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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20020345 Ver 1_Complete File_20020307B-3400 BRIDGE PROJECT SCOPING SHEET State Project No. 8.2472401 Right of Way 1-01 Federal Project No. BRZ-1561(3) Construction Let 1-02 Purpose of Project: REPLACE OBSOLETE BRIDGE Description of Project: Replace Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 over Haw River in Alamance County, B-3400. Bridge No. 18 LENGTH 43 METERS; WIDTH 7.3 METERS 141 FEET 24 FEET TIP CONSTRUCTION COST ...................................... $ 500,000 TIP RIGHT OF WAY COST ...................................... + $ 50,000 TIP TOTAL COST .................................... $ 550,000 CLASSIFICATION: Rural Local Route N N 87 ( o n . r---:--- ---- - i ?• __1587 - - - - - -.- i 1 ' 1580, ; 1584 86 `•y ?' I 1614 ? p 1586 S i - 1578 58 A .4 1611 AV?v ; LAKE i 5 BURLINGTON 1577 ._ RES •i 0 0• 1 . ,? 1579 _ 1584N 158 3 ^ ' 1609 g 6 1 2 - ilo S • - ,` C 1581 _ Stony "' Creek '•? N 1 1581 i 1 8 1581 Ch. i 1610 2 15 .6 - > , 1581 • 1571 '•. : _. _ ` ` 1587 f? willom Ch X 1 , 576 1582 1.8' 1 15 6 i .5 1583 1 i 1 3 87 N 1 `` 157 2 157 1 9'' 1 y ?? .• • ? 2 N ` i 1560 ` G Alta ow •` i 8 ? 15 3 3 1693 ?. --A5E34 O 1611 -160c 6 1581 1583 8 9 1584 er?ljj i _ ,._ ._. ,.. Bridge No.18 ~ - ....... 1587 /1002 ?. .3 1667 p 3 1. 100 - i • 4 t, 4 X1587 - 1 -. 581 , 1684 .2 16 1683 2 05 , d- i 685 6 1,663- ? •A `i 159 .2 ; .3 % 1594 .7 , 1603 M 1602 l lA?tre .. '? •\ 1593 ` ` `,` 1604 • 2 \" `•i ?•., 1595 1598 1 S 7• / ' 31 16C )C - 0 C NS''?-/ 19- a J S±p> it \??' S'\ t e ,\ 14 A N ?V ?Saow Lamy _ 00 a, , `` , North Carolina Department of Transportation r_r± Division of Highways A !!? Planning & Environmental Branch Ago Alamance County Replace Bridge No, 18 on SR 1561 Over Haw River B-3400 FIGURE 1 ,f? ) \\\ V \1l Q Y .. ?? ? lYJ'll .. c.. • 7"00 / / / o •J• r ?t,' ??\ • +? 2 ?1y 4008 -: 12'30" 4001 °. • u /? \, ?,\? " x<s J? ;. J? \?C •??? / v / 4006 em' //111/ U ?- t ? _. _?. •` • j1\ f \ 't '/l ? _ ?.. ire %, ?\• J?? ?\ ?? Ili G -^1 ;' r Yi. wl, II. ?.I y' \ IIr O ?_\ \ 1 ( 4004 u TO' DO4 ?' 003 v J` ;? ( k i goo a luJ`? IV' /? ; 0 II 650 J 705 ; z: 1 _ _ 4002 737 v a0 I o 0 0 0 0 ? O ? O l ? I i I a 13_ 3? c c? d D O 0 O ? p o O o o O ? a ? d d o 0 rl? 0 a Cl ° 0 0 0 0 Q O Q o 0 o O ° ? ? O 000 G o o a o O o a a 0 o G7b ? 0 p w O Q ? O o o0 a 'i } o i 0 c D 0 0 0 d e ? o a O O V a O d Q p I .. -{ J JAN STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA WETLANDS GRo(ip DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIO WATER UALIIY S f JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NO. TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 22, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: File FROM: John L. Williams Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: SR 1561, Alamance County, Replacement of Bridge No. 18 over Haw River, State Project 8.247240 1, F. A. Project BRZ-1561(3), B-3400 A scoping meeting for the subject bridge was held in the Transportation Building on December 14, 1998. The following people were in attendance: Sid Autry Location & Surveys Greg Mintz Traffic Control Betsy Cox Structure Design Jay Bennett Roadway Design Debbie Bevin SHPO David Chang Hydraulics Tony Houser Roadway Design John Williams Planning & Environmental Ray McIntyre Program Development GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION Right of Way: January 2001 Construction: January 2002 Current Schedule Bridge No. 18 [Built in 1971] [141 feet long] [24.2 foot wide deck] [23.3 feet clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 20 feet] [Posted 27 tons for SV and 31 tons for TTST's] [Sufficiency Rating 34.1] [Estimated useful remaining life 6 years] Traffic Information SR 1561 is a Rural Local Route with no posted speed limit in the vicinity. Land use is a mix of agricultural, industrial, and residential. Current ADT is 1300 VPD Projected 2025 ADT is 2500 VPD 3% Trucks (2% Duals, 1% TTST) r Accident Information: (1-1-95 through 12-31-97) Accident 1) Ran off road on east approach in curve Accident 2) Ran off road on west approach in curve Bus Information: Four trips a day. No burden to detour Cross Section of New Bridge According to Bridge Policy: If Ds <45 mph; Deck width = 28 feet If Ds >=45 mph; Deck width = 30 feet SCOPING COMMENTS Cyndi Bell (who wrote in comments) stated that Haw River is class C waters. Sid Autry of Location Surveys noted the presence of a Bell South underground telephone line along the north side of SR 1561 beginning approximately 290 feet east of the bridge and running east. Duke Power has a three-wire electrical service along the south side of SR 15671 throughout this project. Debbie Bevin of SHPO stated that there are no known archaeological sites of interest. Therefore, SHPO will not require an archaeological survey. However, the mill on the southwest corner of the bridge will need to be evaluated for architectural significance. David Cox of the Wildlife Resource Commission (who wrote in comments) indicated no specific concerns. David Chang of Hydraulics recommended replacing the existing structure with a bridge 150 feet long on the existing location with approximately the same roadway elevation. Mike Cowan, Division Construction Engineer, recommended replacing the bridge on the existing location. Traffic will be detoured offsite during construction. ALTERNATE FOR EVALUATION Replace Bridge No. 18 on the existing location. Detour traffic offsite during construction. Jay Bennett of Roadway Design indicated that construction estimates and sketches will be available in February. M?TFp STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIs TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 22, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: File FROM: John L. Williams Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: SR 1614, Warren County, Replacement of Bridge No. 8 over Shocco Creek, State Project 8.2410601, F. A. Project BRZ- 1614(1), B-3532 A scoping meeting for the subject bridge was held in the Transportation Building on December 10, 1998. The following people were in attendance: Elton Crutchfield Location & Surveys G. Mintz Traffic Control Neb Bullock Structure Design Ray Moore Structure Design Debbie Bevin SHPO Greg Brew Roadway Design David Williams Roadway Design John Williams Planning & Environmental GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION Current Schedule and Charge Information Right of Way: June 2001 Construction: June 2002 Project No. 8.2410601 Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1614(1) Bridge No. 8 [Built in 1955] [111 feet long] [20.1 foot wide deck] [19.2 feet clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 17 feet] [Posted 9 tons for SV and 13 tons for TTST's] [Sufficiency Rating 38.8] [Estimated useful remaining life 5 years] Traffic Information SR 1614 is a Rural Local Route with no posted speed limit in the vicinity. Land use is primarily agricultural, with scattered residential and undeveloped. Current ADT is 300 VPD Projected 2025 ADT is 600 VPD 3% Trucks (2% Duals, 1% TTST) 9 Accident Information: (1-1-95 through 12-31-97) Accident 1) Exceeding a safe speed limit, lost control and ran into bridge rail Accident 2) Hit a deer Bus Information: Two trips a day. No burden to detour Cross Section of New Bridge According to Bridge Policy: If Ds <40 mph; Deck width = 24 feet If Ds >=40 mph; Deck width = 26 feet SCOPING COMMENTS Cyndi Bell (who wrote in comments) stated that Shocco Creek is classified as C- NSW (nutrient sensitive waters). She also noted that NWI mapping shows wetlands in the project area. Elton Crutchfield of Location Surveys noted the presence of a six inch waterline on the east side of the road running under the creek five feet from the bridge. Debbie Bevin of SHPO stated that there are no structures or known archaeological sites of interest. Therefore, SHPO will not require surveys. David Cox of the Wildlife Resource Commission wrote in comments stating no fishery concerns. However, there is a potential for federally listed mussels to occur in the project vicinity. David Chang of Hydraulics recommended that the Bridge No. 8 be replaced with a new bridge 130 feet long at approximately the same roadway elevation. Ricky Green, Division Construction Engineer, recommended replacing the bridge on the existing location and detouring traffic offsite during construction. ALTERNATE FOR EVALUATION Bridge No. 8 will be replaced on the existing location with a new bridge approximately 130 feet long with approximately the same elevation. Traffic will be detoured offsite during construction. Greg Brew of Roadway Design indicated that construction estimates will be available at the end of May 1999. gn.,vo? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TkANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. GovERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 January 25, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: File E. NORRIS TOLSON SECRETARY FROM: John L. Williams Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: SR 1921, Alamance County, Replacement of Bridge No. 60 over Quaker Creek, State Project 8.2472501, F. A. Project BRZ-1921(3), B-3401 A scoping meeting for the subject bridge was held in the Transportation Building on December 14, 1998. The following people were in attendance: Sid Autry Location & Surveys Veronica Wallace-McGriff Roadway Design Betsy Cox Structure Design Betsy Cox Structure Design Debbie Bevin SHPO David Chang Hydraulics Ray McIntyre Program Development John Williams Planning & Environmental Jay Bennett Roadway Design GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION Current Schedule Right of Way: February 2001 Construction: February 2002 Bridge No. 18No. 18 [Built in 1960] [151 feet long] [25.3 foot wide deck] [24 feet clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 19 feet] [Posted 17 tons for SV and 22 tons for TTST's] [Sufficiency Rating 41.1] [Estimated useful remaining life 5 years] Traffic Information SR 1561 is a Rural Local Route with a posted speed limit of 55 mph. Land use is a mix of agricultural and residential. Current ADT is 1800 VPD Projected 2025 ADT is 3800 VPD ?r Accident Information: (1-1-95 through 12-31-97) Accident 1) Vehicle lost control on curved approach from the west, ran into bridge abutment Bus Information: Fourteen trips a day. Major inconvenience to detour around. Cross Section of New Bridge According to Bridge Policy: If Ds <45 mph; Deck width = 28 feet If Ds >=45 mph; Deck width = 30 feet SCOPING COMMENTS Cyndi Bell (who wrote in comments) stated that Quaker Creek is classified as WSII-NSW waters. Sid Autry of Location Surveys noted the presence of a Bell South underground telephone line along the west side of SR 1921 with an aerial crossing over Quaker Creek. Time Warner Cable has underground cable lines west of the existing bridge on the west side. The cable becomes aerial over Quaker Creek and stays aerial east of the bridge. Debbie Bevin of SHPO stated that there are no structures or known archaeological sites of interest. Therefore, SHPO will not require surveys. David Cox of the Wildlife Resource Commission (who wrote in comments) has indicated that the project is at the upper headwaters of the Graham-Mebane water supply reservoir. This lake supports a diverse reservoir fishery with a quality large mouth bass population. NCWRC requests that no in-water work be performed from April 1 to June 15. David Chang of Hydraulics recommended replacing the existing bridge on the same location with a new 160-foot long bridge. If a temporary onsite detour were needed, it would require a structure approximately 150 feet long and 3 feet below the existing roadway grade. He indicated that the structure should located south (downstream) of the existing structure to avoid the need for a longer structure. Mike Cowan, Division Construction Engineer, recommended evaluating both a new alignment alternate and a replace in place road closure alternate. ALTERNATE FOR EVALUATION Alternate 1: Replace Bridge No. 60 on the existing location. Detour traffic along secondary roads during construction. Alternate 2: Replace Bridge No. 60 on new alignment to the east. Maintain traffic on the existing bridge during construction. Jay Bennett of Roadway Design has indicated that construction estimates and sketches will be available in early March. ti STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 26, 1999 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Bill Goodwin, P. E. Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No. 81 on SR 1216 over an Cypress Creek in Pender County, Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1216(11), State Project No. 8.2271301, TIP No. B-3361 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 10, 1998. The following persons were in attendance: Debbie Bevin SHPO Ray Moore Structure Design David Chang Hydraulics Ron Allen Roadway Design Craig Parker Roadway Design Bill Goodwin Planning and Environmental Utility conflicts will be very low for this project. There are underground telephone lines and overhead power lines along the side of SR 1216 west of the bridge that stop at a couple of houses located west of the bridge. There are no known utilities at the bridge site. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ indicated that Cypress Creek is classified as Class C - Sw. There are probably riverine wetlands at the project site. These wetlands are difficult to replace and impacts should be minimized to the maximum extent possible. Mr. David Cox of NC WRC indicated by memo, that NCDOT should routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into the stream. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. The NC WRC requests that there be no in-water construction activities from April 1 to September 30. The length of this moratorium can be reduced by the use of silt curtains. Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) indicated that there are no known sites of architectural or archaeological significance listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the project area. No unknown sites are likely to be found, therefore no surveys are recommended in connection with this project. Mr. David Chang of the Hydraulics Unit indicated that a new bridge will be required to replace the existing bridge. This bridge should be approximately 32 meters (105 feet) in length. The new bridge should have a 6.6 meter (22 foot) travelway and a 1.0 meter (3 foot) offset on each side for a total bridge width of 8.6 meters (28 feet). This new bridge should be placed at approximately the same roadway elevation as the existing bridge. If a temporary detour is required, it should have a 27 meter (90 foot) bridge and can be placed as much as 1 meter (3 feet) lower than the existing bridge. The Pender County School Bus Transportation Coordinator indicated that three school buses cross this bridge twice per day during the school year. Closing the bridge during construction would cause significant delays for these buses, but would not be an insurmountable obstacle to school bus operations. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing the bridge in-place, with traffic detoured along other roads in the area would be preferred. The Traffic Forecasting Unit has indicated that near Bridge No. 81, SR 1216 carries 1000 vehicles per day at present [1998]. This figure is expected to increase to 1800 vehicles per day by the year 2025. These traffic figures include 2% dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and I% truck-tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 8%. A desired design speed of 100 km/h (60 mph) should be achieved on this project. The roadway approaches will have two 3.3 meter (11 foot) travel lanes and a shoulder width of at least 1.8 meters (6 feet). The total shoulder width will be 1.0 meter (3 feet) wider where guardrail is warranted. This section of SR 1216 is classified as a Rural Local Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The speed limit in the area is 55 mph by statute. The Roadway Design Project Engineer has agreed to provide construction cost estimates and preliminary alignment and typical section information on the following alternatives to the Project Planning Engineer by July 31, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace Bridge No. 81 in place with a new bridge. Traffic will be maintained on existing area roads during construction. Alternate 2: Replace Bridge No. 81 in place with a new bridge. Traffic will be maintained on a temporary detour structure located just south of the existing bridge during construction. Alternate 3: Replace Bridge No. 81 on new alignment to the south with a new bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. BG/ u? SWFo aS1 d ,... r..? u GtW?+cd? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GovERNOR SECRETARY January 26, 1999 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Bill Goodwin, P. E. Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No. 11 on NC 241 over Limestone Creek in Duplin County, Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP- 241(1), State Project No. 8.124220 1, TIP No. B-3165 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 10, 1998. The following persons were in attendance: Debbie Bevin SHPO Ray Moore Structure Design David Chang Hydraulics Ron Allen Roadway Design Bob May Roadway Design Bill Goodwin Planning and Environmental Utility conflicts will be low for this project. There are underground telephone and cable TV lines along the east side of NC 241 that are aerial crossing the creek. There is also a power line easement that crosses NC 241 approximately 860 feet south of the bridge. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ indicated that Limestone Creek is classified as Class C - Sw. There are probably riverine wetlands at the project site. These wetlands are difficult to replace and impacts should be minimized to the maximum extent possible. Mr. David Cox of NC WRC indicated by memo, that NCDOT should routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into the stream. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. The NC WRC requests that there be no in-water construction activities from April 1 to September 30. The length of this moratorium can be reduced by the use of silt curtains. • a Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) indicated that there are no known sites of architectural or archaeological significance listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the project area. No unknown sites are likely to be found, therefore no surveys are recommended in connection with this project. Mr. David Chang of the Hydraulics Unit indicated that a new bridge will be required to replace the existing bridge. This bridge should be approximately 48.8 meters (160 feet) in length. The new bridge should have a 7.2 meter (24 foot) travelway and a 1.0 meter (3 foot) offset on each side for a total bridge width of 9.2 meters (30 feet). This new bridge should be placed at approximately the same roadway elevation as the existing bridge. If a temporary detour is required, it should have a 30 meter (100 foot) bridge and should be placed at the same elevation as the existing bridge. The Duplin County School Bus Transportation Coordinator indicated that five school buses cross this bridge twice per day during the school year. Closing the bridge during construction would cause delays for these buses, but would not be an obstacle to school bus operations. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing the bridge in-place, with traffic maintained on-site would be preferred. The Traffic Forecasting Unit has indicated that near Bridge No. 11, NC 241 carries 3900 vehicles per day at present [1998]. This figure is expected to increase to 6900 vehicles per day by the year 2025. These traffic figures include 10% dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and 5% truck- tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 10%. A desired design speed of 100 km/h (60 mph) should be achieved on this project. The roadway approaches will have two 3.6 meter (12 foot) travel lanes and a shoulder width of at least 2.4 meters (8 feet). 0.6 meters (2 feet) of this shoulder width will be paved, resulting in a total pavement width of 8.4 meters (28 feet). The total shoulder width will be 1.0 meter (3 feet) wider where guardrail is warranted. This section of NC 241 is classified as a Rural Major Collector Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The posted speed limit in the area is 55 mph. The Roadway Design Project Engineer has agreed to provide construction cost estimates and preliminary alignment and typical section information on the following alternatives to the Project Planning Engineer by August 31, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace Bridge No. 11 in place with a new bridge. Traffic will be maintained on a temporary detour structure located just west of the existing bridge during construction. BG/ ?• Mina.' STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 26, 1999 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Bill Goodwin, P. E. Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No. 145 on SR 1333 over an unnamed creek in Halifax County, Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1333(4), State Project No. 8.230100 1, TIP No. B-3182 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 8, 1998. The following persons were in attendance: Cyndi Bell DWQ Ray Moore Structure Design Ray McIntyre Program Development David Chang Hydraulics Chris Howard Traffic Control Betty Yancey Right of Way James Speer Roadway Design Sandra Casey Roadway Design Wayne Elliott Planning and Environmental Bill Goodwin Planning and Environmental Utility conflicts will be low for this project. There are underground telephone lines along the west side of SR 1333 that are aerial over the creek. There are overhead power lines along the east side of SR 1333 throughout the project area. There are no water, sewer, or gas lines in the area. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ indicated that the creek is classified as Class C - NSW. The creek is identified only as an unnamed tributary of Fishing Creek on NWI mapping. Surface water impacts and impacts to any wetlands found at the site should be avoided as much as possible and minimized to the extent practicable. Mr. David Cox of NC WRC indicated by memo, that NCDOT should routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into the stream. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. It is possible that there are populations of at least one federally protected mussel species at the project site. If these mussels are found further coordination will be required. Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) indicated that there are no known sites of architectural or archaeological significance listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the project area. No unknown sites are likely to be found, therefore no surveys are recommended in connection with this project. Mr. David Chang of the Hydraulics Unit indicated that a culvert will be required to replace the existing bridge. This culvert should have three barrels, each measuring 2.7 meters (9 feet) by 2.4 meters (8 feet). This new culvert and roadway fill should be placed at approximately the same roadway elevation as the existing bridge. If a temporary detour is required, it should have 3 @ 1800 millimeter (72 inch) corrugated metal pipes and can be placed as much as 1 meter (3 feet) lower than the existing bridge. The Halifax County School Bus Transportation Coordinator indicated that five school buses cross this bridge twice per day during the school year. Closing the bridge during construction would cause delays for these buses, but would not be an insurmountable obstacle to school bus operations. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing the bridge in-place, with traffic detoured along other roads in the area would be preferred. The Traffic Forecasting Unit has indicated that near Bridge No. 145, SR 1333 carries 1100 vehicles per day at present [1998]. This figure is expected to increase to 2100 vehicles per day by the year 2025. These traffic figures include 3% dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and 2% truck-tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 10%. A desired design speed of 100 km/h (60 mph) should be achieved on this project. The roadway approaches will have two 3.6 meter (12 foot) travel lanes and a shoulder width of at least 2.4 meters (8 feet). The total shoulder width will be 1.0 meter (3 feet) wider where guardrail is warranted. This section of SR 1333 is classified as a Rural Local Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The speed limit in the area is 55 mph by statute. The Roadway Design Project Engineer has agreed to provide construction cost estimates and preliminary aligninent and typical section information on the following alternatives to the Project Planning Engineer by February 1, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace Bridge No. 145 in place with a new culvert. Traffic will be maintained on the existing area roads during construction. BG/ eMSWF° ti V+a +@ pMU ?+ STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 26, 1999 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Bill Goodwin, P. E. Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No. 309 on SR 1103 over unnamed Creek in Columbus County, Federal Aid Project No. BRZ- 1103(7), State Project No. 8.2430601, TIP No. B-3144 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 15, 1998. The following persons were in attendance: Debbie Bevin SHPO Ray McIntyre Program and TIP Betsy Cox Structure Design Betty Yancey Right of Way David Chang Hydraulics Mike Plummer Location and Surveys Greg Mintz Traffic Control Jimmy Goodnight Roadway Design Jason Moore Roadway Design Bill Goodwin Planning and Environmental Utility conflicts will be very low for this project. There are no utilities located in the immediate project area. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ indicated that the unnamed creek is classified as Class C - Sw. There are probably riverine wetlands at the project site. These wetlands are difficult to replace and impacts should be minimized to the maximum extent possible. DWQ may require a bridge at this location instead of a culvert. Mr. David Cox of NC WRC indicated by memo, that NCDOT should routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into the stream. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) indicated that there are no known sites of architectural or archaeological significance listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the project area. No unknown sites are likely to be found, therefore no surveys are recommended in connection with this project. Mr. David Chang of the Hydraulics Unit indicated that a new culvert should be used to replace the existing bridge. This culvert should be a double barreled RCBC with each barrel measuring 3.4 meters (11 feet) by 3.4 meters (11 feet). A bridge could be used to replace the existing bridge, this bridge should be approximately 19.8 meters (65 feet) in length. If a bridge is chosen, the bridge should have a 6.6 meter (22 foot) travelway and a 0.6 meter (2 foot) offset on each side for a total bridge width of 7.8 meters (26 feet). This new bridge should be placed at approximately the same roadway elevation as the existing bridge. If a temporary detour is required, it should have 2@ 1800 millimeter (72 inch) pipes and should be placed at the same elevation as the existing bridge. Mr. Chang also indicated that FEMA flood maps show the creek as Camp Swamp. A decision will be reached as far as the recommended structure type as soon as possible. The Columbus County School Bus Transportation Coordinator indicated that two school buses cross this bridge twice per day during the school year. Closing the bridge during construction would cause delays for these buses, but would not be an obstacle to school bus operations. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing the bridge in-place, with traffic detoured off-site would be preferred. SR 1108 needs to be upgraded between SR 1103 and SR 1104 if it is to be used as a detour. SR 1108 is currently posted at 6.5 tons/axle. The Traffic Forecasting Unit has indicated that near Bridge No. 309, SR 1103 carries 400 vehicles per day at present [1998]. This figure is expected to increase to 700 vehicles per day by the year 2025. These traffic figures include I% dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and I% truck-tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 11%0. A desired design speed of 100 km/h (60 mph) should be achieved on this project. The roadway approaches will have two 3.3 meter (11 foot) travel lanes and a shoulder width of at least 1.2 meters (4 feet). The total shoulder width will be 1.0 meter (3 feet) wider where guardrail is warranted. This section of SR 1104 is classified as a Rural Local Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The speed limit in the area is 55 mph by statute. The Roadway Design Project Engineer has agreed to provide construction cost estimates and preliminary alignment and typical section information on the following alternatives to the Project Planning Engineer by February 26, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace Bridge No. 309 in place with a new culvert. Traffic will be detoured off- site during construction. BG/ +`` SfATF o Ntira STATE of NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. Box 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOvERNOR SECRETARY January 25, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: Project File FROM: Karen T. Orthner Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: B-3495, Nash County, Replacement of Bridge No. 137 over Stoney Creek, State Project 8.2321501, F. A. Project BRZ-1435(2) A scoping meeting for the subject bridge was held in the Transportation Building on December 8, 1998. The following people were in attendance: Cyndi Bell Ray McIntyre Ray Moore David Chang Michael Steelman Jim Speer Brain Eason Betty Yancey Wayne Elliott Karen Orthner Division of Water Quality TIP Unit Structure Design Hydraulics Unit Traffic Control Roadway Design Roadway Design Right of Way Branch Planning & Environmental Planning & Environmental The following comments were either given at the meeting or received previously: D.R. Dupree, Division 4 Engineer, recommended replacing Bridge No. 137 on the same alignment and detouring traffic off-site. David Chang of Hydraulics recommended that Bridge No. 137 be replaced with a bridge 48.8 meters (160 feet) in length at approximately the same location and elevation. Debbie Bevin of SHPO commented that there are no architectural or archaeological concerns at this site. Cyndi Bell of Division of Water Quality commented that Stoney Creek is in the Tar Pamlico River Basin. She stated that there are wetlands surrounding the bridge and that DWQ strongly prefers an off-site detour with replacement in place. Cindy added that with an on-site detour recommendation, DWQ would require restoration and monitoring of wetland sites. David Cox of the Wildlife Resources Commission indicated that there were no specific fishery concerns. However, David stated that there is the potential for federally listed mussels to occur in the project vicinity. WRC recommended that NCDOT biologists conduct a survey. If mussels are found, WRC requests a field meeting to discuss special measures to minimize impacts to these animals. T.E. Tarleton, Area Locating Engineer, commented that underground telephone cables exist on the east side of the project. He also stated that the power lines were aerial and located on the east side of the project. PROJECT INFORMATION Bridge No. 137 [Built in 1967] [161 feet long] [26.2 foot wide deck] [26.0 feet clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 16 feet] [Sufficiency Rating 36.7] [Posted 15 tons for SV and 18 tons for TTST's] [Estimated useful remaining life: 5 years] Traffic Information SR 1435 is a Rural Local Route Current ADT is 1300 vpd Projected 2025 ADT is 2300 vpd 4% Trucks (3% Duals, 1% TTST) Accident Information: (1/1/95 through 12/31/97) Accident 1) Vehicle hit animal going north on SR 1435 Bus Information: Eight trips a day. Cross Section of Proposed Structure: Design Speed of 45 mph or greater - 30 feet DISCUSSION OF ALTERNATES During the alternate discussion, Jim Speer of Roadway Design agreed to have the cost estimate completed by March 31, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace Bridge No. 137 with a 160-foot bridge at approximately the same location and roadway elevation. Detour traffic onto surrounding roads during construction. TIP Estimate: $730,000 Construction Estimate: not available yet r . „' STA7p o yd ?w'°on ^Akn . STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 25, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: Project File FROM: Karen T. Orthner Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: B-3057, Wake County, Replacement of Bridge No. 480 over Powell Creek, State Project 8.2405001, F. A. Project BRZ-2226(1) A scoping meeting for the subject bridge was held in the Transportation Building on December 15, 1998. The following people were in attendance: Ray McIntyre TIP Unit Betsy Cox David Chang Debbie Bevin Sid Autry Jay Bennett Lisa Shapiro Betty Yancey Karen Orthner Structure Design Hydraulics Unit SHPO Location Surveys Roadway Design Roadway Design Right of Way Branch Planning & Environmental The following are comments were either given at the meeting or received previously: Ricky Greene, Division 5 Construction Engineer, recommended replacing the existing structure in its current location with no specific geometry changes. The Division also commented that an off-site detour would be sufficient in this location. Ricky stated that the off-site detour roads are not posted. David Chang of Hydraulics recommended that the existing bridge be replaced with a new single span cored slab bridge approximately 18.9 meters (62 feet) in length with vertical abutments at the same elevation and location. Debbie Bevin of SHPO recommended that no architectural or archaeological surveys be conducted in connection with this project. Cyndi Bell of Division of Water Quality commented that Little River was located in the Neuse River Basin. Cyndi added that DWQ routinely requests retention of as much buffer as possible and exclusion of weepholes. David Cox of the Wildlife Resources Commission stated no specific concerns regarding this project. Sid Autry, Area Locating Engineer, said that the City of Raleigh has a six inch sanitary sewer outfall along Powell Creek crossing SR 2226 approximately 50 feet north of the existing bridge. Also, Sid stated that Bell South has aerial telephone cables along the west side of SR 2226 and underground cables along the east side. PROJECT INFORMATION Bridge No. 480 [Built in 1961] [51 feet long] [25.9 foot wide deck] [24.9 feet clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 7 feet] [Sufficiency Rating 50.3] [Posted 14 tons for SV and 19 tons for TTST's] [Estimated useful remaining life: 12 years] Traffic Information SR 2226 is a Rural Local Route with a 55 mph posted speed limit in the vicinity. SR 2226 intersects US 401 Wake County. Land use is agricultural and residential. Current ADT is 1300 vpd Projected 2025 ADT is 2900 vpd 6% Trucks (5% Duals, 1% TTST) Accident Information: (1/01/95 through 12/31/97) No accidents reported. Bus Information: Fourteen trips a day. Road closure will not be a problem. Cross Section of Proposed Structure: Design speed of 60 mph - 30 feet DISCUSSION OF ALTERNATES During the alternate discussion, Jay Bennett of Roadway Design agreed to have the roadway cost estimates completed by February 15, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace the existing Bridge No. 480 with a bridge 18.9 meters (62 feet) in length at approximately the same location and roadway elevation. Detour traffic on surrounding roads. TIP ESTIMATE: $247,000 CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATE: not available yet V STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 25, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: Project File FROM: Karen T. Orthner Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: B-3482, Johnston County, Replacement of Bridge No. 224 and Bridge No.. 447 over Little River and Little River Overflow, State Project 8.2312301, F. A. Project BRZ-2301(1) A scoping meeting for the subject bridge was held in the Transportation Building on December 8, 1998. The following people were in attendance: Cyndi Bell Ray McIntyre Ray Moore David Chang Michael Steelman Jim Speer Brain Eason Betty Yancey Wayne Elliott Karen Orthner Division of Water Quality TIP Unit Structure Design Hydraulics Unit Traffic Control Roadway Design Roadway Design Right of Way Branch Planning & Environmental Planning & Environmental The following are comments were either given at the meeting or received previously: D.R. Dupree (Division 4 Engineer) recommended that Bridge #224 be replaced on the same alignment. David Chang of Hydraulics recommended that Bridge No. 224 be replaced with a bridge approximately 48.8 meters (160 feet) in length at the same location and roadway elevation. The Hydraulics Unit also recommended that Bridge No. 447 be replaced with a bridge approximately 27.4 meters (90 feet) in length at the same location and roadway elevation. Debbie Bevin of SHPO recommended no architectural or archaeological surveys be conducted in connection with this project. Cyndi Bell of Division of Water Quality commented that Little River was located in the Neuse River Basin. Cyndi added that DWQ requests retaining as much buffer as possible and excluding weepholes. David Cox of the Wildlife Resources Commission indicated that there were no specific fishery concerns. However, David stated that there is the potential for federally listed mussels to occur in the project vicinity. WRC recommended that NCDOT biologists conduct a survey. If mussels are found, WRC requests a field meeting to discuss special measures to minimize impacts to these animals. PROJECT INFORMATION Bridge No. 224 [Built in 1961] [161 feet long] [26.1-foot wide deck] [24.8 feet of clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 19 feet] [Sufficiency Rating 29.1 ] [Posted 10 tons for SV and 13 tons for TTST's] [Estimated useful remaining life: 5 years] Bridge No. 447 [Built in 1962] [87 feet long] [25.3-foot wide deck] [24.1 feet of clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 7 feet] [Sufficiency Rating 39.1] [Posted 19 tons for SV and 27 tons for TTST's] [Estimated useful remaining life: 5 years] Traffic Information SR 2320 is a Rural Local Route Current ADT is 800 vpd Projected 2025 ADT is 1400 vpd 3% Trucks (2% Duals, 1% TTST) Accident Information: (1/01/95 through 12/31/97) No accidents reported. Bus Information: Two trips a day. Road closure will not be a problem. Cross Section of Proposed Structure: Design speed of 35 mph or greater - 28 feet DISCUSSION OF ALTERNATES During the alternate discussion, Jim Speer of Roadway Design agreed to have the cost estimate completed by March 31, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace the existing Bridge No. 224 with abridge 48.8 meters (160 feet) in length at approximately the same location and roadway elevation. Replace Bridge No. 447 with a bridge 27.4 meters (90 feet) in length at approximately the same location and roadway elevation. Detour traffic on surrounding roads during construction. TIP Estimate: $767,000 Construction Estimate: not available yet STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GovExNox January 25, 1999 SECRETARY MEMORANDUM TO: Project File FROM: Karen T. Orthner Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: B-3460, Granville County, Replacement of Bridge No. 198 over Spewmarrow Creek, State Project 8.2370801, F. A. Project BRZ-1445(2) A scoping meeting for the subject bridge was held in the Transportation Building on December 15, 1998. The following people were in attendance: Ray McIntyre TIP Unit Betsy Cox David Chang Debbie Bevin Sid Autry Shannon Ransom Leslie Gordon Kathy Lassiter Bruce Payne Betty Yancey Karen Orthner Structure Design Hydraulics Unit SHPO Location Surveys Traffic Control Traffic Control Roadway Design Roadway Design Right of Way Branch Planning & Environmental The following comments were either given at the meeting or received previously: Ricky Greene, Division 5 Construction Engineer, recommended replacement in place with an off-site detour. He stated that SR 1445 is posted at 6 1/2 tons. David Chang of Hydraulics recommended that the existing bridge be replaced with a three barrel (3.66 in (12 ft.) wide by 3.66 in (12 ft.) high) reinforced concrete box culvert at the existing location and roadway grade. Sid Autry, Area Locating Engineer, was unable to locate any utilities at this site. Debbie Bevin of SHPO recommended that no architectural or archaeological surveys be conducted in connection with this project. Cyndi Bell of DWQ commented that Spewmarrow Creek is located in the Roanoke River Basin. Cyndi also stated that the stream is Class C and that the area possibly contained wetlands. David Cox of the Wildlife Resources Commission stated no specific concerns regarding this project. PROJECT INFORMATION Bridge No. 198 [Built in 1957] [53 feet long] [20.2 foot wide deck] [19.2 feet clear deck width] [Crown of Bridge to bed of river/stream: 14 feet] [Sufficiency Rating 41.9] [Posted 9 tons for SV and 16 tons for TTST's] [Estimated useful remaining life: 4 years] Traffic Information SR 1445 is a Rural Local Route Land use is agricultural with light residential Current ADT is 300 vpd Projected 2025 ADT is 700 vpd 4% Trucks (3% Duals, 1 % TTST) Accident Information: (2/01/95 through 1/31/98) No accidents reported. Bus Information: Eight trips a day. Road closure will not be a problem. DISCUSSION OF ALTERNATES During the alternate discussion, Kathy Lassiter of Roadway Design agreed have the cost estimate completed by January 15, 1999. Alternate 1: Replace the existing Bridge No. 198 with a three barrel reinforced concrete box culvert at approximately the same location and elevation. Detour traffic on surrounding roads during construction. TIP Estimate: $402,000 Construction Estimate: not available yet µ STA7F Q d y.n.n. STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 GOVERNOR January 26, 1999 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Dennis Pipkin, P.E. Project Planning Engineer E. NORRIS TOLSON SECRETARY SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No. 292 on SR 1832 over Hunting Creek, Iredell County, Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1832(1), State Project No. 8.2822101, TIP No. B-3350 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 8, 1998. The following persons were in attendance: Ray Moore David Chang Larry T. Williford James Speer Brian Eason Chris Howard Structure Design Hydraulics Location & Surveys Roadway Design Roadway Design Traffic Control Susan Cosper Traffic Forecasting Ray McIntyre Program Development Cyndi Bell Division of Water Quality Debbie Bevin SHPO Betty C. Yancey Right of Way Wayne Elliott Planning and Environmental Utility conflicts will be low for this project. There are telephone service cables on the west side of the bridge. There is an electric service along the east side. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ indicated that the project is in the Yadkin - Pee Dee River Basin, and that NWI maps indicate wetlands to the west of the existing bridge. Hunting Creek is classified as WS III. She also advised that the project document should address storm water management; DWQ desires that storm water be handled onto shoulders, not into the stream. Mr. David Cox of WRC requested by memo, that no in-stream work be done between May 1 and June 30, due to smallmouth bass spawning. He also specifically recommended replacement with a bridge rather than a culvert. Mr. Cox also stated that NCDOT should routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. The NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into these streams. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) stated that the historic Perciphull Campbell House is in the northwest quadrant. The grounds of this house extend into the northeast quadrant. There will be 4f involvement but no architectural survey is required. She also indicated that an archeological survey will be required. Remains of the Perciphull Campbell grist mill and prehistoric remains exist on the north banks of Hunting Creek. Mr. David Chang of the Hydraulics Unit recommended that the existing bridge be replaced with a bridge approximately 220 feet in length, placed downstream (east) of the existing bridge. The new bridge would be at approximately the same elevation as existing. An on-site detour is not recommended, but if required, would consist of a bridge 150 feet in length located to the east (downstream) of existing. The bridge is located in a FEMA flood hazard zone, but the proposed structure will not have a significant adverse impact. The bridge is located within a water supply watershed, but is not in a high quality water zone. Erosion and sedimentation control will be accomplished through standard control methods. Existing drainage patterns will be maintained to the extent practical, and groundwater should be evaluated in final design to ensure against any contamination. The Iredell County School Bus Coordinator indicated that there are six trips per day across the bridge. He indicated that road closure would cause some delay problems because of re-routing of busses. The Traffic Forecasting Unit indicated that near Bridge No. 292, SR 1832 currently carries 500 vehicles per day (1998). This figure is expected to increase to 900 vehicles per day by the year 2025. These traffic figures include 4 % dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and one % truck-tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 12 %. SR 1832 has a functional classification of "Rural Local." The Division 12 Engineer's Office concurs with road closure. The Division commented by memo that SR 1832 could be closed to traffic and vehicles detoured off-site. The Division recommends a detour via SR 1816, SR 1823, and back to SR 1832. The Division also stated that if funds are available, the alignment north of the existing bridge should be straightened. Three alternates will be evaluated for replacement of Bridge No. 292 over Hunting Creek Alternate 1: Replace the bridge on existing alignment, and detour traffic over existing local roads. Alternate 2: Replace the bridge on existing alignment, and maintain traffic on-site with a temporary bridge. Alternate 3: Construct a new bridge on new location to the east (downstream) of existing, and maintain traffic on the existing bridge during construction. Mr. James Speer of Roadway Design indicated that preliminary cost estimates could be provided by March 31, 1999. (These estimates will not include R/W costs.) The TIP cost estimate for this project is $650,000; including $ 600,000 for construction, and $50,000 for right of way acquisition. The current project schedule calls for right of way acquisition to begin in August 2001, and construction to begin in August 2002. 2 t r, M ?? p STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 26, 1999 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Dennis Pipkin, P.E. Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No. 11 on SR 1139, over Bear Creek, Davie County, Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1139(1), State Project No. 8.2610501, TIP No. B-3161 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 10, 1998. The following persons were in attendance: Ray Moore Structure Design David Chang Hydraulics Ron Allen Roadway Design Bob May Roadway Design Elton Crutchfield Location & Surveys G. Mintz Traffic Control Debbie Bevin SHPO Utility conflicts will be medium for this project. The following utilities are in the project area: a water line, a sanitary sewer line, telephone cables and telephone switching station, a fiber optic cable, electric lines, and cable television service. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ had indicated that the project is in the Yadkin-Pee Dee River Basin, and there are no wetlands shown in the vicinity on NWI maps. Bear Creek is classified as WS IV. She also advised that the project document should address storm water management; DWQ desires that storm water be handled onto shoulders, not into the stream. Mr. David Cox of WRC indicated by memo, that NCDOT should routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. The NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into these streams. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) indicated there are no known architectural resources present. Therefore, an architectural survey will not be required. Ms. Bevin also indicated that a potential exists for archeological resources 1 /1 in the project area. Therefore, if the bridge is to be replaced on new location, or if a temporary bridge is to be used, an archeological survey will be required. Mr. David Chang of the Hydraulics Unit recommended that the existing bridge be replaced with a bridge of approximately 135 ft. length at the existing location and elevation. If a temporary structure is required, Hydraulics recommends a bridge of 60 ft. length placed to the south at approximately 3 ft. below existing grade. The bridge is located in a FEMA flood hazard zone, but the proposed structure will not have a significant adverse impact. The bridge is located within a water supply watershed, but is not in a critical or high quality water zone; therefore erosion and sedimentation control will be accomplished through standard control methods. Existing drainage patterns will be maintained to the extent practical, and groundwater should be unaffected. The Davie County School Bus Coordinator indicated that there is a total of 6 school bus trips per day crossing this bridge. He indicated that road closure would cause delay problems because of re-routing. The Traffic Forecasting Unit indicated that near Bridge No. 11, SR 1 139 currently carries 1700 vehicles per day (1998). This figure is expected to increase to 2800 vehicles per day by the year 2025. These traffic figures include 2 % dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and one % truck-tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 10 %. SR 1 139 has a functional classification of "Rural Minor Collector." The Division 9 Engineer's Office recommended the following in order of priority: (1) Replace bridge on new location the south, and maintain traffic on existing bridge. (2) Replace bridge on existing location, close road and detour traffic on other local roads. (3) Replace bridge on existing location, and maintain traffic with a temporary bridge. Creek: Three alternates will be evaluated for replacement of Bridge No. 11 over Bear Alternate 1: Replace bridge on existing alignment, and detour traffic over existing local roads. Alternate 2: Replace bridge on existing alignment, and maintain traffic with a temporary bridge to the south. Alternate 3: Construct bridge on new alignment to south, and maintain traffic on existing during construction. Mr. Ron Allen of Roadway Design indicated that preliminary cost estimates could be provided by July 30, 1999. The TIP cost estimate for this project is $ 660,000; including $ 600,000 for construction; and $ 60,000 for right of way acquisition. The current project schedule calls for right of way acquisition to begin in February 2001, and construction to begin in February 2002. 2 AP IV eM STA7F'. STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 E. NORRIS TOLSON GOVERNOR SECRETARY January 26, 1999 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Dennis Pipkin, P.E. ?40 Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No.26 on SR 1517, over North Fork Little River, Orange County, Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1517(2), State Project No. 8.2501501, TIP No. B-3497 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 10, 1998. The following persons were in attendance: Art McMillan Roadway Design Thad Duncan Roadway Design David Chang Hydraulics Elton Crutchfield Location & Surveys G. Mintz Traffic Control Ray Moore Structure Design Debbie Bevin SHPO Utility conflicts will be low for this project. There is telephone service on the south side of the existing bridge. There is electric service on the north side of the bridge. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ had indicated that the project is in the Neuse River Basin, and NWI maps show wetlands to the north (upstream) of the existing bridge. The stream is classified as WS II, NSW (nutrient sensitive waters). Ms. Bell stated that Neuse River Basin rules will apply. Replacement on existing location is preferred. She also advised that the project document should address storm water management; DWQ desires that storm water be handled onto shoulders, not into the stream. Mr. David Cox of WRC indicated by memo, that there is a potential for presence of federally listed mussels. He recommended that NCDOT (Tim Savidge) perform appropriate surveys. If mussels are found, an on-site meeting should be held to discuss minimizing impacts. Mr. Cox also indicated that NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into these streams. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) advised that a recorded Middle Archaic archeological site is listed as near the existing bridge in the en 16 southwest quadrant (downstream). This site is No. 31 OR331. National Register eligibility is unknown. Precise location is not known. If any construction will affect the area, an archeological survey should be conducted. Ms. Bevin indicated that there are no known architectural resources in the project area; thus no architectural survey will be required. Mr. David Chang of the Hydraulics Unit recommended that the existing bridge be replaced with a 3 @ 12ft by 10 ft reinforced concrete box culvert at the existing location, and at approximately the same roadway grade. If an on-site detour is required, this should consist of three 72-inch corrugated steel pipes placed to the south (downstream) of the existing bridge. This grade should be approximately 3 ft. lower than existing. The bridge is located in a FEMA flood hazard zone, but the proposed structure will not have a significant adverse impact. The bridge is located within a water supply watershed, and a high quality water zone. Direct discharge of runoff into the stream should be avoided to the extent practicable. Erosion and sedimentation control for high quality waters should be used. Existing drainage patterns will be maintained to the extent practical, and groundwater should be unaffected. The Orange County School Bus Coordinator indicated that there are four school bus trips per day crossing this bridge. He indicated that road closure would cause a delay problem with one bus. The Traffic Forecasting Unit indicated that near Bridge No. 26, SR 1517 currently carries 500 vehicles per day (1998). This figure is expected to increase to 800 vehicles per day by the year 2025. These traffic figures include 2 % dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and one % truck-tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 10 %. SR 1517 has a functional classification of "Rural Local." The Division 7 Engineer's Office, Mr. Mike Cowan, commented by E-mail that given the low traffic volume, and availability of an offsite detour, the Division recommends road closure and replacement on existing location. The Division also recommended consideration of a cored slab bridge. Two alternates will be evaluated for replacement of Bridge No. 26 over North Fork Little River: Alternate 1: Replace bridge on existing alignment, and detour traffic over existing local roads. Alternate 2: Replace bridge on existing alignment, and maintain traffic on-site with a temporary crossing. Mr. Art McMillan of Roadway Design indicated that preliminary cost estimates could be provided by March 31, 1999. The TIP cost estimate for this project is $ 330,000; including $ 300,000 for construction, and $ 30,000 for right of way acquisition. The current project schedule calls for right of way acquisition to begin in November 2000, and construction to begin in November 2001. 2 _0 - ? - UUjA STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDO TIPPETT GOVERNOR SECRETARY February 27, 2002 US Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Field Office 6508 Falls of the Neuse Road, Suite 120 02 03 45 Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 ATTENTION: Ms. Jean Manuele Regulatory Specialist SUBJECT: Nationwide Permit 23 Application for the proposed to replace Bridge' No. 18 on SR 1561 over the Haw River in Alamance County. NCDOT Division 7. Federal Project No. BRZ-1561(3), State Project No. 8.2472401; T.I.P. No. B-3400. Dear Madam: The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 over the Haw River [DWQ Index # 16(1)]. Bridge No. 18 will be replaced with a new bridge on existing location. The new structure will be approximately 140 feet in length and 32 feet wide. The bridge deck will include 12-foot lanes and 3-foot offsets. There will be 500 feet of approach work to the northwest and 500 feet to the southeast. The paved approach will include 12-foot lanes and 8-foot grass shoulders with guardrail. During construction, traffic will be detoured along existing area roads. Waters of the United States With the exception of concrete sills, Bridge No. 18 . is composed entirely of timber and steel and will be demolished in such a way as not to drop anything into Waters of the United States. There will be no surface water fill resulting from bridge demolition. Additionally, no jurisdictional wetlands will be affected by the construction of the proposed project. Federally-Protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of 22 March 2001, the United States Fish and Wildlife. Service (USFWS) lists no federally protected species for Alamance County. MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION - FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING .. PROJECT DEVELOPMENTAND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS - - 1 SOUTH WILMINGTONSTREET 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG RALEIGH NC RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 Summary Proposed project activities are being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a programmatic "Categorical Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR § 771.115(b). The NCD.OT requests that these activities be authorized by a Nationwide Permit 23 (65 FR 12817, 12899; March 9, 2000). We anticipate a 401 General Certification will apply to this project and are providing one copy of this application to the North Carolina Division of Water Quality, for their review. Please find the attached Categorical Exclusion Action Classification form and the Natural Resources Technical Report document. Thank you for your assistance with this project. If you have any questions or need additional information please call Ms. Heather Montague at (919) 733-1175. Sincerely, l William D. Gilmore, Manager Project Development & Environmental Analysis WDG/hwm cc: w/attachment Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Field Office Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR, Division of Water Quality Mr. Calvin Leggett, P.E., Program Development Branch w/o attachment Ms. Deborah Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Branch Mr. Timothy Rountree, P.E., Structure Design Unit Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Engineer Mr. David Henderson, P.E., Hydraulics Unit Mr. Mike Mills; P.E., Division 7 Engineer Mr. John Williams, P.E., PD&EA Planning Engineer 020345 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM TIP Project No. B-3400 State Project No. 8.2472401 Federal Project No. BRZ-1561(3) A. Project Description: This TIP project proposes replacing Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 over the Haw River in Alamance County. Bridge No. 18 would be replaced on the existing location with a new bridge 42.7 meters (140 feet) long and 9.2 meters (32 feet) wide. The bridge deck will include 3.6 meter (12-foot) lanes and 1.0 meter (3-foot) offsets. Traffic will be detoured offsite during construction. There will be 500 feet of approaclrwork to the northwest and 500 feet to the southeast. The paved approach will include two 3.6 meter (12-foot) lanes and a 2.4 meter (8-foot) grass shoulder and guardrail. The horizontal alignment will meet the standards for 50 mph design speed. The vertical alignment will meet the standards for a 40 mph design speed. B. Purpose and Need: The existing bridge has a sufficiency rating of 34 out of 100 and a posted weight limit of 36 tons for single vehicles and no posting `for TTST's. The substructure in particular has a rating of 4 out of 10 and continues to deteriorate. The cross- section of the existing bridge does not meet modern traffic standards. Due to a substandard design and deteriorating structural integrity it is prudent to replace this bridge. C. Proposed Improvements: The following Type II improvements which apply to the project are circled: 1. Modernization of a highway by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes (e.g., parking, weaving, turning, climbing). a. Restoring, Resurfacing, Rehabilitating, and Reconstructing pavement (3R and 4R improvements) b. Widening roadway and shoulders without adding through lanes c. Modernizing gore treatments d. Constructing lane improvements (merge, auxiliary, and turn lanes) e. Adding shoulder drains f. Replacing and rehabilitating culverts, inlets, and drainage pipes, including safety treatments g. Providing driveway pipes h. Performing minor bridge widening (less than one through lane) 2. Highway safety or traffic operations improvement projects including the installation of ramp metering control devices and lighting. a. Installing ramp metering devices b. Installing lights C. Adding or upgrading guardrail d. Installing safety barriers including Jersey type barriers and pier protection e. Installing or replacing impact attenuators f. Upgrading medians including adding or upgrading median barriers g. Improving intersections including relocation and/or realignment h. Making minor roadway realignment i. Channelizing traffic j. Performing clear zone safety improvements including removing hazards and flattening slopes k. Implementing traffic aid systems, signals, and motorist aid 1. Installing bridge safety hardware including bridge rail retrofit O Bridge rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement or the construction of grade separation to replace existing at-grade railroad crossings. a. Rehabilitating, reconstructing, or replacing bridge approach slabs b. Rehabilitating or replacing bridge decks c. Rehabilitating bridges including painting (no red lead paint), scour repair, fender systems, and minor structural improvements O Replacing a bridge (structure and/or fill) 4. Transportation corridor fringe parking facilities. 5. Construction of new truck weigh stations or rest areas. 6. Approvals for disposal of excess right-of-way or for joint or limited use of right-of-way, where the proposed use does not have significant adverse impacts. 7. Approvals for changes in access control. 8. Construction of new bus storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and located on or near a street with adequate capacity to handle anticipated bus and support vehicle traffic. 9. Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing rail and bus buildings and ancillary facilities where only minor amounts of additional land are required and there is not a substantial increase in the number of users. 10. Construction of bus transfer facilities (an open area consisting of passenger shelters, boarding areas, kiosks and related street improvements) when located in a commercial area or other high activity center in which there is adequate street capacity for projected bus traffic. 11. Construction of rail storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and where there is no significant noise impact on the surrounding community. 2 12. Acquisition of land for hardship or protective purposes, advance land acquisition loans under section 3(b) of the UMT Act. Hardship and protective buying will be permitted only for a particular parcel or a limited number of parcels. These types of land acquisition qualify for a CE only where the acquisition will not limit the evaluation of alternatives, including shifts in alignment for planned construction projects, which may be required in the NEPA process. No project development on such land may proceed until the NEPA process has been completed. D. Special Project Information: Estimated Costs: Total Construction $ 800,000 Right of Way $ 16,000 Total $ 816,000 Estimated Traffic: Current - 1300 vpd Year 2025 - 2500 vpd TTST - 2% Dual - 1 % Functional Classification: Rural Local Route Division Office Comments: The Division supports the proposed plan of replacement. Bridge Demolition: With the exception of concrete sills, the entire structure is built from timber and steel and will be demolished in such a way as not to drop anything into the water. There will be no fill resulting from bridge demolition. Design Exceptions: A design exception will be required for this project due to a design speed which will not meet the standard. The bridge has an historic property on the boundary of the right of way and a development on the other boundary which limits the degree to which the roadway can be improved. Only two accidents have been recorded in a sampling of a recent three year period. One accident occurred on the southeast approach and the other on the northwest. Both accidents occurred at night. 3 E. Threshold Criteria The following evaluation of threshold criteria must be completed for Type II actions ECOLOGICAL (1) Will the project have a substantial impact on any unique or important natural resource? (2) Does the project involve habitat where federally listed endangered or threatened species may occur? (3) Will the project affect anadromous fish? (4) If the project involves wetlands, is the amount of permanent and/or temporary wetland taking less than one-third (1/3) of an acre and have all practicable measures to avoid and minimize wetland takings been evaluated? (5) Will the project require the use of U. S. Forest Service lands? (6) (7) (8) (9) Will the quality of adjacent water resources be adversely impacted by proposed construction activities? YES NO x x x Does the project involve waters classified as Outstanding Water Resources (OWR) and/or High Quality Waters (HQW)? Will the project require fill in waters of the United States in any of the designated mountain trout counties? Does the project involve any known underground storage ? tanks (UST's) or hazardous materials sites? x x x PERMITS AND COORDINATION YES NO (10) If the project is located within a CAMA county, will the project significantly affect the coastal zone and/or any "Area of Environmental Concern" (AEC)? x (11) Does the project involve Coastal Barrier Resources Act resources? x (12) Will a U. S. Coast Guard permit be required? ? x 4 (13) Will the project result in the modification of any existing ? (17) Will the project have a disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effect on any minority or low-income population? X ? (18) If the project involves the acquisition of right of way, is the amount of right of way acquisition considered minor? X regulatory floodway? X (14) Will the project require any stream relocations or channel changes? X SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND CULTURAL RESOURCES YES . NO (15) Will the project induce substantial impacts to planned growth or land use for the area? ? X (16) Will the project require the relocation of any family or business? X (19) Will the project involve any changes in access control? a X (20) Will the project substantially alter the usefulness and/or land ? use of adjacent property? X (21) Will the project have an adverse effect on permanent local traffic patterns or community cohesiveness? X (22) Is the project included in an approved thoroughfare plan and/or Transportation Improvement Program (and is, therefore, in conformance with the Clean Air Act of 1990)? ? X (23) Is the project anticipated to cause an increase in traffic ? volumes? X (24) Will traffic be maintained during construction using existing roads, staged construction, or on-site detours? X (25) If the project is a bridge replacement project, will the bridge be replaced at its existing location (along the existing facility) and will all construction proposed in association with the bridge replacement project be contained on ? the existing facility? X (26) Is there substantial controversy on social, economic, or environmental grounds concerning the project? X 5 (27) Is the project consistent with all Federal, State, and local laws relating to the environmental aspects of the project? X (28) Will the project have an "effect" on structures/properties eligible for or listed on the National Register of Historic Places? x* (29) Will the project affect any archaeological remains, which are ? important to history or pre-history? X (30) Will the project require the use of Section 4(f) resources (public parks, recreation lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, historic sites, or historic bridges, as defined in Section 4(f) of the U. S. Department of Transportation Act of ? 1966)? X (31) Will the project result in any conversion of assisted public recreation sites or facilities to non-recreation uses, as defined by Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation ? Act of 1965, as amended? X (32) Will the project involve construction in, across, or adjacent to a river designated as a component of or proposed for inclusion in the Natural System of Wild and Scenic Rivers? X F. Additional Documentation Required for Unfavorable Responses in Part E lion regarding all unfavorable responses in Part E should be provided Additional supporting documentation may be attached, as necessary.) (28) Will the project have an "effect" on structures/properties eligible for or listed on the National Register of Historic Places? The project is located directly next to Hub Mill which is considered eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The project will hold the existing Right of Way Line on the Mill side of the project so as not to impact the Mill or any of its property. There will be temporary construction easement The SHPO concurs that there will be "no adverse effect' 'under these circumstances. According to the five criteria listed below, the project does not constitute a Section 4(f). A temporary occupancy of land is so minimal that it does not constitute a use within the meaning of section 4(f) when the following conditions are satisfied: 1. Duration must be temporary, i.e. less than the time needed for construction of the project, and there should be no change in ownership of the land; II. Scope of work must be minor. I.e., both the nature and the magnitude of the changes to the section 4(f) resource are 6 minimal. III. There are no anticipated permanent adverse physical impacts, nor will there be interference without the activities or purposes of the resource, on either a temporary or permanent basis; IV. The land being used must be fully restored, i.e., the resource must be returned to a condition which is at least as good as that which existed prior to the project; and V. There must be.documented agreement of the appropriate Federal, State, or local officials having jurisdiction over the resource regarding the above conditions. This project meets all five criteria and therefore does not have a section 4(f) impact. 7 G. 'CE Approval TIP Project No. State Project No. Federal-Aid Project No. Project Description: B-3400 8.2472401 BRZ-1561(3) This TIP project proposes replacing Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 over the Haw River in Alamance County. Bridge No. 18 would be replaced on the existing location with a new bridge 42.7 meters (140 feet) long and 9.2 meters (32 feet) wide. The bridge deck will include 3.6 meter (12-foot) lanes and 1.0 meter (3-foot) offsets. Traffic will be detoured offsite during construction. There will be 500 feet of approach work to the northwest and 500 feet to the southeast. The paved approach will include two 3.6 meter (12-foot) lanes and a 2.4 meter (8-foot) grass shoulder and guardrail. The horizontal alignment will meet the standards for 50 mph design speed. The vertical alignment will meet the standards for a 40 mph design speed. Categorical Exclusion Action Classification: X TYPE II(A) TYPE II(B) Approved: 00 j?- Z 2 Date Assistant Manager Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch Date Project Planning Unit Head Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch 1(? 2I - 00 Date ect Development & Environmental Analysis Branch For Type II(B) projects only: N/A Date Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration 8 s PROJECT COMMITMENTS: B-3400, Alamance County Bridge No. 18 on `SR 1561 Over Haw°River Federal Project BRZ-1:561(3) State Project 8.2472401 Resident Engineer Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition & Removal will be implemented on this project. On the south quadrant of the bridge is a site known as Hub Mill. The mill has been determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and is "off limits" with regard to this project. All activity on this project is to take place strictly within the boundaries shown on the plans and flagged in the field. Any activity proposed outside these boundaries on the mill side must be coodnnated with the Project Engineer from Project Development &' Environmental Analysis (John Williams 733-7844. ext. 235). Structure Design Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition & Removal will be implemented on this project. Hydraulics Unit The attached letter from the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission contains a number of standard comments regarding design features of the new bridge. As they 'apply to hydraulics,' these comments are to be considered and acted on where practical and feasible to do so. Roadway Design Unit On the south quadrant of the bridge is a site known as Hub Mill. The mill has been determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and is "off limits" with regard. to this project., It is understood' that NCDOT owns `60 feet of Right of:Way°along the project corridor. It is also understood that an addition ten-foot wide temporary construction easment willbe.necessary for project construction. This is to be the outer boundary for the project. The boundary is to be flagged prior to and all during construction A note is to be placed on the plans that construction on the mill side of the road must take place strictly within the boundaries shown on the plans. Any activity to take place outside those"boundaries must be coordinated with : the Project Engineer from Project Development & Environmental Analysis (John Williams 733-7844 ext. 235). Roadside Environmental The attached letter from the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission contains a number of standard comments regarding design features of the new bridge. As they apply to Roadside Environmental, these comments are to be considered and acted on where practical and feasible to do so. Programmatic Categorical Exclusion Page 1 of 1 Green Sheet November 21, 2000 i I I i ? I I j ? ?. ?I i ? ? _ ? i ? -? j ? I I i ! ? I t ? ? I i ? ,? i I j i i !. i ?? I I ? 9 'I ? ? i i I' i I - ? i. "i i. I i f i I i ?, j ? I I ? I li i a a8 O 1611 NAM /609 b 1582 •.. rJ D 1581 ?. 1583 1583 9 ? . 8 1584 ? ., a-. Bridge No.18 `.-.._.._..?. )1002 1587 1667 'p .p 1 1 ?'- 1 • 4 t, 4 ?l 587 ` `O 1581 s '•. `r 1684 ' • 2 1 1683 ' O C 2 ?..? 1685 .6 C^'. '} ' ! ' 159 p .2 S 'i 1. ? ' 1594 , .. / .,,.. .7 1603 •' ` ' ' ?.. 1602 / `•` .. • ?'^ ? ? t. '• 1593 ., 1595 ti • 1598 '?. 2 1604 a •. \ ? ?'•. O 1 2 . `n N .1587 .-.- ??.? " ` " 158 - •?•+•?•?•?•? ?.?.? '' 614 -? d 1 586 N •y ,• S ' 4 .4 161 1 f LAKE • 158 i - o BURLINGTON RES ` 0• 1• - 9 . _ 158 1584 1609 g • 6 1 2 1581 Stony '•, Creek N 1610 • 8 i 1581 Ch. 2 ' 1581 •- , 1587 1p '?•1 7 .5 ' 3 1577 i ?l rry 1579 S silo .-- O..p-:'-.._.._ - C v? 1581 1 ' i iO 6 ?p 15 . 1571 Gilliam Ch. 576 1.8 ! 15 6 1 i •5 i 3 i 87 N i 157 X1 ml 1 1 2 57 ' 11\ i . it 156( L 1563 V.? North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch OF Xamance County Replace Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 Over Haw River B-3400 FIGURE 1 d,va Sr? o? .w+v H!' .pS ti ?n North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary January 20, 1999 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: Bridge #18 on SR 1561 over Haw River, Alamance County, B-3400, ER 99-7698 Dear Mr. Graf: Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director On December 15, 1998, 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, a mill is located southwest of the bridge. We recommend that an architectural historian with NCDOT evaluate this property for National Register eligibility and report the findings to us. The mill located southwest of the bridge should be recorded and evaluated for its archaeological significance if it may be affected by the proposed bridge replacement. 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 Nicholas L. Graf January 20, 1999, Page 2 Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. Sincerely, ,,d A ?/V/j David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:slw cc: W. D. (Qore B. Church T. Padgett. \) •_ w l op?> STATE V i .4 yin North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office David L. S. Brook, Administrator James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director July 11, 2000 MEMORANDUM TO: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of Highways FROM: David Brook t_ (?1 Deputy State Histo ' reservation Officer RE: Replace Bridge No. 18 over SR 1561 over the Haw River, TIP No. B-3400, Alamance County, ER 00-10079 Thank you for your letter of June 2, 2000, transmitting the survey report by Mary Pope Furr, NCDOT concerning the above project. For purposes of compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur that the following eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under the criterion cited: Hub Mill is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A for Event as it played an important role in the economy of the area by providing a market for locally grown wheat and corn through the 1970's. the Mill is also eligible for listing under Criterion C for Design/Construction as a good representative of mill construction. We concur with the boundaries as described on page 13 and illustrated on page 14. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, Environmental Review Coordinator, at 919/733-4763. DB:kgc cc: N. Graf B. Church Location Mailing Address Telephone/Fax ADMINISTRATION 507 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 276994617 (919) 733-4763 733-8653 ARCHAEOLOGY 421 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4619 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4619 (919) 733-7342 • 715-2671 RESTORATION 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4613 (919) 733-6547 • 715-4801 SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4618 (919) 733-6545 • 715-4801 Federal Aid # BRZ-1561(3) TIP # B-3400 County: Alamance CONCURRENCE FORM FOR ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS Project Description: Replace Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 over Haw River On August 17, 2000, representatives of the ® North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) ® North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) reviewed the subject project and agreed 7 there are no effects on the National Register-listed property/properties located within the project's area of potential effect and listed on the reverse. there are no effects on the National Register-eligible property/properties located within the p . ject's area of potential effect and listed on the reverse. there is an effect on the National Register-listed property/properties located within the project's area of potential effect. The property/properties and the effect(s) are listed on the reverse. ? there is an effect on the National Register-eligible property/properties located within the project's area of potential effect. The property/properties and effect(s) are listed on the reverse. Signed: - 1-+ •DO N Date FHWA, for the Division Adm-inistrator,,or other-Federal-Agency - ..... .. .-Date-.-.. - - Rep esentative, SHPO Date r 4F/ ?7A State Historic Preservation Officer /Date Federal Aid #BRZ-1-561(3) TIP # B-3400 County: Alamance Properties within the area of potential effect for which there is no effect. Indicate if property is National Register-listed (NR) or determined eligible (DE). v b ?I i l ??E? - no c?4ecf- ek5C k )Ae tit ( ? ?(J Z- Properties within the area of potential effect for which there is an effect. Indicate property status (NR or DE) and describe the effect. Reason(s) why the effect is not adverse (if applicable). Initialed: NCDOT FI-IWA S H PO„ 0 "SiA7F ° North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office David L. S. Brook, Administrator James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director September 26, 2000 MEMORANDUM To: William D. Gilmore, PE, Manager NCDOT, Project lopment & Environmental Analysis Branch From: David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Re: Archaeological Report, Replacement of Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 over Haw River, Alamance County, TIP No. B-3400, ER 99-7698 & ER 00-9331 Thank you for your letter of August 22, 2000, transmitting the archaeological survey report by Shane C. Petersen of your staff concerning the above project. For purposes of compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur that the following sites are not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under criterion D: 31Am389&389** and 31AM390 The historic and prehistoric site lacks subsurface integrity and the prehistoric site is a redeposited isolated find. The report meets our guidelines and those of the Secretary of the Interior. We concur with Mr. Petersen's recommendation that no additional archaeological investigation is warranted in connection with this project as currently proposed. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, Environmental Review Coordinator, at 919/733-4763. cc: Nicholas Graf, FHwA Thomas Padgett, NCDOT Shane Petersen, NCDOT ADMINISTRATION ARCHAEOLOGY RESTORATION SURVEY & PLANNING Location 507 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 421 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 515 N. Blount St.. Raleigh NC Mailing Address Telephone/Fax 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 (919) 733-4763 733-8653 4619 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4619 (919) 733-7342 715-2671 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4613 (919) 733-6547 715-4801 4618 Mail Service Center. Raleigh NC 2 7699-46 1 8 (919) 733-6545 715-4801 t ® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission® 312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: John Williams, Project Planning Engineer Planning & Environmental Branch, NCDOT FROM: David Cox, Highway Project C rdina r Habitat Conservation Progr DATE: December 21, 1998 SUBJECT: NCDOT Bridge Replacements in Alamance, Haywood, and Warren counties, North Carolina. TIP Nos. B-3400, B-3401, B-3186, and B-3532. Biologists with the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the information provided and have the following preliminary comments on the subject project. Our comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). On bridge replacement projects of this scope our standard recommendations are as follows: 1. We generally prefer spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not require work within the stream and do not require stream channel realignment. The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges allows for human and wildlife passage beneath the structure, does not block fish passage, and does not block navigation by canoeists and boaters. 2. Bridge deck drains should not discharge directly into the stream. 3. Live concrete should not be allowed to contact the water in or entering into the stream. 4. If possible, bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream. Bridge Replacement Memo 2 December 21, 1998 5. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, they should be removed back to original ground elevations immediately upon the completion of the project. Disturbed areas should be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and native tree species should be planted with a spacing of not more than 10'x10'. If possible, when using temporary structures the area should be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact, allows the area to revegetate naturally and minimizes disturbed soil. 6. A clear bank (riprap free) area of at least 10 feet should remain on each side of the steam underneath the bridge. 7. In trout waters, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reviews all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nationwide and general `404' permits. We have the option of requesting additional measures to protect trout and trout habitat and we can recommend that the project require an individual `404' permit. 8. In streams that contain threatened or endangered species, NCDOT biologist Mr. Tim Savidge should be notified. Special measures to protect these sensitive species may be required. NCDOT should also contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for information on requirements of the Endangered Species Act as it relates to the project. 9. In streams that are used by anadromous fish, the NCDOT official policy entitled "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Aadromous Fish Passage (May 12, 1997)" should be followed. 10. In areas with significant fisheries for sunfish, seasonal exclusions may also be recommended. If corrugated metal pipe arches or concrete box culverts are used: 1. The culvert must be designed to allow for fish passage. Generally, this means that the culvert or pipe invert is buried at least 1 foot below the natural stream bed. If multiple cells are required the second and/or third cells should be placed so that their bottoms are at stream bankful stage (similar to Lyonsfield design). This will allow sufficient water depth in the culvert or pipe during normal flows to accommodate fish movements. If culverts are long, baffle systems are required to trap gravel and provide resting areas for fish and other aquatic organisms. 2. If multiple pipes or cells are used, at least one pipe or box should be designed to remain dry during normal flows to allow for wildlife passage. 3. Culverts or pipes should be situated so that no channel realignment or widening is required. Widening of the stream channel at the inlet or outlet of structures usually causes a decrease in water velocity causing sediment deposition that will require future maintenance. 4. Riprap should not be placed on the stream bed. In most cases, we prefer the replacement of the existing structure at the same location with road closure. If road closure is not feasible, a temporary detour should be designed and located to avoid wetland impacts, minimize the need for clearing and to Bridge Replacement Memo 3 December 21, 1998 avoid destabilizing stream banks. If the structure will be on a new alignment, the old structure should be removed and the approach fills removed from the 100-year fioodplain. Approach fills should be removed down to the natural ground elevation. The area should be stabilized with grass and planted with native tree species. If the area that is reclaimed was previously wetlands, NCDOT should restore the area to wetlands. If successful, the site may be used as wetland mitigation for the subject project or other projects in the watershed. Project specific comments: 1. B-3400 - No specific concerns. 2. B-3401- This project is in the upper headwaters of the Graham-Mebane water supply reservoir. This lake supports a diverse reservoir fishery with a quality largemouth bass population. We request that no in-water work be performed from April 1 to June 15. 3. B-3186 - Richland Creek is a tributary to Lake Junaluska. This section of stream contains trout and is designated as Delayed Harvest Trout Waters. We recommend that the existing structure be replaced with a bridge that spans the entire stream. Although we do not request a seasonal exclusion for this bridge, we do request that NCDOT use sedimentation and erosion control measures for High Quality Waters. We also want to reiterate that NCDOT should impress upon its contractors and inspectors that they are working in streams which are public resources and extra care should be taken to insure that sedimentation and erosion control devices are installed and maintained properly. 4. B-3057 - No specific fishery concerns. However, there is the potential for federally listed mussels to occur in the project vicinity. We recommend that NCDOT biologists be contacted and a survey conducted. If mussels are found, a field meeting should be held to discuss special measures to minimize impacts to these animals. We request that NCDOT routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. The NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into these streams. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. If you need further assistance or information on NCWRC concerns regarding bridge replacements, please contact me at (919) 528-9886. Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on these projects. ? JAR NATURAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT for the 020345 REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE NO. 18 ON SR 1561 OVER THE HAW RIVER ALAMANCE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA TIP No. B-3400 State Project No. 8.272401 NCDOT Consulting Project No. 98-LM-12 LandMark Design Group Project Number 1960024-212.00 Prepared for the NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT of TRANSPORTATION Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Natural Resources, Permits and Mitigation Unit One South Wilmington Street, Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Attn: Phil Harris Issued: May 2000 LANDMARK Engineers . Planners . Surveyors . Landscape Architects . Environmental Consultants 5544 Greenwich Road, Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (757) 473-2000 FAX: (757) 497-7933 LMDG@Iandmarkdg.com _3 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................................... I 1.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ..............................................................................................................................................1 1.2 PURPOSE ......................................................................................................................................................................1 1.3 METHODOLOGY ..........................................................................................................................................................1 IA QUALIFICATIONS OF INVESTIGATORS .......................................................................................................................2 1.5 DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................................................................2 2.0 PHYSICAL RESOURCES ............................................................................................................................................2 2.1 SOILS ...........................................................................................................................................................................3 2.2 WATER RESOURCES ...................................................................................................................................................3 2.2.1 Waters Impacted and Characteristics ...................................................................................................................3 2.2.2 Best Usage Classification .....................................................................................................................................3 2.2.3 Water Quality .......................................................................................................................................................4 2.2.4 Summary of Anticipated Impacts ........................................................................................................................4 3.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES ..................................................................................................................................................5 3.1 TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES .................................................................................................................................... 5 3.1.1 Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest ........................................................................................................................... 6 3.1.2 Piedmont/Mountain Bottomland Forest ............................................................................................................... 6 3.1.3 Pool ......................................................................................................................................................................6 3.1.4 Piedmont/Mountain Levee Forest ........................................................................................................................6 3.1.5 Maintained Yard .................................................................................................................................................. 7 3.1.6 Agricultural Field .................................................................................................................................................7 3.1.7 Maintained/Disturbed Roadside ........................................................................................................................... 7 3.2 AQUATIC COMMUNITIES ............................................................................................................................................ 7 3.3 SUMMARY OF ANTICIPATED IMPACTS ....................................................................................................................... 8 COMMUNITY ....................................................................................................................................................................... 8 4.0 JURISDICTIONAL TOPICS ........................................................................................................................................9 4.1 WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES .............................................................................................................................. 9 4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters .................................................................................................9 4.1.2 Summary of Anticipated Impacts ......................................................................................................................10 4.1.3 Permits ...............................................................................................................................................................10 4.1.4 Mitigation ..........................................................................................................................................................10 4.1.4.1 Avoidance .....................................................................................................................................................................11 4.1.4.2 Minimization ................................................................................................................................................................ 11 4.1.4.3 Compensatory Mitigation ............................................................................................................................................. 11 4.2 RARE AND PROTECTED SPECIES ..............................................................................................................................11 4.2.1 Federally Protected Species ...............................................................................................................................12 4.2.2 Federal Species of Concern and State Listed Species ........................................................................................12 5.0 REFERENCES .............................................................................................................................................................13 6.0 APPENDICES 6.1 FIGURES Figure 1. Alamance County and Project Vicinity Map Figure 2. Bridge No. 18 Project Area Map (Topographic Quadrangle) Figure 3. Impacted Biotic Communities (Aerial Photograph) 6.2 RESOURCE AGENCY LETTERS LIST OF TABLES TABLE 1. ANTICIPATED IMPACTS FROM THE PROPOSED PROJECT TO BIOTIC COMMUNITIES ........................................... 8 TABLE 2. FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN FOR ALAMANCE COUNTY ..............................................................................12 North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page ii j 1.0 INTRODUCTION The following Natural Resources Technical Report is submitted to assist in preparation of a Categorical Exclusion (CE) for the proposed project. The project is situated in northwestern Alamance County (Figure 1). 1.1 Project Description The proposed project calls for the replacement of Bridge No. 18 on SR 1561 over the Haw River with a new bridge on a slightly new alignment (Figures 2 and 3). Traffic will be detoured offsite during construction. The existing right-of-way is approximately 18.3 m (60.0 ft). The proposed right-of-way is 24.4 m (80.0 ft). Project length is approximately 350.5 m (1,150.0 ft). Bridge No. 18 is 45.7 m (150.0 ft) long. The superstructure and most of the substructure is composed of timber and steel. The substructure does include concrete sills but these should be removed in such a way as not to result in temporary fill. Their removal may result in disturbing the streambed. Conditions in the stream will raise sediment concerns and therefore a turbidity curtain is recommended. 1.2 Purpose The purpose of this technical report is to inventory, catalog and describe the various natural resources likely to be impacted by the proposed action. This report also attempts to identify and estimate the probable consequences of the anticipated impacts to these resources. Recommendations are made for measures that will minimize resource impacts. These descriptions and estimates are relevant only in the context of existing preliminary design concepts. If design parameters and criteria change, additional field investigations will need to be conducted. 1.3 Methodology Research was conducted prior to field investigations. Information sources used in this pre-field investigation of the study area include: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle map for Alamance County (Ossipee, 1970), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) National Wetland Inventory Map (Ossipee, 1995), Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS, formerly the Soil Conservation Service) soil maps and NCDOT aerial photographs of project area (1"=100'). Water resource information was obtained from publications of the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources (DEHNR 1996). Information concerning the occurrence of federal and state protected species in the study area was gathered from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) list of protected species and species of concern, and the N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats. General field surveys were conducted along the proposed alignment by LandMark Design Group environmental scientists Mary-Margaret McKinney and Wendee Smith on 29 March 2000. Plant communities and their associated wildlife were identified and recorded. Wildlife identification involved using one or more of the following observation techniques: active searching and capture, North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page I A visual observations (binoculars), and identification of characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, scat, tracks and burrows). Jurisdictional wetland determinations were performed utilizing delineation criteria prescribed in the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory 1987). Jurisdictional surface water determinations were performed using guidance provided by N.C. Division of Water Quality ((DWQ), formerly known as the Division of Environmental Management (DEM)), Field Location of Streams, Ditches, and Ponding (Environmental Lab 1997). 1.4 Qualifications of Investigators 1) Investigator: Mary-Margaret McKinney, Environmental Scientist, LandMark Design Group Inc., May 1996 to Present Education: MS Forestry, Minor in Ecology, North Carolina State University, 1996 BS Botany, North Carolina State University, 1994 Certifications: Registered Forester (NC Board of Registration for Foresters) Professional Wetland Scientist (Society of Wetland Scientists) Experience: Research Assistant, North Carolina State University, Department of Forestry, June 1994 to April 1996, Plant Identification Specialist, North Carolina State University Herbarium Expertise: Wetland mitigation, NEPA documentation, plant community ecology 2) Investigator: Wendee B. Smith, Environmental Scientist, LandMark Design Group Inc., September 1999 to Present Education: B.S. Natural Resources: Ecosystem Assessment, Minor in Environmental Science, North Carolina State University, 1999 Experience: Natural Systems Specialist, N.C. Department of Transportation/ Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, May 1999 to August 1999 Forestry Technician, N.C. Forest Service, Summer 1998 1.5 Definitions Definitions for area descriptions used in this report are as follows: Project Study Area denotes the s area bounded by proposed construction limits; Project Vicinity describes an area extending 0.8 km (0.5 mi) on all sides of the project study area; and Project Region is equivalent to an area represented by a 7.5 minute USGS quadrangle map with the project occupying the central position. 2.0 PHYSICAL RESOURCES Soil and water resources that occur in the study area are discussed below. Soils and availability of water directly influence composition and distribution of flora and fauna in any biotic community. The project study area lies within the Piedmont Physiographic Province. The topography in this section of Alamance County is characterized by gently rolling hills that range from nearly level to North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 2 .i j steep. Topography in the project area is relatively flat since it is located within the flood plain of the Haw River. Project elevation is approximately 179.8 in (590.0 ft) above mean sea level (msl). 2.1 Soils Five soil phases occur within project study area: Mixed alluvial land, Helena coarse sandy loam, Worsham sandy loam, Congaree fine sandy loam, and Wilkes soils. • Mixed alluvial land is a somewhat poorly drained to poorly drained soil. Its fertility is fairly high, and its content of organic matter is medium. This soil's limitation is its susceptibility to flooding. • Helena coarse sandy loam, eroded sloping phase with 6 to 10 percent slopes is a somewhat poorly or moderately well drained soil that occurs on smooth uplands or near the top of slopes. It is a very permeable soil with rapid runoff. Helena coarse sandy loam's main limitation is erosion. • Congaree fine sand,, loam with 0 to 2 percent slopes, is a moderately well drained to well drained soil that occurs along streams and first bottoms. This soil has low natural fertility. • Wilkes soils, with 2 to 6 percent slope, is an excessively drained soil that occurs on or near the top of smooth uplands that border stream breaks. The main limitations of this soil include erosion and the soil's shallow depth. 2.2 Water Resources This section contains information concerning those water resources likely to be impacted by the project. Water resource information encompasses physical aspects of the resource, its relationship to major water systems, Best Usage Standards and water quality of the resources. Probable impacts to surface water resources and minimization methods are also discussed. 2.2.1 Waters Impacted and Characteristics The Haw River will be the only surface water resource directly impacted by the proposed project (Figure 2). This section of the Haw River is located in sub-basin 03-06-02 of the Cape Fear River Basin. The average baseflow width is approximately 19.8 to 22.9 in (65.0 to 75.0 ft). The average depth is approximately 1.1 in (3.5 ft). The Haw River substrate is composed of rock and silt. 2.2.2 Best Usage Classification Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the DWQ. The classification of this section of the Haw River (DEM Index No. 16-(l)) is C NSW (NCDWQ 1996). Class C uses include aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation and agriculture. Secondary recreation includes wading, boating, and other uses involving human body contact with water where such activities take place in an infrequent, unorganized, or incidental manner. The supplemental classification of NSW denotes Nutrient Sensitive Waters that require limitations on nutrient inputs. North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 3 J Neither High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-I: undeveloped watersheds or WS-II: predominately undeveloped watersheds) nor Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within 1.6 km (1.0 mile) of the project study area. 2.2.3 Water Quality The DWQ has initiated a basin-wide approach to water quality management for each of the 17 river basins within the state. To accomplish this goal the DWQ collects biological, chemical, and physical data that can be used in basinwide assessment and planning. All basins are reassessed every five years. Prior to the implementation of the basinwide. approach to water quality management, the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN, managed 'by the DEM) assessed water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites throughout the state. There is not a BMAN station located on the Haw River within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. Many benthic macroinvertebrates have stages in their life cycle that can last from six months to a year; therefore, the adverse effects of a toxic spill will not be overcome until the next generation. Different taxa of macroinvertebrates have different tolerances to pollution, thereby, long-term changes in water quality conditions can be identified by population shifts from pollution sensitive to pollution tolerant organisms (and vice versa). Overall, the species present, the population diversity and the biomass are reflections of long-term water quality conditions. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Program. Any discharger is required to register for a permit. There is a point source discharger (Glen Raven Mills-Altamahaw Division) located on the Haw River, upstream within 1.6 km (1.0 mile) of the project study area. 2.2.4 Summary of Anticipated Impacts Replacing an existing structure in the same location with a road closure during construction is almost always preferred. It poses the least risk to aquatic organisms and other natural resources. Bridge replacement on a new location usually results in more severe impacts. Utilizing the full ROW width of 24.4m (80.0 ft), anticipated impacts to the Haw River due to the proposed project will be 24.4 m (80.0 ft). Project impacts, both aquatic and terrestrial total 0.77 ha (1.90 ac). The area of aquatic and terrestrial environments impacted is 0.06 ha (0.15 ac) and 0.71 ha (1.75 ac) respectively. Usually, project construction does not require the entire right-of-way; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. Project construction may result in the following impacts to surface waters: 1. Increased sedimentation and siltation from construction and/or erosion, 2. Changes in light incidence and water clarity due to increased sedimentation and vegetation removal, North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 4 J 3. Alteration of water levels and flows due to interruptions and/additions to surface and ground water flow from construction, 4. Changes in water temperature due to streamside vegetation removal, - 5. Increased nutrient loading during construction via runoff from exposed areas, and/or 6. Increased concentration of toxic compounds from highway runoff, construction and toxic spills. Precautions must be taken to minimize impacts to water resources in the study area. The NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMP) for the Protection of Surface Waters must be strictly enforced during the construction stage of the project. Guidelines for these BMPs include, but are not limited to minimizing built upon area and diverting stormwater away from surface water supply waters as much as possible. Provisions to preclude contamination by toxic substances during the construction interval must also be strictly enforced. 3.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES Biotic resources include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This section describes those ecosystems encountered in the study area, as well as the relationships between fauna and flora within these ecosystems. Composition and distribution of biotic communities throughout the project area are reflective of topography, hydrologic influences and past and present land uses in the study area. Descriptions of the terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications and follow descriptions presented by Schafale and Weakley (1990) where possible. Dominant flora and fauna observed, or likely to occur, in each community are described and discussed. Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are provided for each animal and plant species described. Plant taxonomy generally follows Radford et al. (1968). Animal taxonomy follows Martof et al. (1980), Potter et al. (1980) and Webster et al. (1985). Subsequent references to the same organism will include the common name only. Fauna observed during the site visits are denoted with an asterisk (*). Published range distributions and habitat analysis are used in estimating fauna expected to be present within the project area. 3.1 Terrestrial Communities Seven distinct terrestrial communities are identified in the project study area: Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest, Piedmont/Mountain Bottomland Forest, pool, Piedmont/Mountain Levee Forest, Agricultural Field, maintained yard and maintained/disturbed roadside. Community boundaries within the study area are well defined without a significant transition zone between them. Faunal species likely to occur within the study area will exploit all communities for shelter and foraging opportunities or as movement corridors. North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 5 J 3.1.1 Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest The Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest is present northeast of Bridge No. 18. This community is composed of red bud (Cercis canadensis), short-leaf pine (Pinus echinata), white oak (Quercus alba), Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), cross vine (Arisostichus capreolata), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), American holly (Ilex opaca), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), red maple (Acer rubrum) and black oak (Quercus velutina). Wildlife species associated with the Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest include: white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), eastern mole (Scalopus aquaticus), opossum (Didelphis marsupialis), meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus), gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) and raccoon (Procyon lotor). White-tailed deer will use this forest community for cover and will forage on twigs and leaves as well as mast. Avian species utilizing the alluvial forest include red-shouldered hawk (Buteo lineatus), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), rufous-sided towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus), summer tanager (Piranga rubra), tufted titmouse (Parus bicolor) and white-eyed vireo (Vireo griseus). 3.1.2 Piedmont/Mountain Bottomland Forest The Piedmont/Mountain Bottomland Forest is the riparian community northeast and northwest of Bridge No. 18. Flora within this community includes black cherry (Prunus serotina), river birch (Betula nigra), sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciua), Japanese honeysuckle (Gelsemium sempervirens), cross vine (Arisostichus capreolata), American holly (Ilex opaca), Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), crane fly orchid (Tipularia discolor), field garlic (Allium vineale) and black oak (Quercus velutina). This forested habitat will contain many of the same faunal species found in the Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest. 3.1.3 Pool A pool is located in the Piedmont/ Mountain Bottomland Forest northeast of the existing bridge. Vegetation adjacent to this pool includes river birch (Betula nigra), sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), - sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), Japanese honeysuckle (Gelsemium sempervirens) and cross vine (Arisostichus capreolata). The depth of water in the pool averages approximately 10.2 to 15.2 cm (4.0 to 6.0 in). Many species inhabiting the surrounding forested areas will frequent this area. 3.1.4 Piedmont/Mountain Levee Forest The Piedmont/Mountain Levee Forest community is the riparian area south of Bridge No. 18. Flora within this forest community includes short-leaf pine (Pinus echinata), river birch (Betula nigra), sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), red maple (Acer rubrum), box elder (Acer negundo), musclewood (Carpinus caroliniana), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) and blackberry (Rubus sp.). Many North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 6 .A of the same faunal species that occupy the other forested communities will frequent this community as well. 3.1.5 Maintained Yard The maintained community is located southwest of Bridge No. 18. Flora within this periodically maintained community includes fescue (Festuca sp.), chickweed (Stellaria media), field garlic (Allium vineale), dock (Rumex crispa), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), field pansy (Viola rafinesquii), henbit (Lamium amplexicaule), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) and vetch (Vicia angustifolia). The maintained habitat within the project area is surrounded by extensive forested areas and represents only a minor constituent of a larger community structure within the project vicinity. Therefore, faunal species frequenting the maintained community will be largely those species inhabiting the forested communities. 3.1.6 Agricultural Field The agricultural field is located northwest of Bridge No. 18 and west of the Piedmont/Mountain Bottomland Forest. At the time of the site visit, this community appeared to be recently tilled and contained no vegetation. The maintained habitat within the project area is surrounded by extensive forested areas and represents only a minor constituent of a larger community structure within the project vicinity. Therefore, faunal species frequenting the agricultural community will be largely those species inhabiting the forested communities. 3.1.7 Maintained/Disturbed Roadside The maintained/disturbed community includes road shoulders along SR 1561 that are present along the entire length of the project. Flora within this periodically maintained community includes fescue (Festuca sp.), chickweed (Stellaria media), field garlic (Allium vineale), dock (Rumex crispa), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), field pansy (Viola rafinesquii), henbit (Lamium amplexicaule), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), wild strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) and vetch (Vicia angustifolia). The width of the road shoulder is approximately 4.6 m (15.0 ft) wide. The maintained habitat within the project area is surrounded by extensive forested areas and represents only a minor constituent of a larger community structure within the project vicinity. Therefore, faunal species frequenting the maintained community will be largely those species inhabiting the forested communities. 3.2 Aquatic Communities One aquatic community, the Haw River will be impacted by the proposed project. Physical characteristics of a water body and the condition of the water resource influence faunal composition of aquatic communities. Terrestrial communities adjacent to a water resource also greatly influence North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 7 11 aquatic communities. No submersed or emergent aquatic vegetation was observed within this section of the Haw River. Fauna associated with these aquatic communities includes various invertebrate and vertebrate species. Fish species likely to occur in the Haw River include golden shiner (Notemigonus crysoleucas), creek -- chub (Semotilus atromaculatus), silver red-horse (Moxostoma anisurum) and channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). Invertebrates that would be present include various species of caddisflies (Trichoptera), mayflies (Ephemeroptera), crayfish (Decapoda), dragonflies (Odonata) and damselflies (Odonata). 3.3 Summary of Anticipated Impacts Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic resources described. Any construction related activities in or near these resources have the potential to impact biological functions. This section quantifies and qualifies impacts to the natural resources in terms of area impacted and ecosystems affected. Temporary and permanent impacts are considered here as well. Calculated impacts to terrestrial resources reflect the relative abundance of each community present within the study area. Project construction will result in clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Table 1 summarizes potential quantitative losses to these biotic communities, resulting from project construction. Estimated impacts are derived using the entire proposed right of way width of 24.4 m (80.0 ft) minus the area previously impacted by the existing road. Usually, project construction does not require the entire right-of-way; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. Table 1. Anticipated impacts from the aronosed proiect to biotic communities Community Alternate 1 Mixed Mesic Hardwood Forest 0.10 (0.26) Piedmont/ Mountain Bottomland Forest 0.20 (0.51) Pool 0.02 (0.04) Piedmont/ Mountain Levee Forest 0.01 (0.03) Maintained Yard 0.03 (0.09) Agricultural Field 0.08 (0.21) Maintained/Disturbed Roadside 0.28 (0.69) Total 0.72(l.83) Note: Values cited are in hectares (acres). Plant communities found within the proposed project area serve as nesting and sheltering habitat for various wildlife species. Replacing Bridge No. 18 and its associated improvements will reduce habitat for faunal species, thereby diminishing faunal numbers. However, due to the size and scope of this project, it is anticipated that impacts to fauna will be minimal. Areas modified by construction (but not paved) will habitat. Reduced habitat will displace some wildlife wildlife by the creation of earlier successional habitat. activities will repopulate areas suitable for the species. become road shoulders and early successional further from the roadway while attracting other Animals temporarily displaced by construction North Carolina Department of Transportation The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 May 2000 Page 8 J Aquatic communities are sensitive to even small changes in their environment. Stream channelization, scouring, siltation, sedimentation and erosion from construction-related work will affect water quality and biological constituents. Although direct impacts may be temporary, environmental impacts from these construction processes may result in long term or irreversible effects. Impacts often associated with in-stream construction include increased channelization and scouring of the streambed. In-stream construction alters the stream substrate and may remove streamside vegetation at the site. Disturbances to the substrate will produce siltation, which clogs the gills and/or feeding mechanisms of benthic organisms (sessile filter-feeders and deposit-feeders), fish and amphibian species. Benthic organisms can also be covered by excessive amounts of sediment. These organisms are slow to recover or repopulate a stream. The removal of streamside vegetation and placement of fill material at the construction site alters the terrain. Alterations of the streambank enhance the likelihood of erosion and sedimentation. Revegetation stabilizes and holds the soil thus mitigating these processes. Erosion and sedimentation carry soils, toxic compounds and other materials into aquatic communities at the construction site. These processes magnify turbidity and can cause the formation of sandbars at the site and downstream, thereby altering water flow and the growth of vegetation. Streamside alterations also lead to more direct sunlight penetration and to elevations of water temperatures that may impact many species. 4.0 JURISDICTIONAL TOPICS This section provides descriptions, inventories and impact analysis pertinent to two important issues- "waters of the United States" and rare and protected species. 4.1 Waters of the United States Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "waters of the United States" as defined in 22 CFR Part 328.3. Any action that proposes to dredge or place fill material into surface waters or wetlands falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1344). Surface waters include all standing or flowing waters that have commercial or recreational value to the public. Wetlands are identified based on the presence of hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and saturated or flooded conditions during all or part of the growing season. 4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters Criteria to delineate jurisdictional wetlands include evidence of hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation and hydrology. Potential wetland communities were investigated pursuant to the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. The three-parameter approach is used where hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation and prescribed hydrologic characteristics must all be present for an area to be considered a wetland. Wetlands are not present within the project area. North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 9 -2 The Haw River is a jurisdictional surface water under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 USC 1344). Discussion of the biological, physical and water quality aspects of all surface waters in the project area are presented in previous sections of this report. 4.1.2 Summary of Anticipated Impacts Anticipated impacts to surface waters are determined by using the entire project ROW width of 24.4 m (80.0 ft). Considering the proposed project, impacts to the Haw River will consist of a 27.4 m (90 ft) width and a 21.3 m (70.0 ft) long crossing of the Haw River, for an area of 0.06 ha (0.15 acre). A pool in the project area is located in the Piedmont/ Mountain Bottomland Forest. Vegetation adjacent to this pool includes river birch (Betula nigra), sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), Japanese honeysuckle (Gelsemium sempervirens) and cross vine (Arisostichus capreolata). Impacts to this pool total 0.02 ha (0.04 ac). Waters impacts to the Haw River and the pool will total approximately 0.08 ha (0.19 ac). Usually, project construction does not require the entire ROW, therefore, actual surface water impacts may be considerably less. 4.1.3 Permits As described above, impacts to jurisdictional surface waters are anticipated from the proposed project. As a result, construction activities will require permits and certifications from various regulatory agencies charged with protecting the water quality of public water resources Nationwide Permit 23 (33 CFR 330.5(a) (23)) is likely to be applicable for all impacts to "waters of the United States" resulting from the proposed project. This permit authorizes activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded or financed in whole or part by another federal agency or department where that agency or department has determined that pursuant to the Council on Environmental Quality regulation for implementing the procedural provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act • the activity, work, or discharge is categorically excluded from environmental documentation because it is included within a category of actions which neither individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment, and • 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 also require a 401 Water Quality Certification from the DWQ prior to the issuance of the Nationwide Permit. Section 401 of the Clean Water Act 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." Section 401 Certification allows surface waters to be temporarily impacted for the duration of the construction or other land manipulation. The issuance of a 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 permit. 4.1.4 Mitigation The COE has adopted, through the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wetland mitigation policy which embraces the concept of "no net loss of wetlands" and sequencing. The purpose of this North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 10 policy is to restore and maintain 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 (to wetlands), minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing impacts over time and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these three aspects (avoidance, minimization and compensatory mitigation) must be considered sequentially. 4.1.4.1 Avoidance Avoidance mitigation examines all appropriate and practicable possibilities of averting impacts to "waters of the United States." According to a 1990 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the COE, in determining "appropriate and practicable" measures to offset unavoidable impacts, such measures 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. 4.1.4.2 Minimization Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to "waters of the United States." Implementation of these steps will be required through project modifications and permit conditions. Minimization typically focuses on decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of median widths, ROW widths, fill slopes and/or road shoulder widths. Other practical mechanisms to minimize impacts to "waters of the United States" crossed by the proposed project include: strict enforcement of sedimentation control BMP's for the protection of surface waters during the entire life of the project; reduction of clearing and grubbing activity; reduction/elimination of direct discharge into streams; reduction of runoff velocity; re- establishment of vegetation on exposed areas; judicious pesticide and herbicide usage; minimization of "in-stream" activity; and litter/debris control. 4.1.4.3 Compensatory Mitigation Compensatory mitigation is not normally considered until anticipated impacts to "waters of the United States" have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. 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 that remain after all appropriate and practicable minimization has been performed. Compensatory actions - often include restoration, creation and enhancement of "waters of the United States." Such actions should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or contiguous to the discharge site whenever practicable. Compensatory mitigation is not usually necessary with a Nationwide Permit No. 23. 4.2 Rare and Protected Species Some populations of fauna and flora have been in, or are in, the process of decline either due to natural forces or their inability to coexist with human activities. Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect a species classified as federally protected, be subject to review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). Other species may receive additional protection under separate state laws. North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 11 l 4.2.1 Federally Protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE), and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under the provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of 13 March 2000, the FWS lists no federally protected species for Alamance County (Table 3). 4.2.2 Federal Species of Concern and State Listed Species There are two Federal Species of Concern listed by the FWS for Alamance County. Federal Species of Concern are not afforded federal protection under the Endangered Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. However, the status of these species is subject to change, and so should be included for consideration. Federal Species of Concern (FSC) are defined as a species that is under consideration for listing but for which there is insufficient information to support listing. In addition, organisms, which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T), or Special Concern (SC) by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program list of Rare Plant and Animal Species, are afforded state protection under the NC State Endangered Species Act and the NC Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. Table 2 lists federal species of concern, the state status of these species (if afforded state protection), and the potential for suitable habitat in the project area for each species. This species list is provided. for information purposes as the protection status of these species may be upgraded in the future. Surveys for these species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were any of these species observed. A review of the NCNHP database of rare species and unique habitats on 27 March 2000 revealed no records of North Carolina rare and/or protected species in or near the project study area. Table 2. Federal Species of Concern for Alamance County. Scientific Name Common Name State Status Habitat Present Lam silis cariosa Yellow Lam mussel T Yes Monotro sis odorata Sweet Pinesa C Yes "T"----- A Threatened species is one which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. "C"----- A Candidate species is one which is very rare in North Carolina, generally with 1-20 populations in the state, generally substantially reduced in numbers by habitat destruction, direct exploitation or disease. The species is also either rare throughout its range or disjunct in North Carolina from a main range in a different part of the country or the world. North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 12 ., 5.0 REFERENCES American Ornithologists' Union. 1983. Check-List of North American Birds (6th ed.). Lawrence, Kansas, Allen Press, Inc. Amoroso, J.L. and A.S. Weakley. 1997. Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Plant Species of North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Raleigh, N.C. Cowardin, Lewis M., V. Carter, F.C. Golet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classifications of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. Environmental Laboratory. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual. Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Miss. LeGrand, Jr., H.E. and S.P. Hall. 1997. Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Animal. Species of North Carolina. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Raleigh, N.C. Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey and J.R. Harrison III. 1980. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. NCDEM. 1996. Cape Fear River Basinwide Water Quality Management Plan. Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. Raleigh, N.C. NCDEM. 1993. Classifications and Water Quality Standards for North Carolina River Basins. Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources. Raleigh, N.C. NCDEM. September 1999. Division of Parks and Recreation. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program Biological Conservation Database. NCWRC. 1990. Endangered Wildlife of North Carolina. North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Raleigh, N.C. Palmer, Willham M. and Alvin L. Braswell, 1995. Reptiles of North Carolina. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Pennak, R.W. 1989. Fresh-water Invertebrate of the United States, 3'. John Wiley and Sons, Inc. Potter, E.F., J.F. Parnell and R.P. Teulings. 1980. Birds of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles and G.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. North Carolina Department of Transportation The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 May 2000 Page 13 J Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina. Third Approximation. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, Division of Parks and Recreation, NCDEHNR. Raleigh, N.C. USDA. 2000. Unpublished soils data from the Alamance County NRCS. US Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell and W.C. Biggs. 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, Virginia and Maryland. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. L--- North Carolina Department of Transportation May 2000 The LandMark Design Group, Inc. Project No. 1960024-212.00 Page 14 1 .. i s j ,i ?. '. I I ail I a I I 1 gJgl II s 4T BY,: LANDMARKDESIGNGROUP JAMIE SHERN; 919 570 0661; MAR-10-00 3:05PM; PAGE 39/59 North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch Alamance County s' Replace Bridge No. l$ on SR 1561 Over Haw River j' B--3400 F 1 GORE 1 SENT BY: LANDMARKDESIGNGROUP JAMIE SHERN; 919 570 0661; MAR-10-00 3:06PM; PAGE 40/59 MOB 12'30" C 4001 (N TI I 1 w r r?? L> 1, 106 • `;':??' +? l ? ?• l% ' ,-,.?r.?- .?- ..fir `? \?/ , i ? . ' ? , ?I? - 71/ Cemi ??c? ',1 \J/? Vii. ?u ?Iir"?--? ??, t• . :•'` W'^ Nli 'Ov .1 Q-9 1; . 1-f ur T", le, )j T TV 1b J1 • •1 21l] I Aenc• Orin 1 ff Ao%nn9A_9a7 on ril F AlAAAF AlnrnnnrP unn r rlr ?w 4 r s o T p Q C O )TT BY: LANDMARKDESIGNGROUP JAMIE SHERN; 919 570 0661; MAR-10-00 3:09PM; PAGE 41/59 inaNYMAlife Resources Commissions _ North Carol .? Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188,919-733-3391 512 N. Salisbury Street, , Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: John Williams, Project Planning Engineer Planning & Environmental Branch, NCDOT FROM: David Cox, Highway Project C rdina r Habitat Conservation Progr DATE: December 21, 1998 SUBJEC"1: NCDO North CarReplacements in olina. TIP Nosl B-3400, B Haywood, 401, B-a3 36, andn counties, No B-3532. Biologists with the N. C. Wildlife; Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the information provided and have the following preliminary continents on the subject project. Our comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(0) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). On bridge replacement projects of this scope our standard recommendations are as follows: 1. We generally prefer spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not require work within the stream and do not require stream channel realignment. The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges allows for human and wildlife passage beneath the structure, does not block fish passage, and does not block navigation by canoeists and boaters. 2. Bridge deck drains should not discharge directly into the stream. 3. Live concrete should not be allowed to contact the water in or entering into the stream. 4. If possible, bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream. ?'JT BY: LANDA4ARKDESIGNGROUP JAMIE SHERN; 919 570 0661; MAR-10-00 3:10PM; PAGE 42/59 Bridge Replacement Memo 2 December 21, 1998 5. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, they should be removed back to original ground elevations immediately upon the completion of the project. Disturbed areas should be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and native tree species should be planted with a spacing of not more than 10'x10'. If possible, when using temporary structures the area should be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact, allows the area to revegetate naturally and minimizes disturbed soil. 6. A clear bank (riprap free) area of at least 10 feet should remain on each side of the steam underneath the bridge. 7. In trout waters, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reviews all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nationwide and general `404' permits. We have the option of requesting additional measures to protect trout and trout habitat and we can recommend that the project require an individual `404' permit. 8. In streams that contain threatened or endangered species, NCDOT biologist Mr. Tim Savidge should be notified. Special measures to protect these sensitive species may be required. NCDOT should also contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for information on requirements of the Endangered Species Act as it relates to the project. 9. In streams that are used by anadromous fish, the NCDOT official policy entitled "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromou Fish Passage (May 12, 1997)" should be followed. 10. In areas with significant fisheries for sunfish, seasonal exclusions may also be recommended. If corrugated metal pipe arches or concrete box culverts are used: 1. The culvert must be de invert is bur ed alt 1 ast lp foot belowc the naturalsstream that the culvert or ptp bed. If multiple cells ttt msQ re t sttreambankfful stage (similar t oLyonsi"ield placed so that their bo a Bunn design). This will allow sufficient water depth in the culvert or piP duri g normal flows q accomm ap gravel and p ovide resting a eas for fish and other systems are required p 8 aquatic organisms. 2. If multiple pipes or cells are useds t least fe pi e or b xshou d be designed to remain dry during normal flo 3. Culverts i re uir d. W dening of the stream c ? 1 at the inle orooutlet of widening is req structures usually causes a decrease in water velocity causing sediment deposition that will require future maintenance. 4. Riprap should not be placed on the stream bed. In most cases, we prefer the replacement of the existing structu aetouh should be location with road closure. if road closure is not feasible, a temporary designed and located to avoid wetland impacts, minimize the need fur clearing and to .E?NT,BY: LANDMARKDESIGNGROUP JAMIE SHERN; 919 570 0661; MAR-10-00 3:11PM; rAbt 40/Dy Bridge Replacement Memo 3 December 21, 1998 avoid destabilizing stream banks. If the structure will be on a new alignment, the old structure should be removed and the approach fills removed from the 100-year floodplain. Approach fills should be removed down to the natural ground elevation. The area should be stabilized with grass and planted with native tree species. If the area that is reclaimed was previously wetlands, NCDOT should restore the area to wetlands. If successful, the site may be used as wetland mitigation for the subject project or other projects in the watershed. Project specific comments: 1. B-3400 - No specific concerns. 2. B-3401- This project is in the upper headwaters of the Graham-Mebane water supply reservoir. This lake supports a diverse reservoir fishery with a quality largemouth bass population. We request that no in-water work be performed from April 1 to June 15. 3. B-3186 - Richland Creek is a tributary to Lake Junaluska. This section of stream contains trout and is designated as Delayed Harvest Trout Waters. We recommend that the existing structure be replaced with a bridge that spans the entire stream. Although we do not request a seasonal exclusion for this bridge, we do request that NCDOT use sedimentation and erosion control measures for High Quality Waters. We also want to reiterate that NCDOT should impress upon its contractors and inspectors that they are working in streams which are public resources and extra care should be taken to insure that sedimentation and erosion control devices are installed and maintained properly. 4. B-3057 - No specific fishery concerns. However, there is the potential for federally listed mussels to occur in the project vicinity. We recommend that NCDOT biologists be contacted and a survey conducted. If mussels are found, a field meeting should be held to discuss special measures to minimize impacts to these animals. We request that NCDOT routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. The NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into these streams. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. If you need further assistance or infori-nation on ease contact me at (919) 528-9886. Thank you for the bridge replacements, pl opporrtunity to review and comment on these projects. - 9 NT BY: LANDMARKDESIGNGROUP JAMIE SHERN; 919 570 0661; srntF T L MAR-10-00 3:12PM; PAGE 44159 North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Betty Ray McCain, Secretary January 20, 1999 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442 Re: Bridge #18 on SR 1561 over Haw River, Alamance County, B-3400, ER 99-7698 Dear Mr. Graf: Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director M' On December 15, 1998, 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, a mill is located southwest of the bridge. We recommend that an architectural historian with NCDOT evaluate this property for National Register eligibility and report the findings to us. The mill located southwest of the bridge should be recorded and evaluated for its archaeological significance if it may be affected by the proposed bridge replacement. 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 Fsst Jones Street • Raleigh, North C:srnlins 27601-2807 T $Y: LANDMARKDESIGNGROUP JAMIE SHERN; 919 570 0661; MAR-10-00 3:13PM; PAGE 45/5 i Nicholas L. Graf January 20, 1999, Page 2 Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. Sincerely, David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:slw cc: W. D. ore B. Church T. Padgett