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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20021660 Ver 1_Complete File_20020813O?OF W A TF199G Dr. Greg Thorpe, PhD., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina, 27699-1548 October 21, 2002 DWQ No. 021660 Jones County Re: Jones County, Replacement of Bridge No. 19 over Mill Creek on SR 1004, Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-1004(5), State Project No. 8.2190401; TIP B-3483. Mill Creek [27-101-26; C Sw NSW] APPROVAL of NEUSE RIVER BUFFER RULES AUTHORIZATION CERTIFICATE with ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS Dear Dr. Thorpe, You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions, to impact 17,162 square feet (10,307 square feet in Zone 1, and 6,885 square feet in Zone 2) of protected riparian buffers for the purpose of replacing Bridge Number 19 over Mill Creek on SR 1004. The project shall be constructed according to your application dated August 9, 2002 and any conditions listed below. This approval shall act as your Authorization Certificate as required within the Neuse River Area Protection Rules (15A NCAC 2B .0233). In addition, you should get any other required federal, state or local permits before you go ahead with your project including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion Control. This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application dated August 9, 2002. If you change your project, you must notify us and you may be required to send us a new application. If the property is sold, the new owner must be given a copy of this authorization and approval letter and is thereby responsible for complying with all conditions. For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed below. ? After the construction of the replacement bridge is complete and the temporary onsite bridge is removed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction contours and revegetated with native woody species. If you do not accept any of the conditions of this authorization, you may ask for an adjudicatory hearing. You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. To ask for a hearing, send a written petition, which conforms to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina General Statutes to the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7447. This authorization and its conditions are final and binding unless you ask for a hearing. This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under the "No Practical Alternatives" determination required in 15A NCAC 2B .0233(8). If you have any questions, please contact John Hennessy at 919-733-5694. Sincerely, \ Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director cc: US Army Corps of Engineers Washington Field Office DWQ Washington Regional Office File Copy Central Files C:\ncdot\TIP B-3483\wqc\021660buffer authorization.doc Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross Jr., Secretary North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director Division of Water Quality N. C. Division of Water Quality 1650 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (919) 733-1786 Customer Service: 1 800 623-7748 • • l?l? f ?j?? p?? L???7? ?n7?'l? u G??td ?-? lool? IQ y y (D ??y el (oc Ar ;s dmrou e,,? . 41-1 19 le CJ A/ AM A? ?? 02166 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR August 9, 2002 Washington Regulatory Field Office US Army Corps of Engineers Post Office Box 1000 Washington, North Carolina 27889-1000 ATTENTION: Mr. Mike Bell NCDOT Coordinator Dear Sir: SUBJECT: Nationwide 23 Permit Application and Neuse Buffer Authorization: The proposed replacement of Bridge No. 19 over Mill Creek on SR 1004 in Jones County. Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-1004(5), State Project No. 8.2190401, TIP No. B-3483. Please find enclosed three copies of the project planning report for the above referenced project. Bridge No. 19 will be replaced by a new bridge approximately 90.0 ft in length and 30.0 ft wide in approximately the same location as the existing bridge. The project length is approximately 3,400.0 ft. Traffic will remain onsite during construction through the use of a temporary bridge. An offsite detour was not considered due to the length of a suitable/feasible detour route for traffic, which would impact public school bus routes as well as emergency services. Construction of the proposed bridge will result in permanent impacts of 229.3 ft to waters of the U.S. and 0.4 ac of Neuse Riparian Buffers. The onsite temporary detour bridge will result in temporary impacts to 0.05 ac of a jurisdictional wetlands. These impacts are depicted in the attached drawings (Sheets 4 and 5). A project vicinity map and preconstruction notification form are also included with this permit application. LYNDo TIPPETT SECRETARY AUG 1 3 av2 I MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 WEBSITE. WWW NCDOT.ORG RALEIGH, NC Bridge Demolition: The existing bridge has an asphalt overlay surface on a steel plank floor on steel I-beams. The bridge has a timber cap and pile bents and end bents. No components of the bridge are concrete, therefore none of the bridge will be dropped into Waters of the United States during project construction. NCDOT Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal will be followed. Waters of the U.S: The following jurisdictional waters will be impacted. One perennial stream in the Neuse River Basin, Mill Creek [HUC 03020204, DWQ Index No. 27-101-26, 5/1/88] is crossed by SR 1004. This stream carries a Best Usage Classification of C Sw NSW. No permanent impacts to Mill Creek will result from the construction of this project. The Categorical Exclusion (CE) for this project listed Mill Creek as a Primary Nursery Area. Additional,ianvestigation has revealed that statement is incorrect. However, Mill Creek may potential Y'provide habitat for anadromous fish spawning. Additionally, according to N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC), this stream provides a good fishery for sunfish and chain pickerel. For these reasons, an in-water construction moratorium will be required from the WRC from April 1 to September 30. The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries agreed this moratorium would be sufficient. x An unnamed tributary to Mill reek that lies parallel to SR 1004 will be impacted as a result of project construction. This tributary though likely created as a roadside ditch, has characteristics of a perennial channel. The tributary does not appear on USGS Quadrangle Maps nor the Jones County Soil Survey. At a point approximately 425 feet east of the existing bridge a distinct increase in the hydrology of the tributary is apparent. Soil on the roadside slope of the channel at this location is hydric. A six inch water line runs parallel with the tributary and is at approximately the same elevation as the hydric soil occurring on the channel slope. Byrd Hawkins, with Jones County Water Department, visited the site to investigate for a possible leak. Mr. Hawkins did not believe there was a leak, however stated that a leak that has been recently repaired as well as another leak scheduled for repair, both near the project area. To accommodate installation of guardrail, 229.3 ft of this unnamed tributary will be filled. At the recommendation of NC Division of Water Quality, NCDOT has evaluated the use of a retaining wall to avoid impacts to the tributary. A recently relocated water line would have to be re-designed and relocated again. An estimate of $171,500 was prepared for the costs of the retaining wall and relocation of the water line. In addition to the cost, a delay of four to six months would be required for redesign of the waterline including negotiation with both the Town of Pollocksville and Jones County. Therefore, considering the questionable status of the tributary as well as estimated cost associated with constructing the retaining wall, it was determined that use of a retaining wall would not be a reasonable solution. One small jurisdictional wetland is located within the project area. A bottomland hardwood wetland will be temporarily impacted by 0.01 ac of fill and 0.04 ac of mechanized clearing as a result of project construction. Neuse Riparian Buffers: The proposed project will impact 0.4 ac of Neuse Riparian Buffers. Impacts to Zone 1 are 0.24 ac and impacts to Zone 2 are 0.16 ac. These totals include impacts resulting from the onsite temporary detour. NCDOT feels that there is no practable alternative to these impacts. Once the temporary detour is removed, the area will be graded to original elevation and revegetated with a vegetation mix consisting of bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), box elder (Acer negundo), water oak (Quercus phellos) and ironwood (Carpinus carolina) depending on availability, in efforts to minimize impacts to Neuse Riparian Buffers. Compensatory Mitigation: NCDOT proposes to offer a ratio of 2:1 for stream mitigation by means of two sources. A new grass swale will be constructed approximately 15 ft south of the existing tributary and 230 ft in length, in accordance with Neuse Buffer Rules. Natural channel design will not be used for this swale, however it is likely that the new swale will provide similar functions as of the impacted tributary. In addition, the grass swale will tie into the existing tributary downstream of the point in the channel where it begins to exhibit perennial characteristics. The swale will be constructed at approximately the same elevation as the existing tributary. NCDOT plans to offer the remaining 230 ft of stream mitigation for this project by debiting from the Stallings Mitigation Site in Jones County. This site will offer approximately 6,150 ft of stream mitigation for impacts in the 03020204 HUC. NCDOT owns the property and is currently developing the mitigation plan. NCDOT proposes to mitigate for the Neuse Riparian Buffer impacts through the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program (WRP). Upon receipt of the 401 Water Quality Certification from DWQ for this project, NCDOT will transfer funds to WRP to compensate for buffer mitigation performed to cover the costs of planning and implementation. The project is 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 Nationwide Permit in accordance with Federal Register: January 15, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 10, Pages 2019-2095, by the Corps of Engineers. The provisions of Section 330.4 and appendix A(C) of these regulations will be followed during construction of the project. It is anticipated that these activities will be authorized via a Nationwide Permit 23 (Categorical Exclusion). We anticipate a 401 General Certification number 3361 will apply to this project. In accordance with 15A NCAC 21-1.0501 (a) we are providing two copies of this application to the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their records. By copy of this application, we are also requesting the Neuse Buffer Authorization from the NC Division of Water Quality. If you have any questions or need any additional information, please contact Mr. Chris Rivenbark at (919) 733-9513. Sincerely, V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D., Manager PDEA-Office of Natural Environment WDG/mcr cc: w/attachment Mr. John Dorney, Division of Water Quality (2 copies) Mr. David Cox, NCWRC Mr. Garland Pardue, USFWS Mr. Greg Perfetti, P.E., Structure Design w/o attachment Mr. David Franklin, USACE, Wilmington Mr. Jay Bennett, P.E., Roadway Design Mr. Omar Sultan, Programming and TIP Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Mr. David Chang, P.E., Hydraulics Mr. Mark Staley, Roadside Environmental Mr. C. E. Lassiter, P.E., Division Engineer Mr. Jay Johnson, DEO Ms. Robin Young, PDEA Project Planning Engineer) Office Use Only: Form Version April 2001 USACE Action ID No. DWQ No. If any particular item is not applicable to this project, please enter "Not Applicable" or "N/A" rather than leaving the space blank. 1. Processing 1. Check all of the approval(s) requested for this project: ® Section 404 Permit Section 10 Permit ® 401 Water Quality Certification ® Riparian or Watershed Buffer Rules 2. Nationwide, Regional or General Permit Number(s) Requested Nationwide 23 3. If this notification is solely a courtesy copy because written approval for the 401 Certification is not required, check here: 4. If payment into the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program (NCWRP) is proposed for mitigation of impacts (see section VIII - Mitigation), check here: II. Applicant Information 1. Owner/Applicant Information Name: N.C. Dept. of Transportation Mailing Address: Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1548 Telephone Number: (919) 733-3141 Fax Number: (919) 733-9794 E-mail Address: 2. Agent Information (A signed and. dated copy of the Agent Authorization letter must be attached if the Agent has signatory authority for the owner/applicant.) Name: Company Affiliation: Mailing Address: Telephone Number: Fax Number: E-mail Address: Page 3 of 13 III. Project Information Attach a vicinity map clearly showing the location of the property with respect to local landmarks such as towns, rivers, and roads. Also provide a detailed site plan showing property boundaries and development plans in relation to surrounding properties. Both the vicinity map and site plan must include a scale and north arrow. The specific footprints of all buildings, impervious surfaces, or other facilities must be included. If possible, the maps and plans should include the appropriate USGS Topographic Quad Map and NRCS Soil Survey with the property boundaries outlined. Plan drawings, or other maps may be included at the applicant's discretion, so long as the property is clearly defined. For administrative and distribution purposes, the USACE requires information to be submitted on sheets no larger than 11 by 17-inch format; however, DWQ may accept paperwork of any size. DWQ prefers full-size construction drawings rather than a sequential sheet version of the full-size plans. If full-size plans are reduced to a small scale such that the final version is illegible, the applicant will be informed that the project has been placed on hold until decipherable maps are provided. 1. Name of project: Replacement of Bridge No. 19 on SR 1004 over Mill Creek 2. T.I.P. Project Number (NCDOT Only): B-3483 3. Property Identification Number (Tax PIN): n/a 4. Location County: Watauga Nearest Town: Pollocksville Subdivision name (include phase/lot number): Directions to site (include road numbers, landmarks, etc.): From intersection of US 17 and SR 1004 in Pollocksville, traverse 0.5 mile east on SR 1004 to Bridge No. 19 crossing of Mill Creek. 5. Site coordinates, if available (UTM or Lat/Long): N35° 00.041', W77° 12.804' (Note - If project is linear, such as a road or utility line, attach a sheet that separately lists the coordinates for each crossing of a distinct waterbody.) 6. Describe the existing land use or condition of the site at the time of this application: rural highway, light residential 7. Property size (acres): n/a 8. Nearest body of water (stream/river/sound/ocean/lake): 9. River Basin: Neuse Mill Creek (Note - this must be one of North Carolina's seventeen designated major river basins. The River Basin map is available at http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/admin/maps/.) 10. Describe the purpose of the proposed work: replacement of Bridge No. 19 on SR 1004 Page 4 of 13 crossing Mill Creek 11. List the type of equipment to be used to construct the project: backhoe, crane, bulldozers, heavy-duty trucks 12. Describe the land use in the vicinity of this project: agriculture, woodland, light residential IV. Prior Project History If jurisdictional determinations and/or permits have been requested and/or obtained for this project (including all prior phases of the same subdivision) in the past, please explain. Include the USACE Action ID Number, DWQ Project Number, application date, and date permits and certifications were issued or withdrawn. Provide photocopies of previously issued permits, certifications or other useful information. Describe previously approved wetland, stream and buffer impacts, along with associated mitigation (where applicable). If this is a NCDOT project, list and describe permits issued for prior segments of the same T.I.P. project, along with construction schedules. n/a V. Future Project Plans Are any additional permit requests anticipated for this project in the future? If so, describe the anticipated work, and provide justification for the exclusion of this work from the current application: n/a VI. Proposed Impacts to Waters of the United States/Waters of the State It is the applicant's (or agent's) responsibility to determine, delineate and map all impacts to wetlands, open water, and stream channels associated with the project. The applicant must also provide justification for these impacts in Section VII below. All proposed impacts, permanent and temporary, must be listed herein, and must be clearly identifiable on an accompanying site plan. All wetlands and waters, and all streams (intermittent and perennial) must be shown on a delineation map, whether or not impacts are proposed to these systems. Wetland and stream evaluation and delineation forms should be included as appropriate. Photographs may be included at the applicant's discretion. If this proposed impact is strictly for wetland or stream mitigation, list and describe the impact in Section VIII below. If additional space is needed for listing or description, please attach a separate sheet. Page 5 of 13 1. Wetland Impacts Wetland Impact Site Number (indicate on map) Type of Impact* Area of Impact (acres) Located within 100-year Floodplain** (yes/no) Distance to Nearest Stream (linear feet) Type of Wetland*** Site 1 (wetland) Temporary fill 0.01 yes 5 ft forested wetland Site l (wetland) Mech. clearing 0.04 yes 5 ft forested wetland * List each impact separately and identify temporary impacts. Impacts include, but are not limited to: mechanized clearing, grading, fill, excavation, flooding, ditching/drainage, etc. For dams, separately list impacts due to both structure and flooding. ** 100-Year floodplains are identified through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), or FEMA-approved local floodplain maps. Maps are available through the FEMA Map Service Center at 1-800-358-9616, or online at http://www.fema.gov. *** List a wetland type that best describes wetland to be impacted (e.g., freshwater/saltwater marsh, forested wetland, beaver pond, Carolina Bay, bog, etc.) List the total acreage (estimated) of existing wetlands on the property: 0.05 Total area of wetland impact proposed: 0.05 ac 2. Stream Impacts, including all intermittent and perennial streams Stream Impact Site Number (indicate on map) Type of Impact* Length of Impact (linear feet) Stream Name** Average Width of Stream Before Impact Perennial or Intermittent? (please specify) Sheet 4 fill 229.3 Unnamed tributary to Mill Creek 2 feet Perennial * List each impact separately and identify temporary impacts. Impacts include, but are not limited to: culverts and associated rip-rap, dams (separately list impacts due to both structure and flooding), relocation (include linear feet before and after, and net loss/gain), stabilization activities (cement wall, rip-rap, crib wall, gabions, etc.), excavation, ditch ing/straightening, etc. If stream relocation is proposed, plans and profiles showing the linear footprint for both the original and relocated streams must be included. ** Stream names can be found on USGS topographic maps. If a stream has no name, list as UT (unnamed tributary) to the nearest downstream named stream into which it flows. USGS maps are available through the USGS at 1-800-358-9616, or online at www.usgs.gov. Several intemet sites also allow direct download and printing of USGS maps (e.g., www.topozone.com, www.mapquest.com, etc.). Cumulative impacts (linear distance in feet) to all streams on site: 229.3 Page 6 of 13 3. Open Water Impacts, including Lakes, Ponds, Estuaries, Sounds, Atlantic Ocean and any other Water of the U.S. Open Water Impact Site Number (indicate on map) Type of Impact* Area of Impact (acres) (if Name p Waterbody applicable) Type of Waterbody (lake, pond, estuary, sound, bay, ocean, etc.) N/A List each impact separately and identify temporary impacts. impacts include, but are not limited to: fill, excavation, dredging, flooding, drainage, bulkheads, etc. 4. Pond Creation If construction of a pond is proposed, associated wetland and stream impacts should be included above in the wetland and stream impact sections. Also, the proposed pond should be described here and illustrated on any maps included with this application. Pond to be created in (check all that apply): ? uplands F_? stream ? wetlands Describe the method of construction (e.g., dam/embankment, excavation, installation of draw-down valve or spillway, etc.): Proposed use or purpose of pond (e.g., livestock watering, irrigation, aesthetic, trout pond, local stormwater requirement, etc.): Size of watershed draining to pond: Expected pond surface area; VII. Impact Justification (Avoidance and Minimization) Specifically describe measures taken to avoid the proposed impacts. It may be useful to provide information related to site constraints such as topography, building ordinances, accessibility, and financial viability of the project. The applicant may attach drawings of alternative, lower-impact site layouts, and explain why these design options were not feasible. Also discuss how impacts were minimized once the desired site plan was developed. If applicable, discuss construction techniques to be followed during construction to reduce impacts. Project involves bridge replacement with a new bridge at the existing bridge location with temporary impacts to wetlands, however permanent impacts to surface waters and Neuse Riparian Buffers will occur. Traffic will be maintained on-site during the construction period by means of a temporary bridge. Any material that falls into the stream will be removed as soon as possible as part of the bridge removal process. Page 7 of 13 VIII. Mitigation DWQ - In accordance with 15A NCAC 2H .0500, mitigation may be required by the NC Division of Water Quality for projects involving greater than or equal to one acre of impacts to freshwater wetlands or greater than or equal to 150 linear feet of total impacts to perennial streams. USACE - In accordance with the Final Notice of Issuance and Modification of Nationwide Permits, published in the Federal Register on March 9, 2000, mitigation will be required when necessary to ensure that adverse effects to the aquatic environment are minimal. Factors including size and type of proposed impact and function and relative value of the impacted aquatic resource will be considered in determining acceptability of appropriate and practicable mitigation as proposed. Examples of mitigation that may be appropriate and practicable include, but are not limited to: reducing the size of the project; establishing and maintaining wetland and/or upland vegetated buffers to protect open waters such as streams; and replacing losses of aquatic resource functions and values by creating, restoring, enhancing, or preserving similar functions and values, preferable in the same watershed. If mitigation is required for this project, a copy of the mitigation plan must be attached in order for USACE or DWQ to consider the application complete for processing. Any application lacking a- required mitigation plan or NCWRP concurrence shall be placed on hold as incomplete. An applicant may also choose to review the current guidelines for stream restoration in DWQ's Draft Technical Guide for Stream Work in North Carolina, available at http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/strmgide.html. 1. Provide a brief description of the proposed mitigation plan. The description should provide as much information as possible, including, but not limited to: site location (attach directions and/or map, if offsite), affected stream and river basin, type and amount (acreage/linear feet) of mitigation proposed (restoration, enhancement, creation, or preservation), a plan view, preservation mechanism (e.g., deed restrictions, conservation easement, etc.), and a description of the current site conditions and proposed method of construction. Please attach a separate sheet if more space is needed. NCDOT proposes to 2:1 stream mitigation by means of two sources. A new grass swale will be constructed approximately 15 ft south of the existing tributary and 230 ft in length, in accordance with Neuse Buffer Rules. Natural channel design will not be used for this swale, however it is likely that the new Swale will provide similar functions as of the impacted tributary. In addition, the grass swale will tie into the existing tributary downstream of the point in the channel where it begins to exhibit perennial characteristics. The swale will be constructed at approximately the same elevation as the existing tributary. n/a Page 8 of 13 NCDOT plans to offer the remaining 230 ft of stream mitigation for this project by debiting from the Stallings Mitigation Site in Jones County. This site will offer approximately 6,150 ft of stream mitigation for impacts in the 03020204 HUC. NCDOT owns the property and is currently developing the mitigation plan. 2. Mitigation may also be made by payment into the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program (NCWRP) with the NCWRP's written agreement. Check the box indicating that you would like to pay into the NCWRP. Please note that payment into the NCWRP must be reviewed and approved before it can be used to satisfy mitigation requirements. Applicants will be notified early in the review process by the 401/Wetlands Unit if payment into the NCWRP is available as an option. For additional information regarding the application process for the NCWRP, check the NCWRP website at http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/wrp/index.htm. If use of the NCWRP is proposed, please check the appropriate box on page three and provide the following information: Amount of stream mitigation requested (linear feet): Amount of buffer mitigation requested (square feet): 41,204 Amount of Riparian wetland mitigation requested (acres): Amount of Non-riparian wetland mitigation requested (acres): Amount of Coastal wetland mitigation requested (acres): IX. Environmental Documentation (DWQ Only) Does the project involve an expenditure of public funds or the use of public (federal/state/local) land? Yes ® No ? If yes, does the project require preparation of an environmental document pursuant to the requirements of the National or North Carolina Environmental Policy Act (NEPA/SEPA)? Note: If you are not sure whether a NEPA/SEPA document is required, call the SEPA coordinator at (919) 733-5083 to review current thresholds for environmental documentation. Yes E] No If yes, has the document review been finalized by the State Clearinghouse? If so, please attach a copy of the NEPA or SEPA final approval letter. Yes F-] No F-I X. Proposed Impacts on Riparian and Watershed Buffers (DWQ Only) It is the applicant's (or agent's) responsibility to determine, delineate and map all impacts to required state and local buffers associated with the project. The applicant must also provide justification for these impacts in Section VII above. All proposed impacts must be listed herein, and must be clearly identifiable on the accompanying site plan. All buffers must be shown on a map, whether or not impacts are proposed to the buffers. Correspondence from the DWQ Page 9 of 13 Regional Office may be included as appropriate. Photographs may also be included at the applicant's discretion. Will the project impact protected riparian buffers identified within 15A NCAC 2B .0233 (Meuse), 15A NCAC 2B .0259 (Tar-Pamlico), 15A NCAC 2B .0250 (Randleman Rules and Water Supply Buffer Requirements), or other (please identify )? Yes ® No ® If you answered "yes", provide the following information: Identify the square feet and acreage of impact to each zone of the riparian buffers. If buffer mitigation is required calculate the required amount of mitigation by applying the buffer multipliers. Zone* Impact (square feet) Multiplier Required Mitigation 1 10,307 3.0 30,921 2 6,855 1.5 10,283 total 41,204 zone i extenas out su feet perpenafcu?ar from near banK of cnannel; Gone 2 extencls an additional 20 feet from the edge of Zone 1. If buffer mitigation is required, please discuss what type of mitigation is proposed (i.e., Donation of Property, Conservation Easement, Riparian Buffer Restoration / Enhancement, Preservation or Payment into the Riparian Buffer Restoration Fund). Please attach all appropriate information as identified within 15A NCAC 2B .0242 or .0260. NCDOT proposes to mitiwate for the Neuse Riparian Buffer impacts throueh the North Carolina Wetlands Restoration Program (WRP). XI. Stormwater (DWQ Only) Describe impervious acreage (both existing and proposed) versus total acreage on the site. Discuss stormwater controls proposed in order to protect surface waters and wetlands downstream from the property. Impervious area will be similar to that of current conditions. The existing bridge is to be replaced at the existing bridge location and at approximately the same elevation. NCDOT BMP's for the protection of surface waters will be followed throughout project construction. XII. Sewage Disposal (DWQ Only) Clearly detail the ultimate treatment methods and disposition (non-discharge or discharge) of wastewater generated from the proposed project, or available capacity of the subject facility. n/a Page 10 of 13 XIII. Violations (DWQ Only) Is this site in violation of DWQ Wetland Rules (15A NCAC 2H .0500) or any Buffer Rules? Yes ? No Is this an after-the-fact permit application? Yes E] No XIV. Other Circumstances (Optional): It is the applicant's responsibility to submit the application sufficiently in advance of desired construction dates to allow processing time for these permits. However, an applicant may choose to list constraints associated with construction or sequencing that may impose limits on work schedules (e.g., draw-down schedules for lakes, dates associated with Endangered and Threatened Species, accessibility problems, or other issues outside of the applicant's control). n/a 7=-31 _Da Applicant/Agent's Signature Date (Agent's signature is valid only if an authorization letter from the applicant is provided.) Page 11 of 13 Oak roe ?o ^ 'l 17 /, J• N RIV SOWN LIMITS TOWN LIMITS r? 1004 58 ` _ 1? g Lt? . \ _ . '- 1109 / v ® POLLOCKSVILLE 1110 POP: 280 J` 1113 sBEG. PROJECT -9 _ / T112 CID 4 0 1.0 X1 1? rr v? 2.2 END PROJECT VICINITY MAID (WETLAND IMPACTS) 1/ N CDOT DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS JONES COUNTY PROJECT: 8.2190101 (B-3483) REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE NO.19 ON SR1004 OVER MILL CREEK NORTH CAROLINA X 2B ; • 1004 ?e s' 35l . 6 p SP Ph, ip w - - - --- - j _ Cy - \ © X 33 :---- h '^- I 4 `? :/ y I J' t d Mon tte 8 ?? - - 1 m 28 Temple • • ( - \ \ zi ons Chapel 25 gn tit r ead - \ 0 u \L 23 • c 4- ,. 1 O H \. L • Poll ° t. ? s ? 35 i 32 NCDO t V.A.`Y'S DIVISION CuJUN1°'?" PROJECT: 8.2190401 (13-3483) ?/ q RE'PLACEME'NT OF BRIDGE N(O.19 OV'??/ 11"t"I'll_,?`??:? D 1[ )-???? ON SJ?100-0 Oi'J;R MILL CREEK SHE'l," ' 2 OF 7 1 % 22 W-E71LAND -------------- ---- -WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY PROPOSED BRIDGE WETLAND - PROPOSED BOX CULVERT DENOTES FILL IN WETLAND DENOTES FILL SURFACE WAIER DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER (POND) I I O 0 E Y Zz_/z F IN WETL AND ILL DENO EXCAVATION IN N WETLAND DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN SURFACE --` WATER * + # DENOTES MECHANIZED + + * CLEARING FLOW DIRECTION TI3 TOP OF BANK WE -- EDGE OF WATER c -- PROP. LIMIT OF CUT - 1 - --- PROP. LIMIT OF FILL -- - PROP. RIGHT OF WAY - NG - - NATURAL GROUND PL -- PROPERTY LINE TOE TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT -POE PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASE MENT -- 1. OR - EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - FPf3- EXIS F. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY -- - - WATER SURFACE x x x x x LIVE STAKES x x x BOULDER --- CORE FIBER ROLLS PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT 12"-48 (DASHED LINES DENOTE PIPES EXISTNG STRUCTURES) 54" PIPES & ABOVE ?J SINGLE TREE rn-h t_r-r?? z WOODS LINE DRAINAGE INLET ROOTWAD M;N RIP RAP ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER C OR PARCEL NUMBER IF AVAILABLE FJ] PREFORMED SCOUR HOLE (PSH) F__ ___<1 LEVEL SPREADER (LS) __N- -v V.- GRASS SWALE A-- A-- -I:-- BASE GRASS SWALE NCI[ OT DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS JONES COUNTY PROJECT: 8.2190401 (18-3483) REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE N®.119 ON SR1004 OVER MILL CREED 3 O 7 I'9 a C, -? W LLJ Lo r? : •W 0U? ®w w " " I z rn '° T .. 1 I . o 1-7 l U w 1zm o z Ln U) CD I ?I ® x cn < I `? m 1' Q W® w - N U _--__- i I ° O w < g I ?? N ? I I ? I A ? r- 1 ns_t? ro I ;5 - OM j7, r I o ? n I -< lid ? _- W )/7-7H,') 7714 ' I W C? I 7 o , o _I z ?? ?. W - - Z Z ?] U) C) U) oXn W O 0? w Q- -J I I J x o< [L I I- F- D? I > 3 U W w W WJ? = to I ?I Y ? 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Z H Q N m C C O U c ~ U N U O O D W CL c `n C , co Z 3 > o g W w a LL C O. N U O O E 0 0 m H c h C ? lL W C7 O rn T ? 2 y fn N Q J W Z u _ H C C O Q 0 (O M J 65 o to r v r (O J d O (n z Q H PROPERTY OWNERS NAMES AND ADDRESSES PARCEL NO. NAMES ADDRESSES 1'0 BOX 12 1 John L. Simmons _ P 9LL4_CKSVll 1 7- PO BOX III 2 Virg_nia___D. Morton _.P0LL4aaV1LLL N 8573 Alvin Fonville 817 I-IALJF AX CIRCLE NEW BERN. NC 28562 270 BEAUFORT RD. C. E. Willie Sr. Heirs POLLOCKSVILE. NC 28573 100 MILL CREEK RD. Alfred IT. White 1_gLLDCJKSV1LLLo NCD®T DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS JONES COUN'T'Y PROJECT: 8.2190401 (B-3483) POLLOCKSVILLE REPLACEMEN'T' OF BRIDGE NO.19 ON SR1004 OVER MILI, CREEK SHI'U"T 7 OF 7 1/ 22 / 02 Oak rove ?o 17 ? J• TREN R \ IMITS \ r_7' 58 _ 03 w ® POLLOGKSVILL POP: 280 L. J` 1113 BEG. PROJECT .9 ?. T112 1" 1 ^14 1.0 11 h LIMITS 1109 1110 v? 2.2 END) PROJECT A-fz N ( "'D % T DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS JONES COUN11' I ROV1;("I': 8.2190-001 (8,-)483) R1?111,ACU"INIENT OF BRIDUE, N0.19 ON SR1004 OVFR DILL ('REll,"K SHE,]-, ' I OF i 1122 //02 NOR_l_F-- CAf=WL NA X15 ? ?? J\X 23 X2B 1004 as -' Qe Spence.-. Phi 'P - --- _ ------- •?, • ° ? ; ?>>, - T - - Mon Ile ??• ? '?? \ ead 25 P H - 0 II` 1 O l1 11 ?; = 11 \, 11 `35 a ql 32 1004 35 \ K33 U M 28 t Temple • ? r 10 3 Chapel. \ ; 1 r 25 m° - ?r r gn ?,_?.• - _ •? - -o N CDOT SITIE DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS JONES COUNTY MAP PROJECT: 8.2190401 (B-3483) REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE NO.19 (BUFFER ZONE IMPACTS) ON SR1004 OVER MILL CREED SHEET 2 OF 7 1 / 22/ 02 ]BUFFER LEGEND -WLB WETLAN D BOUNDARY _ PROPOSED BRID GE WETLAND C- PROPOSED BOX CULVERT wL xv ' ALLOWABLE uxxx?i IMPACTS ZONE I PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT 48, ???? (DASI-11-U LINES DENOTE FIP-S ???„ , ALLOWABLE IMPACTS /.ONE ? EXI`_ I NG STRUCTURES) 54" PIP1-:S & ABOVE MIIIGATABLE IMPACTS ZONF SINGLE TREE f/// jJ MIl IGATABLE IMPAC I S ZONE 2 l!?1 WOODS L INE - BZ - - RIPARIAN BUFFER /ON[ DRAINAGE INLET - = __BZI __ RIPARIAN BUFFER ZONE 1 ROOTWAD - ------- -- 30 ft (9.2m) f ----BZ2 RIPARIAN BUFI ER ZONF 2 RIP RAP 20f C (G.Irn) --> -? FLOW DIRECTION ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER 113 - TOP OF BANK G OR PARCEL NUMBER IF AVAILABLE WE --- EDGE OF WATER - (' - --- PROP. LIMIT OF CH I PREFORMED SCOUR HOLE (PSF) -- PROP. LIMIT 01 FILL --?- PROP. RIGHT OF WAY LEVEL SPRFODER (LS) - - NG - NATURAL GROUND _ PL _ PROPERTY LINE -?--? GRASS SWALE: TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE. 170SEMENT BASE GRASS SWALE PIT PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASI-MENT EAB--- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - EPB- EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY - - - - -- WATER SURFACE N C DO71 ° JUG L x x x x x LIVE STAKES DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS x x x Q-2) BOULDER JONES COUNTY PROJECT: 8.2190401 (B-3483) --- CORE 1 IRER ROLLS REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE NO. 19 ON SR1004 OVER MILI, CREEK 3 OF 7 1/22/02 r? V? J P4 P'y I? k-? p? PT? N O ? „; 7 W ' w? a te r. Z J N I?l - N O o n O M O NZ 4a ? V w r , i w F wl w i O CQ~I i ? 4 l?il t~il p d p W O d I C) I h -r W ^ r o J J In ~o o> o N z I ?J D I I LLJ Z ?' V ® 06 n a z I Z ;° z w' 7q z W F z? U 6L1 e I J d ?'7 W J ?° Q-,o o In > I X h] Q 0 v, Nl _ n ° VI V7 ° I a a H a w a. n. C) a w w n- ?: l 1 W ® W V Vl O d O W? N OJO- S N I o ? x a 3 W ; -...,. I 1 I c I ?? W / ? / . O Ln ?y // 77 v? ` S? ?W? » y v s? o ?NM J O? \ - ? o LD S?1 o7?0? -- - - W ? I II ??7?/? 77/w J I 6' (\j u I I 3 U7) -- -- I W - O -?_ ?1 w ID z { K f w w n n z 7F1 _ -- ? v O _ - 0 < J X w o 1< I? ? a n I --i X w C) i I OQ o?5 U) ~ J I ? 1 W ? w LIB ? I Q v -1 ---- --- ? Z z z O J 3 - C1NV9V w c?v w o ?w HJ2?f1H? `n ? w ( ", 3 o nvda s i - - - - -- - / _ > Z r O ul L] a ,n w T a? o a o w r.. ti d In Q o f c? - I -j V) 1 Z U L,I a Vl 3 0 I I 1 a R r _ __ /J-/ -_ > 1 .la,:>>J O 9 44 PM-, E i 74 ?q trr-??l l \ ? = z I z W z 02 u) U V, 1 O V) N . Z t 1? GA Q n U ? Vl ?fl ii Y_ ?? i ii d w LL J W I J \ yF?1 f-1 Q W N t W ?) W O O p N N T Q ii ? w ® U W _i 3 ti Q v O \ Z 5?or-,nt/) N X ? l a ?' W f Q ° o ?CD . A ?° t? «w '9 ° ?? n ?po V I ?i W l i? t W O O N O Z U? u: J - el,// _ > 41 j O -4 4 Li I ? ?` \ w Q O v) o `-? V) Ln - M O I W -CL ?- < o = O __, ? ?)a w 41, _j V) Ln < m1 V) rz . 1 331 - n- sr1 is r n _ s r O Cl- Q ? U N I? x x T _ <k" W V) ?\/+xr j- r? 1 ?i i,s Za - -- ? o / ? W Ln L) O v)' 1 ? .. ? ? --- I Ll ?Z-l.l-)? -- --- ? I Cl) ? I J --fin. - I CY s 0 J ? X f 2 I'\ C l,'1 ' ° ? CJ v a ,n w F- t - ' ?? }? (n 1J V H v) a W N hl n- a ° n - i U rr^ , I / W ° Q ,- O j 1- W 6 O N I L?? ' J - - - - _ _ _ - - - - - I- V, a I, >> _j s O W '(7NVHV W - 0 llmnn ? J .n U) l,J I - IWVN d S I J W z is 2 n v s n c) n CY r J O LL n v N, in c i,- Ld -. a w m I,- 1 - -- -- - -- - -- -- Z I T > U n s 3 " " V1 v a O N F to _j > I "y Lisa Q N z w w w N u" U m z w Q' N J F- 0 O 0 O 0 O w ~ J Q N O ? O V p N w '9 Z'9 ° N J Q ? ? OD N r c0 O N c0 /y LL W J O r r i V c O N G_ O O S co N p p p N Q W O O 01 r/ O F v N pO M O O N V J Q J U I J Q W a a W LL LL ! X L) V O v N + N ry N + Qo 2 U) u ? fA LL J p FL W p i 0 W p a ; $ o y ~ E y p c c u m a m m w o p D c m J ? o T c V 7 V a Q a U) O J z Q ? ? O 111ROPIERl"Y OWNERS NAMES AND ADDRESSES PAKCEI. NO. NAMES ADDRESSES PO BOX 12 1 John L. Simmons POLLOCKSVILLE, NC_ 28573 PO BOX III 2 Virginia D. Morton PO 0 .KSVI , NC 28573 817 HALIFAX CIRCLE 3-6 Alvin Fonville - NEW BERN.-NC 28562 270 BEAUFORT RD. _ 7 C. E. Willie Sr. Heirs POLL.OCKSVILLE, NC 28573 100 MILL CREEK RD. 8 Alfred H. White _ PO 0 .KSVII I F. NC 28753 DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS JONES COUNTY PROJECT: 8,21 190401 (B-3483) E?OE,I,OC},:SV 19.E.Es REIPL \t'1?MENT OF BRIDGE N0.19 ON SRl1)0- OVER MILL CREEK ?SHEE"T' 7 OF 7 E/ 23/ 02 Jones County Bridge No. 19 on SR 1004 Over Mill Creek Federal Project BRSTP-1004(5) State Project 8.2190401 TIP No. B-3483 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION AND N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS APPROVED: 7- l 3 - oo Date William D. Gilmore, P. E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch -m4-oo '6L 0 Date Nicholas Graf, P. E. Division Administrator, FHWA Jones County Bridge No. 19 on SR 1004 Over Mill Creek Federal Project BRSTP-1004(5) State Project 8.2190401 TIP No. B-3483 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION July 2000 7-IL-w Date 7-12.00 Date Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch By: 745Z 1?- Robin C. Young/ Project Planning Engineer 4 L/yN a- Wayne Llliott Bridge Project Planning Engineer, Unit Head -oo Date Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch PROJECT COMMITMENTS Jones County Bridge No. 19 on SR 1004 Over Mill Creek Federal Project BRSTP-1004(5) State Project 8.2190401 TIP No. B-3483 Commitments Developed Through Project Development and Design Roadway Design Unit, Roadside Environmental Unit, Division 2 Construction, Structure Design Unit NCDOT will adhere to the Best Management Practices (BMPs) for "Bridge Demolition and Removal" during the removal of Bridge No. 19. Roadway Design Unit, Roadside Environmental Unit, Division 2 Construction Once construction of the new bridge and approaches are complete, the temporary bridge will be removed. The existing approach fill will be removed to natural grade and the area will be re-vegetated with appropriate plant species. Division 2 Construction, Roadside Environmental Unit, Hydraulics Unit Mill Creek is located within a Primary Fish Nursery Area, and may potentially provide habitat for anadromous fish spawning. An in-water construction moratorium is required from April 1 to September 30. Sediment curtains will be used to minimize impacts from turbidity. Roadway Design Unit, Roadside Environmental Unit, Division 2 Construction, Hydraulics Unit, Structure Design Unit Neuse River Basin, Riparian Area Rules for Nutrient Sensitive Waters are applicable to this project. Green Sheet Categorical Exclusion Page I of I July 10, 2000 Jones County Bridge No. 19 on SR 1004 Over Mill Creek Federal Project BRSTP-1004(5) State Project 8.2190401 TIP No. B-3483 - Bridge No. 19 is located in Jones County over Mill Creek. It is programmed in the 2000- 2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as a bridge replacement project. This project is part of the Federal Highway Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation Program (HBRRP) and has been classified as a "Categorical Exclusion". No substantial environmental impacts are expected. I. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Bridge No. 19 will be replaced as recommended in Alternate 1 with a new bridge at approximately the same location and roadway elevation of the existing structure (see Figure 2). The new bridge will be approximately 90 feet (27.4 meters) in length and 30 feet (9.1 meters) in width. A travelway of 22 feet (6.6 meters) will be accommodated, with an offset of 4 feet (1.2 meters) on each side of the bridge to accommodate bicycles. The approach roadway will consist of two 11-foot (3.3-meter) travel lanes and shoulder widths of at least 8 feet (2.4 meters). The shoulder widths will be 3 feet (1 meter) wider where guardrail is warranted. A temporary on-site detour bridge will be constructed to the north of the existing bridge to accommodate traffic during construction. The temporary bridge will be approximately 60 feet (18.3 meters) in length and can be placed up to 3 feet (1 meter) lower than the existing bridge. The estimated cost of the project is $659,000 including $600,000 in construction costs and $59,000 in right of way costs. The estimated cost shown in the 2000-2006 TIP is $601,000. II. ANTICIPATED DESIGN EXCEPTIONS Based on preliminary design, a design exception will not be required for this project. III. EXISTING CONDITIONS SR 1004 is classified as a Rural Major Collector Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. Currently the traffic volume is 1300 vehicles per day (VPD) and projected at 2200 VPD for the year 2025. Approximately 2% of the traffic is dual tired vehicles (DT) and I% is truck-tractor semi-trailers (TTST). The posted speed limit in the vicinity of the bridge is 35 mph. The road serves primarily local residential and agricultural traffic. The existing bridge was completed in 1968. The superstructure has an asphalt surface on a steel plank floor with steel I-beam girders. The substructure consists of timber piles with timber caps for both the bent and end bents. The center bent has steel crutch piles. The deck is 71 feet (21.6 meters) long and 24 feet (7.3 meters) wide. There are approximately 14 feet (4.3 meters) of vertical clearance between the floor beams of the bridge deck and streambed. There are two lanes of traffic on the bridge. According to Bridge Maintenance Unit records, the sufficiency rating of the bridge is 46.8 out of a possible 100. Presently the bridge is posted with weight restrictions of 22 tons for single vehicles and 26 tons for truck-tractor semi-trailers. SR 1004 is a designated bicycle route. The project is located on North Carolina Bicycling Highway, Ports of Call - Map D-5 (Wild Turkey). The existing horizontal and vertical alignments are good. The Traffic Engineering Branch indicates that no accidents have been reported during a recent 3-year period in the vicinity of the project. There are 16 daily school bus crossings over the studied bridge. According to the Transportation Director for Jones County, road closure would not be acceptable because it would cause excessive time and mileage delays. The Town of Pollocksville has a six-inch (15-cm) water line located on the south side of SR 1004. A water treatment facility is located 200 feet (61 meters) from the west end of the bridge, in the southwest quadrant. IV. PROPOSED ALTERNATIVES There is one "build" option considered in this document as follows: Alternate 1: (Recommended) Replace Bridge No. 19 with a new 90 foot (27.4 meter) long bridge-at approximately the same location and roadway elevation as the existing bridge. Traffic will be maintained using a temporary on-site detour located to the north of the existing bridge during construction. The temporary detour bridge will be approximately 60 feet (18.3 meters) in length. An off-site detour was not considered because SR 1004 is a dead end road. A new alignment alternative was not studied since this would have resulted in higher cost and less desirable alignment. "Do-nothing" is not practical; requiring the eventual closing of the road as the existing bridge completely deteriorates. Rehabilitation of the existing deteriorating bridge is neither practical nor economical. 2 V. ESTIMATED COST (Table 1) COMPONENT Recommended ALTERNATE 1 Structure Bridge Removal Roadway & Approaches Detour & Approaches $ 175,000 $ 14,000 $ 90,000 $ 83,000 Mobilization & Miscellaneous $ 163,000 Engineering & Contingencies $ 75,000 Total Construction $ 600,000 Right of Way $ 59,000 Total Cost $ 659,000 VI. RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS Bridge No. 19 will be replaced as recommended in Alternate 1 with a new bridge at approximately the same location and roadway elevation of the existing structure (see Figure 2). The new bridge will be approximately 90 feet (27.4 meters) in length and 30 feet (9.1 meters) in width. A travelway of 22 feet (6.6 meters) will be accommodated, with an offset of 4 feet (1.2 meters) on each side of the bridge to accommodate bicycles. Based on preliminary design, the completed project will provide a design speed of 40 mph There will be approximately 200 feet (61 meters) of new approach work on each side of the bridge. The approach roadway will consist of two 11-foot (3.3-meter) travel lanes and a shoulder width of at least 8 feet (2.4 meters). The total shoulder width will be 3 feet (1 meter) wider where guardrail is warranted. A temporary on-site detour bridge will be constructed to the north of the existing bridge to accommodate traffic during construction. The temporary bridge will be approximately 60 feet (18.3 meters) in length and no more than three feet lower than the existing bridge. The construction of the recommended alternate does not have the potential to cause substantial impacts to the local environment. The Division 2 Office concurs with the recommendation. 3 VII. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS A. GENERAL- This project is expected to have an overall positive impact. Replacement of an inadequate bridge will result in safer traffic operations. This project is considered to be a "Categorical Exclusion" due to its limited scope and insignificant environmental consequences. This bridge replacement will not have a substantial adverse effect on the quality of the human or natural environment by implementing the environmental commitments listed in the Project Commitments sheet of this document. In addition, the use of current NCDOT standards and specifications will be implemented. The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning regulation. No change in land use is expected to result from construction of this project. There are no hazardous waste impacts. No adverse effect on families or communities is anticipated. Right-of-way acquisition will be limited. No adverse effect on public facilities or services is expected. The project is not expected to adversely affect social, economic, or religious opportunities in the area. There are no publicly owned parks, recreational facilities, or wildlife and waterfowl refuges of national, state, or local significance in the vicinity of the project. This project will not impact any resource protected by Section 4(f) of the US Department of Transportation Act of 1966. The proposed bridge replacement project will not raise the existing flood levels or have any significant adverse effect on the existing floodplain. Utility impacts are considered to be low for the proposed project. B. AIR AND NOISE This project is an air quality "neutral" project, so it is not required to be included in the regional emissions analysis and a project level CO analysis is not required. The project is located in Jones 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 4 adverse effects on the air quality of this attainment area. The project wilt not substantially increase traffic volumes. Therefore, it will not have substantial impact on noise levels. Temporary noise increases may occur during construction. If the project disposes of vegetation by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. C. LAND USE & FARMLAND EFFECTS This project is located in a rural portion of Jones County with few urbanized activities nearby. The land immediately surrounding this project is moderately to heavily wooded, and'there is a small residential neighborhood several hundred feet to the west of the project. Those residences closest to the proposed temporary detour, will likely incur minor effects such as noise and dust resulting from the construction process, as well as from the temporary altered traffic pattern. However, these impacts should be minor. Local government officials have indicated that there are no zoning regulations in place in Jones County. The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all federal agencies or their representatives to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime and important farmland soils. North Carolina Executive Order Number 96, Preservation of Prime Agricultural and Forest Lands, requires all state agencies to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime farmland soils, as designated by the US Soil Conservation Service (SCS). These soils are determined by the SCS based on criteria such as crop yield and level of input of economic resources. Land which is planned or zoned for urban development is not subject to the same level of preservation afforded other rural, agricultural areas. The temporary on-site detour is proposed to occur along the edge of woodlands abutting Mill Creek and parallel to the existing bridge. The project may result in the conversion of a small amount of wooded land, but the area immediately adjacent to the project is devoid of any agricultural uses. There may be some minor effects such as noise and dust resulting from the construction process. Farmland mitigation or avoidance does not appear to be necessary. D. HISTORICAL EFFECTS & ARCHAEOLOGICAL EFFECTS The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) reviewed the subject project. Subsequently, they determined that neither a historic architectural survey nor an archaeological survey would be required. The SHPO states the project is not likely to affect any resources of historical significance (see letter dated May 25, 2000). 5 E. NATURAL RESOURCES PHYSICAL RESOURCES Regional Characteristics - The proposed project is located in eastern Jones County. This area is located in the outer Coastal Plain Physiographic Province of North Carolina (see Figure 1). Topography in the vicinity of the study area is characterized as nearly level to gently sloping along streams. Project elevations range from 15-20 feet ( 4.6-6.1 meters) above mean sea level. Soils Soils located in the project area are of the Muckalee association. The Muckalee series is the dominant soil in the study area. Kenansville loamy fine sand, Craven very fine sandy loam, and Exum very fine sandy loam are also located within the project study area. Information concerning specific soil types occurring in the study area is provided below. Mucklalee soils are nearly level, poorly drained soils in drainageways. Infiltration is moderate, and surface runoff is very slow. Organic matter content in the surface layer is medium. Permeability is moderate, and the available water capacity is medium. The water table is at a depth of 0.5 feet (15 cm) to 1.5 feet (0.5 meters). The soil is hydric and is frequently flooded for brief periods. The slope ranges from 0 to 1 percent. Kenansville series consists of non-hydric well drained soils on broad, low ridges and in narrow depressions on stream terraces. Infiltration is rapid, and surface runoff is slow. The organic matter content of the content of the surface layer is low. Permeability is moderately rapid, and the available water capacity is low. The seasonal high water table remains at a depth below about 6 feet (1.8 meters). The slope ranges from 0 to 3 percent. Craven fine sandy loam is non-hydric moderately well drained soil on side slopes on uplands. Infiltration is moderately slow, and surface runoff is rapid. This soil has a low organic content, low permeability, low shrink-swell potential, and medium available water capacity. The seasonal high water table is from 2 to 3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) below the surface. The slope ranges from 4 to 8 percent. Exum series consists of non-hydric moderately well drained soils on uplands. Infiltration is moderately slow, and surface runoff is slow in cultivated areas. The organic matter of the surface layer is low. Permeability is moderately slow, and the available water capacity is high. The seasonal high water table is from 2 to 3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) below the surface. The slope ranges from 0 to 2 percent. 6 Water Resources This section contains information concerning surface water resources likely to be impacted by the proposed project. Water resource assessments include the physical characteristics likely to be impacted by .the proposed project (determined by field survey), best usage classifications, and water quality aspects of the water resources, along with their relationship to major regional drainage systems. Probable impacts to surface water resources are outlined, as well as the means to minimize impacts.. Physical Characteristics of Surface Waters One coastal plain perennial stream is crossed by Bridge No. 19. At the time of the field visit, Mill Creek had an approximate depth of 5 feet (1.5 meters). The average channel width was approximately 68 feet (20.7 meters) with a flow width of approximately 60 feet (18.3 meters). The black water stream had a moderate flow. The substrate consisted primarily of silt and sand. One intermittent unnamed tributary to Mill Creek lies parallel to SR 1004 on the southeast quadrant of the bridge. The average channel width was approximately 6 feet with a flow width of approximately 1 foot (0.3 meters). Water in the intermittent tributary was approximately 2 in (3.1 cm) at time of the field visit. Best Usage Classification The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) has assigned index numbers for streams and tributaries in North Carolina. One perennial stream in the Neuse River Basin, Mill Creek [DWQ Index No. 27-101-26, (5/1/88)] is crossed by SR 1411. This stream carries a Best Usage Classification of C Sw NSW. Class C: freshwaters protected for secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation and survival, and wildlife. All freshwaters shall be classified to protect these uses at a minimum. Swamp waters (Sw): waters which have low velocities and other natural characteristics which are different from adjacent streams. Nutrient Sensitive Waters (NSW): waters subject to growths of microscopic or macroscopic vegetation requiring limitations on nutrient inputs. No waters classified as High Quality Waters (HQW), Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), or Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II) occur within 1 mile of project study area. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Point sources refer to discharges that enter surface water through a pipe, ditch, or other defined points of discharge. The term most commonly refers to discharges associated with wastewater treatment plants. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. Dischargers are required to register for a permit. There are no permitted dischargers located within 1 mile (1.6 km) upstream of the project study area. 7 Non-point source refers to runoff that enters surface waters through stonmwater flow or no defined point of discharge. There are many types of land use activities that can serve as sources of nonpoint source pollution including land development, construction, crop production, animal feeding lots, failing septic systems, landfills, roads, and parking lots. Sediment and nutrients are major pollution-causing substances associated with nonpoint source pollution. Others include fecal coliform bacteria, heavy metals, oil and grease, and any other substance that may be washed off the ground or removed from the atmosphere and carried into surface waters. Water Quality The DWQ has initiated a whole basin approach to water quality management for 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 assessed water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites throughout the state. There are no biological monitoring sites located within the project vicinity. BIOTIC RESOURCES This section describes the ecosystems encountered and the relationships between vegetative and faunal components within terrestrial, and aquatic ecosystems. Descriptions of the terrestrial systems are presented where applicable in the context of plant community classifications (Schafale and Weakley, 1990). Representative animal species, which are likely to occur in these habitats, are cited. Animals observed during the site visit are denoted by an asterisk (*) in the text. Sightings of spoor evidence are equated with sightings of individuals. Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are used for plant and animal species described. Subsequent references to the same organism will include the common name only. Biotic Communities Four biotic communities: maintained roadside, bottomland hardwood, riparian fringe, and coastal plain perennial stream, exist within the project study area and may be impacted by the subject project. Each of these communities are described below. Maintained Roadside The maintained roadside community consists of the highly maintained shoulders and some less intensively managed areas that grade into the surrounding natural communities as well as residential communities. Significant soil disturbance and compaction, along with frequent mowing or herbicide application, keep this community in an early successional state. 8 Dominant plants in the heavily maintained portions of the roadside community include fescue (Festuca sp.) and plantain (Plantago sp.). In the areas which receive lower levels of maintenance, more diverse communities can develop. This community was populated by Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea), greenbrier (Smilax sp.); poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), wild onion (Allium canadense), and multiflora rose (Rosa multiljlora). Riparian Fringe The riparian fringe exists along the bank of Mill Creek. Dominant plants present in this community include red mullberry (Mores rubra), mimosa (Albizia julibrissin), Chinese privet, box elder (Acer negundo), Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), pignut hickory (Carya glabra), green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica), and multiflora rose. Bottomland Hardwood One small bottomland hardwood community exists in the northeast quadrant of the bridge. Dominant plants in this community include sweetgum (Liquidambar styracijlua), bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), greenbrier (Smilax sp.), box elder, ironwood (Carpinus carolina), Japanese honeysuckle, red maple (Acer rubrum), and water oak (Quercus nigra). Coastal Plain Perennial Stream Mill Creek is a black water stream located within the project area. Fishes likely to be found in creeks such as Mill Creek may include sunfish (Enneacanthus spp. And Lepomis spp.), chain pickerel (Esnox niger), hickory shad (Alosa mediocris), Alewife (Alosa psuedoharengus), and blueback herring (Alosa aestivalis). Wildlife Wildlife found in these communities is limited and consists primarily of wide-ranging, adaptable species, which are well suited to coexistence with human development. Mammals common to disturbed edge areas, such as eastern cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus jloridanus), beaver* (Castor canadensis), Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), raccoon (Procyon lotor), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and gray squirrel* (Sciurus carolinensis) may inhabit forested fringes. The most common reptiles found in such habitats are eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina) predators such as black racer (Coluber constrictor), and eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), which are likely to be found searching for small mammals such as the southeastern shrew (Sorex longirostris), white footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus), and hispid cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus) in disturbed habitats. Birds likely to frequent such habitats include common crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), golden-crowned kinglet* (Regulus satrapa), Carolina chickadee* (Parus carolinensis), domestic pigeon (Columbia livia), Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus), American robin (Turdus migratorius), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), and European starling (Sturnus vulgaris). 9 Summary of Anticipated Impacts Construction of the proposed project will have various impacts on the biotic resources described. This section quantifies and qualifies potential impacts to the natural communities within the project study area in terms of the area impacted and the organisms affected. Terrestrial Communities Impacts to terrestrial communities will result from project construction due to the clearing and paving of portions of the project study area, and thus the loss of community area. Calculated quantitative impacts to terrestrial communities reflect the relative abundance of each community present in the study area (see Table 2). Estimated impacts are derived based on the project length of 671 feet (204.5 meters). The entire right-of-way width of 60 feet (18.3 meters) was used for this calculation. The entire right-of-way will probably not be impacted, therefore actual impacts to the communities may be considerably less. Tahlp 2_ F.atimnted imnssets to terrestrial communities. {Community:type, Estimated .temporary.i npacts c Esfmuded permanent impacts acm,(hectare) Maintained roadside 0.80 (0.31) 0.80 (0.31) Bottomland hardwood <0.02 (0.01) N/A Riparian fringe <0.01 (0.01) <0.01 (<0.01) Total 0.83 (0.33) 0.81 (0.32) Flora and fauna occurring in these communities are generally common throughout North Carolina because of their adaptability to wide ranging environmental factors. Moreover, a similar roadside shoulder community will be re-established after construction. Animals temporarily displaced by construction activities should repopulate areas suitable for the species following project completion. As a result, it is unlikely that existing species will be displaced significantly from the project study area following construction. However, to minimize the temporary effects of project construction, all cleared areas along the roadways should be re-vegetated promptly after project completion to minimize erosion and the loss of wildlife habitat. Water Resources Estimated impacts to Mill Creek will be minimal. The bridge has an asphalt overlay surface on a steel plank floor on steel I-beams. The bridge has timber cap and pile bents and end bents. No components of the bridge are concrete, therefore none of the bridge will be dropped into the water during project construction. Aquatic communities are sensitive to any changes in the environment. Any action that affects water quality can have an adverse impact on aquatic organisms. Although most of the disturbance caused by project construction will be temporary, some environmental impacts caused by the proposed project will be long term or irreversible. Installation or modification of in-stream structures, -such as replacement of bridges, can permanently affect many physical stream 10 parameters. Project construction may result in the following impacts to surface waters: • Increased silt loading and sedimentation from erosion of disturbed soils. • Changes in light incidence, water clarity and water temperature due to increased sediment load and riparian vegetation removal. • Alteration of stream discharge due to silt loading and changes in surface or ground water drainage patterns. • Increased potential for release of toxic compounds such as fuel and oil from construction equipment and other vehicles. Precautions must be taken to minimize these and other impacts to water resources in the study area. NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMP) for the Protection of Surface Waters must be strictly enforced throughout the construction stage of the project. As the project is located in the Neuse River Basin, Riparian Area Rules for Nutrient Sensitive Waters apply. The rules state that roads, bridges, stormwater management facilities, ponds, and utilities may be allowed where no practical alternative exists. They also state that these structures shall be located, designed, constructed, and maintained to have minimal disturbance, to provide maximum nutrient removal and erosion protection, to have the least adverse effects on aquatic life and habitat, and to protect water quality to the maximum extent practical through the use of best management practices. Every reasonable effort will be made to avoid and minimize wetland and stream impacts. Once the temporary detour is removed, the buffer will be re- vegetated. Mill Creek is located within a Primary Fish Nursery Area, and may potentially provide habitat for anadromous fish spawning. For this reason, an in-water construction moratorium will be required from the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission from April 1 to September 30. The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries agreed that this moratorium would be sufficient. JURISDICTIONAL TOPICS This section provides inventories and impact analyses pertinent to two significant regulatory issues: Waters of the United States and rare and protected species. These issues retain particular significance because of federal and state mandates, which regulate their protection. This section deals specifically with the impact analyses required to satisfy regulatory authority prior to project construction. Waters of the United States The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) promulgated the definition of "Waters of the United States" under 33 CFR §328.3(a). Waters of the United States include most interstate and intrastate surface waters, tributaries, and wetlands. Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions are considered "wetlands" under 33 CFR §328.3(b). Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas. 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. Any action that proposes to place dredged or fill materials into Waters of the United States falls under the jurisdiction of the USACE, and must follow the statutory provisions under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. 1344). Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters One surface water, Mill Creek, exists within the project study area and is considered a jurisdictional surface water under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). One intermittent unnamed tributary is also located within the project area and may be impacted as a result of project construction. Discussion of the biological and water quality aspects of this water resource are presented in previous sections of this report. Summary of Anticipated Impacts Estimated impacts to Mill Creek will be minimal. Impacts to a small bottomland hardwood wetland may occur as a result of project construction. Approximately 0.02 acres (0.01 hectares) of the wetland may be temporarily impacted. Estimated impacts are derived based on the project length of 671 feet (204.5 meters). The entire right-of-way width of 60 feet (18.3 meters) was used for this calculation. The entire right-of-way will probably not be impacted, therefore actual impacts to the stream may be considerably less. Permits Clean Water Act §401 authorizes states to determine whether activities permitted by the federal government comply with state water quality standards. The DWQ may require a Section 401 Water Quality Certification if a project fills or substantially modifies waters or wetlands. The Section 401 Water Quality Certification allows surface waters to be temporarily impacted for the duration of the construction or other land manipulation. North Carolina developed General Certifications (GCs) that satisfy CWA §401 and correspond to the Corps of Engineers' NWPs (NCDENR, DWQ, Water Quality Section, Wetlands Water Quality Certification; undated Internet site). The issuance of a 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 permit. Water Quality Certification No. 3107, which corresponds to NWP 23, will likely be required for the project. Clean Water Act §404 establishes a permit program to regulate the discharge of dredged or fill materials into Waters of the United States. The USACE, which administers the permit program under CWA §404, established nationwide permits for minor activities, specialized activities, and activities regulated by other authorities. A nationwide permit (NW) is a permit by rule. In other words, compliance with the NWP rules satisfies the statutory provisions under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Forty NWPs referenced by a number currently exist (Strand, 12 1997). Nationwide 23, entitled Approved Categorical Exclusions, covers certain activities undertaken, assisted, authorized, regulated, funded, or financed, in whole or in part, by another Federal agency or department. Nationwide Permit 23 applies when another Federal agency or department determines that their activity, work, or discharge is categorically excluded from an environmental impact statement (EIS) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The activity, work, or discharge becomes categorically excluded when its actions neither individually nor cumulatively have a significant effect on the human environment. The Office of the Chief of Engineers must receive notice of the agency's or department's application for the categorical exclusion and concur with the categorical exclusion determination (61 FR 65874, 65916; December 13, 1996). A Nationwide Permit 23 CFR 330 Appendix A (B) (23) is likely to be applicable for the crossing of Mill Creek. This permit authorizes construction provided the following conditions are met: • the width of the fill is limited to the minimum necessary for the actual crossing; • the fill place in Waters of the United States is limited to a filled area of no more than 1 acre; • no more than a total of 150 linear feet (45.7 meters) of the fill for the roadway can occur in special aquatic sites, including wetlands; • the crossing is culverted, bridged or otherwise designed to prevent the restriction of, and to withstand expected high flows and tidal flows and movement of aquatic organisms, and; • the crossing, including all attendant features, both temporary and permanent, is part of a single and complete project for crossing of Waters of the United States. 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 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. 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. 13 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 to median widths, right-of-way widths, fill slopes, and/or road shoulder widths. Compensatory Mitigation Compensatory mitigation in not normally considered until anticipated impacts to Waters of the United States have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent possible. It is recognized that "no net loss of wetlands" functions and values may not be achieved in each and every permit action. Appropriate and practicable compensatory mitigation is required for unavoidable adverse impacts, which remain after all of the appropriate and practicable minimization has been required. Compensatory actions often include restoration, creation and enhancement of Water of the United States, specifically wetlands. Such actions should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or contiguous to the discharge site. Estimated impacts to jurisdictional wetlands is less than 0.02 acres (0.01 hectares). Final permit decisions rest with the COE and DWQ. Minimal impacts to jurisdictional surface waters may occur as a result of the proposed project. If fill or dredging in surface waters occurs as a result of construction activities, permits and certifications will be required from various regulatory agencies in charge of protecting the water quality of public-waters resources. Federally Protected Species Some populations of fauna and flora have been in, or are in, the process of decline either due to natural forces or their inability to coexist with human 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). 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. An endangered species is considered to be a species that is in danger of becoming extinct throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A threatened species is considered to be a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. As of December 20, 1999, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) lists one federally protected species for Jones County (see Table 3). A brief description and a biological conclusion are provided for the red-cockaded woodpecker below. 14 Table 3. Federally Protected Species for Jones County. .Common Name Scientific Name Status American alligator Alligator mississippiensis Threatened (S/A) red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides-borealis Endangered Note: • "Endangered" a species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. • "Threatened S/A" This listing is defined as a species which are threatened due to similarity of appearance with other rare species and are listed to protect these species. These species are not biologically endangered or threatened and are not subject to Section 7 consultation. Picoides borealis (red-cockaded woodpecker) Endangered Family: Picidae Date Listed: 13 October 1970 The red-cockaded woodpecker once occurred from New Jersey to southern Florida and west to eastern Texas. It occurred inland in Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. The red-cockaded woodpecker is now found only in coastal states of its historic range and inland in southeastern Oklahoma and southern Arkansas. In North Carolina moderate populations occur in the sandhills and southern coastal plain. The few populations found in the piedmont and northern coastal plain are believed to be relics of former populations. The adult red-cockaded woodpecker has a plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of the red-cockaded woodpecker is black and white with horizontal stripes. The breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The red-cockaded woodpecker has a large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat. The red-cockaded woodpecker uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be appropriate habitat for the red-cockaded woodpecker. These birds nest exclusively in trees that are >60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age. The foraging range of the red- cockaded woodpecker is up to 500 acres (200 hectares). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in colonies from 12- 100 feet (3.6-30.3 meters) above the ground and average 30-50 feet (9.1-15.7 meters) high. They can be identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree. The large incrustation of sap is believed to be used as a defense by the red-cockaded woodpecker against possible predators. A clan of woodpeckers usually consists of one breeding pair and the offspring from previous years. The red-cockaded woodpecker lays its eggs in April, May, and June and hatch 38 days later. Clutch size ranges in number from 3-5 eggs. All members of the clan share in 15 raising the young. Red-cockaded woodpeckers feed mainly on insects but may also feed on seasonal wild fruits. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for the red-cockaded woodpecker in the form of trees that are >60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30 years of age was not observed during the site visit. In addition, a review of the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database on October 5, 1999 indicated that there is no known occurrence of red-cockaded woodpeckers within 1 mile (1.6 km) of the project area. Therefore, this project will not affect this species. Alligator mississippiensis (American alligator) Threatened (S/A) Animal Order: Lorcata Date listed: 5/2/97 Alligator mississippiensis range from 6 to 19 feet (f.8-5.8 meters) in length. This reptile has a broad snout, a short neck, a heavy body, and a laterally compressed tail. Adults are blackish or dark gray, but faint yellowish crossbands are sometimes evident. The young are black with conspicuous yellow crossbands. This species is similar to the Spectacled Caiman but has a small, curved bony ridge in front of the eyes. The American alligator inhabits fresh water swamps, marshes, abandoned rice fields, ponds, lakes, and backwaters of large rivers. Although its range once extended north in the coastal plain to the Dismal Swamp, the American alligator is now absent in the area north of the Albemarle Sound and in much of the upper coastal plain. In June, the female builds a large mound of leaves, mud, and debris about 2 feet (60 cm) high, 4-7 feet (120-200 cm) wide, and usually located in a shaded area a few meters from the water. She deposits about 30 eggs in a cavity atop the mound, remains nearby, and challenges all intruders, frequently including man. Hatchlings about 8 inches long emerge in late summer or early fall. (Martof et al, 1980) A review of the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database on October 5, 1999 indicated that there is no known occurrence of American alligator within 1 mile (1.6 km) of the project area. Species which are threatened due to similarity of appearance with other rare species and are listed to protect these species are not biologically endangered or threatened and are not subject to Section 7 consultation. However, this project should not affect this species. Federal Species of Concern and State Listed Species There are 11 Federal Species of Concern (FSC) listed by the FWS for Jones County (see Table 4). 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 are 16 defined as a species which is under consideration for listing for which there is insufficient information to support listing. In addition, organisms which are listed as Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern 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 4. Federal Species of Concern for Jones Countv. Scientific Name Common Name NC Status Habitat Heterodon simus Southern hognose snake SR/PSC * No Rana capito capito Carolina gopher frog SC/PT No Procambarus plumimanus Croatan crayfish W3 Yes Asplenium heteroresiliens Carolina spleenwort E No Carex chapmanii Chapman's sedge WI Yes Dionaea muscipula Venus flytrap C-SC No Macbridea caroliniana Carolina bogmint T** Yes Minuartia godfreyi Godfrey's sandwort E No Oxypolis ternata Savanna cowbane W1 No Solidago pulchra Carolina goldenrod E No Solidago verna Spring-flowering goldenrod T No "E"--An Endangered species is one whose continued existence as a viable component of the State's flora is determined to be in jeopardy. "T"--A Threatened species is one which is likely to become endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. "SC"--A Special Concern species is one which requires monitoring but may be taken or collected and sold under regulations adopted under the provisions of Article 25 of Chapter 113 of the General Statutes (animals) and the Plant Protection and Conservation Act (plants). Only propagated material may be sold of Special Concern plants that are also listed as Threatened or Endangered. "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. "SR"--A Significantly Rare 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 generally more common elsewhere in its range, occurring peripherally in North Carolina. "W1"--A Watch Category 1 species is a rare species whose status in North Carolina is relatively well known and which appears to be relatively secure at this time. "W3"--A Watch Category 3 species is a species which is poorly known in North Carolina, but is not necessarily considered to be declining. "/P_"--denotes a species which has been formally proposed for listing as Endangered, Threatened, or Special Concern, but has not yet completed the listing process. "* "-- Historic record - the species was last observed in the county more than 50 years ago. -- Obscure record - the date and/or location of observation is uncertain. Surveys for these species were not conducted during the site visit. A review of the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program database of the rare species and unique habitats on October 5, 1999 did not reveal any records of North Carolina rare and/or protected species in or near the project study area. 17 1330 o° Ten We Fork 1002 1002 1 N 1333 1332 Oak Grove ?. '1119 1115 - j 1114 9 1 '1 1112 P y 1 Ri 0 aJ ' 9 17 1107 N S North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch Jones County Replace Bridge No. 19 on SR 1004 Over Mill Creek B-3483 Figure 1 M.C.A.A.F. l Oak Grows p RENt ??. Wft ° POLLOCKSVILLE O POP;288 A,liz 42 1004 Bridge No. 19 1 ;' 1111 2 nwood 108 i - i - i i j .. Looking East from the Bridge Looking West from the Bridge B-3483 FIGURE 3A North Face of Bridge South Face of Bridge B-3483 FIGURE 3B ,. A North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office Jana B. Hunt Jr, Governor Batty Ray McCain. Secretary May 25, 2000 Nicholas L. Graf Division Administrator Federal Highways Administration Department of Transportation 310 New Bern Avenue Raleigh, NC 27601-1442 Division of Archives and History Jaffrey J. Crow, Diraaor I. . n 2n04 Y MAY c - ?_ e- - RE: Replacement of Bridge No. 19, SR 1004 over Mill Creek, TIP B-3483, Jones County Dear Mr. Graf: We regret that staff was unable to attend the March 4, 1999 scoping meeting for the above project. Based upon our review of the photographs and information provided we offer our preliminary comments regarding this project. In terms of historic architectural resources, we are a«-are of no historic structures located within the area of potential effect. We recommend that no architectural survey- be done for the project. There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based on our present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely- that any archaeological resources which may be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places v,-ill be affected by the project construction. We, therefore, recommend that no archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with this project. Having provided this information we look forward to the receipt of either a Categorical Exclusion or an Environmental Assessment which indicated how NCDOT addressed our comments. Lomdon Malllnt Address TekphorWFa: ADMINISTRATION 307 N. Blount SL, Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center. Raleigh NC 27699-1617 (919) 7334763/33.9653 ARCHAEOLOGY 421 N. Blount SL, Raleigh NC 4619 Mail Service Ceara. Raleigh NC 27699-1619 (919) 733-7342!715.2671 RESTORATION 513 N. Blount SL, Raleigh NC 4613 Mail Service Canter. Raleigh NC 27699.4613 (919) 733.6347/715-4901 SURVEY It PLANNING 315 N. Blount SL, Raleigh NC 4619 `tail Service Center. Raleigh NC 276994619 (919) 7336545/715.4901 Page Two N. Graf May 25, 2000 The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. Sincerely, 11L? David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Cc: W. Gilmore - B. Church T. Padgett r?R ® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission® 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh-, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Bill Goodwin, Project Planning Engineer Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch, NCDOT FROM: David Cox, Highway Project Coordinator Habitat Conservation Program ;?- DATE: March 19, 1999 SUBJECT: NCDOT Replacements in Bladen and Jones counties. TIP Nos. B-3409, B-3412, B-3413, and B-3438. - 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 March 19, 1999 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 Anadromous 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: I . 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 Menlo larch 19. 1999 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-3409 - Bladen County - Bridge No. 27 is surrounded by high quality wetlands. This project should be replaced in-place with road closure. All construction activity should be restricted to the cleared right-of-way on the western (downstream) side of the existing structure. 2. B-3412 - Bladen County - Bridge No. 100 may have wetlands adjacent to the roadway. All construction activity should take place in the cleared right-of- way on the southeastern (upstream) side of the existing bridge. If an on-site detour is needed it should also use the cleared area. 3. B-3413 - Bladen County - Bridge No. 177 may have wetlands adjacent to the roadway. All construction activity should be restricted to the cleared right-of- way on the western (upstream) of the existing bridge. If an on-site detour is needed it-should also use the cleared area. L3 83 4. 1i Tones County - Bridge No. 19 crosses Mill Creek, which is a tributary to the Trent River. This stream supports a good fishery for sunfish and chain pickerel. We request that no in-water work be performed from April I to September 30. If a temporary detour is need, we suggest the using the downstream side of the existing bridge. Sediment curtains should be used to minimize impacts from turbidity. 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.