20021017 Ver 1_Complete File_20020625

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PROGRAM
March 1, 2005
DWQ #: 02-1017
COE #: 200231068
DOT TIP #: 1-4410
Greg Thorpe, PhD., Manager J@@140.
Planning & Environmental Branch NC Department of Transportation 1! RN
1548 Mail Service Center ryl H? 4 2005
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
NR . WA
AND Subject: I-77/US 21/SR 1109 Interchange Bridge 8OWTERNj
County: Iredell H
While comparing our records with those of the US Army Corps of Engineers, we have discovered that we never
received your payment for the cost of mitigation conditioned in the 404 Permit dated July 9, 2002 for the subject
project, According to the Corps of Engineers this project has been completed.
Special Conditions of the 404 Permit allowed you to impact 0.07 acres of wetlands associated with this project by
payment to the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program in the amount necessary to perform 0.14 acres of
compensatory mitigation, according to the Memorandum of Understanding between the NC Department of
Environment and Natural Resources and the US Army Corps of Engineers dated November 4, 1998, in the
Catawba River Basin (Cataloging Unit 03050101). Construction within jurisdictional areas on the property was
supposed to begin only after the permittee had made full payment to the NC WRP, and the NC WRP had made
written confirmation to the District Engineer that it agreed to accept responsibility for the mitigation work
required.
Enclosed you will find an invoice in the amount of $6,000.00 for the above referenced project. Considering the
fact that this project has been completed, funds will be transferred internally to cover the amount of this invoice.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Beth Harmon, 919-715-1929
incerely, '?--?
Illiam D. Gilmore, PE
Director
cc: Cyndi Karoly, 401 Wetlands Unit
Angie Pennock, USACOE, Asheville
Allen Johnson, DWQ Regional Office, Mooresville
File
R,"t-oriog ... F ... Protect, our State
ern
NCCDENR
North Carolina Ecosystem Enhancement Program, 1652 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1652 / 919-715-0476 / www.nceep.net
y
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
June 21, 2002
US Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Field Office
151 Patton Ave.
Room 208 p ?t *`
Asheville, NC 28801-5006
ATTENTION: Mr. John W. Hendrix
NCDOT Project Manager
Dear Mr. Hendrix:

LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
012101 7
FILE COPY
Subject: Nationwide 23 Permit Application for the I-77/US 21/ SR 1109 (Williamson
Road) Interchange, Iredell County, NCDOT Division 12, State Project No.
6.8 21011, TIP Project No. I-4410.
Please find enclosed a letter from the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program
(NCWRP) in addition to three copies of the project planning report for the above
referenced project. The proposed project consists of widening the existing bridge across
I-77 to a four-lane facility, realigning the intersection of SR 1246 (Fairview Road) with
US 21 to the west, and improving all the I-77/US 21/SR 1109 interchange ramps with the
exception of Ramp D. The need for the proposed project is due to poor traffic operations
within the interchange area. The analysis of alternatives and the purpose and need of the
project are discussed in the Categorical Exclusion (CE) signed May 14, 2002. Traffic will
be maintained on-site during construction.
Impacts to Waters of the U.S.: Since the completion of the CE, the project design has
been refined. Jurisdictional wetland impacts, totaling 0.07 acre will occur along US 21
due to the construction of I-4410. This wetland was delineated by NCDOT Division 12
Environmental Officer, Trish Simon on February 1 and February 25, 2002. Jurisdictional
determinations were conducted by John Hendrix (USAGE) and Mike Parker (NCDWQ
Mooresville Regional Office) on February 22, 2002 and January 31, 2002, respectively.
There are no stream impacts.

An adjacent project (I-4410A) will impact the same wetland system as I-4410.
w . , . T the NCDOT is combining the wetland impacts for both projects, for a total of
..,7 acres of wetland impacts. Two separate permit applications will be submitted for I-
4410 and 1-441 OA.
Wetland Mitigation: The NCWRP has agreed to provide compensatory mitigation, at a
2:1 ratio, for the combined wetland impacts for both NCDOT projects, I-4410 and I-
441 OA. A copy of this letter is attached.
All aspects of this project are being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as
a "Categorical Exclusion" in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). Therefore, we
propose to proceed under a NWP 23 in accordance with the Federal Register of January
15, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 10, Pages 2019-2095). We anticipate a 401 General
Certification will apply to this project, and are providing two copies of the CE document
to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of
Water Quality, for their review.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Ms. Lynn Smith
at [phone], extension 286.
Sincerely,
1?/L? ,J? C-L
V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D., Manager
Office of the Natural Environment
cc: w/ attachment:
Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDWQ, Raleigh
Ms. Marella Buncick, USFWS, Asheville
Mr. Owen Anderson, NCWRC, Waynesville
Mr. Greg Perfetti, P.E., NCDOT Structure Design, Raleigh
Mr. Jay Bennett, P.E., NCDOT Roadway Design, Raleigh
Mr. Burt Tasaico, P.E., NCDOT Program Development, Raleigh
Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., NCDOT Highway Design, Raleigh
Mr. Dave Henderson, P.E., NCDOT Hydraulics Unit, Raleigh
Mr. Ron Elmore, P.E., NCDOT PD&EA, Raleigh
Mr. Michael L. Holder, P.E., NCDOT Division 12 Engineer, Shelby
Ms. Trish Simon, NCDOT Division 12 Environmental Officer, Shelby
pF W ATFq
'OA pG
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IV.9W.001 1 . LOO.Or. ,,.o......
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Acting Director
Division of Water Quality
May 9, 2002
Mr. Phil Harris
NCDOT - P D and E A Branch
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Harris:
Subject: Project: Improvements I-77/US21
County: Iredell
TIP #: I-4410 and I-4410A
The purpose of this letter is to notify you that the North Carolina Wetlands
Restoration Program (NCWRP) will accept payment for wetland impacts associated with
the subject project. Please note that the decision by the NCWRP to accept the mitigation
requirements of this project does not assure that this payment will be approved by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers and the N.C. Division of Water Quality Wetlands/401 Unit. It is
the responsibility of the applicant to contact these agencies to determine if payment to the
NCWRP for impacts associated with this project is appropriate.
Based on the information supplied by you in a letter dated April 17, 2002, the
wetland restoration that is necessary to satisfy the compensatory mitigation requirements
for this project is summarized in the following table. The maximum amount of mitigation
that the NCWRP will acce t for this project is also indicated in this table.
Non-Riparian Wetlands
(acres) Riparian Wetlands
(acres) Stream
linear feet)
Impact 0.27
Mitigation Max. 0.54
The wetland mitigation will be provided as specified in the 401 Water Quattty
Certification and/or Section 404 Permit for impacts associated with the subject project in
Cataloging Unit 03050101 of the Catawba River Basin. The mitigation will be performed
in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding between the N.C. Department of
Environment and Natural Resources and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dated
November 4, 1998.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact Crystal
Braswell at [phone].
$i5cer?l ?.
ald E. a ell
Ron ,
Program Manager
cc: Rob Ridings, Wetlands/401 Unit
John Hendrix, USACOE
John Hennessy, RRO ?1???????????
Wetlands Restoration Program 1619 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1619 [phone] Customer Service u
320 West Jones Street Raleigh, NC 27603 Fax: [phone] 623-7748 IVI.

1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange
Iredell County
T.I.P. No. 1-4410
State Project No. 6.821011
021017
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
AND
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
APPROVED:
5•?4•?2
Date
5 114- /pZ
William D. ore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation

Date -kt-Nicholas L. Graf, P.E.
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange
Iredell County
T.I.P. No. 1-4410
State Project No. 6.821011
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
May 2002
Documentation Prepared by THE LPA GROUP of North Carolina, P.A.
•.•??1N CARp?
14
SEAL
t9ooi
IT/ N
L
For the North Carolina Department of Transportation
01
Ron Elmore, P.E.
Project Manager
Consultant Engineering Unit
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
PROJECT COMMITMENTS
I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange
Iredell County
T.I.P. No. 1-4410
State Project No. 6.821011
The following special commitments have been agreed to by NCDOT:
PD&EA, Division, Roadway Design, Structure Design
To avoid encroaching on the Centre Presbyterian Church property, which is listed in
the National Register of Historic Places, NCDOT will construct a retaining wall along
the south side of US 21.
NCDOT will make all practicable efforts to minimize impacts to the trees/tree
canopies of the Centre Presbyterian Church property.
Categorical Exclusion
Green Sheet
May 2002
I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange
Iredell County
T.I.P. No. 1-4410
State Project No. 6.821011
INTRODUCTION: Improvements to the I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road)
Interchange are included in the 2002-2008 North Carolina Department of Transportation
(NCDOT), Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Since no substantial
environmental impacts are anticipated as a result of the project, it is classified as a
Federal "Categorical Exclusion".
1. PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR PROJECT
A. Need for the Project
The transportation needs in the vicinity of the proposed project are highlighted by
poor traffic operations within the interchange area and are summarized as
follows:
The volume of traffic using the I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road)
Interchange has reached the point where significant delays are occurring
during morning and afternoon peak traffic volume periods. Traffic flow is
extremely unstable, and there are virtually no usable gaps in the traffic
stream. When traffic flow functions in this manner, it is operating at level of
service E as defined in the Highway Capacity Manual. Capacity analysis of
the interchange and surrounding intersections confirm the current operational
problems.
The existing traffic volumes in the vicinity of the interchange are
approximately 19,400 vehicles per day (vpd) on SR 1109 (Williamson Road)
and 18,000 vpd on US 21. These volumes are expected to increase to 23,700
vpd and 33,900 vpd, respectively, by the year 2025. On 1-77, the existing
traffic volume south of the interchange is 73,000 vpd and 53,000 vpd north of
the interchange and is expected to increase to 110,400 vpd and 101,800 vpd,
respectively, by the design year 2025. Due to the projected increase in traffic
volumes, the existing operational problems will continue to worsen.
The existing two-lane bridge and two-lane approach roadways limit the ability
of the interchange to handle the traffic volumes at an acceptable level of
service. Vehicles making left turn movements onto 1-77 often must wait for
the few acceptable gaps in the opposing traffic stream. These waiting
vehicles block the through traffic movements, thus creating queues which
clog the interchange.
The queues in the interchange area also restrict the flow of vehicles exiting
the interstate (especially traffic using the northbound 1-77 exit ramp). This
creates backups which extend down the off-ramps and results in slow or
stopped traffic in the through lanes of 1-77.
B. Purpose of the Project
The purpose of the project is to provide greater traffic handling capabilities
through the interchange area by enhancing the capacity on the bridge and
approaching roadways as follows:
• Create additional capacity by adding travel lanes across the interchange
bridge and along the approach roadways, which will improve traffic operations
and allow the interchange to handle current and projected traffic volumes
more efficiently.
• Eliminate the left turn conflicts for westbound SR 1109 (Williamson Road)/US
21 traffic desiring to travel southbound on 1-77. This is accomplished by the
addition of a loop ramp in the northwest quadrant of the interchange which
will allow for a free-flow movement onto 1-77.
• Improve traffic flow near the interchange and on US 21 by eliminating the left
turn that is currently allowed from SR 1246 (Fairview Road) onto US 21 and
from US 21 onto SR 1246. This would be accomplished by allowing only right
in and right out movements at this intersection.
• Provide additional turning lanes for the 1-77 northbound off ramp
This project is proposed as a temporary traffic capacity improvement. As traffic
volumes continue to increase on 1-77 through the Mooresville area, it is
anticipated 1-77 will require future widening. The existing 1-77/US 21/SR 1109
(Williamson Road) Interchange bridge is not long enough to accommodate future
travel lanes on 1-77. When 1-77 is widened and the bridge is replaced, the entire
interchange will likely need to be re-configured to accommodate the projected
traffic movements.
11. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The project is located in the Extra Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) of the City of
Mooresville in Iredell County approximately four miles from downtown
Mooresville. The interchange consists of 1-77 and US 21 which enters the
interchange area from the east and becomes SR 1109 (Williamson Road) at the
west end of the interchange bridge. SR 1246 (Fairview Road) intersects US 21
just east of the interchange and proceeds south (See Figures 1 and 2).
SR 1109 (Williamson Road) and US 21 are both identified as Major
Thoroughfares on the mutually adopted Mooresville Thoroughfare Plan. The
Statewide Functional Classification for SR 1109 (Williamson Road) is a minor
collector, and US 21 is classified as a major collector through the project area.
1-77 is classified as an interstate route. The speed limit along SR 1109
(Williamson Road) and US 21 is posted at 45 miles per hour. The speed limit on
1-77 is posted at 65 miles per hour.
2
Land use in the northwest quadrant of the interchange consists of commercial
development which includes two gas stations / convenience stores, a grocery
store, and a veterinarian and other office development. Development in the
southwest quadrant includes light industrial and residential. In the southeast
quadrant, the development consists of a church, a hospital and new offices. This
quadrant is expected to continue to add more office development with Lowe's
Home Improvement Warehouse relocating their corporate headquarters to this
area. In the northeast quadrant of the interchange, additional growth is underway
with the construction of several medical offices and a new hotel.
The I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange consists of a diamond
ramp configuration. Traffic signals are located at the intersections of the
interchange ramps with US 21 and Williamson Road. The existing two-lane
bridge is 26 feet (8 meters) wide and crosses 1-77 at a skew from perpendicular.
SR 1109 (Williamson Road), as it approaches the interchange from the west, is a
two-lane, 24-foot (7.3-meter), rural roadway with four-foot (1.2-meter) paved
shoulders. US 21, as it approaches the interchange from the east, is a three-
lane, 40-foot (12-meter), facility with four-foot (1.2-meter) paved shoulders. As
US 21 approaches the interchange, the right turn lane drops at the northbound
ramp to 1-77, and the roadway becomes two lanes, 26 feet (8 meters) wide, with
four-foot (1.2-meter) paved shoulders.
The existing traffic volumes in the vicinity of the interchange are approximately
19,400 vehicles per day (vpd) on SR 1109 (Williamson Road) and 18,000 vpd on
US 21. These volumes include one-percent truck-tractor, semi-trailer trucks
(TTST) and three-percent dual-tired (DT) vehicles. SR 1109 (Williamson Road)
and US 21 are not designated bicycle routes, and there are no indications that an
unusual number of bicyclists use these roadways. On 1-77, the existing traffic
volume south of the interchange is 73,000 vpd and 53,000 vpd north of the
interchange. These volumes include three-percent TTSTs and six-percent DTs
on 1-77 (See Figure 4 for existing and projected traffic volumes).
Multiple aerial utility lines parallel SR 1109 (Williamson Road) across the
interchange to US 21. Aerial cables include electrical power lines on the north
side of the interchange bridge. There are no underground utilities attached to the
interchange bridge. Underground utilities adjacent to the south side of SR 1109
(Williamson Road) include a 3-inch (7.5 centimeter) sanitary sewer line and a 12-
inch (30 centimeters) waterline. An underground 8-inch (20-centimeter) gas line
and a telephone line parallel the north side of SR 1109 (Williamson Road). Along
US 21, there is an underground four-inch (10-centimeter) gas line, six-inch (15
centimeters) gas line, and 16-inch (40.5-centimeter) water line paralleling the
western edge of the pavement.
There were eighteen accidents reported in the vicinity of I-77/US 21/SR 1109
(Williamson Road) Interchange during the period of January 1, 1998 to
September 30, 2001. Four of the accidents were rear end collisions involving
stopped or slowed vehicles in the travel lane and six involved left turning
vehicles. No fatalities were recorded during this period.
3
Fifteen (15) school buses cross the 1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road)
interchange four times daily, for a total of 60 school bus trips per day.
III. ALTERNATIVES
A. Recommended Alternative
The Recommended Alternative consists of widening the existing bridge to the
north to create a four-lane travel way. This will tie into SR 1109 (Williamson
Road) on the west and US 21 on the east. A cloverleaf ramp (loop) will be
constructed in the northwest quadrant of the interchange to provide direct west to
south movements from US 21 to 1-77 in lieu of left turns at a traffic signal. The
southbound exit ramp will be relocated to the west so that it uses the
"abandoned" Alcove Road alignment and creates space for the cloverleaf ramp.
The existing northbound entrance and exit ramps will continue to be utilized (See
Figure 2). These ramps will be upgraded and modified to meet the requirements
of the new bridge geometry. This alternative will maintain traffic on site during
construction.
The existing bridge across 1-77 will be widened to a four-lane, 48-foot (14.6-
meter), travel way with a five-foot (1.5-meter) shoulder along the south side and a
two-foot (0.6-meter) shoulder along the north side for a clear roadway width of 55
feet (16.8 meters). The vertical clearances of the widened portion over the 1-77
northbound and southbound lanes will be greater than 16 feet. Figure 3 shows
the roadway and structure typical sections. The west approach to the bridge on
SR 1109 (Williamson Road) will provide for a 52-foot (15.6-meter) travel way with
curb and gutter. The new facility tapers to the existing three-lane section
approximately 1,900 feet (579 meters) west of the existing interchange bridge
near relocated SR 1206 (Alcove Road). The east bridge approach along US 21
is also a 52-foot (15.6-meter) travel way with curb and gutter. East of the
northbound entrance and exit ramps, US 21 widens to a five-lane, 64-foot (19.5-
meter) roadway with curb and gutter and a shared center turn lane for
approximately 1,300 feet (396 meters). The roadway then tapers to tie into the
existing three-lane, 30-foot (9.1-meter) roadway. The intersection of SR 1246
(Fairview Road) with US 21 will be realigned to the west to improve the
intersection alignment and sight distance. Turning movements at this intersection
will be restricted to allow only right- in and right out movements, thereby,
eliminating the left turn movements. A 12-foot (3.6-meter) wide raised median
will begin at the intersection of the northbound entrance and exit interchange
ramps and extend through the Fairview Road intersection to ensure the
elimination of left turns at this location.
Improvements are planned for all the I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road)
Interchange ramps with the exception of ramp D, the northbound entrance ramp
on to 1-77 (see Figure 2). Ramp A, the southbound exit ramp, will be realigned to
the west (to where existing Alcove Road is now located) to allow for the addition
of a loop ramp to access southbound 1-77. The width of the realigned Ramp A
will be 16 feet (3.6 meters) with four-foot (1.2-meter) paved shoulders on each
side and will include a left and right turn lane at its intersection with SR 1109
(Williamson Road). The Loop Ramp A will flair off from westbound SR 1109
4
(Williamson Road) to accommodate traffic accessing 1-77 southbound. The width
of the loop will be 20 feet (6 meters) with a four-foot (1.2-meter) outside paved
shoulder and curb and gutter on the inside.
Ramp B, the existing southbound entrance ramp, will be used by eastbound SR
1109 (Williamson Road) traffic to access 1-77. Minor widening of this ramp will be
completed at the intersection with SR 1109 (Wi a-rfison Road) to accommodate
the additional right turning lane between Alcove Road and the ramp. The width of
Ramp B is 16 feet (5 meters) with four-foot (1.2-meter) paved shoulders on each
side. At its intersection with 1-77, the merge lane is being extended to allow
additional merge acceleration length.
Ramp C, the northbound exit ramp, has an existing cross-section of 16 feet (5
meters), with four-foot (1.2-meter) paved shoulders. Currently, the queue lengths
on Ramp C extend into the 1-77 northbound lanes during the PM peak hour and
create substantial congestion and safety problems. It is proposed that Ramp C
be widened to 56 feet (17 meters) to provide dual left turn lanes, a center through
or right turn lane, and an exclusive right turn lane.
The proposed project will be contained within the existing right-of-way limits;
however, temporary easements will be required for construction. Although no
additional right-of-way will be purchased for this project, the relocation of the
southbound exit Ramp A onto existing Alcove Road will eliminate an approved,
existing access to Alcove Road from one adjacent business property. The
estimated compensation to the property owner for the loss of this access is
reflected in the right-of-way cost listed below.
This alternative will maintain traffic on site during construction. The
improvements associated with the Recommended Alternative have been
coordinated with the Division Engineer, the City of Mooresville and Iredell County.
An analyses of the projected traffic volumes indicate the improvements proposed
with the Recommended Alternate will provide a level of service D through the
year 2012. Level of service D is below the capacity of the road but borders on
unstable flow. Since it is anticipated that level of service D may be exceeded after
the year 2012, additional future improvements in the area of the interchange may
be needed. These future improvements may include widening 1-77 or providing a
new interchange at US 21 and 1-77.
B. Estimated Cost
The estimated costs, based on current prices, are as follows:
Recommended Alternative
TIP No. 1-4410 (1-77 Exit 33)
Construction Cost
R/W Cost $4,500,000.00
$1 475 000.00
TOTAL $5,975,000.00
5
The estimated cost of the 1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange
improvements, shown in the NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program, is
$4,000,000 with a construction cost of $3,500,000 and right-of-way cost of
$500,000. The project is scheduled for right-of-way acquisition in Fiscal Year
2002 and construction in Fiscal Year 2003.
C. Other Alternatives Considered
As part of the study for improvements at the I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson
Road) Interchange, a Feasibility Study was prepared for the City of Mooresville in
April 2001 evaluating four (4) alternatives, including the Recommended
Alternative.
One of the alternatives considered was similar to the Recommended Alternative,
but provided a second cloverleaf loop in the southeast quadrant of the
interchange to allow unimpeded east to north movements. The exit ramp in the
southeast quadrant would be realigned and use a portion of SR 1246 (Fairview
Road). As part of this alternative, SR 1245 (Centre Church Road) would be
closed at its western terminus with SR 1246 (Fairview Road). Using Fairview
Road as a portion of the interchange ramp would have a direct impact on the
Centre Presbyterian Church property and require additional right-of-way through
the area. Additionally, access to the hospital and church would have to be
provided through an alternative route since the northern end of Fairview Road
would be closed to local traffic. This alternative was eliminated because of the
amount of right-of-way required for the improvements and the impact on the
adjacent historic Centre Presbyterian Church property.
Another alternative considered was a roundabout interchange, where two
roundabouts are provided on either side of the bridge in place of the existing
traffic signals. The roundabouts would consist of a single lane circling a smaller
central island in one direction. Single traffic lanes would approach the
roundabouts. Vehicle speeds in the roundabout would be approximately 10-25
mph. A traffic analysis of this option showed that it would not function efficiently
Most traffic existing from northbound 1-77 during the PM peak desires to make a
left hand turn at the US 21 intersection. A roundabout directs this traffic to the
right initially and then back to the left; this coupled with a high volume of PM peak
hour traffic leaving the development east of the interchange and trying to pass
through the roundabout to access southbound 1-77 would cause vehicle conflicts
and a break down in traffic operations. This alternative was eliminated because of
the potential driver confusion due to unfamiliarity with the design and it's inability
to handle future traffic volumes at an improved level of service.
A Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI) was considered as an option. This
alternative would require existing bridge to be replaced with a new six-lane bridge
to accommodate two through lanes for both east and westbound traffic and two
pairs of opposite left turn lanes for traffic entering 1-77. The approximate width of
the bridge would be in excess of 100 feet (30.5 meters). This alternative was
determined to be not feasible at this time due to the inability to maintain traffic to
the area with alternate routes. Traffic 1-77 could not be maintained on site during
construction. Currently, there are no other access points to the area served by
the 1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange. This alternative could
6
be more easily implemented in the future after the construction of interchanges at
SR 1102 (Langtree Road) and SR 1100 (Brawley School Road) are completed.
A "do-nothing" alternate is not prudent due to the traffic service provided by SR
1109 and US 21. This alternative does not satisfy the purpose and need for the
project. Analyses of projected traffic volumes indicate that, without the
recommended improvements, a level of service F will be attained for design year
conditions. Level of service F describes forced or breakdown of traffic flow. This
alternative is not recommended.
D. Other Transportation Improvement Program Projects In the Vicinity
There are three other planned projects in the TIP in the vicinity of the I-77/US
21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange that are included in the 2002-2008
TIP and that will have an effect on traffic operations at this interchange once they
are constructed. Below is a brief discussion of each proposed project in the order
each project is to be implemented under the current TIP schedule.
Relocation of SR 1245 (Centre Church Road) from north of SR 1246
(Fairview Road) to US 21 (TIP Project 1-4410A). This project will relocate
Centre Church Road northeast of its existing alignment beginning across from
the employee entrance into the Lake Norman Regional Medical Center along
existing Centre Church Road and connecting to US 21 opposite the Gateway
Plaza entrance road. This will allow traffic along Centre Church Road and
existing Fairview Road to bypass the Fairview Road intersection with US 21.
It will also bring traffic to a signal on US 21 allowing for a safer left turning
movement toward the 1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange.
Potential closure of existing Centre Church Road between the hospital
entrance and its current terminus at Fairview Road is being considered.
Right-of-way acquisition is scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year (FY) 2002 with
construction scheduled to start in FY 2003.
Interchange at 1-77 and SR 1102 (Langtree Road) (TIP Project 1-4411).
This project, located approximately one mile south of the 1-77/US 21/SR 1109
(Williamson Road) Interchange, will improve access to existing development
along the Langtree Road Peninsula and NC 115, reducing some of the traffic
congestion at the I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange. The
planned interchange at SR 1102 (Langtree Road) is a diamond ramp
configuration. Right-of-way acquisition is scheduled to begin in FY 2004 with
construction scheduled to start in FY 2006.
Interchange at 1-77 and SR 1100 (Brawley School Road) (TIP Project R-
3833). This project, located approximately two miles north to the 1-77/US
21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange, will improve access to existing
development along the fast growing area adjacent to SR 1100 (Brawley
School Road), and as with the SR 1102 (Langtree Road) Interchange, this
project will reduce traffic congestion at the 1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson
Road) Interchange and at the I-77/NC 150 Interchange to the north. The
proposed design is for a diamond ramp interchange. Right-of-way acquisition
is scheduled to begin in FY 2005 with construction scheduled to start in FY
2007.
7
E. Other Warranted Future Projects
Not yet funded in the TIP, but warranted based on anticipated future traffic
volumes is the widening of 1-77 through the 1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson
Road) interchange area. 1-77 is currently being widened from 1-85 north of
Charlotte to north of NC 115 (TIP Project No. 1-3311A). Widening of 1-77 will
require the existing 1-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange bridge to
be replaced due to an inadequate length to span a six or eight-lane highway.
This replacement will provide an opportunity to provide substantial improvements
to this interchange which will enhance its ability to adequately handle future traffic
volumes.
IV. NATURAL RESOURCES
A. Methodology
A site reconnaissance was performed on January 15, 2002, in which the project
site was traversed on foot and visually surveyed for environmental features
including plant communities, wildlife habitat, wetlands and waters of the United
States, and threatened and endangered species.
A review of available resource materials was performed prior to the site
reconnaissance, including, but not limited to the United States Geological Survey
(USGS) Mooresville, NC, 7.5 minute series topographic map (dated 1993);
United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) list of known protected species
for Iredell County (dated March 6, 2002); North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR), Division of Parks and
Recreation, Natural Heritage Program (NHP) list of protected species known to
occur in Iredell County (dated July 2001); USFWS National Wetland Inventory
(NWI) map, Mooresville, NC, quadrangle (dated 1991); and the Natural Resource
Conservation Service (NRCS) Soil Survey of Iredell County.
Where possible, plant communities were characterized based on a classification
system utilized by NCNHP Classification of Natural Communities of North
Carolina (Schafale and Weakley 1990).
B. Physiography and Soils
Iredell County is located in the upper Piedmont Plateau of North Carolina. The
project is located in a portion of the county that the NCDENR Division of Water
Quality (DWQ) describes as being "characterized by rolling hills" in the Catawba
River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (December 1999). Based on a review of the
USGS topographic map, elevations in the project area range from 810 feet (246.8
meters) above mean sea level (MSL) to 860 feet (262.1 meters) above MSL.
According to the soil survey, Iredell County is underlain primarily by igneous and
metamorphic rock. These consist mainly of schist, gneiss, granite, and diorite.
Large areas of single type rock are rare in the county. However, the soil survey
states that the largest area of granite in the county underlies the Mooresville
area.
Most of the project area is situated on a ridge top. One drainageway is located in
the project area east of US 21. Soils mapped in the project area and their
characteristics are found in Table 1.
Table 1
Soils In The Project Area
Iredell County
Soil Phase Location Soil Hydric
Drainage Soil?
Appling sandy loam Ridge tops, eastern and
(AsB2), 2-6 /o slopes, southern portion of project area. Well drained No
eroded
Appling sandy loam (AsC & Slopes above drainages,
AsC2), 6-10% slopes, northern and eastern portion of Well drained No
eroded AsC2 project area.
Appling sandy loam Slopes above drainages,
(AsD2), 10-15% slopes, northern and eastern portion of Well drained No
eroded project area.
Cecil fine sandy loam Slope above drainage area

(CfD2), 10-15 /o slopes, ,
eastern portion of project area.
Well drained
No
eroded
Louisburg and Louisa soils Slope above drainage area, Excessively No
LuE , 15-25% slopes northern portion of project area. drained
Soil in the drainageway located east of US 21, is mapped as Cecil fine sandy
loam (10 to 15 percent slopes). However, the Munsell soil color observed in the
drainageway during the field reconnaissance was 10YR 4/1, and it had a silty
clay texture. Hydrophytic vegetation was observed and the soil was saturated to
the surface.
C. Water Resources
1. Waters Impacted
The project is located within the DWQ designated sub-basin 03-08-32 of the
Catawba River Basin, which is located within the USGS designated hydrologic
unit 03050101. Lake Norman (Catawba River) is located to the north, west and
south of Exit 33 and several unnamed tributaries to Lake Norman were observed
near the interchange. Two unnamed intermittent tributaries to Lake Norman were
observed adjacent to the project study area. Both are located in the northeast
quadrant of the study area. One flows north and is located east of and adjacent
to the northbound 1-77 entrance ramp. Based on a review of the soil maps, which
were prepared prior to the construction of 1-77, and observations made during the
site reconnaissance, it appears that the stream was channelized and lined with
concrete during the construction of 1-77. The second intermittent stream is
located east of US 21, near the northern terminus of the proposed improvements
to US 21.
9
2. Water Resource Characteristics
The stream classification for Lake Norman (Catawba River) is WS-IV. According
to the NCDENR classification designation "WS-IV waters are generally in
moderately to highly developed watersheds or Protected Areas, and involve no
categorical restrictions on discharges. These waters are also protected for Class
C uses." Class C waters are "waters protected for secondary recreation, fishing,
wildlife, fish and aquatic life propagation and survival, agriculture and other uses
suitable for Class C. 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. There are no restrictions on
watershed development or types of discharges."
3. Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources
a. General Impacts
Neither of the aforementioned intermittent streams is located within the project
construction limits; therefore, no direct impacts to water resources are
anticipated. Although no streams were,observed within the project construction
limits, roadside ditches carry surface runoff to Lake Norman and its tributaries.
Temporary impacts could occur during construction due to erosion and
sedimentation. These impacts would be minimized through the use of NCDOT's
Best Management Practices for Protection of Surface Waters.
The contractor will be required to follow specifications pertaining to erosion
control measures as outlined in 23 CFR 650 Subpart B and Article 107-13
entitled "Control of Erosion, Siltation, and Pollution" (NCDOT, Specifications for
Roads and Structures). These measures include, as applicable: the use of
dikes, berms, silt basins, and other containment measures to control runoff;
elimination of construction staging areas in fioodplains and adjacent to
waterways; re-seeding of herbaceous cover on disturbed sites; management of
chemicals (herbicides, pesticides, de-icing compounds) with potential negative
impacts on water quality; and avoidance of direct discharges into steams by
catch basins and roadside vegetation.
D. Biotic Resources
1. Plant Communities
Historic aerial photography from 1963 was reviewed as part of the plant
community evaluation to determine previous land use in the study area. This
showed that approximately 95 percent of the study area consisted of agricultural
fields and pastures prior to the construction of 1-77 and the existing Exit 33
interchange. Forested areas appear to have been located on slopes above
drainageways within the study area in 1963. Three community types were
identified in the project study area consisting of maintained/disturbed areas,
palustrine wetland, and dry oak-hickory forest. These are described below.
10
Maintained/Disturbed Areas - Areas identified within the project study area
consist of maintained grassed areas within the existing interchange and right-of-
ways of Williamson Road, US 21, and Fairview Road, monotypic forested areas,
and a power line easement. The grassed area within the interchange contains
scattered red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) trees. Monotypic forest areas
consisting of stands of Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana) were observed between
the southbound entrance ramp and Alcove Road in the western portion of the
study area and between the northbound exit ramp and Fairview Road in the
eastern portion of the study area. The stand in the western portion of the study
area was interspersed with a few red cedar, black cherry (Prunus serotina),
dogwood (Comus florida) and persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) trees. A power
line easement extends from Williamson Road, through a Virginia pine stand, to
Fairview Road at its intersection with Centre Church Road. Dominant species
observed in the easement consisted of blackberry (Rubus spp.), broom straw
(Andropogon virginicus), and goldenrod (Solidago spp.).
Palustrine Wetland - An area of disturbed palustrine wetland was observed
along an intermittent stream located east of US 21 near the terminus of the
proposed improvements to US 21. Vegetation observed in this area included red
maple (Acer rubrum) saplings, black willow (Salix nigra), cattails (Typha latifolia),
soft rush (Juncus effusus), Ludwigia spp., boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum),
honeysuckle (Lonicers japonica), and goldenrod (Solidago spp.). The
intermittent stream is not located within the construction limits of the proposed
project.
Dry Oak-Hickory Forest - Forested areas were observed within the project
construction limits that closely fit the description of the Dry Oak-Hickory Forest
community characterized in Classification of Natural Communities of North
Carolina. Tree species observed in these areas include post oak (Quercus
stel/ata), black cherry, northern red oak (Quercus rubra), white oak (Quercus
albs), hickories (Carya spp.), honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos), willow oak
(Quercus phellos), Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana), American plum (Prunus
amedcana), and red cedar. Other species observed include honeysuckle,
greenbrier (Smilax spp.), and poison oak (Rhus toxicodredron). An area of dry
oak-hickory forest was observed within the study area located between the
southbound exit ramp of 1-77 and Alcove Road and on the south side of
Williamson Road at the western terminus of the project.
Potential impacts to plant communities were approximated based on a review of
the proposed construction limits for the project. Paved surfaces of existing 1-77,
US 21, and Williamson Road are not included in the impact summary table that
follows. Wildlife potentially utilizing the plant communities would be displaced by
the proposed project.
Table 2
Plant Community Im act Summa Table
Plant Community Impacted Area
Maintained/Disturbed Areas 14.2 acres 5.75 HA
Palustrine Wetland 0.05 acres 0.02 HA
D Oak/Hickory Forest 1.0 acres 0.40 HA
TOTAL = 15.25 acres 6.17 HA
11
From an ecological perspective, impacts of upgrading existing road facilities are
minimal. No new fragmentation of plan communities will be created, as the
project will result only in relocation of ecotonal boundaries. Also, a clear-and-
maintained right-of-way, utility lines, and maintained/disturbed land associated
with commercial development currently bound much of the alignment. Therefore,
the proposed project will only disturb narrow strips of adjacent natural
communities.
2. Wildlife
Wildlife sampling was not performed as part of this study. During the field
reconnaissance, visual observations of wildlife consisted of one killdeer
(Charadrius vociferus), rock doves (Columba livia), and two bird nests. The
following list of wildlife potentially occurring in the study area was composed
based on the habitat types identified in the study area and habitat requirements
of species whose range overlaps the study area. However, most of the habitat
within the study area was altered and/or fragmented by the construction of 1-77,
Exit 33, frontage roads, and commercial development in the area. It is
anticipated that high car/truck traffic at the interchange limits the use of
fragmented habitats by wildlife.
Terrestrial Fauna - It is anticipated that terrestrial fauna potentially utilizing the
fragmented dry oak-hickory forest, maintained/disturbed areas, and monotypic
forest of the study area would be limited to small rodents and reptiles and
amphibians that require small home ranges such as the eastern harvest mouse
(Reithrodontomys humalis), hispid cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus), pine mouse
(Microtus pinetorum), American toad (Bufo americanus), five-lined skink
(Eumeces fasciatus), black racer (Coluber constrictor), rat snake (Elaphe
obsoleta), and rough green snake (Opheodrys aestivus). In addition to the above
listed species, potential terrestrial fauna utilizing the edges of larger tracts of
forested habitats and the palustrine wetland would include opossum (Didelphis
virgianianus), southern short-tailed shrew (Blarina carolinensis), eastern mole
(Scalopus aquaticus), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), gray squirrel
(Sciurus carolinensis), southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans), white-footed
mouse (Peromyscus leucopus), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), raccoon (Procyon lotor),
striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), bobcat (Lynx rufus), white-tailed deer
(Odocoileus virginianus), marbled salamander (Ambystoma opacum), northern
dusky salamander (Desmognathus fuscus), slimy salamander (Plethodon
glutinosus), red salamander (Pseudotriton ruber), spring peeper (Hyla crucifer),
eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina), broadhead skink (Eumeces laticeps),
ground skink (Scincella lateralis), worm snake (Carphophis amoenus), corn
snake (Elaphe guttata), brown snake (Storeria dekayi), southeastern crown
snake (Tantilla coronata), eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), and
copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix).
Avian fauna that utilize habitat types identified in the study area for nesting
include red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), mourning dove (Zenaida
macroura), screech owl (Otus asio), barred owl (Strix varia), whip-poor-will
(Caprimuigus vociferous), ruby-throated hummingbird (Archilochus colubris),
common flicker (Colaptes auratus), red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes
12
carolinus), hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus), downy 'woodpecker (Picoides
pubescens), eastern kingbird (Tyrannus tyrannus), eastern phoebe (Sayomis
phoebe), acadian flycatcher (Empidonax virescens), eastern wood peewee
(Contopus virens), rough-winged swallow (Stelgidopteryx ruficollis), loggerhead
shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), Carolina chickadee
(Parus carolinensis), tufted titmouse (Parus bicolor), white-breasted nuthatch
(Sitta carolinensis), Carolina wren (Thyothorus ludovicianus), mockingbird
(Mimus polylottos), gray catbird (Dumetella carolinensis), brown thrasher
(Toxostoma rufum), eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis), yellow-throated vireo (Vireo
flavifrons), yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia), ovenbird (Seirus aurocapillus),
eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna), summer tanager (Piranga rubra),
cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), blue grosbeak (Guiraca caerulea), American
goldfinch (Carduelis tristis), rufous-sided towhee (Pipilo erthrophthalmus), and
field sparrow (Spizella pusilla).
E. Special Topics
1. Wetlands and Waters of the United States
Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, mandates that each federal
agency take action to minimize the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands
and to preserve and enhance the natural values. To comply with this Executive
Order, the wetlands within the project area were identified according to the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) methodology contained in the 1987 Corps of
Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual and regional soil indicators of wetland
hydrology.
As described in the Biotic Resources section above, a disturbed palustrine
wetland was identified within the study area. Vegetation observed in this area
included red maple saplings, black willow, cattails, soft rush, Ludwigia spp.,
boneset, honeysuckle, and goldenrod. The Munsell soil color observed in the
wetland was 10YR 4/1, it had a silty clay texture and was saturated to the
surface.
Summary of Potential Impacts - Approximately 0.05 acre (0.02 HA) of the
wetland lies within the construction limits of the proposed project and would be
displaced by fill material.
2. Permits
This project is being processed as a Categorical Exclusion (CE) under Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA) guidelines. This project qualifies for use of
Nationwide Permit #14 for linear transportation projects. Because the total
wetland impacts for the project are less than 0.1 acre (0.04 HA), compensatory
mitigation would likely not be required by the USACE. Also, there are no streams
to be potentially impacted by this project.
13
I Mitigation
Because the wetland is located adjacent to the existing road and near a curve in
the proposed realignment of SR 1109 (Williamson Road)/US 21, widening to the
west to avoid the wetland is not practicable for safety reasons. All steps will be
taken during design to minimize impacts to the wetland such as constructing
steeper side slopes, thereby reducing the amount of fill placed in the wetland.
During construction, best management practices will be used to void/minimize
potential impacts to the portion of the wetland that lies outside the project
construction limits.
F. Rare and Protected Species
The Endangered Species Act of 1973 (the Act), as amended, requires federal
agencies, in consultation with, and assisted by the USFWS, to ensure that their
actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of endangered or
threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical
habitat of such species. To facilitate compliance with Section 7(c) of the Act, the
objective was to determine if any federally protected species are likely to occur
within the study area.
1. Federal Protected Species
The list of protected species known to occur in Iredell County was obtained from
the USFWS on March 6, 2002. Additionally, the list of federally listed threatened
and endangered species known to exist in Iredell County was obtained from the
NHP online database search on March 12, 2002. Table 3 lists federally protected
species known to occur in Iredell County and indicates their state status.
Table 3
Federal) Protected Spa les for Iredell County
Common Name Scientific Name Federal Status State Potential
Status Habitat
Bog turtle Clemmys T(S/A) T No
muhlenber II
Notes: T Denotes Threatened
T S/A Denotes Threatened due to Similarity of Appearance
The bog turtle is listed as threatened due to a similarity of appearance to the
northern bog turtle. The bog turtle is the smallest turtle found in the Carolinas.
The shells of adults range from 3 to 4.5 inches (7.6 to 11 cm) in length and are
light brown to ebony in color. A distinguishing characteristic is large orange,
yellow, or red blotches found on both sides of their heads and necks. Bog turtles
are found in the upper piedmont of North Carolina and southern Virginia. Suitable
habitat for the bog turtle includes wet meadows, springs and bogs. Their diet
consists mainly of insects, but they also eat snails, worms, small amphibians, and
seeds.
A review of the of North Carolina Natural Heritage Program's online database of
element occurrences for the USGS Mooresville quadrangle revealed that there
are no known occurrences of the bog turtle in the coverage area for the
14
Mooresville quadrangle. Suitable habitat for the bog turtle includes wet
meadows, springs and bogs. Suitable habitat was not identified in the project
construction limits, therefore this project is not likely to adversely affect the
continued existence of the bog turtle or its critical habitat. Furthermore, biological
conclusions are not warranted with species that are "threatened due to similarity
of appearance".
2. Federal Species of Concern
Table 4 lists the federal species of concern known to occur in Iredell County and
indicates their state status.
Table 4
Federal Species of Concern for Iredell County
Common Name Scientific Name Federal State Potential
Status Status Habitat
Alleghany woodrat Neotoma maalster FSC SC No
Tall larkspur Delphinium exaltatum FSC" E No

Heller's trefoil Lotus helleri FSC SR Yes
Notes: FCS Denotes Federal Species of Concern
SC Denotes State Species of Concern
SR Denotes State Significantly Rare
" Denotes Historic Record - the species has not been observed in the county more
than 50 ears
Federal Species of Concern are not legally protected 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. Species
designated as FSC are defined as taxa, which may or may not be listed in the
future. However, NHP files have no documentation of FSC species within the
study area.
V. CULTURAL RESOURCES
A. Compliance Guidelines
This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, implemented by the Advisory Council on
Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at
36 CFR Part 800. Section 106 requires that for federally funded, licensed, or
permitted projects having an effect on a property listed in or eligible for the
National Register of Historic Places, the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation be given an opportunity to comment.
15
B. Historic Architecture
A Historical Architectural Resources Survey Report Phase I Reconnaissance was
prepared. A historian conducted the fieldwork on January 28 and February 19,
2002, and 100 percent of the APE was examined. The APE contains one
property listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Centre Presbyterian
Church, an 18-acre property including the Session House, Centre Cemetery, and
Baker Cemetery. All structures within the Area of Potential Effects (APE) were
photographed, and later reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office
(HPO). In a memorandum dated January 11, 2002, the HPO determined that the
project may affect the National Registered Center Presbyterian Church, Session
House and Cemetery that is located along SR 1245 at its intersection with SR
1246 and recommended further review with an architectural historian from the
North Carolina Department of Transportation.
The NCDOT historian met with the HPO on March 11, 2002 and determined that
the Centre Presbyterian Church, along with the 18-acre property including the
Session House, Centre Cemetery, and Baker Cemetery is subject to compliance
with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1996, as amended,
and implemented by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's regulations
for compliance codified as 26 CFR Part 800.6(a)(1) of the 1999 revisions of 36
CFR part 800. To avoid encroaching on the Church property, a retaining wall will
be constructed along the south side of US 21. During the construction of the
retaining wall, all practicable efforts will be made to minimize impacts to the
trees/tree canopy. Based on these commitments, it was determined during the
meeting that the I-77/US 21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) interchange project
causes no adverse effect on the Church property. A copy of the concurrence
form for assessment of effects dated April 2, 2002 is included in the appendix of
this report.
C. Archaeology
The State Historic Preservation Officer (HPO), in a memorandum dated January
11, 2002, stated that "there are no known archaeological sites within the
proposed project area and that "based on our present knowledge of the area, it is
unlikely that any archaeological resources which may be eligible for inclusion in
the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by the project
construction. We therefore, recommend that no archaeological investigation be
conducted in connection with this project." A copy of the HPO memorandum is
included in the Appendix
VI. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
This project is expected to have an overall positive impact and meets the purpose
and need stated at the beginning of this report. Modifications of the existing
interchange will result in safer traffic operations and the additional
roadway/bridge capacity will result in improved level of service for the project
area. This project
16
The project is considered a Federal "Categorical Exclusion" due to its limited
scope and insignificant environmental consequences.
This interchange modification will not have an adverse effect on the quality of the
human or natural environment with the use of current North Carolina Department
of Transportation standards and specifications.
The project does not conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning
regulation. No change in land use is expected to result from construction of this
project. Therefore, no secondary impacts are anticipated.
No adverse impact on families or communities is anticipated. The proposed
project will be contained within the existing right-of-way limits; however,
temporary easements will be required for construction. Although no additional
right-of-way will be purchased for this project, the relocation of the southbound
exit Ramp A onto existing Alcove Road will eliminate an approved, existing
access to Alcove Road from one adjacent business property.
The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all federal agencies or their
representatives to consider the potential impact to prime farmland of all land
acquisition and construction projects. These projects are located in an urban area
and there are no soils classified as prime, unique, or having state or local
importance in the vicinity of the project. Therefore, the project will not involve the
direct conversion of farmland acreage within these classifications.
The project is located in Iredell County, which has been determined to be in
compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. 40 CFR part 51 is
not applicable, because the proposed project is located in an attainment area.
This project is not anticipated to create any adverse effects on the air quality of
this attainment area.
The project proposes improvements to the interchange of 1-77 and US 21/SR
1109 (Williamson Road). All work will be within the interchange area and no
additional right-of-way is anticipated. No additional through lanes along 1-77 are
currently planned. The project is not anticipated to increase traffic volumes. The
noise transmission reduction provided to the interior of the structures within the
project limits should be sufficient to moderate any intrusive traffic noise. Based
on past project experience, the project's impact on noise and air quality will not
be significant.
Noise levels could increase during construction but will be temporary. If
vegetation is disposed of by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with
applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in
compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. This evaluation completes the assessment
requirements for highway traffic noise of Title 23 of the Code of Federal
Regulations, Part 772 and for air quality 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments and the
NEPA process, and no additional reports are required.
An examination of records at the North Carolina Department of Environment and
Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Management, Groundwater
Section and the North Carolina Department of Human Resources, Solid Waste
17
Management Section revealed no underground storage tanks or hazardous
waste sites in the project area.
Iredell County is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
The project is not located in an identified flood hazard area and is located near a
drainage divide.
On the basis of the above discussion, it is concluded that no substantial adverse
environmental impacts will result from implementation of this project.
VII. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
Throughout the project development process, citizen and agency participation
was encouraged. A scoping letter was mailed in December of 2001, to the Mayor
of Mooresville, the Chairman of the Iredell County Commissioner and to state and
Federal environmental regulatory and resource agencies to request input into the
project development process. A copy of the responses is included in the
Appendix. No interagency meetings were held as part of this project.
A Public Officials Meeting and a Citizens Informational Workshop were held on
February 28, 2002. Approximately 25 people attended the officials meeting and
approximately 400 people attended the workshop. Improvements for the 1-77/US
21/SR 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange were presented at this workshop
along with similar information for the relocation of SR 1245 (Centre Church Road)
and the addition of an interchange at SR 1102 (Langtree Road). Citizen's
comments during the meeting were positive with regard to the 1-77/US 21/SR
1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange improvements with the major concern being
the maintenance of traffic though the area during construction.
18
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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
1-771 US 21 / SR 1108 (WILLIAMSON ROAD) INTERCHANGE
IREDELL COUNTY
T.I.P. NO. 1-4410
STATE PROJECT 8.821011
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ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION ON US 21 /SR 1109 (WILLIAMSON ROAD)
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FIGURE 3
ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION ON ROADWAY APPROACHING STRUCTURE
I-77/U521/5R 1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange
Iredell Co.
TIP No. I-4410
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Location: I-77/1,1521/SR 1109
(Williamson Road) Interchange
Exit 33, Iredell Co. TIP No. I-4410
Project: Interchange Improvements
2001/2025 Traffic Volumes
Date: Feb-02
r Legend
#?1# VPD - Vehicles Per Day in Hundreds
DHV - Design Hour Volume (%) = K30
D Directional Flow (%)
PM PM'Peak Period
118/160
1 730/1104
1-77
US 21
A 146/152
N
131/268 I
///??? o
64/74 J
49/71
SR 1246
(Fairview Road)
Figure 4
1-4410
on Road
Interchange
Figure 5
I-4410
I-4410
I-44 t 0
at the Interchange Bridge
I-4410
e2lirw5vZZ)
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
P.O. BOX 1890
WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890
IN REPLY REFER M January 24, 2002
Planning Services Section
Mr. William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
0100- GEIt/Ed
JAN 29 W
D iNiWMAYS
T n,•.....• n4?
JAN 2
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
This is in response to your letter of November 29, 2001, "Request for Comments
on the Proposed Improvements to the 1-77/US 21 /SR 1109 (Williamson Road)
Interchange (Exit 33) in Iredell County, State Project No. 6.821011, TIP ID No. 1-4410."
Our comments involve impacts to flood plains and jurisdictional resources that
include waters, wetlands, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects. The proposed
roadway improvements would not cross any Corps-constructed flood control or
navigation project. Our Regulatory Division will comment separately on waters and
wetland issues. Our comments on flood plains follow.
Based on a review of panel 200 of the June 1998 Iredell County Flood Insurance
Rate Map, the proposed improvements would not be located in an identified flood
hazard area. This is confirmed by a review of the pertinent United States Geological
Survey topo map of the area, which indicates that the site is located near a drainage
divide.
We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of further
assistance, please contact us. For questions related to this response, please contact
Mr. Bobby Willis at [phone].,
Sincer ly,
Thomas G. Corder, P.E.
Chief, Planning and
Environmental Branch
WATF9
?G
r 'C
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carol Department of Environment and Natural Resources
k ,
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
A ?..; o..? Acting Director
Division of Water Quality
t '? ^g:

MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
NCDOT, Project Development & Environmental Analysis
Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator Cu d4A-?
January 9, 2002
1
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for the Proposed Improvements to the I-77/US 21/SR
1109 (Williamson Road) Interchange (Exit 33) in Iredell County, State Project
6.82 1011, TIP Project I-4410.
In reply to your correspondence dated November 29, 2001 in which you requested comments for the
referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project indicates that several unnamed tributaries lie
within the project area. These waters are classified as WS-IV, B (swimming) and lie within the
critical area of Lake Norman. The Division of Water Quality offers these comments:
A. Any environmental documents pertaining to this project should provide a detailed and itemized
presentation of the proposed impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping.
There should be a discussion on mitigation plans for unavoidable impacts. If mitigation is
required, it is preferable to present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the
environmental documentation. While the NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be
practical, it should be noted that for projects requiring mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans
will be required prior to issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification.
B. DWQ requests that DOT strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled, "Design
Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B .0024) throughout design and
construction of the project, particularly with regard to sedimentation and turbidity. In order to
reduce sedimentation in receiving waters, same day seeding and mulching is strongly
encouraged. NCDOT is also advised to incorporate Best Management Practices for the
Protection of Surface Waters (March 1997).
C. Stormwater must be directed to buffer areas or retention basins and must not be routed directly
into streams. Instead, stormwater should be designed to drain to a properly designed
stormwater detention facility/apparatus.
D. Do not use any machinery in the stream channels unless absolutely necessary. Additionally, do
not remove vegetation from the stream bank unless it is absolutely necessary. Especially avoid
removing large trees and undercut banks. If large, undercut trees must be removed, then cut
the trunks and leave the stumps and root systems in place to minimize damage to stream banks.
E. Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigation
will be required if wetlands are impacted by waste or borrow.
F. Wetland and stream impacts should be avoided to the maximum extent practical. If this is not
possible. altema iv .s that minimize wetland impacts should chosen. Inaccordance with the
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699.1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), http://h2o.enr.state,nc.us/ncwetiands/
NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6) }, mitigation will be required for impacts
of greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation
becomes required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions
and values. In accordance with the NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3)},
the Wetland Restoration Program may be available for use as stream mitigation.
G. Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. Sediment should be
removed from any water pumped from behind a cofferdam before the water is returned to the
stream.
H. While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps and soil surveys is a useful office
tool, their inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland
delineations "prior to permit approval.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Cynthia Van Der Wiele at [phone].
pc: John Hendrix, USACE Asheville Field Office
Marcella Buncick, USFWS
MaryEllen Haggard, NCWRC
Central Files
File Copy
eNorth Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
David L. S. Brook, Administrator
Michael F. Easley, Governor Division of Archives and History
Lisbeth C. Evans, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director
January 11, 2002 ?o
h
MEMORANDUM
Q
TO: William D. Gilmore, Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Division of Highways
Department of Transportation
FROM: David Brook W.?, "af-7XL
SUBJECT: Proposed improvements to the I-77/US 21 /SR 1109 interchange, I-4410, Iredell County,
ER 02-8458
Thank you for your memorandum of November 29, 2001, concerning the above project. We apologize for
the delay in our response, but due to staff vacancies we could not reply in a timelier manner.
We have checked our maps and files and determined that the project may affect the National Register-
listed Centre Presbyterian Church, Session House and Cemetery that is located along SR 1246 at its
intersection with SR 1245. We look forward to consulting with you concerning the potential effect upon
the historic property.
There are no known archaeological sites within the project area. Based on our knowledge of the area, it is
unlikely that any archaeological resources that may be eligible for conclusion in the National Register of
Historic Places will be affected by the project. We, therefore, recommend that no archaeological
investigation be conducted in connection with this project.
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. In all future
communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number.
DB:kgc
cc: Nicholas Graf, FHWA
- Ron Elmore, NCDOT
Mary Pope Furr, NCDOT
Location Mailing Address Telephone/Fax
Administration 507 N. Blount St, Raleigh, NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh 27699-4617 [phone] •733-8653
Restoration 515 N. Blount St, Raleigh, NC 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh 27699-4613 [phone].715-4801
Survey & Planning 515 N. Blount St, Raleigh. NC 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh 27699-4618 [phone] •715-4801
Federal Aid # None TIP # I-4410 County: Iredell
CONCURRENCE FORM FOR ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS
Project Description: Interchange Improvements at I-771US 21, Mooresville
-NOTE: I-4410 involves a Federal action but no use of Federal Aid funds-
On March 11, 2002, 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
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 project'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.
F-I 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:
Representative, NCDOT

FHWA, for the Division Administrator, or other Federal Agency
Representative, SHPO
Date
3?oz
Date

lvF,2
Federal Aid # None TIP # I-4410 County: Iredell
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).
-Not Applicable-
Properties within the area of potential effect for which there is an effect. Indicate property status
(NR or DE) and describe the effect.
Centre Presbyterian Church (NR)
NO ADVERSE EFFECT
WITH ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
(1) To avoid encroaching upon the National Register boundary of the property, NCDOT will
construct a retaining wall.
(2) NCDOT will make all efforts to minimize impact to the trees/tree canopies as practicable.
Reason(s) why the effect is not adverse (if applicable).
NCDOT will not encroach on the NR boundary of the Centre Presbyterian Church
property.
Initialed: NCDOT jq FHWA V SHPO
-2o1C.;z