OF WAY NG NATURAL GROUND PL PROPERTY LINE - TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT -POE- PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT -EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - EPB - EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY 0 WATER SURFACE XXXXX LIVE STAKES O BOULDER - - - CORE FIBER ROLLS O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER RIP RAP RIP RAP ENERGY DISSIPATOR BASIN VANE 3/26/01 N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS SAMPSON/ CUBERLAND COUNTY PROJECT: &1442701 B-5152 BRIDGE NO. 46 ON NC 242 (SOUTH RIVER) SHEET *Z OF W b y W ? m O d Y S C W O ,A r z o? ? ? ? ? NBO?Z lD i ? ? m y\ /g1829 w r// O w I 31Z•SI`gS (01.10'52 .... - A z J a z a d w w 0 z Q O W O ?y+ d O W F U ? D W c x O O q A ,I J c-o W MATCH LINE STA \ 90 w M.6b•LS.L9 ?' w - z N ?® z o m x ® x F o ® z A z zx ?H ® 4 w ? b-4 A +1 F E-4 V ? CQ m ® z ? i? Z W V ? 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LLJ t U O I I I I i I I ? q O CO O N M O } h - Z o m ?QO Z ) aC9 Z W a ? O¢ M LL Z U) OLp ti ?n LL o U cLU C', z 2 U o F- W W F Z: W O d O O t 0 CO) 2 0 O t N H J O F W LU W F. a U) LU D z g W O U Q N H O Z l i d w a ? ? LL w U a fl_ F- ? W o O (D ? N N U? N O ? W N ? ??? n U Q (j O CO o o O m E 0 Lo co ?- N M NZ [0 adz O M d,w SWF u 010955 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GovERNOR April 11, 2001 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY SUBJECT: Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.1442701, TIP Project No. B-3152. REFERENCE: Categorical Exclusion, March 4, 1999 Original permit application, April 13, 2000 Revised Wetland Restoration Plan, February 6, 2001 Dear Sir: As referenced in the original permit application, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 on a new alignment to the west of the existing bridge. The new bridge will be approximately 325 feet long and 30 feet wide. This width will provide for two 12-foot travel lanes and 3- foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24-foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 12 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at a slightly higher elevation than the existing bridge to accommodate hydraulic requirements. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Bridge No. 46 is located on NC 242 over the South River in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. The bridge contains nine spans totaling 308 feet in length. The superstructure is composed of a concrete bridge deck and concrete bridge railings on I- beams. The substructure is composed of timber piles with concrete caps. The bridge railings and timber piles will be removed without dropping any of their components into Waters of the United States. However, there is potential for the components of the bridge MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 FAX: 919-733-9794 WEBSITE. WWW. DOH. DOT. STATE. NC. US LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC deck and caps to be dropped into Waters of the United States during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the concrete deck and caps will be a maximum of approximately 180 yd3. Any material falling into the water will be removed promptly. The South River [DEM index number 18-68-12-(8.5), 6/1/94] is the only jurisdictional surface water resource that will be impacted. It has a DEM best usage classification of C, SW, and ORW+. The `C' classification denotes waters that are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. `SW' designates swamp waters having low velocities and other natural characteristics, which are different from adjacent streams. `ORWs' are Oustanding Water Resources denoting waters, which are unique and special waters of exceptional state or national recreation or ecological significance which are subject to special management strategies specified in the Outstanding Water Resource Rules established by the NC Sedimentation Control Commission. There are permanent impacts as a result of the proposed bridge replacement. Impacts include 0.53 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.22 acres of mechanized clearing. Since the original design two design revisions have occurred. Revised permit drawings (March 26, 2001) are attached to this application. • A request from the Wildlife Resources Commission caused a redesign to allow for maximization of on-site wetland restoration. The NCDOT has steepened side slopes along the new alignment and added guardrails to allow for maximum restoration of the original roadbed to wetland. Restoration of the total existing roadbed was not feasible due to an overlap with the new roadbed. Resulting onsite riverine wetland mitigation totals 0.25 acres. The. Wetland Restoration Plan is attached to this application. • Also, in order to accommodate a request from the Division of Water Quality Plans, plans to utilize a temporary work pad for construction of the new bridge have been eliminated.' Instead, a work bridge will be utilized in place of the causeway. As a result, there will be no temporary impacts. In addition, a deck drain system will be used on the new bridge, preventing stormwater runoff from draining directly into the South River. The balance of wetlands impacted (0.50 acres) will be mitigated for by debiting 1.0 acre of riverine wetland restoration from the Barra Farms Mitigation Site in Cumberland County (Mitigation Banking Instrument approved February 12, 1999). There are a total of 14 acres of riverine wetland restoration available on this site. Heretofore, no other TIP project has debited from the riverine wetland category. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceed under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916, issued December 13, 1996 by the Corps of Engineers. Copies of the CE were provided at the time of the original permit application, one year ago. Additional copies are available upon request. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) will apply to this project, and are providing one copy of this permit application to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their review and concurrence. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension 335. Sincerely, XcG William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head Wetland Restoration Plan Bridge No. 46 over the South River on NC 242 TIP No. B-3152, Cumberland/Sampson Counties Existing Conditions The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee-Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by wetland hardwoods such as mature bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciua), red maple (Acer rubrum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), willow oak (Quercus phellos), and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Dominant sapling species include ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub, vine, and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry (Yaccinium elliotti), pepper bush (Clethera alnifolia), common greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia). Summary of Impacts Wetland impacts for the proposed project include 0.53 ac of permanent fill, 0.19 ac of temporary fill, and 0.27 ac of mechanized clearing. No stream relocation or channel change will be involved. Driven piles, spaced on 6.75 ft centers, will be used for support for the new bridge. In order to set the piles, a temporary causeway will be required. The causeway will consist of clean and washed Class II Rip Rap with 1.5:1 slopes, approximately 24 ft wide at the surface and 50 ft wide near the base with an estimated volume is 1,830 yd3. After the project is completed the causeway will be removed from the creek to the extent practicable without disturbing the creek bottom. Fill will be removed from the wetlands impacted by the temporary causeway, as well as from as much of the old roadbed as is available (0.25 acres): The fill will be removed down to the adjacent wetland elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using the following bottomland hardwood species: Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum), Swamp Blackgum (Nyssa Mora), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata), and Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) (see Reforestation Detail Sheet). Mitigation Parameters • Pictorially measured, photos will be provided at annual monitoring meeting. At the end of the third year, NCDOT, regulatory and resource agencies will meet on site and determine 75% survivability. If wetland areas temporarily impacted by this project have not re-attained wetland jurisdictional status, NCDOT and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shall determine whether compensatory wetland mitigation will be required. • All temporary fill will be placed on a geo-textile fabric. • Temporary causeway will be removed within thirty (30) days following completion of construction. • Plants will come from a North Carolina seed source depending on selected construction contracting firm and availability (see Planting Details). • Stems will be planted 320 stems per acre. • Planting will be completed by the first March 15, following completion of bridge construction. Revised February 6. 2001 au.+ MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR March 28, 2001 STATE PROJECT: F. A. PROJECT: COUNTY: DESCRIPTION: MEMO TO: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 8.1442701 (B-3152) MABRSTP-242 (1) Cumberland / Sampson Bridge No. 46 Over South River on NC 242. Mr. V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D. Assistant Branch Manager, Project Development and Environmental Analysis FROM: Mr. D. R. Henderson, PE State Hydraulics Engineer SUBJECT: PERMIT DRAWINGS LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY Enclosed are revised permit drawings for the above project, as requested by E. Lusk (PD&EA). They reflect a change to a work bridge from rock causeways and work pads. Drawings prepared by: M. T. Shown MTS enclosure cc: Mrs. D. M. Barbour, PE Mr. J. E. Alford, PE Mr. R. Young Project file MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HYDRAULICS UNIT 1590 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1590 TELEPHONE: 919-250-4100 FAX: 919-250-4108 WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US ? \3?j LOCATION: CENTURY CENTER COMPLEX BUILDING B 1020 BIRCH RIDGE DRIVE RALEIGH NC ails Sloro 1 n3r1 1:YQ / 1434 / ( 1 326 11330 1 z 1d5, t 1414 1413 SALEMBURG O 21733 1439 ta33 1414 t Re?ol 14`.0. cfry 0 14 129 1 lu l 14x 13a ta3s 411 11,52 Id31 _141 141 1 45 242 1432 . t_ t ?a3 , O? - END L11 PROD T rLaq? SR f?3 1431 6 141 M1 14c" ao BEGIN-- 1430 \ t -? 20 PROJECT 1 , -? 141& SITE 1 1 7 14? . - 1421 \ `? ails. W2 f 1?33 1002 1411 1 34 I? OCro ocds cla CT an, +82 c 1 19 1233 -- 428 Id 21 CUMBERLAND C - 24 { BLADEN COUNTY - -- - 210 7 142 123 .\< IZr Hoyna N. C. DEPT'. OF TRANSPORTATIL)N DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS CILrMBERLAND / SAMPSON COUNT'' PROJ EC'I': 8.144 42701, B-3152 BRIDGE N'O.4b ON NC 2•,2 OVER 'I'HI: SOUTH RIVER 3-26-01 LEGEND -WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY PROPOSED BRIDGE D C-± WETLAND PROPOSED BOX CULVERT ® TES IN DENO I --? PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT WE ® DENOTES FILL IN (DASHED EXISTNG LINES DENOTE STRUCTURES) SURFACE WATER ® DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER (POND) SINGLE TREE ® DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND s!??__r^1-?!'L? WOODS LINE ® DENOTES WETLAND RESTORATION DRAINAGE INLET ® DENOTES TEMPORARY CE WATERS ROOTWAD FILL IN SURFA » • DENOTES MECHANIZED • »' •» » CLEARING 000p0 VORTEX ROCK WEIR ?- FLOW DIRECTION TB__ TOP OF BANK WE EDGE OF WATER C PROP. LIMIT OF CUT F PROP. LIMIT OF FILL --?- PROP. RIGHT OF WAY NG NATURAL GROUND PL PROPERTY LINE - TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT -POE- PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT -EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - EPB - EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY RIP RAP RIP RAP ENERGY DISSIPATOR BASIN VANE 3/26/01 y WATER SURFACE XXX XX LIVE STAKES O BOULDER - - - CORE FIBER ROLLS O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS SAMPSON / CUBERLAND COUNTY PROJECT: 8.1442701 B-3152 BRIDGE NO. 46 ON NC 242 (SOUTH RIVER) SHEET ),OF W N3NH HI/.tlS W O 6 Y 3K W O ?- 3 3 II II II II I? w Z W I I Z C7 =O Ocn 2 m I I? m Y u O O " I W z I F r O o lif'1 f?lll.. z ?" / / ? \ N60? , l0 / \ \ \ W ? I? I a l I ? o? I I ?? I ' ' _ 3.LZ.54?95 oC N I /? Ol.i0'SZ - ? r l IW H z x z p w J ? U z a a w w 0 o z Q Q Q M.64.L5.£9N ?„ ?' 14 O z F o Z N 'n ® uu C1 W M ?! U U ` ® z z \\ \\ \\? i w ? ® A W \ \ ,' ? A ? Wt3?, p: J F+ W ? ? U W \ \ a ,? \ \ \\ 41 ? n ? 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U O a N pI - N C a N N N C O ? N N U L) 0) N p U O O ? ? m c w c rn ww// ?i U Co N U O Q w ? ? C6 Fy- c C ? U ? C6 W c W -a U Q O ? (0 N N N O O U.. v U N Q U Y LY fn ? O ? m O o o ? ~ O ? ? co ? u- N M J J J ?z O O 1r- O W H t, - DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID McCOY GOVERNOR SECRETARY November 9, 2000 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator SUBJECT: Permit application submitted April 13, 2000, Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.144270 1, TIP Project No. B-3152. Dear Sir: This letter serves to revise the original permit application submitted April 13, 2000 and to supplement the application with revised permit drawings, together with a Wetland Restoration Plan. In an effort to minimize impacts of the aforementioned project, the NCDOT has redesigned the bridge replacement to allow for greater onsite wetland restoration. , By designing steeper side slopes, more of the original roadbed will be restored to wetland. The balance of the wetlands impacted (0.55 acres) will be mitigated for by debiting one acre of riverine wetland restoration from the Barra Farms Mitigation Site in Cumberland County (Mitigation Banking Instrument approved February 12, 1999). There are a total of 14 acres of riverine wetland restoration available on this site. Heretofore, no other TIP project has debited from the riverine wetland category. The bridge replacement specifications, bridge demolition data, and water quality information detailed in the April 13, 2000 permit application have not changed. Traffic will be maintained on the existing' bridge during construction. Permanent and temporary. impacts as a result of the proposed bridge replacement have changed slightly due to the redesign. Permanent impacts include 0.53 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.27 acres of mechanized clearing for a total permanent impact of 0.80 acres. In order to offset some of this impact, the revised design has maximized potential onsite restoration for a total of 0.25 acres. A temporary work pad will be required for this project. Temporary impacts from construction of the temporary causeway may total up to 0.18 acres of fill in surface waters and 0. 19 acres of fill in wetlands. Although the temporary causeway will be constructed of clean rock:and will be removed from the streambed to the greatest extent practical without extensive disturbance of the existing streambed after construction, some residual may remain. Revised construction plans detailing the proposed causeway are depicted in the attached drawings. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceed under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916, issued December 13, 1996 by the Corps of Engineers. The NCDOT is also requesting a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 (Temporary Construction Access and Dewatering) authorizing the construction of the causeway. Since the temporary causeway is not covered in the CE, the requisite Pre-Construction Notification is attached (revised). The provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be followed in the construction of the project. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) 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, for their review: If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919).733-7844, extension 335. Sincerely, `V • C -2 William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments cc Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head Wetland Restoration Plan Bridge No. 46 over the South River on NC 242 TIP No. B-3152, Cumberland/Sampson Counties Existing Conditions The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee-Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by wetland hardwoods such as mature bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciua), red maple (Acer rubrum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), willow oak (Quercus phellos), and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Dominant sapling species include ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub, vine, and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry (Yaccinium elliotti), pepper bush (Clethera alnifolia), common greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus.quinquefolia). Summary of Impacts Wetland impacts for the proposed project include 0.53 ac of permanent fill, 0.19 ac of temporary fill, and 0.27 ac of mechanized clearing. No stream relocation or channel change will be involved. Driven piles, spaced on 6.75 ft centers, will be used for support for the new bridge. In order to set the piles, a temporary causeway will be required. The causeway will consist of clean and washed Class II Rip Rap with 1.5:1 slopes, approximately 24 ft wide at the surface and 50 ft wide near the base with an estimated volume is 1,830 yd3. After the project is completed the causeway will be removed from the creek to the extent practicable without disturbing the creek bottom. Fill will be removed from the wetlands impacted by the temporary causeway, as well as from as much of the old roadbed as is available (0.25 acres). The fill will be removed down to the adjacent wetland elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using the following bottomland hardwood species: Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum), Swamp Blackgum (Nyssa biflora), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata), and Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) (see Reforestation Detail Sheet). Mitigation Parameters • Pictorially measured, photos will be provided at annual monitoring meeting. At the end of the third year, NCDOT, regulatory and resource agencies will meet on site and determine 75% survivability. If wetland areas temporarily impacted by this project have not re-attained wetland jurisdictional status, NCDOT and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shall determine whether compensatory wetland mitigation will be required. • All temporary fill will be placed on a geo-textile fabric. • Temporary causeway will be removed within thirty (30) days following completion of construction. • Plants will come from a North Carolina seed source depending on selected construction contracting firm and availability (see Planting Details). • Stems will be planted 320 stems per acre. • Planting will occur between December 15, 2001 - March 15, 2002. - ----------------------------------------------------------- -`?- RATE RATt ,pWEtT PVEpLNCE MC SHEET TOTAL SHEETS N.C. B-3152 RF-1 d.»o ???pp REFORESTATION TREE REFORESTATION SHALL BE PLANTED 6' TO 10' ON CENTER, RANDOM SPACING, AVERAGING 8' ON CENTER, APPROXMATELY 680 PLANTS PER ACRE. REFORESTATION MIXTURE, TYPE, SIZE, AND FURNISH SHALL CONFORM TO THE FOLLOWING: 20% BALDCYPRESS TAXODIUM DISTIC HUM 12" -IS", SEEDLING BR 20% GREEN ASH FRAXINUS PENNSYLVANICA 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR 20% WILLOW OAK QUERCUS PHELLOS 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR 20% OVERCUP OAK QUERCUS LYRATA 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR 20% SWAMP BLACK GUM NYSSA SYLVATICA 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR VAR. BIFLORA . REFORESTATION DETAIL SHEET N.C.D.O.T.- ROADSIDE ENVIRONMENTAL UNIT PLANTING DETAILS SEEDLING /LINER BAREROOT PLANTING DETAIL HEALING IN DIBBLE PLANTING METHOD USING THE KBC PLANTING BAR 1. Locate a healing-in site in a shady, well protected area. 2. Excavate a flat bottom trench 12" deep and provide drainage. rll II It ' ll 1 II I I - II I 1. Insert planting bar as shown and pull handle toward planter. I! I I I I 1 _ I I 2. Remove planting bar and place seedling at correct depth. II I I I 1 I II I Ell 3. Backfill the trench with 2" well rotted sawdust. Place a 2" layer of - well rotted sawdust at a sloping angle at one end of th/e7 4. Place a single layer of plants against the sloping end so that the root caller is at ground level. 5. Place a 2" layer of well rotted sawdust over the roots maintaining a sloping angle. , 6. Repeat layers of plants and sawdust as necessary and water thoroughly. II IF I - II II Ifl T? IL IFIJI I I I 4. Pull handle of bar toward planter, filming soil at bottom. IWA* WEJI 5. Push handle forward firming soil at top. 3. Insert planting toward planter seedling. I 1 I FC IL-I11- ?I_ I I II 1 m I I I III 6. Leave compact hole open. «'a thoroughly. PLANTING NOTES: PLANTING BAG During planting, seedlings shall be kept in a moist !AA1 canvas bag or similar container to prevent theroot systems from drying. KBC PLANTING BAR Planting bar shall have a blade with a triangular cross section, and shall be 12" long. 4" wide and 1" thick at center. ROOT PRUNING I i All seedlings shall be root I'WI pruned, if necessary, so that no roots extend more than, 10 inches (10") below the root collar. Its Sl.ro 1436 1436 1322 - ?? } 326 1333 1 ?a. )` 1 \ 145 ? IC05 > 1414 SALEMBURC 1413 0 \\\ 1 2 2033 - tt 1439 Rebel 1433 1414 140, City 0 I con 1329 1 1l I 2C35 1504 ? 'a3s 411 1452 1431 14 141 1 45 42 14."32 1503 - 2066 - C END PROD. SR 2036 ,431 141,1 1463 006 2037 BEGIN 1430 2038 PP.OIECT ld ? 1418 SITE 0 l 1 7 I< 1421 ? 12??Olls 1 - I„ OCr ds Cle0ent 6 1 t9 1233 1 1428 142 t CUMBERLAND CO _ - i BLADEN COUNTY - 210 7 142 1233 1412 1233 1002 14135 1 i ro tall 1256 +410 O Hayne N. C. DEPT.OF TRANSPORT MON DIVISION OF HIGHIVAYS CUME3ERLAND / SA MPSON COUNTI' PROJECT; 8.1-142701, B-5152 BRIDGE NO.,S ONT NC 2.2 OVER THE SOU'i H RIV P L EGEi?D -WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY PROPOSED BRIDGE ?dL$ ? W L WETLAND PROPOSED BOX CULVERT DENOTES FILL IN WETLAND i PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT DENOTES FILL IN (DASHED LINES DENOTE SURFACE WATER EXISTNG STRUCTURES) DENOTES FILL SURFACE WATER R (POND) SINGLE TREE D ENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND WOODS LINE DENOTES WETLAND ® RESTORATION DRAINAGE INLET D ENOTES TEMPORARY F ® ILL IN SURFACE WATERS ROOTWAD • O DENOTES MECHANIZED CLEARING y d 000po VORTEX ROCK WEIR ?- -r-- FLOW DIRECTION TB ? TOP OF BANK WE EDGE OF WATER C PROP. LIMIT OF CUT F PROP. LIMIT OF FILL - PROP. RIGHT OF WAY NG NATURAL GROUND PL PROPERTY LINE - TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT -POE- PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT -EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY -EPB- EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY WATER SURFACE X X X LIVE STAKES X X C2D BOULDER --- CORE FIBER ROLLS O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER, OR PARCEL NUMBER, RIP RAP RIP RAP ENERGY DISSIPATOR BASIN VANE N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS \MPSflN/ CUBERLAND COUNTY PROJECT:8.1^42 01 B-3152 BRI!X3E N,D. - G ON NC 242 (SOUTH RIVER) SHEET OF MATCH LINE STA 27+00 -L- ? I 1 a In II ? I I N -" I o I V) II J A J I -H a I N O KV ? In_ zz a J a?- 4 q V f ? b e ? cz? z 3 ?° I III I ? `? - - III I z ?" I I ill I ? 7 I3I? I @ ? I I? i Q I A ? ? I E4 a oa ? -I tT?--- -- 3 I I I _ __ I u _- 0 b G I ? I o,o z^ I Q3 e I I I I / @ @ ~` o I I I I ? N ? 9 r I 1E., u I ? ¢a I J _ wJm V" 4i 1 C-; 0 0 0 h„ r z? z , o z ?? 9 z u it U cs? 7" Oil*1Z CIS 3NII H-IIVW z O F z s ? ? z Q N x U 14 c v? z z cri Vr71 ? -J J Lu 1 ? 1 Z 000 1 w 0 1 U 0 00000 Q `°j • 5 O N ti o ? Q ' Z a n d V) W ? W O C) ui Q- (-3 Q-L?<,Lj 1 + C\i W QQ 0°O O N JLJ i 00 oo V) G) U) 00 000°O 1 O ? OOOOpppOpo00 N ? OQp000 o OOOOp?Q0000 Ln U Q O r7 1 LL- 0000° 7_, o i CIA z ?. O a U z cn o ? Q ? Q ? ?D U ?; Cv UG ? A p U z z o W p O U W cxi? o Q m v L 1 0 0 00 o - ? Q z Q T ` ? 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O O m U ? 0 rna a c c in U ? ? U O LL o m a o a a - ? Q U ? -a Z a x W c J W N E3 m o 0 ? c 0 c C: m ? o 0 U ,N 0] 0 C ? O O O O p t t (n u- N N M J J ( ? ? ? n Z O Q m L'7 w p 1 JEAN G. BULLARD R.T. 3 BOX 178 RCOSEBOR0, NC 9-8,382 PRINCE CHARLES BU LII.. ARD (HEIRS) RT. 13 BOX 177 ROS EBcORO, NBC 28 3-89 ANNIE BOARDMAN .O. BcO X 11911) SUM TER, SAC 2°9150 'T'H(OMAS R SPLAAVN 5-6780 E. T01VN HNVY RHOS BORO, NBC 9-8582 N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPOI:TATIO\ D[VISION OF HIGHNVAYS CLIMI>I RLAINT1) A S:-',-J1PSO\? COUNTY PROJECT: S.I{!4:270.I, B-31.S2 Bf,'IDGE N0.416 ON 4 Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION AND APPROVED: 3-1-qq Date 030y(q Date N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS c T/ fog W. D. Gilmore, P. E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch C. "Jz ? - f r?- N cholas L. Graf, P. E. Division Administrator, FHWA Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION March 1999 Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch By: William T. Goodwin, Jr., P. E. Project Planning Engineer 3--? b +?t4?.w jA ? f OC Wh`' ?a r ? «? E? m G2i ?y9 ?u Wayne 'Elliott Bridge Project Planning Engineer, Unit Head Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 1. SUMMARY OF PROJECT The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. This bridge carries NC 242 over the South River (see Figure 1). NCDOT includes this bridge in the Draft 2000-2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as a bridge replacement project. NCDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classify this project as a federal Categorical Exclusion. These agencies expect no notable environmental impacts. NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 46 on new alignment, to the west of the existing bridge, as shown by Alternate 2 in Figure 2. NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a new bridge approximately 325 feet in length and 30 feet in width. This width will provide for two 12 foot travel lanes and 3 foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24 foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 8 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 60 mph. The estimated cost is $ 1,608,500 including $ 8,500 for right of way acquisition and $ 1,600,000 for construction. The estimated cost included in the Draft 2000-2006 TIP is $ 1,274,000. II. ANTICIPATED DESIGN EXCEPTIONS NCDOT is not expected to need any design exceptions for this project. III. SUMMARY OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS All standard procedures and measures will be implemented to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. All applicable Best Management Practices (BMPs) for High Quality Waters will be installed and properly maintained during project construction. In accordance with the provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be required from the Corps of Engineers for the discharge of dredged or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit # 23 will likely be applicable for this project. A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) Section 401 Water Quality General Certification will be obtained prior to issue of the Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit # 23. A moratorium on in-water construction activities will be observed from April 1 through June 15 of any construction year. This will reduce the possibility for project construction to adversely impact the spawning of numerous fish species that inhabit the South River. In addition to BMPs, "Design Standards In Sensitive Watersheds" and "Stream Crossing Guidelines For Anadromous Fish Passage" will be implemented and adhered to during the life of the project. All conditions and requirements outlined in NCDOT's "Guidelines for the Location and Design of Hazardous Spill Basins" will be followed for this project. This project will include one or more hazardous spill catch basins, as dictated by design criteria and site conditions, to help protect the water of the South River from possible contamination from accidental spills of fuels, oils or other materials at the bridge site. Once construction of the new bridge and approaches are complete, the existing bridge will be removed. The existing approach fill will be removed to natural grade and the area will be planted with native grasses and/or tree species as appropriate. If this area is deemed suitable for mitigation of wetland impacts it will be used as such. IV. EXISTING CONDITIONS NCDOT classifies NC 242 as a Rural Major Collector Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The surrounding area is rural, with a scattering of single-family homes and farm fields in an area that is predominantly woodland. Near Bridge No. 46, NC 242 is a two lane paved road, 22 feet wide with grassed shoulders. The vertical and horizontal alignment in the area are fair to good. The vertical alignment is nearly flat, but there are sweeping horizontal curves on both bridge approaches. NCDOT built Bridge No. 46 in 1949. The bridge has a reinforced concrete deck with steel I-beam girders. The bents and end bents have concrete caps on timber piles. The deck of Bridge No. 46 is 19 feet above the streambed. The bridge is 308 feet long with a 23 foot roadway width. It carries two lanes of traffic and is currently posted at 30 tons for single vehicles and at the legal load limit for Truck-tractor Semi-trailers (TTST). According to Bridge Maintenance Unit records, the sufficiency rating of Bridge No. 46 is 6.0 of a possible 100.0. This low sufficiency rating is due to the fact that the bridge is considered temporarily shored because the bents have had crutch pilings added to help extend the bridge life until the bridge can be replaced. The current (1998) traffic volume is 1450 vehicles per day (VPD), projected to 3000 VPD by the design year (2020). The speed limit in the project area, is posted at 55 mph. Traffic Engineering accident records indicate three accidents were reported in the vicinity of Bridge No. 46 during a recent three year period. Two of these accidents were on the same day and were both a result of ice on the bridge deck causing drivers to skid and run off the road. Both the Cumberland and Sampson County School Bus Transportation Coordinators indicated that no school buses cross this bridge on a daily basis. 2 V. ALTERNATES Alternate One - replace the bridge on new alignment to the east of the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Alternate Two (Recommended) - replace the bridge on new alignment to the west of the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Constructing a new bridge at the existing location and providing a temporary on-site detour is not a cost competitive alternative. Road closure is not feasible since there is not a reasonable off-site detour route considering the volume of traffic on NC 242 and the length of the off-site detour. The "do-nothing" alternate is not practical. The existing bridge would continue deteriorating until it was unusable. This would require closing the road or continuing intensive maintenance. Rehabilitation of the existing deteriorating bridge is neither practical nor economical. VI. COST ESTIMATE Structure Roadway Approaches Structure Removal Misc. & Mob Engineering & Contingencies Total Construction Right of Way & Utilities TOTAL PROJECT COST Alternate One Alternate Two Recommended $ 824,000 $ 634,000 457,500 390,500 50,500 50,500 399,000 323,000 269,000 202,000 2,000,000 1,600,000 4,500 8,500 $ 2,004,500 $ 1,608,500 VII. RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 46 on new alignment, to the west of the existing bridge, as shown by Alternate 2 in Figure 2. NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a new bridge approximately 325 feet in length and 30 feet in width. This width will provide for two 12 foot travel lanes and 3 foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24 foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 8 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. Improvements to the approach roadway will extend approximately 850 feet to the south, and approximately 1000 feet to the north of the proposed structure. The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 60 mph. NCDOT recommends Alternate 2 because it is the most reasonable and feasible alternate for replacing Bridge No. 46. Alternate 2 is less expensive than Alternate 1, has slightly less wetland impacts, and allows traffic to be maintained on-site. 3 Alternate 1 would require a wider bridge [curve widening] to allow vehicles traveling across the bridge to have adequate stopping sight distance. This additional bridge width is the main component contributing to the higher cost of Alternate 1. Since the South River is classified as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) and NC 242 is classified as a Rural Major Collector Route, this site meets the criteria for consideration of hazardous spill catch basins. All conditions and requirements outlined in NCDOT's "Guidelines for the Location and Design of Hazardous Spill Basins" will be followed for this project. This project will include one or more hazardous spill catch basins, as dictated by design criteria and site conditions; to help protect the water of the South River from possible contamination from accidental spills of fuels, oils or other materials at the bridge site. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing Bridge No. 46 on new alignment to the west of the existing bridge, with traffic maintained on the existing bridge during construction, would be acceptable. NCDOT expects utility conflicts to be low for a project of this type and magnitude. VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS A. General Environmental Effects The project is considered to be a "categorical exclusion" due to its limited scope and insignificant environmental consequences. The bridge replacement will not have a substantial adverse effect on the quality of the human or natural environment with the use of current NCDOT standards and specifications. The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning regulation. No change in land use is expected to result from construction of the project. No adverse effect on families or communities is anticipated. Right-of-Way acquisition will be limited. No adverse effect on public facilities or services is expected. The project is not expected to adversely affect social, economic, or religious opportunities in the area. There are no publicly owned parks, recreational facilities, or wildlife and waterfowl refuges of national, state, or local significance in the vicinity of the project. There are no known hazardous waste sites in the project area. B. Architectural and Archaeological Resources The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has indicated that there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area and no unknown sites are likely to be 4 found. Therefore, SHPO has recommended no architectural or archaeological surveys be conducted in connection with this project. [See SHPO letter dated Feb. 19, 1997 in appendix.] C. Natural Systems PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The project area lies in the Coastal Plain Physiographic province. The project vicinity is approximately 75 feet to 90 feet above mean sea level. The topography of the project area is gently undulating. Drainage in the Coastal Plain Physiographic province is poor with flooding in low lying areas common throughout the principal floodplains that border the South River. Soils Along the south side of the South River within Cumberland County, there is one general soil unit, Autryville - Candor soils association, which occurs in the project area. This general soil unit is located on broad ridges and short side slopes. Neither of the soils series within this association are hydric. This soil unit is characterized as nearly level to strongly sloping, well drained to somewhat excessively drained that have a loamy subsoil or that are sandy throughout. Minor soils in this unit are Lakeland, Wagram, Norfolk, and Rains soils (USDA, 1984). Along the north side of the South River within Sampson County, there is one general soil unit, Lynn Haven - Leon - Cainhoy soils association, which occurs in the project area. This soil unit is on broad, flat areas and low sand ridges. Of the soil series in this association, Lynn Haven and Leon soils are listed as hydric. This soil unit is characterized as nearly level, and gently sloping, poorly drained to somewhat excessively drained that have a sandy surface layer and a sandy subsoil. Minor soils in this unit are Tomahawk, Pamlico, Bibb, Johnston, Autryville, Blanton, Wagram, Marvyn, Woodington, Foreston, Pantego, and Torhunta soils (USDA, 1985). Surface Water Resources The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and N.C. Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) regulate impacts to water resources. This section describes the water resources likely to be impacted by the proposed project. These resources were evaluated using numerous indices including: river characteristics, Best Usage Classifications, Benthic Macro-invertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) data, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) information, and wetlands. Drainage Basin(s) The South River is a sub-basin (Sub-basin Number 03-06-18) of the Cape Fear River Basin, the largest river basin in the state covering 9,149 square miles. The headwaters of the South River originate near Dunn, where it is called the Black River. The South River has a drainage basin area of about 500 square miles. As of July 23, 1997 the North Carolina Department of Environmental, and Natural Resources (NCDENR), Division of Water Quality (DWQ) identifies the South River within the project vicinity as 18-68-12(8.5) (DWQ web page, 1998). There are three water systems (Big Swamp, Castle Mill Creek, and Beaver Dam Creek) that conjoin with the South River within the project vicinity. Big Swamp lies within Sampson 5 County and is approximately 1.0 mile upstream of the project area. Castle Mill Creek lies within Sampson County and is approximately 0.7 miles downstream of the project area. Beaver Dam Creek lies within Cumberland County and is approximately 1.0 mile downstream of the project area (NCDENR, 1996). Water Body Characteristics The South River, in the project region, is a meandering slow moving river. The river channel is located on the eastern side of a broad 300 to 400 foot wide floodplain in the project vicinity. A ridge along the stream bank separates the waterway from the terrestrial communities. The substrate of the South River is comprised primarily of sand and gravel but is heavily overlain with silt. Detritus remains in some of the small pool areas. River flows are moderate and the water is slightly turbid. In the project area, the South River is about 100 feet wide and about 3 feet deep. Best Usage Classification In 1994, the NCDWQ designated the South River below the Big Swamp with a Best Usage Classification of C, SW, and ORW (DWQ web page, 1998). Classification C designates the waters within the project area as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing and aquatic life including the propagation and survival of wildlife. Classification SW designates the waters within the project area as having low velocities and other natural characteristics which are different from adjacent streams. Classification ORW designates the waters within the project area as unique and special waters of exceptional state, or national recreation, or ecological significance which require special protection to maintain existing uses. The waters within the project area are subject to special management strategies specified in Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) rules. These management strategies consist of stormwater controls that shall be applied within 1 mile of the project area that drain to the designated water, and Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plans in accordance with rules established by the N.C. Sedimentation Control Commission. Water Quality The Benthic Macro-invertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) assesses surface waters by sampling for selected benthic macro-invertebrate organisms that are indicative of water quality. The species composition, diversity and population count are indicative of water quality. During the month of October, 1989, BMAN sampling sites were established approximately 2 miles upstream and 1 mile downstream of the project area. The results of the BMAN monitoring indicate that the South River had an "excellent" water quality rating by the DWQ (NCDENR, 1996). Within the Cape Fear River Basin an assessment of water quality data collected by DWQ reveals that the basin generally has "good" water quality. Also, NPDES report lists four facilities with permitted discharges totaling 0.10 millions gallons per day for the South River Sub-basin. A sewage disposal plant located greater than 15 miles upstream from the project area is the nearest permitted facility to the project area. 6 Wetlands A field delineation was performed in accordance with the criteria specified in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (USACE Environmental Laboratory, 1987). For an area to be considered a "wetland," the following three criteria must be met; (1) presence of hydric soils (typically low soil chroma values), (2) presence of hydrophytic vegetation, and (3) evidence of wetland hydrology, including saturated soils, stained leaves, oxidized rhizospheres, matted vegetation, high water marks on trees, buttressed tree bases or surface roots. Indicators or direct observation of all three criteria must be present to provide proof that a wetland is present. Within the project area, the wetlands are associated with the floodplain of the South River and would be considered a Palustrine Forested Broad-leafed/Needle-leafed Deciduous Semi- permanently Flooded (PFOI/2F) wetland community as defined by the USFWS (Cowardin, 1979). The majority of the wetlands occur within the northern portion of the project area and would also be classified as a Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). A utility corridor crosses the wetland system on the west side of the existing bridge predominantly outside and to the west of the project area. The wetlands within the utility corridor are similar in nature to the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetlands located within the project area. The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by various mixtures wetland hardwoods such as bald cypress, sweet gum, red maple, green ash, willow oak, and loblolly pine. Dominant sapling species include ironwood, red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry, pepper bush, common greenbrier, poison ivy, yellow jasmine, and Virginia creeper. Hydric soils were confirmed within the floodplain which contained wetland areas. The following hydrologic indicators were observed on. site during the growing season: inundation, surface saturation, oxidized root channels, watermarks, buttressed trees, sediment deposits and water stained leaves. Anticipated Surface Water Resource Impacts The South River will be crossed by the bridge replacement and will be impacted as a result of new construction. The structure has been designed as a single crossing of the river, perpendicular to the direction of flow to minimize impacts. Clearing and grubbing activities will result in temporary impacts to the water resources. Any in-stream supports will result in permanent loss of riverbed substrate habitat. Other likely impacts include increased sedimentation and siltation, and temporary decreases of dissolved oxygen during construction. Sedimentation during construction will be the most serious impact to South River. Minimizing the amount of clearing and grubbing activity and the duration of construction will decrease impacts from increased turbidity and sedimentation on the river. Most impacts will be temporary in nature during project construction and are likely to be limited to the project area. The establishment of new bridge supports can alter water flow and result in temporary erosion downstream from the bridge crossing. Minimizing in-stream construction activities can decrease impacts to water resources. Designing as few in-stream supports as possible can minimize permanent loss of riverbed habitat. Strict adherence to best management practices and enforcement of Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plans in accordance with rules established by the N.C. Sedimentation Control will minimize stormwater runoff and sediment loading into the waterway (NCDOT, 1997). 7 There will be one wetland community type associated with the floodplain of the South River that may be impacted by the proposed action. Estimated wetland impact acreage for both alternatives is based on assuming a 60 foot right-of-way. It is estimated that Alternative 1 would impact 0.8 acres of wetlands to the east of the existing bridge. Alternative 2 will impact approximately 0.7 acres of wetlands to the west of the existing bridge and within a utility corridor along the west side of NC 242. Wetland values and functions such as flood flow retention, water storage, pollutant removal, sediment retention, wildlife habitat, and aquatic life will be lost as a result of either of the proposed alternatives. BIOTIC RESOURCES This section describes the habitat communities observed in the project area, and the relationships between biotic communities. In the case of natural terrestrial systems, plant communities are discussed as described in the Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina - Third Approximation (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). Disturbed communities are described consistent with field observations. All plant species identified during the field investigation are listed in the text. Terrestrial Communities Three community types exist in the project area: two natural communities and one maintained community. The two natural terrestrial community types are floodplain (Coastal Plain Levee, Blackwater subtype), Basic Mesic Forest (Coastal Plain Subtype), were identified within the project area. The other terrestrial community in the project area are maintained communities consisting of residential lawns, roadside shoulders, embankments, and utility corridors. Community composition is reflective of the current and past land uses of the area. Coastal Plain Levee (Blackwater Subtype) This terrestrial community occurs throughout the northern portion of the project area, along the floodplain of the South River and along a narrow band on the southern side of the project area. The majority of this terrestrial community is comprised of wetland vegetation. The forest floor is heavily covered with leaves and fallen branches, providing habitat for various reptiles, amphibians and small mammals such as the slimy salamander, marbled salamander, ground skink, and eastern hognose snake, which live under the litter layer, feeding on various species of beetles, ants, and other insects, as well as herbaceous plant material. These species, although often found in other habitats, are adapted to survival in a periodically flooded environment. Other species known to inhabit this type of terrestrial community include marsh rabbit, and white-tailed deer. Basic Mesic Forest (Coastal Plain Subtype) This terrestrial community occurs throughout the majority of the southern portion of the project area. The canopy is dominated by various mixtures of mesophytic trees, which include sweet gum, American beech, tulip poplar, bitter-nut hickory, white oak and American elm. Dominant sapling species include ironwood, flowering dogwood, hop-hornbeam, and American holly. The shrub layer consists of horse-sugar, northern spicebush, tall paw-paw, and American 8 witch-hazel. The herbaceous and vine layer is sparse with the dominant species consisting of common greenbrier, Japanese honeysuckle, and blackberry. Some animal species associated with this type of community are the golden mouse, which builds its nests in vines or shrubs several feet off the ground and the eastern box turtle, a common species feeding on plant material. There is a substantial amount of downed timber on the ground, which eastern fence lizard commonly use for refuge. Avian species observed here include rufous-sided towhee, the ruby-crowned kinglet, and blue jay. Some predators likely to occur here include eastern-screech-owl, black rat snake, grey fox and copperhead. Diet of these species consists of insects, frogs, small snakes and mammals. Often predators at the top of the food chain are "keystone" species of the ecosystem. Maintained Communities Maintained communities are land parcels in which the vegetation is kept in a low- growing, non-successional state. These communities, include roadside shoulders, embankments, utility corridors, and residential lawns. This community has had some degree of past or continued human disturbance. As a result of man-influenced disturbances, this community type differs from the natural community description three dimensional structure and plant diversity. The roadside shoulder and embankment habitats are dominated by Fescue, along with various other weedy species associated with disturbed areas. Weedy species also associated with roadside shoulder and embankment habitats include Japanese honeysuckle, morning glory and blackberry. An electrical utility corridor parallels the roadway shoulder and embankment on the west side. Within the project area, the utility corridor is frequently flooded on the north side, with approximately 0.65 acres considered to be wetlands that are similar in nature to the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetlands. Based on the 60 foot right-of-way alignment for Alternative 2, approximately 2,980 square feet of the wetlands located within the utility corridor will be impacted. The utility corridor contains a sparse herb layer and contains shrub species of red maple, and green ash. A residential lawn habitat is located on the south western corner of the project area. A mixture of rye and fescue are the primary grasses of the residential lawn habitat, along with various ornamental shrubs and trees which include water oak and crapemryde and eastern red cedar. Resident fauna within the maintained community is limited by continual habitat disturbances and consists mainly of small animals. Species such as eastern harvest mouse and white-footed mouse likely inhabit this terrestrial community, in addition to insects, earthworms and other invertebrates. Roadsides are utilized primarily as a travel corridor between other habitats, or as a foraging zone for species of adjacent woodlands. Foraging opportunities offered by roadside habitats include seeds, fruits and insects, as well as other small animals (rodents, etc.). The animals utilizing this habitat are susceptible to roadkill. Dead animals noted during field investigations include Virginia opossum and yellow rat snake. 9 Anticipated Terrestrial Community Impacts Construction of the proposed project will have various impacts on the terrestrial communities. This section quantifies and qualifies these probable impacts, in terms of area impacted (cleared/modified), and ecological consequences to the terrestrial communities during the construction and operation of the proposed roadway. Portions of the three community types (Coastal Plain Levee Forest, Basic Mesic Forest, and maintained) in the project area will be cleared or altered as a result of the project construction. Estimations of acreage impacted for each community type are given in Table 1. These are based on 60 foot right-of-way. Impacts to maintained communities include: roadside shoulders, embankments, utility corridors, and residential lawns. TABLE 1. Anticipated Terrestrial Community Impacts. Alternative Maintained Coastal Plain Basic Mesic Forest Levee Total 1 0.10 ac 0.80 ac 0.40 ac 1.30 ac 2 0.74 ac 0.53 ac 0.10 ac 1.37 ac Alternative 1 is aligned to the east of the existing bridge, through relatively undisturbed terrestrial communities. Alternative 2 is aligned to the west of the existing bridge, the majority of which has been affected by man induced disturbances. The majority of the terrestrial community impacts of Alternative 1 are associated with two biotic habitats (Coastal Plain Levee and Basic Mesic Forest). By contrast, the majority of the terrestrial community impacts of Alternative 2 are associated with maintained communities. Impacts from both alternatives will result in losses to faunal populations and changes in community dynamics. Such disturbances will also result in creating more ecotone habitat. Species which thrive on community edges will increase, while species which require larger, undisturbed tracts will decrease or disappear as a result of competitive interactions, habitat reduction and other factors. Aquatic Communities The South River is the only aquatic community type in the project area. Species composition, diversity, and population of this aquatic community is indicative of physical characteristics of the water body and the condition of the water resource. Designated BMAN monitoring sites near the project area indicate that the South River has an "excellent" water quality rating by the DWQ. Water quality of aquatic communities is also indirectly influenced by the adjacent terrestrial communities. Aquatic communities in urbanized settings have comparatively lower biotic diversity and corresponding lower water quality than rivers in rural settings. No systematic sampling of the aquatic community (plants nor animals) was performed for this study. Fish sampling was conducted by the DWQ in 1984 and 1987 from an ambient station on the South River at NC 242 in the project vicinity. Fish tissue samples from two largemouth 10 bass contained mercury levels slightly exceeding the EPA recommended screening value of 0.6 ppm (NCDENR, 1996). Aquatic invertebrates are a major component of river ecosystems, as primary and secondary consumers, and as prey items for organisms higher in the food chain. Invertebrates, such as dobson flies, dragon flies, mosquitoes and blackflies and craneflies are likely to be the dominant aquatic insect species. Crayfish, snails, and surface beetles (whirligig beetles and water striders) were observed in the river. The aquatic community serves as a major food source for many terrestrial organisms such as raccoons, various species of snakes, birds, turtles, and amphibians. It also serves as a means of predator avoidance for many animals. A large amount of the aquatic community's food chain energy is derived from allochthonous (produced outside of stream ecosystems) sources, in the form of terrestrial detritus. Rocks, fallen debris (logs, sticks, etc.) and low velocity areas in the stream trap or retain detritus within the stream. The detritus is then decomposed by heterotrophic micro-organisms, such as bacteria, and consumed by macro-invertebrates, such as aquatic insects and snails. Decomposers and primary consumers are, in turn, consumed by larger organisms. The amount of allochthonous energy input within this aquatic community varies seasonally. Autochthonous (produced within the aquatic ecosystem) energy sources include planktonic and benthic micro- and macro-algae, as well as aquatic vascular vegetation. Algae growth was not evident in the South River, indicative of high dissolved oxygen content and stable nutrient conditions. Relatively high flows rates associated with this river, limited riverside agricultural fields and vegetated buffers between agricultural areas and the river help prevent eutrophication. Anticipated Aquatic Community Impacts Both alternatives will involve the crossing of the South River, the only aquatic community in the project area. Impacts to the aquatic community will vary depending on the location of excavation and filling operations, and the adjacent land use of the terrestrial communities. These impacts will be a result of direct and indirect impacts. Direct impacts to the aquatic community will be attributable to excavation, filling, and siltation. These impacts will result in temporarily decreasing species composition, diversity, and populations, thereby corresponding to lower water quality. Benthic non-mobile organisms, such as filter and deposit feeders, are particularly affected-to excavation and filling operations. Sedimentation can alter the composition of benthic communities either temporarily or permanently in the proximity of the project. Siltation during bridge construction may adversely affect mobile aquatic organisms, and macro and micro algae. The temporary increase in suspended particulates in the water column could clog feeding apparti of suspension feeders, reduce the photosynthetic ability of algae, clog gills of fish and crustaceans, bury larvae of amphibians and insects, and diminish reproductive abilities in these organisms. 11 Indirect (secondary) impacts affecting water quality in the project area are a result of changes in adjacent land uses of the terrestrial communities as a consequence of the bridge replacement. Adjacent land uses are rural, and are expected to continue to be rural in nature at the completion of this bridge replacement project. Therefore, the slight modifications to the terrestrial communities caused by this project will result in minimal indirect impacts to the aquatic community. Based on this information, permanent degradation of the aquatic community is not expected to occur due to direct or indirect impacts. Direct habitat disturbances (i.e. excavation and filling operations, and siltation) are detrimental to aquatic ecosystems The majority of the aquatic community impacts associated with construction of this bridge replacement project will be due to siltation. These impacts will be predominantly temporary in nature. Best Management Practices (BMPs) must be strictly adhered to in order to minimize siltation, thereby ensuring the biological integrity of the aquatic community, especially in light of the "excellent" water quality of the South River. In addition to BMPs, "Design Standards In Sensitive Watersheds" (Ef£ May 1, 1990) and "Stream Crossing Guidelines For Anadromous Fish Passage" will be implemented and adhered to during the life of the project. JURISDICTIONAL TOPICS Waters of the United States "Waters of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3, in accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344) include wetland areas and surface waters. A wetland community associated with the floodplain of the South River has been delineated (boundaries flagged in the field). Although a survey of the wetland boundaries has not been performed, it is estimated based on a 60 foot right-of-way that Alternative 1 will impact 0.8 acres of wetlands to the east of the existing bridge. To the west and adjacent to the utility corridor, Alternative 2 will impact approximately 0.7 acres wetlands. Surface waters within the project area consist of the South River. The bridge for both Alternatives 1 and 2 would cross the river perpendicularly. Alternative 1 will span 100 ft, and affect 6,000 square feet of the river based upon a 60 foot right-of-way. Alternative 2 will span 150 feet and affect 9,000 square feet of the river based upon a 60 foot right-of-way. Permits Impacts to surface waters and wetlands are anticipated from project construction. In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), a permit will be required from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for the discharge of dredge or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Section 404 Nationwide Permit (NWP) 23 will likely be appropriate for this project. Nationwide 23 Permit A Section 404 NWP 23 (33 CFR 330 Appendix A, Section B.26) may be applicable for all impacts to "Waters of the United States" associated with the project area. This permit 12 authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed in whole, or part, by another Federal agency or department where: (1) that agency or department has determined that pursuant to the Council of Environmental Quality regulation for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act; (2) that the activity, work, or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and; (3) that the office of the Chief of Engineers has been furnished notice of the agency's or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concurs with that determination. This project will require a Section 401 CWA Water Quality Certificate from the DWQ prior to the issuance of the NWP. 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 to "Waters of the United States." The issuance of a 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 permit. NWP 23 also requires that the Corps issue a Public Notice prior to issuing its permit and that the District Engineer can add project specific conditions to the authorization. Mitigation The USACE has adopted, through the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wetland 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: avoiding impacts, minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing impacts over time and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these aspects (avoidance, minimization, and compensatory mitigation) must be considered sequentially. 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 USACE, 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. Minimization Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to "Waters of the United States." Implementation on these steps will be required through project modification and permit conditions. 13 Practicable means to minimize impacts to surface waters and wetlands impacted by the proposed project include: • Decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of right-of-way widths, fill slopes and/or road shoulder widths. • Installation of temporary silt fences, earth berms, and temporary ground cover during construction. • Strict enforcement of sedimentation and erosion control BMPs for the protection of surface waters and wetlands. • Reduction of clearing and grubbing activity in and adjacent to water bodies and wetlands. • Minimization of "in-stream" activities. 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 been required. 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 project area. Fill or alteration of more than 150 linear feet of streams may require compensatory mitigation in accordance with 15NCAC2H.0506(h). Written DWQ approval is required for this mitigation plan which may utilize the state's Wetland Restoration Program. A final determination regarding mitigation to "Waters of the United States" rests with the USACE and DWQ. Regional Conditions of NWP 23 and the 401 Water Quality Certification waiver require compensatory mitigation for impacts greater than 1 acre. Final construction plans should be compared to a surveyed wetland delineation to determine if this threshold has been exceeded. Federal Protected Species 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. An endangered species is considered to be a species that is in danger of becoming extinct throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A threatened species is considered to be a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Table 2 lists the eight federally protected species for Cumberland and Sampson Counties as of January 15, 1999 (NCDENR-DPR, 1998). Descriptions and biological conclusions for each species are given below. 14 TABLE 2. Federally Protected Species for Cumberland and Sampson Counties. Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status County Alligator mississippiensis American alligator T (S/A) Cumber/Samp. Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker E Cumber/Samp. Neonympha mitchellii francisci Saint Francis' satyr E Cumber. Isotria medeoloides small-whorled pogonia T* Cumber. Lindera melissifolia Pondberry E Cumber/Same. Lysimachia asperulaefolia rough-leaved loosestrife E Cumber. Rhus michauxii Michaux's sumac E Cumber. Schwalbea americana American chaffseed E Cumber. * Historic record - last observed in the county more than 50 years ago. E - denotes Federally Endangered. T - denotes Federally Threatened. T(S/A) - denotes Federally Threatened; threatened only due to its similarity in appearance with other rare species. American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is a large aquatic reptile that measures 6 to 12 feet. This reptilian species constructs nests near water in late spring and summer. The nests are made from vegetation, debris and soil, and the eggs are sometimes guarded by the female. The young are marked with yellow bands. The American alligator is found in fresh to slightly brackish lakes, river, ponds and marshes. It inhabits slow moving coastal rivers, canals, lakes, marshes and estuaries. This reptilian species is located in the southern parts of the North Carolina, although, they have been known to inhabit cypress ponds in flatwoods and sandhills. This species is known to occur within Camp Lejuene. This reptilian species is listed as Threatened due to similarity of appearance to other protected crocodilians. Alligators are no longer biologically threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act, but commercial hunting and trade are regulated. Consequently no biological opinion is necessary. Red-Cockaded Woodpecker - RCW (Picoides borealis) The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW, Picoides borealis) has a plumage that is entirely black and white except for a small red spot behind the eye 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 (Pinus palustris), 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 greater than 60 years old and are 15 contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 500 acres. This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat in the form of mature open pine stands occur within the project area for the RCW. A review of the NCDENR-DPR database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the RCW near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the RCW. Saint Francis' Satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci) The Saint Francis' satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci) is a small, dark brown butterfly with conspicuous eyespots on the lower wing. The eyespots are round to oval shaped with a dark maroon brown center and a straw yellow border. These spots are accentuated with two bright orange bands along the posterior wings and by two darker brown bands along the central portion of each wing. The Saint Francis' satyr is known to inhabit wide, wet meadows dominated by sedges (Carex spp.) and other wetland graminoids. These wetlands are often relicts of beaver activity and are boggy areas that are acidic and ephemeral. Succession of these sites often leads to either a pocosin or swamp dominated forest. The larval host of the Saint Francis' satyr is thought to be grasses, sedges and rushes. Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat in the form of open wet meadows dominated with sedges is present in the project area for the Saint Francis' satyr. In addition, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the satyr near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the Saint Francis' satyr. Small-Whorled Pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) The small-whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) is a perennial orchid having long hairy roots and a hollow stem. Stems terminate in a whorl of five or six light green, elliptical leaves that are somewhat pointed.. One or two light green flowers are produced at the end of the stem. Flowers of the small-whorled pogonia have short sepals. The small-whorled pogonia grows in "second growth deciduous" or deciduous-coniferous forest, with an open canopy, open shrub layer, and sparse herb layer. It prefers acidic soils. Flowering is inhibited in areas where there is relatively high shrub coverage or high sapling density. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although suitable habitat in the form of "second growth deciduous" or deciduous- coniferous forest is present in addition to a utility easement that creates a persistent break in the 16 forest canopy, the frequency of flooding by the South River results in unsuitable habitat in the project area. No small-whorled pogonia was observed during the May 4 and 5, 1998 field survey. In addition, the last known occurrences of this species in the county was observed more than 50 years ago. Also, a review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the small-whorled pogonia near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the small-whorled pogonia. Pondberry (Lindera melissifolia) The pondberry (Lindera melissifolia) is a deciduous, aromatic shrub that has a distinct sassafras-like odor. Leaves in the pondberry are arranged alternately, have reduced bases, and droop downward. It has small pale yellow flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves. The fruit which matures in August or September is a bright red drupe. The pondberry grows in lowland habitats with hydric soils. These sites are generally flooded at some time during the growing season. It is associated with the margins of sinks, ponds, and other like depressions. The soils present are sandy with a high peat content in the subsurface. Areas inhabited by this species show signs of past fire maintenance and now shrubby conditions. The plants generally grow in shady areas but may also be found in areas that receive full sunlight. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although suitable habitat in the form of seasonally flooded and swampy depressions is present in the project area, pondberry was not observed during a field survey conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the pondberry near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the pondberry. Rough-Leaved Loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulaefolia) The rough-leaved loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulaefolia) is a perennial herb having slender stems and whorled leaves. The herb has showy yellow flowers which usually occur in threes or fours. Fruits are present from July through October. The rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet, peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands and on shallow organic soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of unknown origins). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. The rough-leaved loosestrife rarely occurs in association with hardwoods stands and prefers acidic soils. 17 Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the rough-leaved loosestrife in the form of ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins is not present at the project area. No rough-leaved loosestrife was observed during the May 4 and 5, 1998 field survey. Additionally, a review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the rough- leaved loosestrife near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the rough- leaved loosestrife. Michaux's Sumac (Rhus michauxii) The Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii) is a densely pubescent rhizomatous shrub that grows 0.7 to 3.3 feet in height. The narrowly winged or wingless rachis supports nine to thirteen sessile, oblong to oblong-lanceolate leaflets that are 1.6 to 3.6 inches long, 0.8 to 2 inches wide, acute and acuminate. The bases of the leaves are rounded and their edges are simple or doubly serrate. It bears small flowers in a terminal, erect, dense cluster. The flowers are greenish to white in color. Fruits, which develop from August to September on female plants, are a red densely short-pubescent drupe, 0.2 to 0.24 inches across. This plant occurs in rocky or sandy open woods. It is dependent on some sort of disturbance to maintain the openness of it habitat. It usually grows in association with basic soils and occurs on sand or sandy loams. It grows only in open habitat where it can get full sunlight and it does not compete well with other species such as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) that it is often associated with. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although a limited amount of suitable habitat for the Michaux's sumac occurs within the project area in the form of roadside, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the Michaux's sumac near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the Michaux's sumac. American Chaffseed (Schwalbea americana) The American chaffseed (Schwalbea americana) is an erect herb whose stems branch only at the base (if at all). The entire plant is pubescent, with upwardly curving hairs. The narrow leaves are alternate, lance-shaped to elliptic and stalkless. The leaves are three veined and become progressively smaller towards the top. It bears solitary flowers in the axils of the upper most leaves. The purplish-yellow flowers are arranged into racemes. The fruits are a long narrow capsule, enclosed in a loose-fitting sack-like structure. The American chaffseed occurs in open, moist pine flatwoods, fire maintained savannas, ecotonal areas between peat wetlands and open grass-sedge systems. Soils are generally sandy, acidic, and seasonally moist to dry. Fire is important in the maintenance of open habitat for the American chaffseed. 18 Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat for the American chaffseed in the form of fire maintained moist flat woods occurs in the project area. Wetland areas of the utility corridor are inundated for too long a duration to provide suitable habitat for the American chaffseed. In addition, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the American chaffseed near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the American chaffseed. D. Air Quality and Traffic Noise This project is an air quality "neutral" project, so it is not required to be included in the regional emissions analysis (if applicable) and a project level CO analysis is not required. If the project disposes of vegetation by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. The project will not significantly increase traffic volumes. Therefore, it will have no significant impact on noise levels. Temporary noise increases may occur during construction. E. Farmland The Farmland Protection Policy Act of 1981 requires all federal agencies or their representatives, to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime and important farmland soils. These soils are determined by the US Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) based on criteria such as potential crop yield and possible level of input of economic resources. The project will result in the conversion of a small amount of land but the area to be converted is void of agricultural uses. Therefore, no further consideration of impacts to farmland is required. IX. CONCLUSIONS Based on the above discussion, NCDOT and FHWA conclude that the project will cause no significant environmental impacts. Therefore, the project may be processed as a Categorical Exclusion. 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North Carolina Department of q\ Transportation t Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch Tn_ANS Cumberland/Sampson Counties Replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River B-3152 Figure One Looking north from Bridge No. 46 A,. a J.U W 4- Looking south from Bridge No. 46 North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch Cumberland and Sampson Counties Replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River B-3152 wsrAt?v North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary February 19, 1997 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: Bridge 46 on NC 242 over South River, Cumberland and Sampson Counties, B-3152, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.1442701, ER 97-8360 Dear Mr. Graf: & .-(? - - -... _ .. Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director On February 18, 1997, 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., . 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. 109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 g?? 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, A?Vzk ?David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:slw / cc. H. F. Vick B. Church T. Padgett 4 b 40 Gtr-cwcr?? U STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID McCOY GOVERNOR SECRETARY November 9, 2000 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator SUBJECT: Permit application submitted April 13, 2000, Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.144270 1, TIP Project No. B-3152. Dear Sir: This letter serves to revise the original permit application submitted April 13, 2000 and to supplement the application with revised permit drawings, together with a Wetland Restoration Plan. In an effort to minimize impacts of the aforementioned project, the NCDOT has redesigned the bridge replacement to allow for greater onsite wetland restoration. By designing steeper side slopes, more of the original roadbed will be restored to wetland. The balance of the wetlands impacted (0.55 acres) will be mitigated for by debiting one acre of riverine wetland restoration from the Barra Farms Mitigation Site in Cumberland County (Mitigation Banking Instrument approved February 12, 1999). There are a total of 14 acres of riverine wetland restoration available on this site. Heretofore, no other TIP project has debited from the riverine wetland category. The bridge replacement specifications, bridge demolition data, and water quality information detailed in the April 13, 2000 permit application have not changed. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Permanent and temporary. impacts as a result of the proposed bridge replacement have changed slightly due to the redesign. Permanent impacts include 0.53 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.27 acres of mechanized clearing for a total permanent impact of 0.80 acres. In order to offset some of this impact, the revised design has maximized potential onsite restoration for a total of 0.25 acres. A temporary work pad will be required for this project. Temporary impacts from construction of the temporary causeway may total up to 0.18 acres of fill in surface waters P* and 0. 19 acres of fill in wetlands. Although the temporary causeway will be constructed of clean rock and will be removed from the streambed to the greatest extent practical without extensive disturbance of the existing streambed after construction, some residual may remain. Revised construction plans detailing the proposed causeway are depicted in the attached drawings. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceed under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916, issued December 13, 1996 by the Corps of Engineers. The NCDOT is also requesting a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 (Temporary Construction Access and Dewatering) authorizing the construction of the causeway. Since the temporary causeway is not covered in the CE, the requisite Pre-Construction Notification is attached (revised). The provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be followed in the construction of the project. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) 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, for their review. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension 335. Sincerely, `Y • C - ?2 William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head y Wetland Restoration Plan Bridge No. 46 over the South River on NC 242 TIP No. B-3152, Cumberland/Sampson Counties Existing Conditions The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee-Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by wetland hardwoods such as mature bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciua), red maple (Acer rubrum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), willow oak (Quercus phellos), and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Dominant sapling species include ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub, vine, and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry (Yaccinium elliotti), pepper bush (Clethera alnifolia), common greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus.quinquefolia). Summary of Impacts Wetland impacts for the proposed project include 0.53 ac of permanent fill, 0.19 ac of temporary fill, and 0.27 ac of mechanized clearing. No stream relocation or channel change will be involved. Driven piles, spaced on 6.75 ft centers, will be used for support for the new bridge. In order to set the piles, a temporary causeway will be required. The causeway will consist of clean and washed Class II Rip Rap with 1.5:1 slopes, approximately 24 ft wide at the surface and 50 ft wide near the base with an estimated volume is 1,830 yd3. After the project is completed the causeway will be removed from the creek to the extent practicable without disturbing the creek bottom. Fill will be removed from the wetlands impacted by the temporary causeway, as well as from as much of the old roadbed as is available (0.25 acres). The fill will be removed down to the adjacent wetland elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using the following bottomland hardwood species: Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum), Swamp Blackgum (Nyssa Mora), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata), and Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) (see Reforestation Detail Sheet). Mitigation Parameters • Pictorially measured, photos will be provided at annual monitoring meeting. At the end of the third year, NCDOT, regulatory and resource agencies will meet on site and determine 75% survivability. If wetland areas temporarily impacted by this project have not re-attained wetland jurisdictional status, NCDOT and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shall determine whether compensatory wetland mitigation will be required. • All temporary fill will be placed on a geo-textile fabric. • Temporary causeway will be removed within thirty (30) days following completion of construction. Plants will come from a North Carolina seed source depending on selected construction contracting firm and availability (see Planting Details). • Stems will be planted 320 stems per acre. • Planting will occur between December 15, 2001- March 15, 2002. ------------------------------------------------------------- -^!'. RAn RAn rRarcT RV6RLfK4 Nn sxscr rorA? sxrcrs N.C. B-3152 RF-1 rrAn r.as.xn r.anu. wnsmox REFORESTATION TREE REFORESTATION SHALL BE PLANTED 6' TO 10' ON CENTER, RANDOM . SPACING, AVERAGING WON CENTER, APPROXIMATELY 680 PLANTS PER ACRE. REFORESTATION MIXTURE, TYPE, SIZE, AND FURNISH SHALL CONFORM TO THE FOLLOWING: 20% BALDCYPRESS 20% GREEN ASH 20% WILLOW OAK 20% OVERCUP OAK 20% SWAMP BLACK GUM TAXODIUM DISTICHUM FRAXINUS PENNSYLVANICA QUERCUS PHELLOS QUERCUS LYRATA NYSSA SYLVATICA VAR. BIFLORA . 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR 12" - 18", SEEDLING BR REFORESTATION DETAIL SHEET N.C.D.O.T.- ROADSIDE ENVIRONMENTAL UNIT .,.--"----------------------------------------- ------ PLANTING DETAILS SEEDLING /LINER BAREROOT PLANTING DETAIL HEALING IN 1. Locate a healing-in site in a shady, well protected area. DIBBLE PLANTING METHOD USING THE KBC PLANTING BAR 2. Ex-vat 12" deel 3. Backfill the trench with 2" well rotted sawdust. Place a 2" layer of weB rotted sawdust at a sloping angle atone end of the trench. 4. Place a single layer of plants against the sloping end so that the root collar is at ground level. , 5. Place a 2" layer of well rotted sawdust over the roots maintaining a sloping angle. 6. Repeat layers of plants and sawdust as necessary and water thoroughly. rll 11 II u 1 II I ? _ I - 1. Insert planting bar as shown and pull handle toward planter. r II IF-1 I II fl 1 i II I-II I I II 4. Pull handle of bar toward planter, finning soil at bottom. II I I - I I 2. Remove planting bar and place seedling at correct depth. i I I I 5. Push handle forward finning soil at top. L 2" I 1 I - I I I I Il I_ 3. Insert planting toward planter seedling. I IL-IIH I ME11 I I,1 E= IElI E31 E31 FIIE 6. Leave compact hole open. R'+ thoroughly. PLANTING NOTES: PL INTING BAG During planting, seedlings shall be kept in a moist !AA1 canvas bag or similar container to prevent the root systems from drying. KBC PLANTING BAR Planting bar shall have a blade with a triangular cross section, and shall be 12" long, 4" wide and 1" thick at center. ROOT lPRUNING in T All seedlings s shall all be root pruned, if necessary, so that no roots extend more than 10 inches (10") below the root collar. l 1322 alls Sfor* 1434 1434 i 326 1330 . as t a5 1006 1 1 1 1414 SALEMBURG 1413 0 2033 2 - 5 1431 1 Reber City 0 1433 1414 1 1329 1 1 I C06 2035 `1 150Y ? taM ? 411 12:33 1412 tasz 1431 t o tat t 45 42 1432 L 1233 1 1503 ? ?0 1 - 2036 END 100E SR - 1431 PRO1. X03 6 1414 140 5 14a5 I - 006 2037 20 BEGIN 38 PROJECT 1430 1400 14 ? 1414 1411 SITE isr 1 1421 .? olis 38 I? 2l OCr Dods t 1256 O f Cl 6 1 19 en ien X 1233 i- 1428 1421. - '410 CUMBERLAND CO BLADEN COUNTY 210 7 142 1 O L1 Hoyne L I N. C. DEPT.OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHNAYS CUMBERLAND / SAMFISON COUNT' PROJECT; 8.1-142701., B-5152 BRIDGE NO. 46 ONT NC 242 OVER THE SOUTH RIVER r - WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY ,!-g WETLAND ?W L DENOTES FILL IN WETLAND DENOTES FILL SURFACE WATER R C!1LLlL? DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER (POND) DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND ® DENOTES WETLAND RESTORATION ® DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN SURFACE WATERS O DENOTES MECHANIZED CLEARING c-- -:*- FLOW DIRECTION TB ? TOP OF BANK WE EDGE OF WATER C PROP. LIMIT OF CUT F PROP. LIMIT OF FILL PROP. RIGHT OF WAY NG NATURAL GROUND PL PROPERTY LINE - TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT -PDE- PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT -EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY -EPB- EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY 0 WATER SURFACE X X X LIVE STAKES X X BOULDER - - - CORE FIBER ROLLS O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER, LEGEND PROPOSED BRIDGE PROPOSED BOX CULVERT II PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT (DASHED LINES DENOTE EXISTNG STRUCTURES) C-3 SINGLE TREE WOODS LINE DRAINAGE INLET ROOTWAD VORTEX ROCK WEIR 00006 RIP RAP RIP RAP ENERGY DISSIPATOR BASIN VANE N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS SAMIDSON/" CUBER LAND COUNTY PROJECT: 8.I- 42701 B-ZI52 1>RI'DGE NCO. =.G SON INC 2-12 (SOUTH RIVER) SKEET OF I MATCH LINE STA 27+00 -L- C I d j I @ @ CO II \ Q? Ems 5 o I z cu CP i III ! z I 1 ? I!I 7 i^181 0 d Z N _ I ! a• L 21, z / -= x a ! I? I I? F H ? d?.?d H::?S ! I != z ? I ! W Q ? ?' u 8 R-11 ! ! ? _ I o .a J I I I I I z e ?. 61 U ? n i {-Y i--i A z (? kq z ® z V cn z u U z 0 o_ z F o z cn ? rJ N ? z c+ ; :J c: n v G Q (? Q z z c? c= q ? ^ I- 00+LZ v15 3Nn HJlv,+ i ?i I J w I -? oWZ? 0,? C.6Lo w N -J u, cn V Q- EE Q J U L-n 0 0 u . w 0 V O ?J z J W ZZ: W v J V- (Di a Z 5 O CC Q z o z N O U z 4' O A ? ? ? p 00 W p z o Q p ? N v?Q LC) U O CC) O Q i LL- O x ??. N N 000 000 ?d 00 0 0 , i 0 0 0 / C! 0 / CY) D Q q p Cr- 1 O W C O 0 L.Lj LQ CID ? 1 C? ' LZ ? I O ? 1 I Q Ct? ? m N --j v ?J 11? j ?j f ?n LI 0 1 o 11 .-c z 11 r U ? .a z U N ;. r-? ?1 E-' z ?;? R yU N Q O Q ° C) t? C; ° ? Q z o z U w to a o w ~ ° Q U ? O U z U ? 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O p JEAN G BULLAR`. D 1Rz.°T' 3 BOX 178 IROSEBORO, NC 283)82 PRINCIE CHARLES B1ULI.,_= RD (HEIRS) RT. 1 BOX 177 ROSEBORO, NC 280,8- ANNIE BOAR DAN P.O. BOX 1919 SUM TER, SC 2`1150 4 THOMAS R S!'L AW ROSE'BORO, NC 2,8-5 89 ,T N. C. DEPT. OF TI ANSPOI 'T aTlfl\ DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS CLQ\fP)ERLA.ND / S.-JIPSO COUNTY I?I,fl,TIC"1': S.1d? 270:1, Ii-"oJ.S2 IlI;IDGI \0.4 ON NC 2"2 OVER Tfll; SOII-H Noy Gww STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID McCOY GOVERNOR SECRETARY April 13, 2000 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator SUBJECT: Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.144270 1, TIP Project No. B-3152. Dear Sir: Please find attached the Categorical Exclusion for the referenced project. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 on a new alignment to the west of the existing bridge. The new bridge will be approximately 325 feet long and 30 feet wide. This width will provide for two 12-foot travel lanes and 3-foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24-foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 12 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at a slightly higher elevation than the existing bridge to accommodate hydraulic requirements. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Bridge No. 46 is located on NC 242 over the South River in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. The bridge contains nine.spans totaling 308 feet in length. The superstructure is composed of a concrete bridge deck and concrete bridge railings on 1-beams. The substructure is composed of timber piles with concrete caps. The bridge railings and timber piles will be removed without dropping any of their components into Waters of the United States. However, there is potential for the components of the bridge deck and caps to be dropped into Waters of the United States during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the concrete deck and caps will be a maximum of approximately 180 yd3. Any material falling into the water will be removed promptly. The South River [DEM index number 18-68-12-(8.5), 6/1/94] is the only jurisdictional surface water resource that will be impacted. It has a DEM best usage classification of C, SW, and ORW+. The `C' classification denotes waters that are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. `SW' designates swamp waters having low velocities and other natural characteristics, which are different from adjacent streams. `ORWs' are Oustanding Water Resources denoting waters, which are unique and special waters of exceptional state or national recreation or ecological significance which are subject to special management strategies specified in the Outstanding Water Resource Rules established by the NC Sedimentation Control Commission. . There are permanent and temporary impacts as a result of the proposed bridge replacement. Permanent impacts include 0.29 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.25 acres of mechanized clearing. A temporary work pad will be required for this project. Temporary impacts from construction of the temporary causeway may total up to 0.18 acres of fill in surface waters and 0.20 acres of fill in wetlands. Although the temporary causeway will be constructed of clean rock and will be removed from the streambed to the greatest extent practical without extensive disturbance of the existing streambed after construction, some residual may remain. Construction plans detailing the proposed causeway are depicted in the attached drawings. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceedunder a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916, issued December 13, 1996 by the Corps of Engineers. The NCDOT is also requesting a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 (Temporary Construction Access and Dewatering) authorizing the construction of the causeway. Since the temporary causeway is not covered in the CE, the requisite Pre-Construction Notification is attached. The provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be followed in the construction of the project. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) 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, for their review. 335. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension Sincerely, ?) C_ 4& William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head DEM ID: CORPS ACTION ID: TIP No. B-3152 NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #): 23 & 33 PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE: 1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS 2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION 3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO,THE APPROPRIATE FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). SEVEN (7) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO.THE N.C. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (SEE-AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT. 1. OWNERS NAME : NC Dept. of Transportation; Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch 2. MAILING ADDRESS: Post Office Box 25201 SUBDIVISION NAME: N/A CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 25201 PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE): 3. TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME) : (WORK) : 919-733-3141 4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager 5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE): COUNTY: Columbus and Sampson NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Roseboro SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): NC 242, Bridge No. 46 over the South River (location map included in attached CE and permit drawings) 6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: South River RIVER BASIN: Cape Fear 7a. IS-PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER (SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES [X] NO [] IF YES, EXPLAIN: The bridge to be replaced carries NC 242 over the South River, which has a DEM classification of C, SW, ORW+. 7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL.CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[ X] 7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION? N/A 8a. HAVE ANY SECTI, PROPERTY? YES [ ] PREVIOUS PERMIT AND CERTIFICATION): Y 8b. ARE ADDITIONAL FUTURE? YES [] NO JN 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS NO [X] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE [X] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: 9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND: 2.93 ac 9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE: 0.83 acres - 10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY: FILLING: 0.29 (permanent) 0:20 (temporary) EXCAVATION:0.25 FLOODING: 0.00 OTHER: N/A DRAINAGE : 0.00 f TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED : 0:54 (permanent) 0.20 (temporary) 10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION): LENGTH BEFORE: 60 FT AFTER: 60 FT WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): 70 FT WIDTH AFTER: 70 FT AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: 4FT AFTER: 4 FT 2 r (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL: CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING: OTHER: temporary fill of 0.18 acres for construction of a temporary causeway (drawings attached) 11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA? 12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS ONLY): Replacement of Bridge No. 46 on an improved alignment on NC 242 over the SoUth River in Sampson and Columbus Counties . 13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: To improve the safety of NC 242 by replacing the deteriorating existing bridge on an improved alignment. 14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS): Wetlands are on both sides of the existing bridge, therefore wetland impacts are unavoidable. Alternative 2 was chosen over Alt. 1 in order to minimize wetland impacts. Minimizing: decrease bridge/roadway footprint, temp. erosion control devices, adherence to BMPs, reduction of clearing and grubbing. 15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS) AND/OR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE (NMFS) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: David Cox, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, attended a scoping meeting on Feb. 18, 1997. He indicated that HOW erosion control measures were applicable, wetland impacts could be minimized with Alt. 2, and that a moratorium will be required on in-stream construction between Apr. 1 and June 15 to protect sunfish spawning. 16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER (SHPO) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: In a letter dated February 19, 1997, SHPO indicated there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area. 17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE OF PUBLIC (STATE) LAND? YES [X] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18) a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES [X] NO [] b. IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE? YES [X] NO [] 3 IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE (919) 733-6369. 18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL INTO WETLANDS: NA a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS.14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT<AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT. b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY PROJECT. C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE. d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED. e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL? g. SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE. NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO: 1) ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT, 2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND 3) (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. OWNER'S/AGENT'S SIGNATURE (AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.)) 4? 0, DATE 4 1? Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION AND N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS APPROVED: 3-1-qQ Date Y. gtaz-?? W. D. Gilmore, P. E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch 0-3/oyjq• Date tIrl- N cholas L. Graf, P. E. Division Administrator, FHWA Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION March 1999 Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch By: William T. Goodwin, Jr., P. E. Project Planning Engineer Wayne lliott Bridge Project Planning Engineer, Unit Head tse"" f 3s/ " VA, L? ? `4 P f, y 6 f? hf; ftr. cis gk?f6f)"9!C?. Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 1. SUMMARY OF PROJECT The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. This bridge carries NC 242 over the South River (see Figure 1). NCDOT includes this bridge in the Draft 2000-2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as a bridge replacement project. NCDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classify this project as a federal Categorical Exclusion. These agencies expect no notable environmental impacts. NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 46 on new alignment, to the west of the existing bridge, as shown by Alternate 2 in Figure 2. NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a new bridge approximately 325 feet in length and 30 feet in width. This width will provide for two 12 foot travel lanes and 3 foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24 foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 8 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 60 mph. The estimated cost is $ 1,608,500 including $ 8,500 for right of way acquisition and $ 1,600,000 for construction. The estimated cost included in the Draft 2000-2006 TIP is $ 1,274,000. II. ANTICIPATED DESIGN EXCEPTIONS NCDOT is not expected to need any design exceptions for this project. III. SUMMARY OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS All standard procedures and measures will be implemented to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. All applicable Best Management Practices (BMPs) for High Quality Waters will be installed and properly maintained during project construction. In accordance with the provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be required from the Corps of Engineers for the discharge of dredged or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit # 23 will likely be applicable for this project. A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) Section 401 Water Quality General Certification will be obtained prior to issue of the Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit # 23. A moratorium on in-water construction activities will be observed from April 1 through June 15 of any construction year. This will reduce the possibility for project construction to adversely impact the spawning of numerous fish species that inhabit the South River. In addition to BMPs, "Design Standards In Sensitive Watersheds" and "Stream Crossing Guidelines For Anadromous Fish Passage" will be implemented and adhered to during the life of the project. All conditions and requirements outlined in NCDOT's "Guidelines for the Location and Design of Hazardous Spill Basins" will be followed for this project. This project will include one or more hazardous spill catch basins, as dictated by design criteria and site conditions, to help protect the water of the South River from possible contamination from accidental spills of fuels, oils or other materials at the bridge site. Once construction of the new bridge and approaches are complete, the existing bridge will be removed. The existing approach fill will be removed to natural grade and the area will be planted with native grasses and/or tree species as appropriate. If this area is deemed suitable for mitigation of wetland impacts it will be used as such. IV. EXISTING CONDITIONS NCDOT classifies NC 242 as a Rural Major Collector Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The surrounding area is rural, with a scattering of single-family homes and farm fields in an area that is predominantly woodland. Near Bridge No. 46, NC 242 is a two lane paved road, 22 feet wide with grassed shoulders. The vertical and horizontal alignment in the area are fair to good. The vertical alignment is nearly flat, but there are sweeping horizontal curves on both bridge approaches. NCDOT built Bridge No. 46 in 1949. The bridge has a reinforced concrete deck with steel I-beam girders. The bents and end bents have concrete caps on timber piles. The deck of Bridge No. 46 is 19 feet above the streambed. The bridge is 308 feet long with a 23 foot roadway width. It carries two lanes of traffic and is currently posted at 30 tons for single vehicles and at the legal load limit for Truck-tractor Semi-trailers (TTST). According to Bridge Maintenance Unit records, the sufficiency rating of Bridge No. 46 is 6.0 of a possible 100.0. This low sufficiency rating is due to the fact that the bridge is considered temporarily shored because the bents have had crutch pilings added to help extend the bridge life until the bridge can be replaced. The current (1998) traffic volume is 1450 vehicles per day (VPD), projected to 3000 VPD by the design year (2020). The speed limit in the project area, is posted at 55 mph. Traffic Engineering accident records indicate three accidents were reported in the vicinity of Bridge No. 46 during a recent three year period. Two of these accidents were on the same day and were both a result of ice on the bridge deck causing drivers to skid and run off the road. Both the Cumberland and Sampson County School Bus Transportation Coordinators indicated that no school buses cross this bridge on a daily basis. 2 V. ALTERNATES Alternate One - replace the bridge on new alignment to the east of the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Alternate Two (Recommended) - replace the bridge on new alignment to the west of the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Constructing a new bridge at the existing location and providing a temporary on-site detour is not a cost competitive alternative. Road closure is not feasible since there is not a reasonable off-site detour route considering the volume of traffic on NC 242 and the length of the off-site detour. The "do-nothing" alternate is not practical. The existing bridge would continue deteriorating until it was unusable. This would require closing the road or continuing intensive maintenance. Rehabilitation of the existing deteriorating bridge is neither practical nor economical. VI. COST ESTIMATE Structure Roadway Approaches Structure Removal Misc. & Mob Engineering & Contingencies Total Construction Right of Way & Utilities TOTAL PROJECT COST Alternate One Alternate Two Recommended $ 824,000 $ 634,000 457,500 390,500 50,500 50,500 399,000 323,000 269,000 202,000 2,000,000 1,600,000. 4,500 8,500 $ 2,004,500 $ 1,608,500 VII. RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 46 on new alignment, to the west of the existing bridge, as shown by Alternate 2 in Figure 2. NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a new bridge approximately 325 feet in length and 30 feet in width. This width will provide for two 12 foot travel lanes and 3 foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24 foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 8 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. Improvements to the approach roadway will extend approximately 850 feet to the south, and approximately 1000 feet to the north of the proposed structure. The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 60 mph. NCDOT recommends Alternate 2 because it is the most reasonable and feasible alternate for replacing Bridge No. 46. Alternate 2 is less expensive than Alternate 1, has slightly less wetland impacts, and allows traffic to be maintained on-site. 3 Alternate 1 would require a wider bridge [curve widening] to allow vehicles traveling across the bridge to have adequate stopping sight distance. This additional bridge width is the main component contributing to the higher cost of Alternate 1. Since the South River is classified as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) and NC 242 is classified as a Rural Major Collector Route, this site meets the criteria for consideration of hazardous spill catch basins. All conditions and requirements outlined in NCDOT's "Guidelines for the Location and Design of Hazardous Spill Basins" will be followed for this project. This project will include one or more hazardous spill catch basins, as dictated by design criteria and site conditions; to help protect the water of the South River from possible contamination from accidental spills of fuels, oils or other materials at the bridge site. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing Bridge No. 46 on new alignment to the west of the existing bridge, with traffic maintained on the existing bridge during construction, would be acceptable. NCDOT expects utility conflicts to be low for a project of this type and magnitude. VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS A. General Environmental Effects The project is considered to be a "categorical exclusion" due to its limited scope and insignificant environmental consequences. The bridge replacement will not have a substantial adverse effect on the quality of the human or natural environment with the use of current NCDOT standards and specifications. The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning regulation. No change in land use is expected to result from construction of the project. No adverse effect on families or communities is anticipated. Right-of-Way acquisition will be limited. No adverse effect on public facilities or services is expected. The project is not expected to adversely affect social, economic, or religious opportunities in the area. There are no publicly owned parks, recreational facilities, or wildlife and waterfowl refuges of national, state, or local significance in the vicinity of the project. There are no known hazardous waste sites in the project area. B. Architectural and Archaeological Resources The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has indicated that there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area and no unknown sites are likely to be 4 found. Therefore, SHPO has recommended no architectural or archaeological surveys be conducted in connection with this project. [See SHPO letter dated Feb. 19, 1997 in appendix.] C. Natural Systems PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The project area lies in the Coastal Plain Physiographic province. The project vicinity is approximately 75 feet to 90 feet above mean sea level. The topography of the project area is gently undulating. Drainage in the Coastal Plain Physiographic province is poor with flooding in low lying areas common throughout the principal floodplains that border the South River. Soils Along the south side of the South River within Cumberland County, there is one general soil unit, Autryville - Candor soils association, which occurs in the project area. This general soil unit is located on broad ridges and short side slopes. Neither of the soils series within this association are hydric. This soil unit is characterized as nearly level to strongly sloping, well drained to somewhat excessively drained that have a loamy subsoil or that are sandy throughout. Minor soils in this unit are Lakeland, Wagram, Norfolk, and Rains soils (USDA, 1984). Along the north side of the South River within Sampson County, there is one general soil unit, Lynn Haven - Leon - Cainhoy soils association, which occurs in the project area. This soil unit is on broad, flat areas and low sand ridges. Of the soil series in this association, Lynn Haven and Leon soils are listed as hydric. This soil unit is characterized as nearly level, and gently sloping, poorly drained to somewhat excessively drained that have a sandy surface layer and a sandy subsoil. Minor soils in this unit are Tomahawk, Pamlico, Bibb, Johnston, Autryville, Blanton, Wagram, Marvyn, Woodington, Foreston, Pantego, and Torhunta soils (USDA, 1985). Surface Water Resources The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and N.C. Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) regulate impacts to water resources. This section describes the water resources likely to be impacted by the proposed project. These resources were evaluated using numerous indices including: river characteristics, Best Usage Classifications, Benthic Macro-invertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) data, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) information, and wetlands. Drainage Basin(s) The South River is a sub-basin (Sub-basin Number 03-06-18) of the Cape Fear River Basin, the largest river basin in the state covering 9,149 square miles. The headwaters of the South River originate near Dunn, where it is called the Black River. The South River has a drainage basin area of about 500 square miles. As of July 23, 1997 the North Carolina Department of Environmental, and Natural Resources (NCDENR), Division of Water Quality (DWQ) identifies the South River within the project vicinity as 18-68-12(8.5) (DWQ web page, 1998). There are three water systems (Big Swamp, Castle Mill Creek, and Beaver Dam Creek) that conjoin with the South River within the project vicinity. Big Swamp lies within Sampson 5 County and is approximately 1.0 mile upstream of the project area. Castle Mill Creek lies within Sampson County and is approximately 0.7 miles downstream of the project area. Beaver Dam Creek lies within Cumberland County and is approximately 1.0 mile downstream of the project area (NCDENR, 1996). Water Body. Characteristics The South River, in the project region, is a meandering slow moving river. The river channel is located on the eastern side of a broad 300 to 400 foot wide floodplain in the project vicinity. A ridge along the stream bank separates the waterway from the terrestrial communities. The substrate of the South River is comprised primarily of sand and gravel but is heavily overlain with silt. Detritus remains in some of the small pool areas. River flows are moderate and the water is slightly turbid. In the project area, the South River is about 100 feet wide and about 3 feet deep. Best Usage Classification In 1994, the NCDWQ designated the South River below the Big Swamp with a Best Usage Classification of C, SW, and ORW (DWQ web page, 1998). Classification C designates the waters within the project area as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing and aquatic life including the propagation and survival of wildlife. Classification SW designates the waters within the project area as having low velocities and other natural characteristics which are different from adjacent streams. Classification ORW designates the waters within the project area as unique and special waters of exceptional state, or national recreation, or ecological significance which require special protection to maintain existing uses. The waters within the project area are subject to special management strategies specified in Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) rules. These management strategies consist of stormwater controls that shall be applied within 1 mile of the project area that drain to the designated water, and Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plans in accordance with rules established by the.N.C. Sedimentation Control Commission. Water Quality The Benthic Macro-invertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) assesses surface waters by sampling for selected benthic macro-invertebrate organisms that are indicative of water quality. The species composition, diversity and population count are indicative of water quality. During the month of October, 1989, BMAN sampling sites were established approximately 2 miles upstream and 1 mile downstream of the project area. The results of the BMAN monitoring indicate that the South River had an "excellent" water quality rating by the DWQ (NCDENR, 1996). Within the Cape Fear River Basin an assessment of water quality data collected by DWQ reveals that the basin generally has "good" water quality. Also, NPDES report lists four facilities with permitted discharges totaling 0.10 millions gallons per day for the South River Sub-basin. A sewage disposal plant located greater than 15 miles upstream from the project area is the nearest permitted facility to the project area. 6 Wetlands A field delineation was performed in accordance with the criteria specified in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (USAGE Environmental Laboratory, 1987). For an area to be considered a "wetland," the following three criteria must be met; (1) presence of hydric soils (typically low soil chroma values), (2) presence of hydrophytic vegetation, and (3) evidence of wetland hydrology, including saturated soils, stained leaves, oxidized rhizospheres, matted vegetation, high water marks on trees, buttressed tree bases or surface roots. Indicators or direct observation of all three criteria must be present to provide proof that a wetland is present. Within the project area, the wetlands are associated with the floodplain of the South River and would be considered a Palustrine Forested Broad-leafed/Needle-leafed Deciduous Semi- permanently Flooded (PF01/2F) wetland community as defined by the USFWS (Cowardin, 1979). The majority of the wetlands occur within the northern portion of the project area and would also be classified as a Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). A utility corridor crosses the wetland system on the west side of the existing bridge predominantly outside and to the west of the project area. The wetlands within the utility corridor are similar in nature to the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetlands located within the project area. The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by various mixtures wetland hardwoods such as bald cypress, sweet gum, red maple, green ash, willow oak, and loblolly pine. Dominant sapling species include ironwood, red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry, pepper bush, common greenbrier, poison ivy, yellow jasmine, and Virginia creeper. Hydric soils were confirmed within the floodplain which contained wetland areas. The following hydrologic indicators were observed on site during the growing season: inundation, surface saturation, oxidized root channels, watermarks, buttressed trees, sediment deposits and water stained leaves. Anticipated Surface Water Resource Impacts The South River will be crossed by the bridge replacement and will be impacted as a result of new construction. The structure has been designed as a single crossing of the river, perpendicular to the direction of flow to minimize impacts. Clearing and grubbing activities will result in temporary impacts to the water resources. Any in-stream supports will result in permanent loss of riverbed substrate habitat. Other likely impacts include increased sedimentation and siltation, and temporary decreases of dissolved oxygen during construction. Sedimentation during construction will be the most serious impact to South River. Minimizing the amount of clearing and grubbing activity and the duration of construction will decrease impacts from increased turbidity and sedimentation on the river. Most impacts will be temporary in nature during project construction and are likely to be limited to the project area. The establishment of new bridge supports can alter water flow and result in temporary erosion downstream from the bridge crossing. Minimizing in-stream construction activities can decrease impacts to water resources. Designing as few in-stream supports as possible can minimize permanent loss of riverbed habitat. Strict adherence to best management practices and enforcement of Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plans in accordance with rules established by the N.C. Sedimentation Control will minimize stormwater runoff and sediment loading into the waterway (NCDOT, 1997). 7 There will be one wetland community type associated with the floodplain of the South River that may be impacted by the proposed action. Estimated wetland impact acreage for both alternatives is based on assuming a 60 foot right-of-way. It is estimated that Alternative 1 would impact 0.8 acres of wetlands to the east of the existing bridge. Alternative 2 will impact approximately 0.7 acres of wetlands to the west of the existing bridge and within a utility corridor along the west side of NC 242. Wetland values and functions such as flood flow retention, water storage, pollutant removal, sediment retention, wildlife habitat, and aquatic life will be lost as a result of either of the proposed alternatives. BIOTIC RESOURCES This section describes the habitat communities observed in the project area, and the relationships between biotic communities. In the case of natural terrestrial systems, plant communities are discussed as described in the Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina - Third Approximation (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). Disturbed communities are described consistent with field observations. All plant species identified during the field investigation are listed in the text. Terrestrial Communities Three community types exist in the project area: two natural communities and one maintained community. The two natural terrestrial community types are floodplain (Coastal Plain Levee, Blackwater subtype), Basic Mesic Forest (Coastal Plain Subtype), were identified within the project area. The other terrestrial community in the project area are maintained communities consisting of residential lawns, roadside shoulders, embankments, and utility corridors. Community composition is reflective of the current and past land uses of the area. Coastal Plain Levee (Blackwater Subtype) This terrestrial community occurs throughout the northern portion of the project area, along the floodplain of the South River and along a narrow band on the southern side of the project area. The majority of this terrestrial community is comprised of wetland vegetation. The forest floor is heavily covered with leaves and fallen branches, providing habitat for various reptiles, amphibians and small mammals such as the slimy salamander, marbled salamander, ground. skink, and eastern hognose snake, which live under the litter layer, feeding on various species of beetles, ants, and other insects, as well as herbaceous plant material. These species, although often found in other habitats, are adapted to survival in a periodically flooded environment. Other species known to inhabit this type of terrestrial community include marsh rabbit, and white-tailed deer. Basic Mesic Forest (Coastal Plain Subtype) This terrestrial community occurs throughout the majority of the southern portion of the project area. The canopy is dominated by various mixtures of mesophytic trees, which include sweet gum, American beech, tulip poplar, bitter-nut hickory, white oak and American elm. Dominant sapling species include ironwood, flowering dogwood, hop-hornbeam, and American holly. The shrub layer consists of horse-sugar, northern spicebush, tall paw-paw, and American 8 witch-hazel. The herbaceous and vine layer is sparse with the dominant species consisting of common greenbrier, Japanese honeysuckle, and blackberry. Some animal species associated with this type of community are the golden mouse, which builds its nests in vines or shrubs several feet off the ground and the eastern box turtle, a common species feeding on plant material. There is a substantial amount of downed timber on the ground, which eastern fence lizard commonly use for refuge. Avian species observed here include rufous-sided towhee, the ruby-crowned kinglet, and blue jay. Some predators likely to occur here include eastern-screech-owl, black rat snake, grey fox and copperhead. Diet of these species consists of insects, frogs, small snakes and mammals. Often predators at the top of the food chain are "keystone" species of the ecosystem. Maintained Communities Maintained communities are land parcels in which the vegetation is kept in a low growing, non-successional state. These communities, include roadside shoulders, embankments, utility corridors, and residential lawns. This community has had some degree of past or continued human disturbance. As a result of man-influenced disturbances, this community type differs from the natural community description three dimensional structure and plant diversity. The roadside shoulder and embankment habitats are dominated by Fescue, along with various other weedy species as with disturbed areas. Weedy species also associated with roadside shoulder and embankment habitats include Japanese honeysuckle, morning glory and blackberry. An electrical utility corridor parallels the roadway shoulder and embankment on the west side. Within the project area, the utility corridor is frequently flooded on the north side, with approximately 0.65 acres considered to be wetlands that are similar in nature to the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetlands. Based on the 60 foot right-of-way alignment for Alternative 2, approximately 2,980 square feet of the wetlands located within the utility corridor will be impacted. The utility corridor contains a sparse herb layer and contains shrub species of. red maple, and green ash. A residential lawn habitat is located on the south western corner of the project area. A mixture of rye and fescue are the primary grasses of the residential lawn habitat, along with various ornamental shrubs and trees which include water oak and crapemrytle and eastern red cedar. Resident fauna within the maintained community is limited by continual habitat disturbances and consists mainly of small animals. Species such as eastern harvest mouse and white-footed mouse likely inhabit this terrestrial community, in addition to insects, earthworms and other invertebrates. Roadsides are utilized primarily as a travel corridor between other habitats, or as a foraging zone for species of adjacent woodlands. Foraging opportunities offered by roadside habitats include seeds, fruits and insects, as well as other small animals (rodents, etc.). The animals utilizing this habitat are susceptible to roadkill. Dead animals noted during field investigations include Virginia opossum and yellow rat snake. 9 Anticipated Terrestrial Community Impacts Construction of the proposed project will have various impacts on the terrestrial communities. This section quantifies and qualifies these probable impacts, in terms of area impacted (cleared/modified), and ecological consequences to the terrestrial communities during the construction and operation of the proposed roadway. Portions of the three community types (Coastal Plain Levee Forest, Basic Mesic Forest, and maintained) in the project area will be cleared or altered as a result of the project construction. Estimations of acreage impacted for each community type are given in Table 1. These are based on 60 foot right-of-way. Impacts to maintained communities include: roadside shoulders, embankments, utility corridors, and residential lawns. TABLE 1. Anticipated Terrestrial Community Impacts. Alternative Maintained Coastal Plain Basic Mesic Forest Levee Total 1 0.10 ac 0.80 ac 0.40 ac 1.30 ac 2 0.74 ac 0.53 ac 0.10 ac 1.37 ac Alternative 1 is aligned to the east of the existing bridge, through relatively undisturbed terrestrial communities. Alternative 2 is aligned to the west of the existing bridge, the majority of which has been affected by man induced disturbances. The majority of the terrestrial community impacts of Alternative 1 are associated with two biotic habitats (Coastal Plain Levee and Basic Mesic Forest). By contrast, the majority of the terrestrial community impacts of Alternative 2 are associated with maintained communities. Impacts from both alternatives will result in losses to faunal populations and changes in community dynamics. Such disturbances will also result in creating more ecotone habitat. Species which thrive on community edges will increase, while species which require larger, undisturbed tracts will decrease or disappear as a result of competitive interactions, habitat reduction and other factors. Aquatic Communities The South River is the only aquatic community type in the project area. Species composition, diversity, and population of this aquatic community is indicative of physical characteristics of the water body and the condition of the water resource. Designated BMAN monitoring sites near the project area indicate that the South River has an "excellent" water quality rating by the DWQ. Water quality of aquatic communities is also indirectly influenced by the adjacent terrestrial communities. Aquatic communities in urbanized settings have comparatively lower biotic diversity and corresponding lower water quality than rivers in rural settings. No systematic sampling of the aquatic community (plants nor animals) was performed for this study. Fish sampling was conducted by the DWQ in 1984 and 1987 from an ambient station on the South River at NC 242 in the project vicinity. Fish tissue samples from two largemouth 10 bass contained mercury levels slightly exceeding the EPA recommended screening value of 0.6 ppm (NCDENR, 1996). Aquatic invertebrates are a major component of river ecosystems, as primary and secondary consumers, and as prey items for organisms higher in the food chain. Invertebrates, such as dobson flies, dragon flies, mosquitoes and black flies and craneflies are likely to be the dominant aquatic insect species. Crayfish, snails, and surface beetles (whirligig beetles and water striders) were observed in the river. The aquatic community serves as a major food source for many terrestrial organisms such as raccoons, various species of snakes, birds, turtles, and amphibians. It also serves as a means of predator avoidance for many animals. A large amount of the aquatic community's food chain energy is derived from allochthonous (produced outside of stream ecosystems) sources, in the form of terrestrial detritus. Rocks, fallen debris (logs, sticks, etc.) and low velocity areas in the stream trap or retain detritus within the stream. The detritus is then decomposed by heterotrophic micro-organisms, such as bacteria, and consumed by macro-invertebrates, such as aquatic insects and snails. Decomposers and primary consumers are, in turn, consumed by larger organisms. The amount of allochthonous energy input within this aquatic community varies seasonally. Autochthonous (produced within the aquatic ecosystem) energy sources include planktonic and benthic micro- and macro-algae, as well as aquatic vascular vegetation. Algae growth was not evident in the South River, indicative of high dissolved oxygen content and stable nutrient conditions. Relatively high flows rates associated with. this river, limited riverside agricultural fields and vegetated buffers between agricultural areas and the river help prevent eutrophication. Anticipated Aquatic Community Impacts Both alternatives will involve the crossing of the South River, the only aquatic community in the project area. Impacts to the aquatic community will vary depending on the location of excavation and filling operations, and the adjacent land use of the terrestrial communities. These impacts will be a result of direct and indirect impacts. Direct impacts to the aquatic community will be attributable to excavation, filling, and siltation. These impacts will result in temporarily decreasing species composition, diversity, and populations, thereby corresponding to lower water quality. Benthic non-mobile organisms, such as filter and deposit feeders; are particularly affected.to excavation and filling operations. Sedimentation can alter the composition of benthic communities either temporarily or permanently in the proximity of the project. Siltation during bridge construction may adversely affect mobile aquatic organisms, and macro and micro algae. The temporary increase in suspended particulates in the water column could clog feeding apparti of suspension feeders, reduce the photosynthetic ability of algae, clog gills of fish and crustaceans, bury larvae of amphibians and insects, and diminish reproductive abilities in these organisms. 11 Indirect (secondary) impacts affecting water quality in the project area are a result of changes in adjacent land uses of the terrestrial communities as a.consequence of the bridge replacement. Adjacent land uses are rural, and are expected to continue to be rural in nature at the completion of this bridge replacement project. Therefore, the slight modifications to the terrestrial communities caused by this project will result in minimal indirect impacts to the aquatic community. Based on this information, permanent degradation of the aquatic community is not expected to occur due to direct or indirect impacts. Direct habitat disturbances (i.e. excavation and filling operations, and siltation) are detrimental to aquatic ecosystems The majority of the aquatic community impacts associated with construction of this bridge replacement project will be due to siltation. These impacts will be predominantly temporary in nature. Best Management Practices (BMPs) must be strictly adhered to in order to minimize siltation, thereby ensuring the biological integrity of the aquatic community, especially in light of the "excellent" water quality of the South River. In addition to BMPs, "Design Standards In Sensitive Watersheds" (Eff. May 1, 1990) and "Stream Crossing Guidelines For Anadromous Fish Passage" will be implemented and adhered to during the life of the project. JURISDICTIONAL TOPICS Waters of the United States "Waters of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3, in accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344) include wetland areas and surface waters. A wetland community associated with the floodplain of the South River has been delineated (boundaries flagged in the field). Although a survey of the wetland boundaries has not been performed, it is estimated based on a 60 foot right-of-way that Alternative 1 will impact 0.8 acres of wetlands to the east of the existing bridge. To the west and adjacent to the utility corridor, Alternative 2 will impact approximately 0.7 acres wetlands. Surface waters within the project area consist of the South River. The bridge for both Alternatives 1 and 2 would cross the river perpendicularly. Alternative 1 will span 100 ft, and affect 6,000 square feet of the river based upon a 60 foot right-of-way. Alternative 2 will span 150 feet and affect 9,000 square feet of the river based upon a 60 foot right-of-way. Permits Impacts to surface waters and wetlands are anticipated from project construction. In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), a permit will be required from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for the discharge of dredge or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Section 404 Nationwide Permit (NWP) 23 will likely be appropriate for this project. Nationwide 23 Permit A Section 404 NWP 23 (33 CFR 330 Appendix A, Section B.26) may be applicable for all impacts to "Waters of the United States" associated with the project area. This permit 12 authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed in whole, or part, by another Federal agency or department where: (1) that agency or department has determined that pursuant to the Council of Environmental Quality regulation for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act; (2) that,the activity, work, or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and; (3) that the office of the Chief of Engineers has been furnished notice of the agency's or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concurs with that determination. This project will require a Section 401 CWA Water Quality Certificate from the DWQ prior to the issuance of the NWT. 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 to "Waters of the United States." The issuance of a 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 permit. NWP 23 also requires that the Corps issue a Public Notice prior to issuing its permit and that the District Engineer can add project specific conditions to the authorization. Mitigation The USACE has adopted, through the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wetland, 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: avoiding impacts, minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing impacts over time and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these aspects (avoidance, minimization, and compensatory mitigation) must be considered sequentially. 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 USACE, 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. Minimization Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to "Waters of the United States." Implementation on these steps will be required through project modification and permit conditions. 13 Practicable means to minimize impacts to surface waters and wetlands impacted by the proposed project include: • Decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of right-of-way widths, fill slopes and/or road shoulder widths. • Installation of temporary silt fences, earth berms, and temporary ground cover during construction. • Strict enforcement of sedimentation and erosion control BMPs for the protection of surface waters and wetlands. • Reduction of clearing and grubbing activity in and adjacent to water bodies and wetlands. • Minimization of "in-stream" activities. 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 been required. 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 project area. Fill or alteration of more than 150 linear feet of streams may require compensatory mitigation in accordance with 15NCAC2H.0506(h). Written DWQ approval is required for this mitigation plan which may utilize the state's Wetland Restoration Program. A final determination regarding mitigation to "Waters of the United States" rests with the USACE and DWQ. Regional Conditions of NWP 23 and the 401 Water Quality Certification waiver require compensatory mitigation for impacts greater than 1 acre. Final construction plans should be compared to a surveyed wetland delineation to determine if this threshold has been exceeded. Federal Protected Species 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. An endangered species is considered to be a species that is in danger of becoming extinct throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A threatened species is considered to be a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Table 2 lists the eight federally protected species for Cumberland and Sampson Counties as of January 15, 1999 (NCDENR-DPR, 1998). Descriptions and biological conclusions for each species are given below. 14 TABLE 2. Federally Protected Species for Cumberland and Sampson Counties. Scientific Name Common `Name. Federal Status County Alligator mississippiensis American alligator T (S/A) Cumber/Samp. Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker E Cumber/Samp. Neonympha mitchellii francisci Saint Francis' satyr E Cumber. Isotria medeoloides small-whorled pogonia T* Cumber. Lindera melissifolia Pondberry E Cumber/Samp. Lysimachia asperulaefolia rough-leaved loosestrife E Cumber. Rhus michauxii Michaux's sumac E Cumber. Schwalbea americana American chaffseed E Cumber. * Historic record - last observed in the county more than 50 years ago. E - denotes Federally Endangered. T - denotes Federally Threatened. T(S/A) - denotes Federally Threatened; threatened only due to its similarity in appearance with other rare species. American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is a large aquatic reptile that measures 6 to 12 feet. This reptilian species constructs nests near water in late spring and summer. The nests are made from vegetation, debris and soil, and the eggs are sometimes guarded by the female. The young are marked with yellow bands. The American alligator is found in fresh to slightly brackish lakes, river, ponds and marshes. It inhabits slow moving coastal rivers, canals, lakes, marshes and estuaries. This reptilian species is located in the southern parts of the North Carolina, although, they have been known to inhabit cypress ponds in flatwoods and sandhills. This species is known to occur within Camp Lejuene. This reptilian species is listed as Threatened due to similarity of appearance to other protected crocodilians. Alligators are no longer biologically threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act, but commercial hunting and trade are regulated. Consequently no biological opinion is necessary. Red-Cockaded Woodpecker - RCW (Picoides borealis) The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW, Picoides borealis) has a plumage that is entirely black and white except for a small red spot behind the eye 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 (Pinus palustris), 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 greater than 60 years old and are 15 contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 500 acres. This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat in the form of mature open pine stands occur within the project area for the RCW. A review of the NCDENR-DPR database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the RCW near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the RCW. Saint Francis' Satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci) The Saint Francis' satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci) is a small, dark brown butterfly with conspicuous eyespots on the lower wing. The eyespots are round to oval shaped with a dark maroon brown center and a straw yellow border. These spots are accentuated with two bright orange bands along the posterior wings and by two darker brown bands along the central portion of each wing. The Saint Francis' satyr is known to inhabit wide, wet meadows dominated by sedges (Carex spp.) and other wetland graminoids. These wetlands are often relicts of beaver activity and are boggy areas that are acidic and ephemeral. Succession of these sites often leads to either a pocosin or swamp dominated forest. The larval host of the Saint Francis' satyr is thought to be grasses, sedges and rushes. Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat in the form of open wet meadows dominated with sedges is present in the project area for the Saint Francis' satyr. In addition, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the satyr near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the Saint Francis' satyr. Small-Whorled Pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) The small-whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) is a perennial orchid having long hairy roots and a hollow stem. Stems terminate in a whorl of five or six light green, elliptical leaves that are somewhat pointed.. One or two light green flowers are produced at the end of the stem. Flowers of the small-whorled pogonia have short sepals. The small-whorled pogonia grows in "second growth deciduous" or deciduous-coniferous forest, with an open canopy, open shrub layer, and sparse herb layer. It prefers acidic soils. Flowering is inhibited in areas where there is relatively high shrub coverage or high sapling density. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although suitable habitat in the form of "second growth deciduous" or deciduous coniferous forest is present in addition to a utility easement that creates a persistent break in the 16 forest canopy, the frequency of flooding by the South River results in unsuitable habitat in the project area. No small-whorled pogonia was observed during the May 4 and 5, 1998 field survey. In addition, the last known occurrences of this species in the county was observed more than 50 years ago. Also, a review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the small-whorled pogonia near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the small-whorled pogonia. Pondberry (Lindera melissifolia) The pondberry (Lindera melissifolia) is a deciduous, aromatic shrub that has a distinct sassafras-like odor. Leaves in the pondberry are arranged alternately, have reduced bases, and droop downward. It has small pale yellow flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves. The fruit which matures in August or September is a bright red drupe. The pondberry grows in lowland habitats with hydric soils. These sites are generally flooded at some time during the growing season. It is associated with the margins of sinks, ponds, and other like depressions. The soils present are sandy with a high peat content in the subsurface. Areas inhabited by this species show signs of past fire maintenance and now shrubby conditions. The plants generally grow in shady areas but may also be found in areas that receive full sunlight. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although suitable habitat in the form of seasonally flooded and swampy depressions is present in the project area, pondberry was not observed during a field survey conducted on May 4 and 5; 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the pondberry near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the pondberry. Rough-Leaved Loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulaefolia) The rough-leaved loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulaefolia) is a perennial herb having slender stems and whorled leaves. The herb has showy yellow flowers which usually occur in threes or fours. Fruits are present from July through October. The rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet, peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands and on shallow organic soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of unknown origins). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. The rough-leaved loosestrife rarely occurs in association with hardwoods stands and prefers acidic soils. 17 Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the rough-leaved loosestrife in the form of ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins is not present at the project area. No rough-leaved loosestrife was observed during the May 4 and 5, 1998 field survey. Additionally, a review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the rough- leaved loosestrife near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the rough- leaved loosestrife. Michaux's Sumac (Rhus michauxii) The Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii) is a densely pubescent rhizomatous shrub that grows 0.7 to 3.3 feet in height. The narrowly winged or wingless rachis supports nine to thirteen sessile, oblong to oblong-lanceolate leaflets that are 1.6 to 3.6 inches long, 0.8 to 2 inches wide, acute and acuminate. The bases of the leaves are rounded and their edges are simple or doubly serrate. It bears small flowers in a terminal, erect, dense cluster. The flowers are greenish to white in color. Fruits, which develop from August to September on female plants, are a red densely short-pubescent drupe, 0.2 to 0.24 inches across. This plant occurs in rocky or sandy open woods. It is dependent on some sort of disturbance to maintain the openness of it habitat. It usually grows in association with basic soils and occurs on sand or sandy loams. It grows only in open habitat where it can get full sunlight and it does not compete well with other species such as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) that it is often associated with. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although a limited amount of suitable habitat for the Michaux's sumac occurs within the project area in the form of roadside, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the Michaux's sumac near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the Michaux's sumac. American Chaffseed (Schwalbea americana) The American chaffseed (Schwalbea americana) is an erect herb whose stems branch only at the base (if at all). The entire plant is pubescent, with upwardly curving hairs. The narrow leaves are alternate, lance-shaped to elliptic and stalkless. The leaves are three veined and become progressively smaller towards the top. It bears solitary flowers in the axils of the upper most leaves. The purplish-yellow flowers are arranged into racemes. The fruits are a long narrow capsule, enclosed in a loose-fitting sack-like structure. The American chaffseed occurs in open, moist pine flatwoods, fire maintained savannas, ecotonal areas between peat wetlands and open grass-sedge systems. Soils are generally sandy, acidic, and seasonally moist to dry. Fire is important in the maintenance of open habitat for the American chaffseed. 18 Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat for the American chaffseed in the form of fire maintained moist flat woods occurs in the project area. Wetland areas of the utility corridor are inundated for too long a duration to provide suitable habitat for the American chaffseed. In addition, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the American chaffseed near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the American chaffseed. D. Air Quality and Traffic Noise This project is an air quality "neutral" project, so it is not required to be included in the regional emissions analysis (if applicable) and a project level CO analysis is not required. If the project disposes of vegetation by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. The project will not significantly increase traffic volumes. Therefore, it will have no significant impact on noise levels. Temporary noise increases may occur during construction. E. Farmland The Farmland Protection Policy Act of 1981 requires all federal agencies or their representatives, to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime and important farmland soils. These soils are determined by the US Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS) based on criteria such as potential crop yield and possible level of input of economic resources. The project will result in the conversion of a small amount of land but the area to be converted is void of agricultural uses. Therefore, no further consideration of impacts to farmland is required. IX. CONCLUSIONS Based on the above discussion, NCDOT and FHWA conclude that the project will cause no significant environmental impacts. Therefore, the project may be processed as a Categorical Exclusion. WTG/ 19 U i . 1 P - N / „ V Y 0 .2 0-100 t • N •? w f ? N •? 0 N .? . r 2033 ?' r±r p ? g 1. 3 2041 V ' •? 10 1.2 .2 ' 2034 2035 6 .? Beaverdam Sch. •? Beaverdam ?, ?, , ,•? 2036 Ch. %o% . . 2040 •a ?eT, C Broom j•> 2 ? N n ` r/ 1 inde no e,c x•_9 55 H wFo \ls l R ?S God rn 1 2 ea nests 2 1? alcon 9 Spivey 's S u on n ? . ?r Sprig Lake • 1 O' Wade 82 i3 Corner ?? Ip t r? ? - J - +L 4 87 'b " 6` ..f Piney Green t Keened ,? t • ` - ayetterill 2 us S A M P l S o . ? ? ? N ,?s 3 o s 1 C 3 3 r? 1,° e S. 242 ]o' 0 ` ? 59 .r 4 3 So arnburQ ^'.c. r. + (Il 2038 • ?' •rmberlsnd V Vander 44OOe^°C(jnt • f ' ?'- ?"i • edmaTr- Autr ills t_ i f CSC ` ?yl; ? ? 1 4 9 • 1 , `? ; m * 11 t 1 Elliot 2 Turk, 1?? 1 `OP Mil S oseboro d IS / 3 Cedar Creek 2 c c 1 ??? U ? IC r ` IS Lena t• n 101 ' 87 \ u] g 10 11 ? . urg i Ing d J! Gar Delw +! 421 \ 0 11 s 'i' sll ,,Havre Is •_ ,o "ORTHCg9 North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch \?`FTRAµS? Cumberland/Sampson Counties Replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River B-3152 Figure One Looping north from Bridge No. 46 Looking south from Bridge No. 46 North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Manning & Environmental Branch Cumberland and Sampson Counties Replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River B-3152 Figure Three 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, David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:sL" ' cc. H?. F. Vick B. Church T. Padgett 'SEATED STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR February 6, 2001 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY SUBJECT: USACE Nationwide Permit, Action ID 2000001104(23) Permit application submitted April 13, 2000, Amendment submitted November 9, 2000 TIP Project No. B-3152, Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.1442701. Dear Sir: Per our conversation yesterday, I am forwarding -a request for a permit modification to the abovementioned USACE Nationwide Permit. This letter serves to revise the November 9, 2000 amendment to the permit application submitted April 13, 2000, specifically the Wetland Restoration Plan. Due to scheduling restrictions, soil conditions, and delays necessitated by the in-stream moratorium between April 1 and June 15, project construction will take several years. Therefore, the NCDOT proposes that the planting completion date of March 15, 2002 specified in Wetland Restoration Plan be changed to "the first March 15, following completion of bridge construction." The revised Plan is attached. Based on the previous application, the NCDOT received a Section 404, Nationwide Permit 23. However, the application also requested a Nationwide Permit 33 to permit the temporary causeway, which was not covered in the CE. I am attaching a copy of the Pre- construction Notification Application. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) will apply to this project. Copies of the permit application and first amendment have MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US RALEIGH NC RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 been provided to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their review. This second amendment will be forwarded to them, as well. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension 335. Sincerely, c- 4:L William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments (2) cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head Wetland Restoration Plan Bridge No. 46 over the South River on NC 242 TIP No. B-3152, Cumberland/Sampson Counties Existing Conditions The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee-Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by wetland hardwoods such as mature bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciua), red maple (Acer rubrum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), willow oak (Quercus phellos), and loblolly pine (Pious taeda). Dominant sapling species include ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub, vine, and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry (Vaccinium elliotti), pepper bush (Clethera alnifolia), common greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia). Summary of Impacts Wetland impacts for the proposed project include 0.53 ac of permanent fill, 0.19 ac of temporary fill, and 0.27 ac of mechanized clearing. No stream relocation or channel change will be involved. Driven piles, spaced on 6.75 ft centers, will be used for support for the new bridge. In order to set the piles, a temporary causeway will be required. The causeway will consist of clean and washed Class II Rip Rap with 1.5:1 slopes, approximately 24 ft wide at the surface and 50 ft wide near the base with an estimated volume is 1,830 yd3. After the project is completed the causeway will be removed from the creek to the extent practicable without disturbing the creek bottom. Fill will be removed from the wetlands impacted by the temporary causeway, as well as from as much of the old roadbed as is available (0.25 acres). The fill will be removed down to the adjacent wetland elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using the following bottomland hardwood species: Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum), Swamp Blackgum (Nyssa biflora), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata), and Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) (see Reforestation Detail Sheet). Mitigation Parameters • Pictorially measured, photos will be provided at annual monitoring meeting. At the end of the third year, NCDOT, regulatory and resource agencies will meet on site and determine 75% survivability. If wetland areas temporarily impacted by this project have not re-attained wetland jurisdictional status, NCDOT and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shall determine whether compensatory wetland mitigation will be required. • All temporary fill will be placed on a geo-textile fabric. • Temporary causeway will be removed within thirty (30) days following completion of construction. • Plants will come from a North Carolina seed source depending on selected construction contracting firm and availability (see Planting Details). • Stems will be planted 320 stems per acre. • Planting will be completed by the first March 15, following completion of bridge construction. DEM ID• CORPS ACTION ID: 2000001104(23) TIP No. B-3152 NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #): 23 & 33 (revised) PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE: 1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS 2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION 3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO THE APPROPRIATE FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF.ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). SEVEN. (7) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE N.C. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL.MANAGEMENT (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT. 1. OWNERS NAME : NC Dept of Transportation; Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch 2. MAILING ADDRESS: - Post Office Box 25201 SUBDIVISION NAME: N/A CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE 25201 PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE): 3. TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME) : (WORK) : 919-733-3141 4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS,. PHONE NUMBER: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager i . 5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE): COUNTY: Columbus and Sampson NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Roseboro SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): NC 242, Bridge No 46 over the South River (location may included in attached CE and permit drawings 6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: South River RIVER BASIN: Cape Fear 1 7a. IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER (SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES [X] NO [] IF YES, EXPLAIN: The bridge to be replaced carries NC 242 over the South River, which has a DEM classification of C, SW, ORW+. 7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[ X] 7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION? N/A 8a. HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS PROPERTY? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION): 8b. ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE? YES [] NO [X] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: 9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT-OF LAND: 2.93ac 9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE: 0.83 acres 10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY: FILLING: 0.53 (permanent) 0.19 (temporary) EXCAVATION:0.27 FLOODING: 0.00 OTHER: (Onsite wetland restoration 0.25 acres). DRAINAGE : 0.00 TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED : 0.80 (permanent) 0.19 (temporary) 10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION): LENGTH BEFORE: 60 FT AFTER: 60 FT WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): 70 FT WIDTH AFTER: 70 FT AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: 4 FT AFTER: 4 FT 2 (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL: CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING: OTHER temporary fill of 0.18 acres for construction of a temporary causeway (drawings attached) 11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA? 12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS ONLY): Replacement of Bridge No 46 on an improved alignment on NC 242 over the South River in Sampson and Columbus Counties. 13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: To improve the safety of NC 242 by replacing the deteriorating existing bridge on an improved alignment. 14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS): Wetlands are on both sides of the existing bridge, therefore wetland impacts are unavoidable. Alternative 2 was chosen over Alt 1 in order to minimize wetland impacts Minimizing: decrease bridge/roadway footprint, temp erosion control devices, adherence to BMPs, reduction of clearine and grubbing. 15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS) AND/OR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE (NMFS) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: David Cox, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, attended a scoping meeting on Feb 18, He indicated that HOW erosion control measures were applicable, wetland impacts could be minimized with Alt 2, and that a moratorium will be required on in-stream construction between Apr. 1 and June 15 to protect sunfish spawning. 16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER (SHPO) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET).REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: In a letter dated February 19,1997, SHPO indicated there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area. 17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE OF PUBLIC (STATE). LAND? YES [X] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18) a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES [X] NO [] b. IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE? YES [X] NO [] 3 IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE (919) 733-6369. 18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL INTO WETLANDS : NA a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS 14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT. b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY PROJECT. C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE. d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED. e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL? g. SIGNED AND.DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE. NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO: 1) ISSUANCE-OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT, 2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND 3) (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. c Z)-- Ztel 'L d' OWNER'S/A NT'S SIGNATURE (AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.)) 2 /41/2,ao { ATE 4 r•. Lrydd ?? Y STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR February 6, 2001 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY SUBJECT: USACE Nationwide Permit, Action ID 2000001104(23) Permit application submitted April 13, 2000, Amendment submitted November 9, 2000 TIP Project No. B-3152, Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.1442701. Dear Sir: Per our conversation yesterday, I am forwarding a request for a permit modification to the abovementioned USACE Nationwide Permit. This letter serves to revise the November 9, 2000 amendment to the permit application submitted April 13, 2000, specifically the Wetland Restoration Plan. Due to scheduling restrictions, soil conditions, and delays necessitated by the in-stream moratorium between April 1 and June 15, project construction will take several years. Therefore, the NCDOT proposes that the planting completion date of March 15, 2002 specified in Wetland Restoration Plan be changed to "the first March 15, following completion of bridge construction." The revised Plan is attached. Based on the previous application, the NCDOT received a Section 404, Nationwide Permit 23. However, the application also requested a Nationwide Permit 33 to permit the temporary causeway, which was not covered in the CE. I am attaching a copy of the Pre- construction Notification Application. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) will apply to this project. Copies of the permit application and first amendment have MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING PROJECT DEVELOPMENTAND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US RALEIGH NC RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 r' been provided to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their review. This second amendment will be forwarded to them, as well. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension 335. Sincerely, William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments (2) cc: Mr. David Franklin, USAGE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head Wetland Restoration Plan Bridge No. 46 over the South River on NC 242 TIP No. B-3152, Cumberland/Sampson Counties Existing Conditions The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee-Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by wetland hardwoods such as mature bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciua), red maple (Acer rubrum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), willow oak (Quercus phellos), and loblolly pine (Pinus taeda). Dominant sapling species include ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub, vine, and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry (Vaccinium elliotti), pepper bush (Clethera alnifolia), common greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia). Summary of Impacts Wetland impacts for the proposed project include 0.53 ac of permanent fill, 0.19 ac of temporary fill, and 0.27 ac of mechanized clearing. No stream relocation or channel change will be involved. Driven piles, spaced on 6.75 ft centers, will be used for support for the new bridge. In order to set the piles, a temporary causeway will be required. The causeway will consist of clean and washed Class II Rip Rap with 1.5:1 slopes, approximately 24 ft wide at the surface and 50 ft wide near the base with an estimated volume is 1,830 yd3. After the project is completed the causeway will be removed from the creek to the extent practicable without disturbing the creek bottom. Fill will be removed from the wetlands impacted by the temporary causeway, as well as from as much of the old roadbed as is available (0.25 acres). The fill will be removed down to the adjacent wetland elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using the following bottomland hardwood species: Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum), Swamp Blackgum (Nyssa Mora), Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), Overcup Oak (Quercus lyrata), and Willow Oak (Quercus phellos) (see Reforestation Detail Sheet). Mitigation Parameters • Pictorially measured, photos will be provided at annual monitoring meeting. At the end of the third year, NCDOT, regulatory and resource agencies will meet on site and determine 75% survivability. If wetland areas temporarily impacted by this project have not re-attained wetland jurisdictional status, NCDOT and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shall determine whether compensatory wetland mitigation will be required. • All temporary fill will be placed on a geo-textile fabric. • Temporary causeway will be removed within thirty (30) days following completion of construction. • Plants will come from a North Carolina seed source depending on selected construction contracting firm and availability (see Planting Details). • Stems will be planted 320 stems per acre. • Planting will be completed by the first March 15, following completion of bridge construction. DEM ID• CORPS ACTION ID: 2000001104(23) TIP No. B-3152 NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT m): 23 & 33 (revised) PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE: 1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS 2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION 3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO THE APPROPRIATE FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF.ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). SEVEN (7) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE N.C. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT. 1. OWNERS NAME: NC Dept of Transportation; Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch 2. MAILING ADDRESS: Post Office Box 25201 SUBDIVISION NAME: N/A CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 25201 PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE): 3 TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME) : (WORK) : 919-733-3141 4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager. 5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE): COUNTY: Columbus and Sampson NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Roseboro SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): NC 242, Bridge No 46 over the South River (location map included in attached CE and permit drawing 6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: South River RIVER BASIN: Cape Fear 1 7a. IS PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER (SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II) ? YES [X] NO [] IF YES, EXPLAIN: The bridge to be replaced carries NC 242 over the South River, which has a DEM classification of C, SW, ORW+. 7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[ X] 7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION? NIA 8a. HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS PROPERTY? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION): 8b. ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE? YES [] NO [X] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: 9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND: 2.93ac 9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE: 0.83 acres 10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY: FILLING: 0.53 (permanent) 0.19 (temporary) EXCAVATION:0.27 FLOODING: 0.00 OTHER: (Onsite wetland restoration 0.25 acres). DRAINAGE: 0.00 TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED : 0.80 (permanent) 0.19 (temporary) 10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION): LENGTH BEFORE: 60 FT AFTER: 60 FT WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): 70 FT WIDTH AFTER: 70 FT AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: 4 FT AFTER: 4 FT 2 (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) OPEN CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL: CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING: OTHER:- temporary fill of 0.18 acres for construction of a temporary causeway (drawings attached) 11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA? 12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS ONLY): Replacement of Bridge No 46 on an improved alignment on NC 242 over the South River in Sampson and Columbus Counties. 13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: To improve the safety of NC 242 by replacing the deteriorating existing bridge on an improved alignment. 14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS): Wetlands are on both sides of the existing bridge, therefore wetland impacts are unavoidable. Alternative 2 was chosen over Alt 1 in order to minimize wetland impacts Minimizing: decrease bridge/roadway footprint, temp erosion control devices adherence to BMPs, reduction of clearing and grubbing. 15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS) AND/OR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE (NMFS) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: David Cox, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, attended a scoping meeting on Feb 18,1997 He indicated that HOW erosion control measures were applicable, wetland impacts could be minimized with Alt 2, and that a moratorium will be required on in-stream construction between Apr. 1 and June 15 to protect sunfish spawning. 16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER (SHPO) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET)-"REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE. CONTACTED: In a letter dated February 19,1997, SHPO indicated there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area. 17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE OF PUBLIC (STATE). LAND? YES [X] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18) a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES [X] NO [] b. IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT-OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE? YES [X] NO [] 3 IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE (919) 733-6369. 18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL INTO WETLANDS: NA a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS 14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT. b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY PROJECT. C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE. d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED. e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL? g. SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE. NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO: 1) ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT, 2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND 3) (IN THE. TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE. NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. OWNER'S/A NT'S SIGNATURE (AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.)) ATE 4 Noy STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID McCOY GOVERNOR SECRETARY April 13, 2000 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator SUBJECT: Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.1442701, TIP Project No. B-3152. Dear Sir: Please find attached the Categorical Exclusion for the referenced project. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 on a new alignment to the west of the existing bridge. The new bridge will be approximately 325 feet long and 30 feet wide. This width will provide for two 12-foot travel lanes and 3-foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24-foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 12 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at a slightly higher elevation than the existing bridge to accommodate hydraulic requirements. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Bridge No. 46 is located on NC 242 over the South River in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. The bridge contains nine. spans totaling 308 feet in length. The superstructure is composed of a concrete bridge deck and concrete bridge railings on I-beams. The substructure is composed of timber piles with concrete caps. The bridge railings and timber piles will be removed without dropping any of their components into Waters of the United States. However, there is potential for the components of the bridge deck and caps to be dropped into Waters of the United States during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the concrete deck and caps will be a maximum of approximately 180 yd3. Any material falling into the water will be removed promptly. The South River [DEM index number 18-68-12-(8.5), 6/1/94] is the only jurisdictional surface water resource that will be impacted. It has a DEM best usage classification of C, SW, and ORW+. The `C' classification denotes waters that are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. 'SW' designates swamp waters having low velocities and other natural characteristics, which are different from adjacent streams. `ORWs' are Oustanding Water Resources denoting waters, which are unique and special waters of exceptional state or national recreation or ecological significance which are subject to special management strategies specified in the Outstanding Water Resource Rules established by the NC Sedimentation Control Commission. . There are permanent and temporary impacts as a result of the proposed bridge replacement. Permanent impacts include 0.29 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.25 acres of mechanized clearing. A temporary work pad will be required for this project. Temporary impacts from construction of the temporary causeway may total up to 0.18 acres of fill in surface waters and 0.20 acres of fill in wetlands. Although the temporary causeway will be constructed of clean rock and will be removed from the streambed to the greatest extent practical without extensive disturbance of the existing streambed after construction, some residual may remain. Construction plans detailing the proposed causeway are depicted in the attached drawings. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose to proceedunder a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916, issued December 13, 1996 by. the Corps of Engineers. The NCDOT is also requesting a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 (Temporary Construction Access and Dewatering) authorizing the construction of the causeway. Since the temporary causeway is not covered in the CE, the requisite Pre-Construction Notification is attached. The provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be followed in the construction of the project. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality. Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) 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, for their review. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension 335. Sincerely, . L 4j,- William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorsey, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head DEM ID:' CORPS ACTION ID: TIP No. B-3152 NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT 4): 23 & 33 PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE: 1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS 2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION 3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO,THE APPROPRIATE FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). SEVEN (7.) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE N.C.. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (SEE'AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT. 1. OWNERS NAME : NC Dept. of Transportation; Proiect Development & Environmental Analysis Branch 2. MAILING ADDRESS Post Office Box 25201 SUBDIVISION NAME: N/A CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 25201 PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE): 3. TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME): (WORK) : 919-733-3141 4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager 5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE): COUNTY: Columbus and Sampson NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Roseboro SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): NC 242, Bridge No. 46 over the South River (location map included in attached CE and permit drawings) 6: IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: South River RIVER BASIN: Cape Fear 7a. IS.PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER (SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II)? YES [X] NO [I IF YES, EXPLAIN: The bridge to be replaced carries NC 242 over the South River, which has a DEM classification of C, SW, ORW+. 7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[ X] 7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION? NIA 8a. HAVE ANY SECTION 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS PROPERTY? YES [ ] NO [X] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D., NUMBER OF PREVIOUS PERMIT AND ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 CERTIFICATION): r , 8b. ARE ADDITIONAL PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE FUTURE? YES [] NO [X] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: 9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND: 2.93ac 9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE: 0.83 acres 10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY: FILLING: 0.2# (permanent) 0-.20 (temporary) EXCAVATION:0.25 FLOODING: 0.00 OTHER: N/A DRAINAGE: 0.00 TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED : 0:54 (permanent) 0.20 (temporary) 10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION): LENGTH BEFORE: 60 FT AFTER: 60 FT WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): 70 FT WIDTH AFTER: 70 FT AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: 4FT AFTER: 4 FT 2 (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) 0PEN-CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL: CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING: OTHER: temporary fill of 0.18 acres for construction of a temporary causeway (drawings attached) 11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA? 12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS ONLY): Replacement of Bridge No. 46 on an improved alignment on NC 242 over the Sotith River in Sampson and Columbus Counties. 13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: To improve the safety of NC 242 by replacing the deteriorating existing bridge on an improved alignment. 14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCLUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS): Wetlands are on both sides of the existing bridge, therefore wetland impacts are unavoidable. Alternative 2 was chosen over Alt. 1 in order to minimize wetland impacts. Minimizing: decrease bridge/roadway footprint, temp. erosion control devices, adherence to BMPs, reduction of clearing and grubbing. 15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS) AND/OR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE (NMFS) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: David Cox, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, attended a scoping meeting on Feb. 18, 1997. He indicated that HOW erosion control measures were applicable, wetland impacts could be minimized with Alt. 2, and that a moratorium will be required on in-stream construction between Apr. 1 and June 15 to protect sunfish spawning. 16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER (SHPO) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: In a letter dated February 19, 1997, SHPO indicated there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area. 17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE OF PUBLIC (STATE) LAND? YES [X] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18) a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL. DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES [X] NO [] b IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE? YES [X] NO [] 3 IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE (919) 733-6369. 18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL INTO WETLANDS: NA a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS,14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT._AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT. b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY PROJECT. C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE. d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED. e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL? g. SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE. NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO: 1) ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT, 2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND 3) (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. ci- z' wU? OWNER'S/AGENT`S SIGNATURE (AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.)) DATE 4 B-3152 (South River) Subject: B-3152 (South River) Date: Tue, 06 Feb 2001 13:45:17 -0500 From: Elizabeth Lee Lusk <ellusk @dot. state.nc.us> Organization: North Carolina Department of Transportation To: Agency DWQ - John Hennessy <John.Hennessy@ncmail.net> John, Answers to your questions: Re. using new location over existing location: Page 3 of the CE explains traffic volume and cost as reasons why a new location alternate was chosen. Also, from the project engineer, "As far as an alternate with replacing the bridge in place with an off-site detour is concerned, yes, we did try to avoid an off-site detour due to the traffic across the bridge currently (appr. 1500 cars per day) along with the off-site lengthy detour (an excess of over 6 miles of travel). The other factor involved is the Division Office's recommendation. The Division desired to keep traffic maintained on-site, and we rely heavily on their recommendation because they know the area so well." Re. Ton-down construction vs. temp. causeway. Structure Design relays that keeping the existing bridge open to traffic and top down construction are at odds with each other. I guess top down uses the existing bridge as the causeway. Re. bridge drainage In the permit drawings, the Profile View page has a note that a deck drain system will be used on the bridge, so that drainage will be onto land rather than directly into the river. Also, I am submitting a permit modification requesting a change in the Restoration Plan planting date. You should be receiving that in the mail soon. I've spoken with Dave Timpy and he's fine with it. Please let me know that you've receive it when you receive it. Thanks, Elizabeth Elizabeth Lee Lusk <ellusk@dot. state.nc.us> Environmental Biologist II . Project Development & Environmental Analysis 1 of 2 3/12/01 12:06 PM ?CUrw..d ?i. !D ? .1 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION f MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDO TIPPETT GOVERNOR SECRETARY March 21, 2001 MEMORANDUM TO: John Hennessy, DWQ FROM: Elizabeth L. Lusk, Natural Systems Unit SUBJECT: B-3152 Stormwater Plans Please find attached the Stormwater Management Plan and Design Plans for TIP B-3152 over the South River on the Cumberland/Sampson County line. The Stormwater Plan addresses your concerns regarding drainage into the South River, by specifying that a deck drain system be used, with the outlet 150 feet from the edge of the river. This drainage system will improve the current drainage system, which drains directly into the river. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at 733- 7844, extension 335. MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 FAX: 919-733-9794 WEBSITE: WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE. NC.US LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC B-3152 (8.1442701) Cumberland/Sampson Counties Bridge No. 46 Over the South River on NC 242. Stormwater Management Plan This project is approximately 0.42 mi. in length and runs North out of Cumberland County across the South River into Sampson County. The South River is classified as High Quality Waters. The stormwater impacts on this project have been minimized to the greatest extent possible through the measures listed below. 1.) All of the concentrated roadway runoff on the beginning portion of the project is diverted through a hazardous spill basin located at the southeast bridge approach. The drainage on the west side of the roadway in this area is diverted into the basin whereas presently w, it stays on the west side and drains straight into the river. w 2.) A deck drain system will be used to collect all drainage on the bridge. 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BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID McCOY GOVERNOR SECRETARY April 13, 2000 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office P.O. Box 1890 Wilmington, NC 28402-1890 ATTENTION: Mr. Dave Timpy NCDOT Coordinator SUBJECT: Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Replace and improve the alignment of Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 over the South River, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.1442701, TIP Project No. B-3152. Dear Sir: Please find attached the Categorical Exclusion for the referenced project. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 on a new alignment to the west of the existing bridge. The new bridge will be approximately 325 feet long and 30 feet wide. This width will provide for two 12-foot travel lanes and 3-foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24-foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 12 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at a slightly higher elevation than the existing bridge to accommodate hydraulic requirements. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Bridge No. 46 is located on NC 242 over the South River in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. The bridge contains nine spans totaling 308 feet in length. The superstructure is composed of a concrete bridge deck and concrete bridge railings on 1-beams. The substructure is composed of timber piles with concrete caps. The bridge railings and timber piles will be removed without dropping any of their components into Waters of the United States. However, there is potential for the components of the bridge deck and caps to be dropped into Waters of the United States during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the concrete deck and caps will be a maximum of approximately 180 yd3. Any material falling into the water will be removed promptly. The South River [DEM index number 18-68-12-(8.5), 6/1/94] is the only jurisdictional surface water resource that will be impacted. It has a DEM best usage classification of C, SW, and ORW+. The `C' classification denotes waters that are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. `SW' designates swamp waters having low velocities and other natural characteristics, which are different from adjacent ? I streams. `ORWs' are Oustanding Water Resources denoting waters, which are unique and special waters of exceptional state or national recreation or ecological significance which are subject to special management strategies specified in the Outstanding Water Resource Rules established by the NC Sedimentation Control Commission. There are permanent and temporary impacts as a result of the proposed bridge replacement. Permanent impacts include 0.29 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.25 acres of mechanized clearing. A temporary work pad will be required for this project. Temporary impacts from construction of the temporary causeway may total up to 0.18 acres of fill in surface waters and 0.20 acres of fill in wetlands. Although the temporary causeway will be constructed of clean rock and will be removed from the streambed to the greatest extent practical without extensive disturbance of the existing streambed after construction, some residual may remain. Construction plans detailing the proposed causeway are depicted in the attached drawings. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a "Categorical Exclusion" (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.1.15(b). Therefore, we do not anticipate requesting an individual permit but propose. to proceed-under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916, issued December 13, 1996 by the Corps of Engineers. The NCDOT is also requesting a Section 404 Nationwide Permit 33 (Temporary Construction Access and Dewatering) authorizing the construction of the causeway. Since the temporary causeway is not covered in the. CE, the requisite Pre-Construction Notification is attached. The provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A (C) of these regulations will be followed in the construction of the project. We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical Exclusion) 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, for their review. 335. If you have any questions, please contact Elizabeth L. Lusk at (919) 733-7844, extension Sincerely, ?/ C_ . ?-t f William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager p Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachments cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, DWQ Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Program Development Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. T.R. Gibson, P.E., Division 6 Engineer Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer Mr. Wayne Elliot, P.E., Planning and Environmental, Unit Head DEM ID:' CORPS ACTION ID: TIP No. B-3152 NATIONWIDE PERMIT REQUESTED (PROVIDE NATIONWIDE PERMIT #): 23 S 33 PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOTIFICATION APPLICATION FOR NATIONWIDE PERMITS THAT REQUIRE: 1) NOTIFICATION TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS 2) APPLICATION FOR SECTION 401 CERTIFICATION 3) COORDINATION WITH THE NC DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT SEND THE ORIGINAL AND (1) COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO.THE APPROPRIATE FIELD OFFICE OF THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). SEVEN (T) COPIES SHOULD BE SENT TO THE N.C. DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (SEElAGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET). PLEASE PRINT. ' 1. OWNERS NAME : NC Dept. of Transportation; Protect Development & Environmental Analysis Branch 2. MAILING ADDRESS: Post Office Box 25201 SUBDIVISION NAME: N/A CITY: Raleigh STATE: NC ZIP CODE: 25201 PROJECT LOCATION ADDRESS, INCLUDING SUBDIVISION NAME (IF DIFFERENT FROM MAILING ADDRESS ABOVE): 3. TELEPHONE NUMBER (HOME) : (WORK) : 919-733-3141 4. IF APPLICABLE: AGENT'S NAME OR RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE OFFICIAL, ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager 5. LOCATION OF WORK (PROVIDE A MAP, PREFERABLY A COPY OF USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP OR AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY WITH SCALE): COUNTY: Columbus and Sampson NEAREST TOWN OR CITY: Roseboro SPECIFIC LOCATION (INCLUDE ROAD NUMBERS, LANDMARKS, ETC.): NC 242, Bridge No 46 over the South River (location map included in attached CE and permit drawings) 6. IMPACTED OR NEAREST STREAM/RIVER: South River RIVER BASIN: Cape Fear f 7a. IS-PROJECT LOCATED NEAR WATER CLASSIFIED AS TROUT, TIDAL SALTWATER (SA), HIGH QUALITY WATERS (HQW), OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS (ORW), WATER SUPPLY (WS-I OR WS-II) ? YES [X] NO [] IF YES, EXPLAIN: The bridge to be replaced carries NC 242 over the South River, which has a DEM classification of C, SW, ORW+. 7b. IS THE PROJECT LOCATED WITHIN A NORTH CAROLINA DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN (AEC)?YES[ ] NO[ X] 7c. IF THE PROJECT IS LOCATED WITHIN A COASTAL COUNTY (SEE PAGE 7 FOR LIST OF COASTAL COUNTIES), WHAT IS THE LAND USE PLAN (LUP) DESIGNATION? N/A 8a. HAVE ANY SECTI, PROPERTY? YES [ ] PREVIOUS PERMIT AND CERTIFICATION): i 8b. ARE ADDITIONAL FUTURE? YES [] NO 9N 404 PERMITS BEEN PREVIOUSLY REQUESTED FOR USE ON THIS NO [X] IF YES, PROVIDE ACTION I.D. NUMBER OF ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (INCLUDE PHOTOCOPY OF 401 PERMIT REQUESTS EXPECTED FOR THIS PROPERTY IN THE [X] IF YES, DESCRIBE ANTICIPATED WORK: 9a. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES IN TRACT OF LAND: 2.93 ac 9b. ESTIMATED TOTAL NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS LOCATED ON PROJECT SITE: 0.83 acres 10a. NUMBER OF ACRES OF WETLANDS IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT BY: FILLING: 0.29 (permanent) 0.20 (temporary) EXCAVATION:0.25 FLOODING: 0.00 OTHER: N/A DRAINAGE : 0.00 TOTAL ACRES TO BE IMPACTED : 0.54 (permanent) 0.20 (temporary) 10b. (1) STREAM CHANNEL TO BE IMPACTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT (IF RELOCATED, PROVIDE DISTANCE BOTH BEFORE AND AFTER RELOCATION) : LENGTH BEFORE: 60 FT AFTER: 60 FT WIDTH BEFORE (based on normal high water contours): 70FT WIDTH AFTER: 70 FT AVERAGE DEPTH BEFORE: 4 FT AFTER: 4 FT 2 (2) STREAM CHANNEL IMPACTS WILL RESULT FROM: (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) OPEN;'CHANNEL RELOCATION: PLACEMENT OF PIPE IN CHANNEL: CHANNEL EXCAVATION: CONSTRUCTION OF A DAM/FLOODING: OTHER: temporary fill of 0.18 acres for construction of a temporary causeway (drawings attached) 11. IF CONSTRUCTION OF A POND IS PROPOSED, WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE WATERSHED DRAINING TO THE POND? N/A WHAT IS THE EXPECTED POND SURFACE AREA? 12. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED WORK INCLUDING DISCUSSION OF TYPE OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT TO BE USED (ATTACH PLANS: 8 1/2" X 11" DRAWINGS ONLY): Renlacement of Bridge No. 46 on an improved alignment on NC 242 over the SoUth River in Sampson and Columbus Counties . 13. PURPOSE OF PROPOSED WORK: To improve the safety of NC 242 by replacing the deteriorating existing bridge on an improved alignment. 14. STATE REASONS WHY IT IS BELIEVED THAT THIS ACTIVITY MUST BE CARRIED OUT IN WETLANDS. (INCfUDE ANY MEASURES TAKEN TO MINIMIZE WETLAND IMPACTS): Wetlands are on both sides of the existing bridge, therefore wetland impacts are unavoidable. Alternative 2 was chosen over Alt. 1 in order to minimize wetland impacts. Minimizing: decrease bridge/roadway footprint, temp. erosion control devices, adherence to BMWs, reduction of clearing and grubbing. 15. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (USFWS) AND/OR NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE (NMFS) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF ANY FEDERALLY LISTED OR PROPOSED FOR LISTING ENDANGERED OR THREATENED SPECIES OR CRITICAL HABITAT IN THE PERMIT AREA THAT MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: David Cox, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, attended a scoping meeting on Feb. 18, 1997. He indicated that HOW erosion control measures were applicable, wetland impacts could be minimized with Alt. 2, and that a moratorium will be required on in-stream construction between Apr. 1 and June 15 to protect sunfish spawning. 16. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONTACT THE STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER (SHPO) (SEE AGENCY ADDRESSES SHEET) REGARDING THE PRESENCE OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES IN THE PERMIT AREA WHICH MAY BE AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT. DATE CONTACTED: Ina letter dated February 19,1997, SHPO indicated there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area. 17. DOES THE PROJECT INVOLVE AN EXPENDITURE OF PUBLIC FUNDS OR THE USE OF PUBLIC (STATE) LAND? YES [X] NO [] (IF NO, GO TO 18) a. IF YES, DOES THE PROJECT REQUIRE PREPARATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT? YES [X] NO [] b. IF YES, HAS THE DOCUMENT BEEN REVIEWED THROUGH THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION STATE CLEARINGHOUSE? YES [X] NO [] 3 IF ANSWER TO 17b IS YES, THEN SUBMIT APPROPRIATE DOCUMENTATION FROM THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE TO DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT REGARDING COMPLIANCE WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT. QUESTIONS REGARDING THE STATE CLEARINGHOUSE REVIEW PROCESS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO MS. CHRYS BAGGETT, DIRECTOR STATE CLEARINGHOUSE, NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION, 116 WEST JONES STREET, RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003, TELEPHONE (919) 733-6369. 18. THE FOLLOWING ITEMS SHOULD BE INCLUDED WITH THIS APPLICATION IF PROPOSED ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE DISCHARGE OF EXCAVATED OR FILL MATERIAL INTO WETLANDS: NA a. WETLAND DELINEATION MAP SHOWING ALL WETLANDS, STREAMS, LAKES AND PONDS ON THE PROPERTY (FOR NATIONWIDE PERMIT NUMBERS,14, 18, 21, 26, 29, AND 38). ALL STREAMS (INTERMITTENT:AND PERMANENT) ON THE PROPERTY MUST BE SHOWN ON THE MAP. MAP SCALES SHOULD BE 1 INCH EQUALS 50 FEET OR 1 INCH EQUALS 100 FEET OR THEIR EQUIVALENT. b. IF AVAILABLE, REPRESENTATIVE PHOTOGRAPH OF WETLANDS TO BE IMPACTED BY PROJECT. C. IF DELINEATION WAS PERFORMED BY A CONSULTANT, INCLUDE ALL DATA SHEETS RELEVANT TO THE PLACEMENT OF THE DELINEATION LINE. d. ATTACH A COPY OF THE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN IF REQUIRED. e. WHAT IS LAND USE OF SURROUNDING PROPERTY f. IF APPLICABLE, WHAT IS PROPOSED METHOD OF SEWAGE DISPOSAL? g. SIGNED AND DATED AGENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER, IF APPLICABLE. NOTE: WETLANDS OR WATERS OF THE U.S. MAY NOT BE IMPACTED PRIOR TO: 1) ISSUANCE OF A SECTION 404 CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT, 2) EITHER THE ISSUANCE OR WAIVER OF A 401 DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT (WATER QUALITY) CERTIFICATION, AND 3) (IN THE TWENTY COASTAL COUNTIES ONLY), A LETTER FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA .DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT STATING THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY IS CONSISTENT WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM. ? t3 .u 67 OWNER'S/AGENT'S SIGNATURE (AGENT'S SIGNATURE VALID ONLY IF AUTHORIZATION LETTER FROM THE OWNER IS PROVIDED (18g.)) 402f) o"'I' DATE 4 > all r 145 1406 20304 1440. 1006 2035 1452 1431 Store IZ. talc 143a 1330 Rebel 14333 O City 1329 1 t -K 7 6 411 4?' 1432 i ti SR ?036 BEGIN - PROJECT CUMBERLAND _CO_ ' _ _a_ BL4DEN COUNTY 1414 - 7 1430 1419 SITE 1 7 all$ e 1x21 OCr ds 6 1 19 / 1421 210 142 lr1>222 ti 1322 \SALEMBURG 1413 O 1233 1412 1233 1002 1406 1411 1256 1 1233 10 O VICINITY MAP -WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY WETLAND WL DENOTES FILL IN WETLAND ® DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER ® DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER (POND) T T DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND DENOTES EXCAVATION E E IN WETLAND I' DENOTES TEMPORARY TS TS FILL IN SURFACE WATERS » DENOTES MECHANIZED » » CLEARING ?- -4-- FLOW DIRECTION TB TOP OF BANK WE EDGE OF WATER C PROP. LIMIT OF CUT F PROP. LIMIT OF FILL A Alk - PROP. RIGHT OF WAY NG NATURAL GROUND PL PROPERTY LINE - TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT - PDE - PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT -EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY -EPB- EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY 0 WATER SURFACE XXXXX LIVE STAKES C2D BOULDER - - - CORE FIBER ROLLS O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER LEGEND PROPOSED BRIDGE PROPOSED BOX CULVERT PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT (DASHED LINES DENOTE EXISTNG STRUCTURES) SINGLE TREE WOODS L I N'E DRAINAGE :INLET ROOTWAD VORTEX ROCK WEIR 00000 RIP RAP RIP RAP ENERGY DISSIPATOR BASIN VANE N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS SAMPSON O CUMBERLAND COUNTY PROJECT: 8.1,442701 (B-3152) BRIDGE #46 ON NC 242 T ti OF b -l- Ob+SZ tllS 3NIl?l 01 dtN? F u , 1.4 gL va)oz? 04 "W 0 I ` V F' O ® cc o ?I ®z a F z x c?. I I I U q/ O z rzl {E?y" ryAO E-4 - W py 0 -i O ISM • " I_I II I > w ?' x I I I ?' ?' v° a `° O w Q NQ ? I ?° III I z III I .? ?' c I I ?I I O III I " H z .? 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BOX 1919 SUMT ER, 5C 29150 4 THOMAS R. SPLAWN 34780 E. TOWN HWY ROS EBORO9N`,., 28382 PROPERTY OWNERS Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION AND APPROVED: Date fog 03?o't (R Date 11011- C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION N. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS W. D. Gilmore, P. E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch C gww...r.?__ N(cholas L. Graf, P. E. Division Administrator, FHWA u* Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION March 1999 Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch By: William T. Goodwin, Jr., P. E. Project Planning Engineer 3-1- W Q Wayne lliott Bridge Project Planning Engineer, Unit Head t. Cy%!fita c ? is .?r?•: ''? Y?%?7 s Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Cumberland and Sampson Counties, Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River Federal Aid Project MABRSTP - 242(1) State Project 8.1442701 TIP Project B-3152 I. SUMMARY OF PROJECT The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 46 in Cumberland and Sampson Counties. This bridge carries NC 242 over the South River (see Figure 1). NCDOT includes this bridge in the Draft 2000-2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as abridge replacement project. NCDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classify this project as a federal Categorical Exclusion. These agencies expect no notable environmental impacts. NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 46 on new alignment, to the west of the existing bridge, as shown by Alternate 2 in Figure 2. NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a new bridge approximately 325 feet in length and 30 feet in width. This width will provide for two 12 foot travel lanes and 3 foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24 foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 8 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 60 mph. The estimated cost is $ 1,608,500 including $ 8,500 for right of way acquisition and $ 1,600,000 for construction. The estimated cost included in the Draft 2000-2006 TIP is $ 1,274,000. H. ANTICIPATED DESIGN EXCEPTIONS NCDOT is not expected to need any design exceptions for this project. III. SUMMARY OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS All standard procedures and measures will be implemented to avoid or minimize environmental impacts. All applicable Best Management Practices (BMPs) for High Quality Waters will be installed and properly maintained during project construction. In accordance with the provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be required from the Corps of Engineers for the discharge of dredged or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit # 23 will likely be applicable for this project. A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (DEM) Section 401 Water Quality General Certification will be obtained prior to issue of the Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit # 23. A moratorium on in-water construction activities will be observed from April 1 through June 15 of any construction year. This will reduce the possibility for project construction to adversely impact the spawning of numerous fish species that inhabit the South River. In addition to BMPs, "Design Standards In Sensitive Watersheds" and "Stream Crossing Guidelines For Anadromous Fish Passage" will be implemented and adhered to during the life of the project. All conditions and requirements outlined in NCDOT's "Guidelines for the Location and Design of Hazardous Spill Basins" will be followed for this project. This project will include one or more hazardous spill catch basins, as dictated by design criteria and site conditions, to help protect the water of the South River from possible contamination from accidental spills of fuels, oils or other materials at the bridge site. Once construction of the new bridge and approaches are complete, the existing bridge will be removed. The existing approach fill will be removed to natural grade and the area will be planted with native grasses and/or tree species as appropriate. If this area is deemed suitable for mitigation of wetland impacts it will be used as such. IV. EXISTING CONDITIONS NCDOT classifies NC 242 as a Rural Major Collector Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The surrounding area is rural, with a scattering of single-family homes and farm fields in an area that is predominantly woodland. Near Bridge No. 46, NC 242 is a two lane paved road, 22 feet wide with grassed shoulders. The vertical and horizontal alignment in the area are fair to good. The vertical alignment is nearly flat, but there are sweeping horizontal curves on both bridge approaches NCDOT built Bridge No. 46 in 1949. The bridge has a reinforced concrete deck with steel I-beam girders. The bents and end bents have concrete caps on timber piles. The deck of Bridge No. 46 is 19 feet above the streambed. The bridge is 308 feet long with a 23 foot roadway width. It carries two lanes of traffic and is currently posted at 30 tons for single vehicles and at the legal load limit for Truck-tractor Semi-trailers (TTST). According to Bridge Maintenance Unit records, the sufficiency rating of Bridge No. 46 is 6.0 of a possible 100.0. This low sufficiency rating is due to the fact that the bridge is considered temporarily shored because the bents have had crutch pilings added to help extend the bridge life until the bridge can be replaced. The current (1998) traffic volume is 1450 vehicles per day (VPD), projected to 3000 VPD by the design year (2020). The speed limit in the project area, is posted at 55 mph. Traffic Engineering accident records indicate three accidents were reported in the vicinity of Bridge No. 46 during a recent three year period. Two of these accidents were on the same day and were both a result of ice on the bridge deck causing drivers to skid and run off the road. Both the Cumberland and Sampson County School Bus Transportation Coordinators indicated that no school buses cross this bridge on a daily basis. 2 V. ALTERNATES Alternate One - replace the bridge on new alignment to the east of the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. Alternate Two (Recommended) - replace the bridge on new alignment to the west of the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the. existing bridge during construction. Constructing a new bridge at the existing location and providing a temporary on-site detour is not a cost competitive alternative. Road closure is not feasible since there is not a reasonable off-site detour route considering the volume of traffic on NC 242 and the length of the off-site detour. The "do-nothing" alternate is not practical. The existing bridge would continue deteriorating until it was unusable. This would require closing the road or continuing intensive maintenance. Rehabilitation of the existing deteriorating bridge is neither practical nor economical. VI. COST ESTIMATE Structure Roadway Approaches Structure Removal Misc. & Mob Engineering & Contingencies Total Construction Right of Way & Utilities TOTAL PROJECT COST Alternate One Alternate Two Recommended $ 824,000 $ 634,000 457,500 390,500 50,500 50,500 399,000 323,000 269,000 202,000 2,000,000 1,600,000 4,500 8,500 $ 2,004,500 $ 1,608,500 VII. RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS NCDOT will replace Bridge No. 46 on new alignment, to the west of the existing bridge, as shown by Alternate 2 in Figure 2. NCDOT recommends replacing the bridge with a new bridge approximately 325 feet in length and 30 feet in width. This width will provide for two 12 foot travel lanes and 3 foot offsets on each side. The approach roadway will consist of a 24 foot travelway and total grassed shoulder widths of at least 8 feet. The new bridge and roadway will be at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. Improvements to the approach roadway will extend approximately 850 feet to the south, and approximately 1000 feet to the north of the proposed structure. The completed project will provide a design speed of approximately 60 mph. NCDOT recommends Alternate 2 because it is the most reasonable and feasible alternate for replacing Bridge No. 46. Alternate 2 is less expensive than Alternate 1, has slightly less wetland impacts, and allows traffic to be maintained on-site. 3 Alternate 1 would require a wider bridge [curve widening] to allow vehicles traveling across the bridge to have adequate stopping sight distance. This additional bridge width is the main component contributing to the higher cost of Alternate 1. Since the South River is classified as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) and NC 242 is classified as a Rural Major Collector Route, this site meets the criteria for consideration of hazardous spill catch basins. All conditions and requirements outlined in NCDOT's "Guidelines for the Location and Design of Hazardous Spill Basins" will be followed for this project. This project will include one or more hazardous spill catch basins, as dictated by design criteria and site conditions; to help protect the water of the South River from possible contamination from accidental spills of fuels, oils or other materials at the bridge site. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing Bridge No. 46 on new alignment to the west of the existing bridge, with traffic maintained on the existing bridge during construction, would be acceptable. NCDOT expects utility conflicts to be low for a project of this type and magnitude. VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS A. General Environmental Effects The project is considered to be a "categorical exclusion" due to its limited scope and insignificant environmental consequences. The bridge replacement will not have a substantial adverse effect on the quality of the human or natural environment with the use of current NCDOT standards and specifications. The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning regulation. No change in land use is expected to result from construction of the project. No adverse effect on families or communities is anticipated. Right-of-Way acquisition will be limited. No adverse effect on public facilities or services is expected. The project is not expected to adversely affect social, economic, or religious opportunities in the area. There are no publicly owned parks, recreational facilities, or wildlife and waterfowl refuges of national, state, or local significance in the vicinity of the project. There are no known hazardous waste sites in the project area. B. Architectural and Archaeological Resources The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has indicated that there are no known architectural or archaeological sites in the project area and no unknown sites are likely to be 4 found. Therefore, SHPO has recommended no architectural or archaeological. surveys be conducted in connection with this project. [See SHPO letter dated Feb. 19, 1997 in appendix.] C. Natural Systems PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The project area lies in the Coastal Plain Physiographic province. The project vicinity is approximately 75 feet to 90 feet above mean sea level. The topography of the project area is gently undulating. Drainage in the Coastal Plain Physiographic province is poor with flooding in low lying areas common throughout the principal floodplains that border the South River. Soils Along the south side of the South River within Cumberland County, there is one general soil unit, Autryville - Candor soils association, which occurs in the project area. This general soil unit is located on broad ridges and short side slopes. Neither of the soils series within this association are hydric. This soil unit is characterized as nearly level to strongly sloping, well drained to somewhat excessively drained that have a loamy subsoil or that are sandy throughout. Minor soils in this unit are Lakeland, Wagram, Norfolk, and Rains soils (USDA, 1984). Along the north side of the South River within Sampson County, there is one general soil unit, Lynn Haven - Leon'- Cainhoy soils association, which occurs in the project area. This soil unit is on broad, flat areas and low sand ridges. Of the soil series in this association, Lynn Haven and Leon soils are listed as hydric. This soil unit is characterized as nearly level, and gently sloping, poorly drained to somewhat excessively drained that have a sandy surface layer and a sandy subsoil. Minor soils in this unit are Tomahawk, Pamlico, Bibb, Johnston, Autryville, Blanton, Wagram, Marvyn, Woodington, Foreston, Pantego, and Torhunta soils (USDA, 1985). Surface Water Resources The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and N.C. Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) regulate impacts to water resources. This section describes the water resources likely to be impacted by the proposed project. These resources were evaluated using numerous indices including: river characteristics, Best Usage Classifications, Benthic Macro-invertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) data, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) information, and wetlands. Drainage Basin(s) The South River is a sub-basin (Sub=basin Number 03-06-18) of the Cape Fear River Basin, the largest river basin in the state covering 9,149 square miles. The headwaters of the South River originate near Dunn, where it is called the Black River. The South River has a drainage basin area of about 500 square miles. As of July 23, 1997 the North Carolina Department of Environmental, and Natural Resources (NCDENR), Division of Water Quality (DWQ) identifies the South River within the project vicinity as 18-68-12(8.5) (DWQ web page, 1998). There are three water systems (Big Swamp, Castle Mill Creek, and Beaver Dam Creek) that conjoin with the South River within the project vicinity. Big Swamp lies within Sampson County and is approximately 1.0 mile upstream of the project area. Castle Mill Creek lies within Sampson County and is approximately 0.7 miles downstream of the project area. Beaver Dam Creek lies within Cumberland County and is approximately 1.0 mile downstream of the project area (NCDENR, 1996). Water Body Characteristics The South River, in the project region, is a meandering slow moving river. The river channel is located on the eastern side of a broad 300 to 400 foot wide floodplain in the project vicinity. A ridge along the stream bank separates the waterway from the terrestrial communities. The substrate of the South River is comprised primarily of sand and gravel but is heavily overlain with silt. Detritus remains in some of the small pool areas. River flows are moderate and the water is -slightly turbid. In the project area, the South River is about 100 feet wide and about 3 feet deep. Best Usage Classification In 1994, the NCDWQ designated the South River below the Big Swamp with a Best Usage Classification of C, SW, and ORW (DWQ web page, 1998). Classification C designates the waters within the project area as freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing and aquatic life including the propagation and survival of wildlife. Classification SW designates the waters within the project area as having low velocities and other natural characteristics which are different from adjacent streams. Classification ORW designates the waters within the project area as unique and special waters of exceptional state, or national recreation, or ecological significance which require special protection to maintain existing uses. The waters within the project area are subject to special management strategies specified in Outstanding Resource Water (ORW) rules. These management strategies consist of stormwater controls that shall be applied within 1 mile of the project area that drain to the designated water, and Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plans in accordance with rules established by the N.C. Sedimentation Control Commission. Water Quality The Benthic Macro-invertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) assesses surface waters by sampling for selected benthic macro-invertebrate organisms that are indicative of water quality. The species composition, diversity and population count are indicative of water quality. During the month of October, 1989, BMAN sampling sites were established approximately 2 miles upstream and 1 mile downstream of the project area. The results of the BMAN monitoring indicate that the South River had an "excellent" water quality rating by the DWQ (NCDENR, 1996). Within the Cape Fear River Basin an assessment of water quality data collected by DWQ reveals that the basin generally has "good" water quality. Also, NPDES report lists four facilities with permitted discharges totaling 0.10 millions gallons per day for the South River Sub-basin. A sewage disposal plant located greater than 15 miles upstream from the project area is the nearest permitted facility to the project area. 6 Wetlands A field delineation was performed in accordance with the criteria specified in the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (USACE Environmental Laboratory, 1987). For an area to be considered a "wetland," the following three criteria must be met; (1) presence of hydric soils (typically low soil chroma values), (2) presence of hydrophytic vegetation, and (3) evidence of wetland hydrology, including saturated soils, stained leaves, oxidized rhizospheres, matted vegetation, high water marks on trees, buttressed tree bases or surface roots. Indicators or direct observation of all three criteria must be present to provide proof that a wetland is present. Within the project area, the wetlands are associated with the floodplain of the South River and would be considered a Palustrir_e Forested Broad-leafed/Needle-leafed Deciduous Semi- permanently Flooded (PFO1/2F) wetland community as defined by the USFWS (Cowardin, 1979). The majority of the wetlands occur within the northern portion of the project area and would also be classified as a Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). A utility corridor crosses the wetland system on the west side of the existing bridge predominantly outside and to the west of the project area. The wetlands within the utility corridor are similar in nature to the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetlands located within the project area. The canopy of the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetland is dominated by various mixtures wetland hardwoods such as bald cypress, sweet gum, red maple, green ash, willow oak, and loblolly pine. Dominant sapling species include ironwood, red maple, and sweet gum. The shrub and herbaceous layers range from sparse to dense consisting of elliott blueberry, pepper bush, common greenbrier, poison ivy, yellow jasmine, and Virginia creeper. Hydric soils were confirmed within the floodplain which contained wetland areas. The following hydrologic indicators were observed on site during the growing season: inundation, surface saturation, oxidized root channels, watermarks, buttressed trees, sediment deposits and water stained leaves. Anticipated Surface Water Resource Impacts The South River will be crossed by the bridge replacement and will be impacted as a result of new construction. The structure has been designed as a single crossing of the river, perpendicular to the direction of flow to minimize impacts. Clearing and grubbing activities will result in temporary impacts to the water resources. Any in-stream supports will result in permanent loss of riverbed substrate habitat. Other likely impacts include increased sedimentation and siltation, and temporary decreases of dissolved oxygen during construction. Sedimentation during construction will be the most serious impact to South River. Minimizing the amount of clearing and grubbing activity and the duration of construction will decrease impacts from increased turbidity and sedimentation on the river. Most impacts will be temporary in nature during project construction and are likely to be limited to the project area. The establishment of new bridge supports can alter water flow and result in temporary erosion downstream from the bridge crossing. Minimizing in-stream construction activities can decrease impacts to water resources. Designing as few in-stream supports as possible can minimize permanent loss of riverbed habitat. Strict adherence to best management practices and enforcement of Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plans in accordance with rules established by the N.C. Sedimentation Control will minimize stormwater runoff and sediment loading into the waterway (NCDOT, 1997). 7 There will be one wetland community type associated with the floodplain of the South River that may be impacted by the proposed action. Estimated wetland impact acreage for both alternatives is based on assuming a 60 foot right-of-way. It is estimated that Alternative 1 would impact 0.8 acres of wetlands to the east of the existing bridge. Alternative 2 will impact approximately 0.7 acres of wetlands to the west of the existing bridge and within a utility corridor along the west side of NC 242. Wetland values and functions such as flood flow retention, water storage, pollutant removal, sediment retention, wildlife habitat, and aquatic life will be lost as a result of either of the proposed alternatives. BIOTIC RESOURCES This section describes the habitat communities observed in the project area, and the relationships between biotic communities. In the case of natural terrestrial systems, plant communities are discussed as described in the Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina - Third Approximation (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). Disturbed communities are described consistent with field observations. All plant species identified during the field investigation are listed in the text. Terrestrial Communities Three community types exist in the project area: two natural communities and one maintained community. The two natural terrestrial community types are floodplain (Coastal Plain Levee, Blackwater subtype), Basic Mesic Forest (Coastal Plain Subtype), were identified within the project area. The other terrestrial community in the project area are maintained communities consisting of residential lawns, roadside shoulders, embankments, and utility corridors. Community composition is reflective of the current and past land uses of the area. Coastal Plain Levee (Blackwater Subtype) This terrestrial community occurs throughout the northern portion of the project area, along the floodplain of the South River and along a narrow band on the southern side of the project area. The majority of this terrestrial community is comprised of wetland vegetation. The forest floor is heavily covered with leaves and fallen branches, providing habitat for various reptiles, amphibians and small mammals such as the slimy salamander, marbled salamander, ground skink, and eastern hognose snake, which live under the litter layer, feeding on various species of beetles, ants, and other insects, as well as herbaceous plant material. These species, although often found in other habitats, are adapted to survival in a periodically flooded environment. Other species known to inhabit this type of terrestrial community include marsh rabbit, and white-tailed deer. Basic Mesic Forest (Coastal Plain Subtype) This terrestrial community occurs throughout the majority of the southern portion of the project area. The canopy is dominated by various mixtures of mesophytic trees, which include sweet gum, American beech, tulip poplar, bitter-nut hickory, white oak and American elm. Dominant sapling species include ironwood, flowering dogwood, hop-hornbeam, and American holly. The shrub layer consists of horse-sugar, northern spicebush, tall paw-paw, and American witch-hazel. The herbaceous and vine layer is sparse with the dominant species consisting of common greenbrier, Japanese honeysuckle, and blackberry. Some animal species associated with this type of community are the golden mouse, which builds its nests in vines or shrubs several feet off the ground and the eastern box turtle, a common species feeding on plant material. There is a substantial amount of downed timber on the ground, which eastern fence lizard commonly use for refuge. Avian species observed here include rufous-sided towhee, the ruby-crowned kinglet, and blue jay. Some predators likely to occur here include eastern-screech-owl, black rat snake, grey fox and copperhead. Diet of these species consists of insects, frogs, small snakes and mammals. Often predators at the top of the food chain are "keystone" species of the ecosystem. Maintained Communities Maintained communities are land parcels in which the vegetation is kept in a low- growing, non-successional state. These communities, include roadside shoulders, embankments, utility corridors, and residential lawns. This community has had some degree of past or continued human disturbance. As a result of man-influenced disturbances, this community type differs from the natural community description three dimensional structure and plant diversity. The roadside shoulder and embankment habitats are dominated by Fescue, along with various other weedy species associated with disturbed areas. Weedy species also associated with roadside shoulder and embankment habitats include Japanese honeysuckle, morning glory and blackberry. An electrical utility corridor parallels the roadway shoulder and embankment on the west side. Within the project area, the utility corridor is frequently flooded on the north side, with approximately 0.65 acres considered to be wetlands that are similar in nature to the Coastal Plain Levee -Blackwater Subtype wetlands. Based on the 60 foot right-of-way alignment for Alternative 2, approximately 2,980 square feet of the wetlands located within the utility corridor will be impacted. The utility corridor contains a sparse herb layer and contains shrub species of red maple, and green ash. A residential lawn habitat is located on the south western comer of the project area. A mixture of rye and fescue are the primary grasses of the residential lawn habitat, along with various ornamental shrubs and trees which include water oak and crapemrytle and eastern red cedar. Resident fauna within the maintained community is limited by continual habitat disturbances and consists mainly of small animals. Species such as eastern harvest mouse and white-footed mouse likely inhabit this terrestrial community, in addition to insects, earthworms and other invertebrates. Roadsides are utilized primarily as a travel corridor between other habitats, or as a foraging zone for species of adjacent woodlands. Foraging opportunities offered by roadside habitats include seeds, fiuits and insects, as well as other small animals (rodents, etc.). The animals utilizing this habitat are susceptible to roadkill. Dead animals noted during field investigations include Virginia opossum and yellow rat snake. 9 Anticipated Terrestrial Community Impacts Construction of the proposed project will have various impacts on the terrestrial communities. This section quantifies and qualifies these probable impacts, in terms of area impacted (cleared/modified), and ecological consequences to the terrestrial communities during the construction and operation of the proposed roadway. Portions of the three community types (Coastal Plain Levee Forest, Basic Mesic Forest, and maintained) in the project area will be cleared or altered as a result of the project construction. Estimations of acreage impacted for each community type are given in Table 1. These are based on 60 foot right-of-way. Impacts to maintained communities include: roadside shoulders, embankments, utility corridors, and residential lawns. TABLE 1. Anticipated Terrestrial Community Impacts. Alternative Maintained Coastal Plain Basic Mesic Forest Levee Total 1 0.10 ac 0.80 ac 0.40 ac 1.30 ac 2 0.74 ac 0.53 ac 0.10 ac 1.37 ac Alternative 1 is aligned to the east of the existing bridge, through relatively undisturbed terrestrial communities. Alternative 2 is aligned to the west of the existing bridge, the majority of which has been affected by man induced disturbances. The majority of the terrestrial community impacts of Alternative 1 are associated with two biotic habitats (Coastal Plain Levee and Basic Mesic Forest). By contrast, the majority of the terrestrial community impacts of Alternative 2 are associated with maintained communities. Impacts from both alternatives will result in losses to faunal populations and changes in community dynamics. Such disturbances will also result in creating more ecotone habitat. Species which thrive on community edges will increase, while species which require larger, undisturbed tracts will decrease or disappear as a result of competitive interactions, habitat reduction and other factors. Aquatic Communities The South River is the only aquatic community type in the project area. Species composition, diversity, and population of this aquatic community is indicative of physical characteristics of the water body and the condition of the water resource. Designated BMAN monitoring sites near the project area indicate that the South River has an "excellent" water quality rating by the DWQ. Water quality of aquatic communities is also indirectly influenced by the adjacent terrestrial communities. Aquatic communities in urbanized settings have comparatively lower biotic diversity and corresponding lower water quality than rivers in rural settings. No systematic sampling of the aquatic community (plants nor animals) was performed for this study. Fish sampling was conducted by the DWQ in 1984 and 1987 from an ambient station on the South River at NC 242 in the project vicinity. Fish tissue samples from two largemouth 10 bass contained mercury levels slightly exceeding the EPA recommended screening value of 0.6 ppm (NCDENR, 1996). Aquatic invertebrates are a major component of river ecosystems, as primary and secondary consumers, and as prey items for organisms higher in the food chain. Invertebrates, such as dobson flies, dragon flies, mosquitoes and black flies and craneflies are likely to be the dominant aquatic insect species. Crayfish, snails, and surface beetles (whirligig beetles and water striders) were observed in the river. The aquatic community serves as a major food source for many terrestrial organisms such as raccoons, various species of snakes, birds, turtles, and amphibians. It also serves as a means of predator avoidance for many animals. A large amount of the aquatic community's food chain energy is derived from allochthonous (produced outside of stream ecosystems) sources, in the form of terrestrial detritus. Rocks, fallen debris (logs, sticks, etc.) and low velocity areas in the stream trap or retain detritus within the stream. The detritus is then decomposed by heterotrophic micro-organisms, such as bacteria, and consumed by macro-invertebrates, such as aquatic insects and snails. Decomposers and primary consumers are, in turn, consumed by larger organisms. The amount of allochthonous energy input within this aquatic community varies seasonally. Autochthonous (produced within the aquatic ecosystem) energy sources include planktonic and benthic micro- and macro-algae, as well as aquatic vascular vegetation. Algae growth was not evident in the South River, indicative of high dissolved oxygen content and stable nutrient conditions. Relatively high flows rates associated with this river, limited riverside agricultural fields and vegetated buffers between agricultural areas and the river help prevent eutrophication. Anticipated Aquatic Community Impacts Both alternatives will involve the crossing of the South River, the only aquatic community in the project area. Impacts to the aquatic community will vary depending on the location of excavation and filling operations, and the adjacent land use of the terrestrial communities. These impacts will be a result of direct and indirect impacts. Direct impacts to the aquatic community will be attributable to excavation, filling, and siltation. These impacts will result in temporarily decreasing species composition, diversity, and populations, thereby corresponding to lower water quality. Benthic non-mobile organisms, such as filter and deposit feeders, are particularly affected to excavation and filling operations. Sedimentation can alter the composition of benthic communities either temporarily or permanently in the proximity of the project. Siltation during bridge construction may adversely affect mobile aquatic organisms, and macro and micro algae. The temporary increase in suspended particulates in the water column could clog feeding apparti of suspension feeders, reduce the photosynthetic ability of algae, clog gills of fish and crustaceans, bury larvae of amphibians and insects, and diminish reproductive abilities in these organisms. 11 Indirect (secondary) impacts affecting water quality in the project area are a result of changes in adjacent land uses of the terrestrial communities as a consequence of the bridge replacement. Adjacent land uses are rural, and are expected to continue to be rural in nature at the completion of this bridge replacement project. Therefore, the slight modifications to the terrestrial communities caused by this project will result in minimal indirect impacts to the aquatic community. Based on this information, permanent degradation of the aquatic community is not expected to occur due to direct or indirect impacts. Direct habitat disturbances (i.e. excavation and filling operations, and siltation) are detrimental to aquatic ecosystems The majority of the aquatic community impacts associated with construction of this bridge replacement project will be due to siltation. These impacts will be predominantly temporary in nature. Best Management Practices (BMPs) -must be strictly adhered to in order to minimize siltation, thereby ensuring the biological integrity of the aquatic community, especially in light of the "excellent" water quality of the South River. In addition to BMPs, "Design Standards In Sensitive Watersheds" (Eff. May 1, 1990) and "Stream Crossing Guidelines For Anadromous Fish Passage" will be implemented and adhered to during the life of the project. JURISDICTIONAL TOPICS Waters of the United States "Waters of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3, in accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344) include wetland areas and surface waters. A wetland community associated with the floodplain of the South River has been delineated (boundaries flagged in the field). Although a survey of the wetland boundaries has not been performed, it is estimated based on a 60 foot right-of-way that Alternative 1 will impact 0.8 acres of wetlands to the east of the existing bridge. To the west and adjacent to the utility corridor, Alternative 2 will impact approximately 0.7 acres wetlands. Surface waters within the project area consist of the South River. The bridge for both Alternatives 1 and 2 would cross the river perpendicularly. Alternative 1 will span 100 ft, and affect 6,000 square feet of the river based upon a 60 foot right-of-way. Alternative 2 will span 150 feet and affect 9,000 square feet of the river based upon a 60 foot right-of-way. Permits Impacts to surface waters and wetlands are anticipated from project construction. In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA), a permit will be required from the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for the discharge of dredge or fill material into "Waters of the United States." A Section 404 Nationwide Permit (NWP) 23 will likely be appropriate for this project. Nationwide 23 Permit A Section 404 NWP 23 (33 CFR 330 Appendix A, Section B.26) may be applicable for all impacts to "Waters of the United States" associated with the project area. This permit 12 authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed in whole, or part, by another Federal agency or department where: (1) that agency or department has determined that pursuant to the Council of Environmental Quality regulation for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act; (2) that the activity, work, or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and; (3) that the office of the Chief of Engineers has been furnished notice of the agency's or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concurs with that determination. This project will require a Section 401 CWA Water Quality Certificate from the DWQ prior to the issuance of the NWT. 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 to "Waters of the United States." The issuance of a 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 permit. NWP 23 also requires that the Corps issue a Public Notice prior to issuing its permit and that the District Engineer can add project specific conditions to the authorization. Mitigation The USACE has adopted, through the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wetland 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: avoiding impacts, minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing impacts over time and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these aspects (avoidance, minimization, and compensatory mitigation) must be considered sequentially. 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 USACE, 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. Minimization Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to "Waters of the United States." Implementation on these steps will be required through project modification and permit conditions. 13 Practicable means to minimize impacts to surface waters and wetlands impacted by the proposed project include: • Decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of right-of-way widths, fill slopes and/or road shoulder widths. • Installation of temporary silt fences, earth berms, and temporary ground cover during construction. • Strict enforcement of sedimentation and erosion control BMPs for the protection of surface waters and wetlands. • Reduction of clearing and grubbing activity in and adjacent to water bodies and wetlands. Minimization of "in-stream" activities. 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 been required. 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 project area. Fill or alteration of more than ISO linear feet of streams may require compensatory mitigation in accordance with 15NCAC2H.0506(h). Written DWQ approval is required for this mitigation plan which may utilize the state's Wetland Restoration Program. A final determination regarding mitigation to "Waters of the United States" rests with the USACE and DWQ. Regional Conditions of NWP 23 and the 401 Water Quality Certification waiver require compensatory mitigation for impacts greater than 1 acre. Final construction plans should be compared to a surveyed wetland delineation to determine if this threshold has been exceeded. Federal Protected Species 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. An endangered species is considered to be a species that is in danger of becoming extinct throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A threatened species is considered to be a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Table 2 lists the eight federally protected species for Cumberland and Sampson Counties as of January 15, 1999 (NCDENR-DPR, 1998). Descriptions and biological conclusions for each species are given below. 14 0 1 ()q5 s ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2004 South River Bridge Mitigation Site Cumberland and Sampson Counties TIP No. B-3152 Prepared By: Natural Systems Unit & Roadside Environmental Unit North Carolina Department of Transportation December 2004 TABLE OF CONTENTS SUMMARY ...........................................................................................................1 1.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................2 1.1. Project Description .........................................................................2 1.2. Purpose .........................................................................................2 1.3. Project History ................................................................................2 2.0 Vegetation: ................................................................................................ 4 2.1. Success Criteria .............................................................................4 2.2. Description of Species .....................................................................4 2.3. Results of Vegetation Monitoring ....................................................4 2.4. Conclusions ....................................................................................4 3.0 Overall Conclusions and Recommendations .............................................4 FIGURES Figure 1 - Site Location Map ...............................................................................3 APPENDICES Appendix A - Site Photos .....................................................................................5 SUMMARY The South River Bridge Mitigation Site is located on the Cumberland/Sampson County line. The site was planted in December 2003 and was designed as mitigation for wetland impacts associated with bridge project B-3152. The mitigation encompasses approximately 0.25 acres total of wetland restoration. The restoration effort involved the removal of the temporary detour and monitoring the area to ensure that it re-attains wetland jurisdictional status. No hydrologic monitoring is required for this project; however, vegetation monitoring is required for three years. After the first year of monitoring, the South River Bridge site shows by visual observation that the planted species are surviving and that the impacted area is re-attaining jurisdictional status. NCDOT recommends continuing vegetation monitoring of this site. 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Project Description The South River Bridge Mitigation Site is located at Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 on the Cumberland/Sampson County line (Figure 1). The site consists of approximately 0.25 acres of mitigation for wetland impacts associated with project B-3152. 1.2 Purpose In order for a mitigation site to be considered successful, a site must meet vegetation success criteria. This report details the vegetation monitoring in 2004 at the South River Bridge Mitigation Site. Hydrologic monitoring was not required for the site. 1.3 Project History December 2003 Site planted August 2004 Vegetation Monitoring (1 year) 2 1 W z Q ? u Z w W o _ M Q Z` ? 1?3 ice/ p LL J W m U M 2.0 VEGETATION: SOUTH RIVER BRIDGE MITIGATION SITE (YEAR 1 MONITORING) 2.1 Success Criteria Success Criteria states that the impacted area where the onsite detour was removed shall be replanted using native species and must re-attain jurisdictional status at the end of three years. 2.2 Description of Species The following wetland species were planted in the Wetland Restoration Area: Taxodium distichum, Baldcypress Fraxinus pennsylvanica, Green Ash Quercus phellos, Willow Oak Quercus lyrata, Overcup Oak Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora, Swamp Blackgum 2.3 Results of Vegetation Monitoring The impacted area where the onsite temporary detour was removed and revegetated is re-attaining jurisdictional status and the planted species are surviving. Site Notes: Other species noted include: fennel, goldenrod, smartweed, ragweed, and various grasses. 2.4 Conclusions There were approximately 0.25 acres of wetland restoration planted on site. There were no plots established on the site. By visual observation the South River Bridge site shows that the planted species are surviving and that the impacted area is re-attaining jurisdictional status. 3.0 Overall Conclusions and Recommendations NCDOT will continue vegetation monitoring at the South River Bridge Site. 4 APPENDIX A SITE PHOTOS South River Bridge 2004 Photo Photo F : Photo 2 TABLE 2. Federally Protected Species for Cumberland and Sampson Counties. Scientific Name Common Name Federal Status County Alligator mississippiensis American alligator T (S/A) Cumber/Samp. Picoides borealis red-cockaded woodpecker E Cumber/Samp. Neonympha mitchellii francisci Saint Francis' satyr E Cumber. Isotria medeoloides small-whorled pogonia T* Cumber. Lindera melissifolia Pondberry E Cumber/Samp. Lysimachia asperulaefolia rough-leaved loosestrife E Cumber. Rhus michauzii Michaux's sumac E Cumber. Schwalbea americana American chaffseed E Cumber. * Historic record - last observed in the county more than 50 years ago. E - denotes Federally Endangered. T - denotes Federally Threatened. T(S/A) - denotes Federally Threatened; threatened only due to its similarity in appearance with other rare species. American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) . The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is a large aquatic reptile that measures 6 to 12 feet. This reptilian species constructs nests near water in late spring and summer. The nests are made from vegetation, debris and soil, and the eggs are sometimes guarded by the female. The young are marked with yellow bands. The American alligator is found in fresh to slightly brackish lakes, river, ponds and marshes. It inhabits slow moving coastal rivers, canals, lakes, marshes and estuaries. This reptilian species is located in the southern parts of the North Carolina, although, they have been known to inhabit cypress ponds in flatwoods and sandhills. This species is known to occur within Camp Lejuene. This reptilian species is listed as Threatened due to similarity of appearance to other protected crocodilians. Alligators are no longer biologically threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act, but commercial hunting and trade are regulated. Consequently no biological opinion is necessary. Red-Cockaded Woodpecker - RCW (Picoides borealis) The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW, Picoides borealis) has a plumage that is entirely black and white except for a small red spot behind the eye 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 (Pinus palustris), 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 greater than 60 years old and are 15 contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 500 acres. This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat in the form of mature open pine stands occur within the project area for the RCW. A review of the NCDENR-DPR database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the RCW near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the RCW. Saint Francis' Satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci) The Saint Francis' satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci) is a small, dark brown butterfly with conspicuous eyespots on the lower wing. The eyespots are round to oval shaped with a dark maroon brown center and a straw yellow border. These spots are accentuated with two bright orange bands along the posterior wings and by two darker brown bands along the central portion of each wing. The Saint Francis' satyr is known to inhabit wide, wet meadows dominated by sedges (Carex spp.) and other wetland graminoids. These wetlands are often relicts of beaver activity and are boggy areas that are acidic and ephemeral. Succession of these sites often leads to either a pocosin or swamp dominated forest. The larval host of the Saint Francis' satyr is thought to be grasses, sedges and rushes. Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat in the form of open wet meadows dominated with sedges is present in the project area for the Saint Francis' satyr. In addition, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the satyr near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the Saint Francis' satyr. Small-Whorled Pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) The small-whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) is a perennial orchid having long hairy roots and a hollow stem. Stems terminate in a whorl of five or six light green, elliptical leaves that are somewhat pointed. One or two light green flowers are produced at the end of the stem. Flowers of the small-whorled pogonia have short sepals. The small-whorled pogonia grows in "second growth deciduous" or deciduous-coniferous forest, with an open canopy, open shrub layer, and sparse herb layer. It prefers acidic soils. Flowering is inhibited in areas where there is relatively high shrub coverage or high sapling density. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although suitable habitat in the form of "second growth deciduous" or deciduous- coniferous forest is present in addition to a utility easement that creates a persistent break in the 16 forest canopy, the frequency of flooding by the South River results in unsuitable habitat in the project area. No small-whorled pogonia was observed during the May 4 and 5, 1998 field survey. In addition, the last known occurrences of this species in the county was observed more than 50 years ago. Also, a review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the small-whorled pogonia near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the small-whorled pogonia. Pondberry (Lindera melissifolia) The pondberry (Lindera melissifolia) is a deciduous, aromatic shrub that has a distinct sassafras-like odor. Leaves in the pondberry are arranged alternately, have reduced bases, and droop downward. It has small pale yellow flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves. The fruit which matures in August or September is a bright red drupe. The pondberry grows in lowland habitats with hydric soils. These sites are generally flooded at some time during the growing season. It is associated with the margins of sinks, ponds, and other like depressions. The soils present are sandy with a high peat content in the subsurface. Areas inhabited by this species show signs of past fire maintenance and now shrubby conditions. The plants generally grow in shady areas but may also be found in areas that receive full sunlight. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although suitable habitat in the form of seasonally flooded and swampy depressions is present in the project area, pondberry was not observed during a field survey conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25,1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the pondberry near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the pondberry. Rough-Leaved Loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulaefolia) The rough-leaved loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulaefolia) is a perennial herb having slender stems and whorled leaves. The herb has showy yellow flowers which usually occur in threes or fours. Fruits are present from July through October. The rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet, peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands and on shallow organic soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of unknown origins). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. The rough-leaved loosestrife rarely occurs in association with hardwoods stands and prefers acidic soils. 17 Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the rough-leaved loosestrife in the form of ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins is not present at the project area. No rough-leaved loosestrife was observed during the May 4 and 5, 1998 field survey. Additionally, a review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the rough- leaved loosestrife near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the rough- leaved loosestrife. Michaux's Sumac (Rhus michauxii) The Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii) is a densely pubescent rhizomatous shrub that grows 0.7 to 3.3 feet in height. The narrowly winged or wingless rachis supports nine to thirteen sessile, oblong to oblong-lanceolate leaflets that are 1.6 to 3.6 inches long, 0.8 to 2 inches wide, acute and acuminate. The bases of the leaves are rounded and their edges are simple or doubly serrate. It bears small flowers in a terminal, erect, dense cluster. The flowers are greenish to white in color. Fruits, which develop from August to September on female plants, are a red densely short-pubescent drupe, 0.2 to 0.24 inches across. This plant occurs in rocky or sandy open woods. It is dependent on some sort of disturbance to maintain the openness of it habitat. It usually grows in association with basic soils and occurs on sand or sandy loams. It grows only in open habitat where it can get full sunlight and it does not compete well with other species such as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) that it is often associated with. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Although a limited amount of suitable habitat for the Michaux's sumac occurs within the project area in the form of roadside, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the Michaux's sumac near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the Michaux's sumac. American Chaffseed (Schwalbea americana) The American chaffseed (Schwalbea americana) is an erect herb whose stems branch only at the base (if at all). The entire plant is pubescent, with upwardly curving hairs. The narrow leaves are alternate, lance-shaped to elliptic and stalkless. The leaves are three veined and become progressively smaller towards the top. It bears solitary flowers in the axils of the upper most leaves. The purplish-yellow flowers are arranged into racemes. The fruits are a long narrow capsule, enclosed in a loose-fitting sack-like structure. The American chaffseed occurs in open, moist pine flatwoods, fire maintained savannas, ecotonal areas between peat wetlands and open grass-sedge systems. Soils are generally sandy, acidic, and seasonally moist to dry. Fire is important in the maintenance of open habitat for the American chaffseed. 18 Biological Conclusion: No Effect No suitable habitat for the American chaffseed in the form of fire maintained moist flat woods occurs in the project area. Wetland areas of the utility corridor are inundated for too long a duration to provide suitable habitat for the American chaffseed. In addition, this species was not observed during field surveys conducted on May 4 and 5, 1998. A review of the NCNHP database on March 25, 1998 did not indicate any known occurrences of the American chaffseed near the project area. Therefore, project construction will not affect the American chaffseed. D. Air Quality and Traffic Noise This project is an air quality "neutral" project, so it is not required to be included in the regional emissions analysis (if applicable) and a project level CO analysis is not required. If the project disposes of vegetation by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. The project will not significantly increase traffic volumes. Therefore, it will have no significant impact on noise levels. Temporary noise increases may occur during construction. E. Farmland The Farmland Protection Policy Act of 1981 requires all federal agencies or their representatives, to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime and important farmland soils. These soils are determined by the US Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) based on criteria such as potential crop yield and possible level of input of economic resources. The project will result in the conversion of a small amount of land but the area to be converted is void of agricultural uses. Therefore, no further consideration of impacts to farmland is required. IX. CONCLUSIONS Based on the above discussion, NCDOT and FHWA conclude that the project will cause no significant environmental impacts. Therefore, the project may be processed as a Categorical Exclusion. WTG/ 19 2033 2041 10 2034 •6 Beoverdam Ch. 2040 / 7 Ind +•? e•r. God?n ste i-..• / ?i i S alt O_ Wade J M t' E R A i ?0 .2 1 S 1 N ? .? \N?? 2? w J r ? N N V te a'\?W N 203'5 ; s \? v 6 l ? 1 N w 0) eaverdom Sch. •? 2036 N. ,.. ^I . •ON ? I 4 87 ?--? cy+ 6i 3 7 Piney Green a (Keener l ayetterlli .e us , a 3 s a M S P I's 03,t ,?? '? r •?`, 5 I? = Z antl 59 c an der 3 Salemburs ?9r e I * ! .1 3 7 'oe Mill. 7 r osebor., 1 e 3 ' Cedar Creek IA ?? 2 c U is Lena e It 701 8 1 11 \ 3 10 ' - urs V .Ins C Gar s d r / J 71 t, 2038 9 • Il I r I J? 7 r FiN ??\ North Carolina Department of Its Transportation Division of Highways ,g? Planning & Environmental Branch oFtnr.N+? Cumberland/Sampson Counties Replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 242 Over South River B-3152 Figure One Looking north from Bridge No. 46 Looking south from Bridge No. 46 -pF NORTy Cq? North Carolina De?artment of 'transportation m Division of Highwavs "lisp v 9? ? )?lanniraa & Environmental Branch yF Op ' b Cumberland and Sampson Counties Replace Bridge No. 46 on NC 2112 Over South River B-3152 Figure Three North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director February 19, 1997 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: Bridge 46 on NC 242 over South River, Cumberland and Sampson Counties, B-3152, Federal Aid Project MABRSTP-242(1), State Project 8.1442701, ER 97-8360 Dear Mr. Graf: On February 18, 1997, 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.. 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. 109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 1?3?V 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, David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DBalw / cc: H. F. Vick B. Church T. Padgett