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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20021913 Ver 1_Complete File_20021218 dM SfA7pa W °?a : . U21913 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDo TIPPETT GOVERNOR SECRETARY US Army Corps of Engineers Raleigh Regulatory Field Office 6508 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 120 Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 December 3, 2002 .r n. 5 I R t n ; r ud WPTI Pt0,110 mow; ATTENTION: Mr. John Thomas NCDOT Coordinator Dear Sir: SUBJECT: Nationwide 23 and 33 Permit Applications. The Proposed Replacement of Bridge No. 12 over Winkler Creek on SR 1549 in Watauga County. Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1549(3), State Project No. 8.2751701, TIP B-3536. Please find enclosed three copies of the project planning report for the above-referenced project. Since the publication of the Categorical Exclusion (CE) the design has been modified. The existing 40 feet bridge will be replaced at its present location with a Conspan arch structure instead of a 90 feet bridge as described in the CE. The new structure will measure approximately 48 feet in length and 40 feet in width. Traffic will be maintained off-site during the construction period: No jurisdictional wetlands will be impacted by the proposed project. Due to the width of the Conspan arch structure, we anticipate no permanent impacts to Winkler Creek. The use of this spanning structure should allow the natural substrate of the streambed to re-establish once the footings are in place and the sandbags are removed. Placement of the bridge structure will result in temporary impacts to surface waters of 0.007 ac. These impacts are depicted on Sheets 2 and 3 of 5 of the attached drawings. A project vicinity map. and preconstruction notification form are also included with this permit application. V Temporary Fill Information: Construction of the Conspan structure foundation will require temporary dewatering of the site. Excavation in the dewatered portion of the stream will be required in order to install impervious dikes down to the rock. line where the footings will be constructed. Water will be diverted to the center of the stream channel using sandbags. MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION - FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS - 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG - RALEIGH NC RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 1. Restoration Plan: The materials used as temporary fill in the construction of the footings will be removed after their purpose has been served. The temporary fill areas will be restored to their original contours once the fill material is removed. 2. Schedule: The project schedule calls for a February 2003 let date. It is expected that the contractor will choose to start construction of the project shortly after March 31, 2003. 3. Disposal: After stream containment is no longer required, the contractor will remove sandbags used in the streambed. All containment materials will become property of the contractor. The contractor will be required to submit a reclamation plan for removal and disposal of all materials off-site. Bridge Demolition: Bridge No. 12 is located on SR 1549 over Winkler Creek (DWQ Index No.: 10-1-4-(3.5), 2/1/93; Class C Tr +). It has one span totaling 40.5 feet in length. The deck has an asphalt-wearing surface on a timber floor supported by eight lines of 16-inch steel I- beams. The end bents consist of timber caps with timber posts and concrete sills. Bridge No. 12 contains no reinforced concrete structures, negating the need to include the span over Winkler Creek as potential fill impact. Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal will be applied to prevent debris from falling into the stream. Therefore, Bridge No. 12 will be removed without dropping any components into waters of the United States. However, if any material falls into the stream it will be removed as soon as possible as part of the bridge removal process. "Design standards in sensitive watersheds" will be adhered to during design and construction of the project. Waters of the U.S: The following jurisdictional waters will be impacted. Placement of the bridge structure will result in temporary impacts to 0.007 ac of surface waters. This project will take place in a mountain trout county and Winkler Creek supports wild rainbow and brown trout. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) has prohibited any in-stream work and land disturbance activities associated with this project within 25 feet of any water with the designation TR during the trout spawning season of 15 October through 31 March (letter dated 23 August 1999 and personal communication with J. Mickey, 10 January 2000). Waters with this designation include Winkler Creek. It is anticipated that additional comments from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) will be required prior to authorization by the Corps of Engineers: by copy of this letter and attachment, NCDOT hereby requests NCWRC review. NCDOT requests that NCWRC forward additional comments to the Corps of Engineers. . 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 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) and a Nationwide Permit 33 (Temporary Construction, Access and Dewatering). We anticipate a 401 General Certification numbers 3361 and 3366 will apply to this project. In accordance with 15A NCAC 2H .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. If you have any questions or need additional information please call Chris Rivenbark at (919)-733-9513. Sincerely, ? M, a 14 Imo" Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D. Environmental Management Director, PDEA cc: w/attachment Mr. John Dorney, Division of Water Quality Ms. Marla'Cambers, NCWRC Ms. Marella Buncick, 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. Carl McCann, P.E., Division 11 Engineer Mr. Heath Slaughter, Division 11 Environmental Officer Mr. John Conforti, PDEA 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 t 1. Check all of the approval(s) requested for this project: 1 ® Section 404 Permit ? Section 10 Permit ,?TUtdS ; lNA??r 0' p x ?' 401 Water Quality Certification SUP ? Riparian or Watershed Buffer Rules 2. Nationwide, Regional or General Permit Number(s) Requested: Nationwide 23 and 33 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 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. 12 on SR 1549 over Winkler Creek 2. T.I.P. Project Number (NCDOT Only): B-3536 3. Property Identification Number (Tax PIN): n/a 4. Location County: Watauga Nearest Town: Boone Subdivision name (include phase/lot number): Directions to site (include road numbers, landmarks, etc.): From intersection of NC 221 and NC 105 in Boone, traverse 0.1 mile south on NC 221: turn right on Winkler Creek Dr and continue for 0.4 mile; turn right on SR 1549 and continue 0.3 mile to Bridge No. 12 crossing of Winkler Creek. 5. Site coordinates, if available (UTM or Lat/Long):_ N36° 11.895', W81 ° 40.400' (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): Winkler Creek 9. River Basin: New (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/mVs/.) Page 4 of 13 10. Describe the purpose of the proposed work: replacement of Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 crossing Winkler 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: 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 Page 5 of 13 mitigation, list and describe the impact in Section VIII below. If additional space is needed for listing or description, please attach a separate sheet. 1. Wetland Impacts Wetland Impact Site Number (indicate on ma Type of Impact* Area of Impact (acres) Located within 100-year Floodplain** es/no Distance to Nearest Stream (linear feet) Type of Wetland*** n/a * 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 hM2://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: n/a Total area of wetland impact proposed: n/a 2. Stream Impacts, including all intermittent and perennial streams Stream Impact Site Number (indicate on ma) Type of Impact* Length of Impact linear feet Stream Name** Average Width of Stream Before Impact Perennial or Intermittent? leasespecify) Sheets 2-3 Temporary excavation, sandbags 76 Winkler Creek 30 feet Perennial List each impact separately and identity 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, ditching/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.mapguest.com, etc.). Page 6 of 13 Cumulative impacts (linear distance in feet) to all streams on site: n/a 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 ma Type of Impact* Area of Impact (acres) Name of Waterbody (if applicable) Type of Waterbody (lake, pond, estuary, sound, bay, ocean, etc. Sheets 2-3 Temporary excavation, sandbags 0.007 Winkler Creek stream * 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 ? 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 Conspan arch structure at the existing bridge location with no impacts to wetlands and no permanent impacts to surface waters Traffic will be maintained off-site during the construction period. Any material that falls into the stream it 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 htip://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/strrngide.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. n/a Page 8 of 13 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 httv://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/wW/index.htin. 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): 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 ? 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 ? No ? 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 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: Page 9 of 13 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 Multiplier Required (square feet Mitigation * 7,...e i e..te«A ....« 1n C e+..or..e.. a:..,,1... (3..,.., «e?. 1.x.,11 47..l,o„„01. 7...,e 1 e.,re..A o.. ....._..»,...». ?., ___. r_1 r_..»._».». 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. n/a 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 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? Page 10 of 13 A' I T Yes 0 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 /.Q -3 -dn_'2_ 6V -m???W? Applicant/Agent's Signature Date (Agent's signature is valid only if an authorization letter from the applicant is provided.) Page l 1 of 13 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN itState Project 8.2751701 ( B-3536 ) Watauga County This 0.085 mile project involves the removal and replacement of Bridge Number 12 carrying SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road) over Winkler Creek in Watauga County. The existing forty-foot six-inch (40' 6") single span bridge will be replaced with a forty-eight foot (48') Conspan arch structure. SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road) will be closed during construction and traffic rerouted offsite. Winkler Creek has a Class C Tr + water classification. The existing two-lane eighteen-foot (18') paved roadway consists of two nine-foot (9') lanes with no paved shoulder. The proposed two-lane thirty-two foot (32') paved roadway consists of two twelve-foot (12') paved lanes with a four-foot paved shoulder in the vicinity of the structure. The existing bridge is 19.3 feet wide and the proposed bridge is thirty-two feet (32') across. Therefore, the proposed widening of the roadway and bridge will result in approximately 2693 ft2 (0.06 acres) of additional impervious area as a result of the project. The following best management practices and measures were taken during the design of the project to reduce the stormwater impacts: 1. Drainage on the existing bridge presently runs off directly into the creek. Drainage from the proposed bridge will not be allowed to discharge directly into Winkler Creek but will be collected at the eastern end of the bridge. 2. Storm drainage that is collected at the eastern end of the bridge will be discharged at the bottom of the fill slope and allowed to disperse. This outlet is approximately twelve feet away from the top of creek bank. 3. There will be approximately thirty-three feet (33') of expressway gutter placed off the West End of the bridge. In addition, forty feet (40') of expressway will be installed off the East End of the bridge which transitions into one hundred and seventy five feet (175') of two-foot valley gutter, to protect the slopes from erosion. This drainage will be discharge into an existing roadway ditch at the northeast end of the project. 4. The roadway typical section consists of grass shoulders, fill slopes and ditches with side slopes of 3:1 or flatter. STREAM IMPACT SUMMARY State Project 8.2751701 ( B-3536 ) Watauga County Temporary surface water impacts will occur due to dewatering the site in order to construct the foundation for the Conspan arch structure. It is anticipated that impervious dikes, constructed of sandbags, will be used to dewater the site temporarily. Temporary surface water impacts were shown to the full stream due to the possibility of the entire stream being disturbed during the placement of the sandbags. Excavation in the dewatered portion of the stream will be required in order to install the impervious dikes down to the rock line where the footings will be constructed. Once the dikes are installed the stream flow will be maintained between the dikes as shown on the permit drawings. Approximately 0.007 acres of temporary fill in surface water will occur due to the placement of the impervious dikes. 1 b \ ? 55 '1550` 1 \ 552 552 ? /Qy 154 547 16531 r PROJECT 754 1666 SITE , 321 1617 153 1639 \. _ 7 FLAT 31 6 TOP M 1541 538 j?. 8 1530 >3,r`sf' d G 1N / X1607 VICINITY MAPS N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS WATAUGA COUNTY PROJECT: 8.27517011 (B-3536) BRIDGE NO. 12 ON SR 1519 OVER WINKLER CREEK SHEET_L OFD DATE 01 % 15 % 02 NORTH CAROLINA LEGEND --WLB WETLAND BOUNDARY PROPOSED BRIDGE WETLAND W?--W L PROPOSED BOX CULVERT DENOTES FILL IN ® WETLAND PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT 12'-48' DENOTES FILL IN (DASHED LINES DENOTE PIPES ® SURFACE WATER EXISTNG STRUCTURES) 54' PIPES & ABOVE DENOTES FILL IN ® SURFACE WATER (POND) SINGLE TREE ® DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND WOODS LINE ® DENOTES EXCAVATION IN WETLAND ¦ DRAINAGE INLET ® DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN SURFACE ? WATER -- ROOTWAD DENOTES MECHANIZED CLEARING FLOW DIRECTION TB -- TOP OF BANK •- WE- - EDGE OF WATER - -C - PROP. LIMIT OF CUT - -F - PROP. LIMIT OF FILL A PROP. RIGHT OF WAY - - NO- - NATURAL GROUND - -PL - PROPERTY LINE - TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT -PDE- PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT - EAB - EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - EPB- • EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY - - 7- - - - WATER SURFACE X LIVE STAKES X XX X X C.-./ BOULDER --- CORE FIBER ROLLS RIP RAP O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER IF AVAILABLE N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS WATAUGA COUNTY PROJECT: 8.27517011 (B-3536) BRIDGE NO.12 ON SR 1549 OVER WINKLER CREEK SHEET IA OF 5 1/15/02 b ?v J 1S 3 LI: • ? h ?- - Q? a ? v ``/ W / LAJ F S? \ + / or z N Lgi CO 4 V) wCK z a ?m /"- N a a / LL d s \LL W Q LLJ cr N O N ~ Z To BlowhV ROW >> / LL- u O? D co < p LLJ ?O Blue RI g. POr? / cc 0: I=-U N+ CLNO ln? ?a M Q Liles LO X k Jm wE- O W COW Ja UZ a. a b hn L4 Lzl .a ? O a O e w U O z J .a w a F O A z Q? w w w w n o O O O x N D 00 2 oz 0-0 w zo ° ?° °cc / vm;o °0 n z z zm / M. C) a o r N / m i/ r / - -T? 7t ' Z;o CAM> rn (A -I + N 1 n Xy0 C= Om X m a) VA Z DN m m N z- 1 m: o Z 'i m o r-? 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U N O V J 1.O O N M r WO ZO W > r v Watauga County Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road) DEC ! g 2007 Over Winkler Creek WETLANDS G3i0UP Federal Aid Project No. BRZ 1549(3) WE WAiE,? UA 'y SECTI0N State Project No. 8.2751701 T.I.P. No. B-3536 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION AND NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS 021913 APPROVED: DATE William D. Gilmore"" ., . Manager Project Development Enviromnental Analysis Branch . North Carolina Department of Transportation DATE Nicholas L. Graf, P.E. Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration i r Watauga County Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road) Over Winkler Creek Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1549(3) State Project No. 8.2751701 T.I.P. No. B-3536 CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION Document Prepared By: Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP 01 Kimberly S. Lei Project Manager A%,V H IC-Q*? 0 OZ •• SEAL 9?' X_ YT. Peacock, Jr., P.E. A 4642 Associate '?i,'yj. S??/NEE; r?`?•?.` ~''%,?MAS PEp?'?•' l?jt111111???, For the North Carolina Department of Transportation 3 Brian Yamamoto ( Unit Head Consultant Engineering Unit P - NOS 4, w JOHN G. John G. orti, REM = CONFORTI cz Projec anager REM 9766 Consultant Engineering Unit ,? •A•'•.....• o? I,. 1 1.. i Table Of Contents Page Special Project Commitments 1. Purpose and Need Statement 2 II. Existing Conditions 2 III. Alternatives 3 A. Project Description 3 B. Reasonable and Feasible Alternatives 4 C. Alternatives Eliminated From Further Study 5 D. Preferred Alternative 6 IV. Estimated Costs 6 V. Natural Resources 7 A. Methodology 7 B. Physiography and Soils 7 C. Water Resources 8 1. Waters Impacted 8 a. Stream Characteristics 8 b. Best Usage Classifications and Water Quality 9 2. Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources 10 D. Biotic Resources 12 1. Plant Communities 12 2. Anticipated Impacts to Plant Communities 13 3. Wildlife 15 a. Terrestrial 15 b. Aquatic 16 4. Anticipated Impacts to Wildlife 16 E. Special Topics 17 1. Waters of the United States 17 a. Permits 19 b. Mitigation Evaluation 20 t t 2. Protected Species 21 a. Federal Protected Species 21 b. State Protected Species 26 F. Floodplains 26 VI. Cultural Resources 26 A. Compliance Guidelines 26 B. Historic Architecture 26 C. Archaeology 27 VII. Environmental Effects 27 VIII. Public Involvement 29 SPECIAL PROJECT COMMITMENTS Watauga County Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road) Over Winkler Creek Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1549(3) State Project No. 8.2751701 T.I.P. No. B-3536 NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION; DESIGN SERVICES UNIT, DIVISION 11 ENGINEER: • North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) has prohibited any in-stream work and land disturbance activities, within 25 feet (7.6 meters) of Winkler Creek, associated with this project during. trout spawning season of October 15 through April 15. WRC has also requested to review the plans for this project after final design is complete, prior to actual construction. Categorical Exclusion December 2001 Watauga County Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road) Over Winkler Creek Federal Aid Project No. BRZ-1549(3) State Project No. 8.2751701 T.I.P. No. B-3536 INTRODUCTION: Bridge No. 12 is included in the 2002-2008 North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and in the Federal Aid Bridge Replacement Program. The location of this bridge is shown on Figure 1. No substantial environmental impacts are anticipated. The project is classified as a Federal "Categorical Exclusion". 1. PURPOSE AND NEED STATEMENT Bridge Maintenance Unit records indicated the bridge was last inspected in September 1999. The i results of the inspection indicate Bridge No. 12 has a sufficiency rating of 3 out of a possible 100 for a new structure. This bridge is considered "structurally deficient". The replacement of this inadequate 1 structure will result in safer and more efficient traffic operations. ? II. EXISTING CONDITIONS The project is located in the central part of Watauga County, approximately 950 feet (290 meters) west of the intersection of SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road) and SR 1547 (Deck Hill Road), within the jurisdictional limits of the Town of Boone. The immediate area is rural, consisting of suburban-type residential and business development occurring on SR 1549, east of the existing bridge (See Figure 2). According to NCDOT Statewide Planning Branch, SR 1549 is classified as a rural local route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. Per communication with NCDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation, this route is not a designated bicycle route and there is no indication that an unusual number of bicyclists utilize this roadway (See letter in Appendix). In the vicinity of the bridge, SR 1549 is an 18-foot (5.5-meter) paved, 2-lane roadway with 2-foot (0.6-meter) grass shoulders. The roadway is situated approximately 11 feet (3.4 meters) above the riverbed at Bridge No. 12. 2 I The current (2000) traffic volume of 1,955 vehicles per day (VPD) is expected to increase to 3,900 VPD by the year 2025. The project volume includes 1-percent truck-tractor semi-trailer (TTST) and 2-percent dual-tired vehicles (DT). The posted speed limit in the project area is 35 mph (56 km/h). There were 6 accidents reported in the vicinity of Bridge No. 12 during the 3-year period beginning January 01, 1995 through December 31, 1997. These figures resulted in an annual accident 1 rate of 4,000 ACC/100 MVM compared to a statewide average of 227.3 ACC/100 MVM for the same time period. I r Bridge No. 12 is a 40'-6" (12.4 meters) long single span with a clear roadway width. of 19.3 feet (5.9 meters) (See Figure 3). The bridge has an asphalt-wearing surface on a timber floor supported by eight lines of 16-inch (40.6-centimeter) steel I-beams. The end bents consist of timber caps with timber posts and concrete sills. The posted weight limit on this bridge is 12 tons (10.9 metric tons) for single vehicles and 15 tons (13.6 metric tons) for tractor trailer/semi-trucks (TTST). The existing bridge was constructed in 1955 and is in poor condition. There are no utilities attached directly to the existing structure; however, buried water and sewer 1 lines as well as overhead power lines are located along SR 1549. Overall, utility impacts are anticipated f to be low and any specific impacts will be coordinated with appropriate utility personnel during 1 construction. Two school buses cross these bridges eight times daily on their routes. In a letter dated February 15, 2000, the Watauga County Board of Education indicated "this (closure) would involve considerable re-routing of buses and a significant increase in ride times for students" (See letter in Appendix). III. ALTERNATIVES A. Project Description The replacement structure will consist of a bridge 90 feet (27.4 meters) long and 32 feet (9.6 meters) wide. The replacement structure will require spill-through abutments on each end. This structure provides two 12-foot (3.6 meters) lanes and a 4-foot (1.2 meters) shoulder on each side (See Figure 4). The recommended bridge length is based on a preliminary hydraulic analysis. The final design of the bridge will be such that the backwater elevation will not encroach beyond the current 100-year { 3 i floodplain limit. The length of the new structure may be increased or decreased as necessary to accommodate peak flows as determined by further hydraulic studies. The roadway grade of the new structure will be approximately the same as the existing grade at this location. The proposed approach roadway will consist of a 24-foot (7.2-meter) pavement width to provide two 12-foot (3.6-meter) lanes with 8-foot (2.4-meter) shoulders on each side in accordance with current NCDOT Policy (See Figure 4). B. Reasonable and Feasible Alternatives The alternatives studied for replacing Bridge No. 12 are shown on Figure 2 and described below: Alternative 1 - replaces the bridge on new location approximately 30 feet (9.1 meters) south (upstream) of the existing structure (Figure 2). The approach work will extend from approximately 260 feet (79.3 meters) southwest of the bridge to approximately 240 feet (73.2 meters) east of the bridge for a total distance of approximately 500 feet (152 meters). The bridge will be replaced on a 125-foot (38.1-meter) radius horizontal curve with a design speed of 22 mph (35 km/h). A design exception will be required for this alternative due to both the horizontal and 1 vertical curvatures. An off-site detour will be used to maintain traffic during the construction period. The length of the off-site detour is approximately 7.0 miles (11.3 kilometers). This alternative is not recommended due to its impact on the floodplain water surface elevations. Alternative 2 - replaces the bridge on new location approximately 85 feet (26 meters) south (upstream) of the existing structure (Figure 2). The approach work will extend from approximately 250 feet (76.2 meters) southwest of the bridge to approximately 310 feet (94.5 meters) east of the bridge for a total distance of approximately 560 feet (171 meters). The bridge will be replaced on a 140-foot (42.7-meter) radius horizontal curve with a design speed of 24 mph (39 km/h). A design exception will be required for this alternative due to both the horizontal and vertical curvatures. The existing Bridge No. 12 will be used to maintain traffic during construction. This alternative is not recommended due to its impact on the floodplain water surface elevations. 4 f Alternative 3 - replaces the bridge on new location approximately 500 feet (152 meters) south (upstream) of the existing structure and improves the existing roadway alignment (Figure 2). The approach work will extend from approximately 310 feet (94.5 meters) west of the bridge to SR 1547 which is approximately 650 feet (198 meters) east of the bridge for a total distance of approximately 960 feet (293 meters). The existing Bridge No. 12 will be used to maintain traffic during construction. The new alignment will have a design speed of 45 mph (72 km/h). A design exception will not be necessary for this alternative. The alternative is not recommended due to its high cost, the approximate 45-feet (14 meters) cut required through the mountain just east of the } bridge, and one residential relocatee. Alternative 4 - replaces the bridge on the existing alignment and improves the existing roadway alignment west of the bridge (Figure 2). The approach work will extend from approximately 850 feet (259 meters) west of the bridge to approximately 250 feet (76.2 meters) east of the bridge for a total distance of approximately 1,100 feet (335 meters). The design speed is 30 mph (48 km/h). A design exception will be required for this alternative due to the vertical alignment. An off-site detour will be used to maintain traffic during the construction period. The length of the off_ site detour is approximately 7.0 miles (11.3 kilometers). This alternative is not recommended due to the high cost of this alternative and the approximate 130-foot (39.6-meter) cut required through the mountain located just west of the existing bridge. Alternative 5 (Preferred) - replaces the bridge on the existing alignment (See Figure 2). The approach work will extend from approximately 205 feet (62.5 meters) east of Bridge No. 12 to approximately 230 feet (70 meters) south of Bridge No. 12 for a total length of approximately 485 feet (148 meters). The bridge will be replaced on a tangent section adjacent to a 53-foot (16- meter) radius horizontal curve with a design speed less than 20 mph (32.2 km/h). A design exception will be required for this alternative due to the horizontal curvature. An off-site detour will be used to maintain traffic during the construction period. The length of the off-site detour is approximately 3.8 miles (6.1 kilometers). C. Alternatives Eliminated from Further Study An alternative that replaces the bridge north (downstream) of the existing bridge was considered. This alternative was eliminated due to the impact on Winkler Creek, the poor horizontal alignment, and the large cut required through the mountain located just west of the existing bridge. 5 A box culvert was considered but is not a feasible alternative for this location due to hydraulic recommendations and the sensitive natural ecosystem in the study area. The No-Build on "Do Nothing" alternative will eventually necessitate closure of the bridge. This is not acceptable due to the traffic service provided by SR 1549 (Winkler Creek Road). "Rehabilitation" of the existing structure is not feasible due to its age and deteriorated condition. D. Preferred Alternative Bridge No. 12 will be replaced on new location as shown by Alternative 5 on Figure 2. Alternative 5 is recommended because it does not impact the floodplain water surface elevations, does not cut into the mountain, has no residential relocatees, and costs the least of all the alternatives. The NCDOT Division 11 Engineer concurs with Alternative 5 as the Preferred Alternative. IV. ESTIMATED COSTS The estimated costs, based on current prices (2000), are as follows: Table 1.0 Estimated Costs per Alternative Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4 Alternative 5 (Preferred) Structure $238,000 $214,200 $358,400 $145,600 $154,000 Roadway Approaches 130,425 158,025 574,350 2,696,150 83,975 Structure Removal 6,400 6,400 6,400 6,400 6,400 Misc. and Mobilization 147,175 143,375 321,850 1,021,850 103,625 Engineering & Contingencies 78,000 78,000 189,000 580,000 52,000 TOTAL CONSTRUCTION COST 600,000 600,000 1,450,000 4,450,000 400,000 Right of Way / Utilities 82,000 171,000 120,500 528,500 77,500 TOTAL PROJECT COST 1 682,000 771,000 1,570,500 4,978,500 477,500 The estimated cost of the project, shown in the 2002-2008 North Carolina Department of Transportation's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is $ 405,000, including $ 25,000 for right- of-way, $ 300,000 for construction, and $ 80,000 spent in prior years. 6 V. NATURAL RESOURCES A. Methodology The project study area was visited, walked, and visually surveyed for significant features in. January 2000. The project study area encompasses the various alternatives under consideration and is approximately 200 feet (61.0 meters) in width and 2,400 feet (732 meters) in length. Project impacts were calculated for each alignment using a width of approximately 100 feet (30.5 meters). Actual impacts will occur within construction limits and will be less than those calculated for this report. Special concerns evaluated in the field include potential habitat for protected species, streams, wetlands, and water quality protection. Plant community descriptions are based on a classification system utilized by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NHP) (Schafale and Weakley 1990). When appropriate, community classifications were modified to better reflect field observations. Vascular plant names follow nomenclature found in Radford et al. (1968). Jurisdictional areas were identified using the three parameter approach (hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, wetland hydrology) following U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) delineation guidelines (DOA 1987). Jurisdictional areas were characterized according to a classification scheme established by Cowardin et al. (1979). Habitat used by terrestrial wildlife and aquatic organisms, as well as expected population distributions, were determined through field observations, evaluation of available habitat, and supportive documentation (Martof et al. 1980, Webster et al. 1985, Menhinick 1991, Hamel 1992, Rohde et al. 1994). Water quality information for area streams and tributaries was derived from available sources (DWQ 2000, DENR 2001). Quantitative sampling was not undertaken to support existing data. The most current FWS listing of federally protected species with ranges which extend into Watauga County was obtained prior to initiation of the field investigation. In addition, NHP records documenting presence of federal or state listed species were consulted before commencing the field investigation. B. Physiography and Soils The project study area is located in the Mountain physiographic province. Topography is characterized by strongly sloping to very steep uplands with narrow floodplains along drainages. {-. Elevations in the project study area range from approximately 3,320 feet (1,012 meters) above mean sea l? level (MSL) at the midpoint of Alternative 4 in the west portion of the project study area to approximately 7 f 3,160 feet (963 meters) above MSL along the channel of Winkler Creek, downstream from the existing bridge (USGS Boone, NC quadrangle). The project study area crosses five soil mapping units, all of which are non-hydric soils ranging 1 from moderately well drained to somewhat excessively drained. These mapping units are: Ashe-Chestnut complex, very rocky, 30-50% slopes (Typic Dystrochrepts, Typic Dystrochrepts); Chestnut-Edneyville complex, 15-30% slopes, stony (Typic Dystrochrepts, Typic Dystrochrepts); Chestnut-Edneyville complex, 30-60% slopes, stony; Dellwood very gravelly loamy fine sand, 2-5% slopes, occasionally i_ flooded (Fluventic Haplumbrepts); Reddies loam, 0-3% slopes, frequently flooded (Fluventic Haplumbrepts); and Saunook loam, 8-15% slopes (Umbric Dystrochrepts) (USDA unpublished). C. Water Resources 1. Waters Impacted The project study area is located within sub-basin 050701 of the New River Basin (DWQ 2000). This area is part of the USGS accounting unit 0505001 (USGS 1974). Bridge No. 12 crosses Winkler Creek approximately 900 feet (274 meters) west of the intersection of SR 1549 and SR 1547. Winkler Creek flows mainly from south to north within the project study area. The Boone Water Supply Intake is located approximately 1,050 feet (320 meters) upstream of the existing structure, approximately 40 feet (12.2 meters) upstream of the project study area boundary. Winkler Creek, from the Boone Water Supply Intake through the project study area to the South Fork New River, has been assigned Stream Index Number (SIN) 10-14-(3.5) by the N.C. Division of Water Quality (DWQ). A small, unnamed intermittent tributary to Winkler Creek is located approximately 650 feet (198 meters) upstream of the existing structure, in the southern portion of the project study area. No SIN has been designated to this unnamed tributary. a. Stream Characteristics Winkler Creek is a perennial mountain stream with swift flow over substrate consisting of silt, cobble, boulders, and bedrock. A geomorphic characterization of the stream indicates the segment of Winkler Creek within the project study area is a "B" channel (Rosgen 1996). This designation indicates a stream which exists on moderately steep to gently sloped terrain with a predominant landform of a narrow and moderately sloping basin. The "B" stream type exhibits low sinuosity and is rapids dominated with relatively deep scour pools. Winkler Creek is a rapids-dominated, single channel stream with a bankfull ?- width of approximately 35 feet (11 meters) at the existing bridge which narrows to approximately 20 feet f (6.1 meters) immediately downstream from the bridge and widens to approximately 40 feet (12.2 meters) 8 i at the downstream (northern) project study area boundary. The bankfull width of the channel narrows upstream of the bridge to approximately 15 feet (4.6 meters) at the upstream (southern) project study area boundary. Pool depths at bankfull stage within the main channel range from 1 to 2.5 feet (0.3 to 0.76 meters). No rooted aquatic vegetation was apparent in the channel, but some organic debris (i.e., branches, leaves) was apparent. The unnamed, intermittent channel to Winkler Creek is not depicted on the USGS quadrangle or NRCS soil map. This channel is small, with a bankfull width of approximately 4 feet (1.2 meters) with a gravel and large cobble substrate. A geomorphic characterization of the stretch of channel within the project study area indicates this tributary is an "Aa+" channel. This tributary is laterally contained on a very steep slope (>10%) with small waterfall areas and step/pool morphology. No rooted aquatic vegetation was apparent in the channel. b. Best Usage Classifications and Water Quality Classifications are assigned to waters of the State of North Carolina based on the existing or contemplated best usage of various streams or segments of streams in the basin. Winkler Creek, from the Boone Water Supply Intake through the project study area to the South Fork New River, has a best usage classification of C Tr + (DENR 2001). The designation C denotes appropriate uses including aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. Secondary recreation refers to human body contact with waters on an infrequent or incidental basis. The supplemental classification Tr is used for trout waters characterized as waters suitable for natural trout propagation and maintenance of stocked trout. The symbol "+" indicates waters that are subject to a special management strategy specified in 15A NCAC 2B .0225, the Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) Rules, in order to protect downstream waters designated ORW, which are considered unique and special waters of exceptional state or national recreational or ecological significance which require special protection to maintain existing uses. The unnamed tributary to Winkler Creek has no separate best usage classification. It shares the classification of its receiving water. No ORW or WS I Waters occur within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. Winkler Creek and the Boone Water Supply Intake, located approximately 40 feet (12.2 meters) upstream of the southern project study area and downslope from the western section of Alternative 4, has a best usage classification of WS-II Tr CA. The WS-II designation indicates waters protected as a water supply in a generally undeveloped watershed which requires local programs to control nonpoint and stormwater discharges of pollution.. The CA indicates a "Critical Area", which is defined as the land 9 ? r areas within 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) upstream and draining to water supplies from the normal pool elevation or 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) and draining to a river/stream intake. Protection rules applying to the "Critical Area" are more stringent than those in the remainder of the watershed. Winkler Creek is not designated as a North Carolina Natural and Scenic River, nor as a national Wild and Scenic River. Winkler Creek is not a Designated Public Mountain Trout Water (DPMTW), which are managed for stocked and wild trout by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC). However, these are considered "trout waters" by DWQ (DENR 2001) and are known to contain wild trout. There are no permitted point source dischargers on Winkler Creek (DWQ 2000). No significant non-point discharges were noted in the project study area. f DWQ has a benthic macroinvertebrate sampling station on Winkler Creek within the project I study area at Bridge No. 12. In 1993, this sampling station received a bioclassification of Excellent (DWQ 2000). Another measure of water quality being used by DWQ is the North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity (NCIBI), which assesses biological integrity using the structure and health of the fish community; however, no fish community structure sampling has been reported for the New River Basin (DWQ 2000). 2. Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources Section 402-2 of NCDOT's Standard Specifications for Roads and Structures is labeled Removal of Eiasting Structure. This section outlines restrictions and Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal (BMP-BDRs), as well as guidelines for calculating maximum potential fill in the creek resulting from demolition. The waters within the project study area have a best usage classification which includes the symbol +, which indicates waters subject to a special management strategy specified in 15A NCAC 2B .0225; the Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) Rules. This designation indicates this segment of Winkler Creek is considered a special resource water. The proposed project is a Case 1 stream crossing according to BMP-BDRs. Case 1 stream crossings limit in-water work to an absolute minimum, except for the removal of the portion of the sub-structure below the water. All work must be carefully coordinated with the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR; DWQ) to protect the special resource water. 10 I ? i With the exception of structures which are all steel/timber structures, all spans over the creek are - considered potential fill. The decks and curbs for the superstructure of Bridge No. 12 are timber on I- I beams and the substructure consists of timber piles and bents. Bridge No. 12 contains no reinforced concrete structures, negating the need to include the span over Winkler Creek as a potential fill impact. The superstructure and substructure of Bridge No. 12 are slated for removal in a manner which will avoid dropping any bridge components into Winkler Creek. After construction activities are completed, abandoned existing approaches associated with the existing structure will be removed and revegetated in accordance with NCDOT guidelines. Short-term impacts to water quality, such as sedimentation and turbidity, may result from construction-related activities. Best Management Practices (BMP's), including implementing stringent erosion and sedimentation control measures, and avoiding using wetlands as staging areas can minimize construction impacts. Other impacts to water quality that are anticipated as a result of this project include: changes in water temperature as a result of increased exposure to sunlight, increased shade due to the construction of the bridges, and changes in stormwater flows due to changes in the amount of impervious surface adjacent to the stream channels. However due to the limited amount of overall change in the surrounding areas, impacts are expected to be temporary in nature. The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission (NCWRC) has prohibited any in-stream work and land disturbance activities within 25 feet (7.6 meters) of Winkler Creek associated with this project during the trout spawning season of October 15 through April 15 (See letters in Appendix and personal communication with J. Mickey, January 10, 2000). . No adverse long-term impacts to water resources are expected to result from any of the alternatives being considered. All alternatives call for spanning structures across Winkler Creek, which will allow for continuation of present stream flow within the existing channel, thereby protecting stream integrity. Alternatives 1 and 2 cross Winkler Creek upstream from the existing structure at the widest channel point within the project study area [approximately 35 feet (11 meters)]. Alternative 3 crosses i Winkler Creek, upstream of the existing structure, at the narrowest channel point of all the alternatives - [approximately 20 feet (6.1 meters)]. Alternatives 4 and 5 cross Winkler Creek at the existing structure. The Boone Water Supply Intake, which is a designated WS-H, is located downslope from Alternatives 4 and 5 and is in a position to receive run-off associated with construction activities. The WS-H designation indicates waters which are protected as a water supply in a predominantly undeveloped watershed and require local programs to control non-point source and stormwater discharge of pollution. Any activities associated with construction of Alternatives 4 and 5 will need to adhere to strict BMP's to avoid having any secondary impacts to this water, including the installation of hazardous waste catch basins. BMP's to be followed for this project are outlined in "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" (NCAC 04B .0024), and will be adhered to during design and construction of this project in and around all waters classified as WS, ORW, HQW or Tr. This includes all waters within the project study area. D. Biotic Resources 1. Plant Communities Three distinct plant communities were identified within the project study area: cove forest, rocky bar, and maintained/disturbed areas. These plant communities are described below. Cove Forest - The cove forest community is associated with Alternative 3 and Alternative 4. On Alternative 3, this plant community is found on the steep, south-facing slope around SR 1549, on the west-facing slope immediately east of Winkler Creek, and on the north-facing slope between Winkler Creek and SR 1547. On Alternative 4, this plant community is found on the steep, south-facing slope west of the existing bridge and north of SR 1549. This plant community is dominated by mature hardwood species and includes a few conifer species, with a subcanopy formed in sporadic thickets. Canopy species include eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadense), yellow birch (Betula lutea), sweet birch (Betula lenta), chestnut oak (Quercus montana), northern red oak (Quercus rubra), sugar maple (Acer saccharum), tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and scattered white pine (Pinus strobus). Scattered individuals of Virginia pine (Pinus virginiana) are found on the more west-facing slopes associated with Winkler Creek. Subcanopy trees are sparse and include sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) and smaller individuals of canopy species. Shrubs are generally closely spaced and consist mainly of rosebay -- (Rhododendron maximum) and scattered black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) with an herbaceous layer t 12 consisting of galax (Galax aphylla), pipsissewa (Chimaphila maculata), and indian pipe (Monotropa uniflora). Rocky Bar - The rocky bar community is associated with Winkler Creek in two locations. The first location is approximately 500 feet (152 meters) upstream from the existing structure and the second location is approximately 70 feet downstream (21 meters) from the existing structure. Vegetation within this community consists of thick patches of wild rose (Rosa sp.) and Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides) with scattered saplings of sweet birch and tulip poplar. Maintained/Disturbed Areas - The maintained/disturbed areas include the roadsides and maintained residential yards. Scattered trees and shrubs present in this community are mainly associated with the residential yards and consist of white pine and eastern hemlock with individual yellow birch, Virginia pine, and American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis). The roadsides contain saplings of Virginia pine, white pine, and yellow birch, with a herbaceous layer which includes wild rose, goldenrod (Solidago spp.), and aster (Aster spp.). 2. Anticipated Impacts to Plant Communities Anticipated impacts to plant communities are estimated based on the acreage of each community within the proposed 100-foot (30.5-meter) right-of-way; actual impacts within construction limits will be less. Alternatives 1, 2, and 3 each contain potential impacts outside their respective 100-foot (30.5-meter) right-of-way associated with demolition of the existing structure; impacts presented are by area associated with removal of the existing bridge and construction of the new bridge and any associated approaches. A summary of potential impacts is presented below: 13 Table 2.0 Plant Community Impacts per Alternative ESTIMATED IMPACT PLANT Acres (Hectares) COMMUNITY Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4 Alternative 5 (Preferred) Temp. Temp. Temp. Impacts Demo. Impacts Demo. Impacts Demo. Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts Impacts Cove Forest 0.04 0.02 0.11 0.05 1.63 0.05 1.29 0.01 (0.02) (0.01) (0.04) (0.02) (0.66) (0.02) (0.52) (0.01) Rocky Bar 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.01 (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) Maintained/ 0.25 0.00 0.40 0.00 0.15 0.03 0.18 0.46 Disturbed (0.1) (0.16) (0.06) (0.01) (0.07) (0.19) Total for Alt. 0.29 0.03 0.51 0.06 1.78 0.09 1.48 0.48 (0.12) (0.01) (0.21) (0.02) (0.72) (0.04) (0.6) (0.19) TOTAL 0.32 0.57 1.87 1.48 0.48 (0.13) (0.23) (0.76) (0.6) (0.19) Permanent impacts to plant communities as a result of bridge replacement are generally limited to narrow strips adjacent at the existing bridge structure and roadway approach segments. Alternatives 1, 2 and 5 limit fragmentation of natural plant communities with alternative placement in close proximity to or on the existing facility and by concentrating impacts within the Maintained/Disturbed community. Alternatives 3 and 4 will result in greater fragmentation of natural communities due to approach improvements on new location through more mature vegetation communities. The total potential impact to plant communities varies among the five alternatives based on alternative length, with ranges between 0.32-acre (0.13-hectare) for Alternative 1 to 1.87 acres (0.76 hectares) for Alternative 3. Permanent community impacts range from 0.29-acre (0.12-hectare) in Alternative 1 to 1.78 acres (0.72 hectares) in Alternative 3. The largest relative area of potential impact for Alternatives 1, 2 and 5 is located within the maintained/disturbed areas. Alternatives 3 and 4 have the largest area of potential impact within the cove forest. Alternatives 1, 2 and 5 are located in close proximity to or on the existing facility and call for the majority of the potential impacts to be placed 14 through an existing residential area. Alternative 4 begins at the existing bridge and extends west through a natural forest community. Alternative 3 is located away from the existing facility and has the largest overall footprint, mainly through cove forest. 3. Wildlife The project study area was visually surveyed for signs of terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. Although little evidence of wildlife was observed during the field effort, expected wildlife species are those adapted to the ecotonal gradient between the maintained roadsides and the adjacent natural forest. a. Terrestrial Bird species observed within or adjacent to the project study area include white-breasted nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis), hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus), American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), and Carolina chickadee (Poecile carolinensis). Other bird species expected within and around the project study area include northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), tufted titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor), eastern screech owl (Otis asio), wood thrush (Hylocichla mustelina), ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapillus), dark-eyed junco (Junco hyemalis), and black-throated blue warbler (Dendroica caerulescens). Mammal sign (tracks, scat, etc.) observed within the project study area included white-tail deer (Odocoileus virginianus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), and domestic dog (Canis familiaris). Other species expected include woodchuck (Marmota monax), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), northern short-tailed shrew (Blarina brevicauda), and eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus). Due to the season in which the field work was conducted, no terrestrial reptiles were observed within the project study area. Terrestrial reptiles expected within the project study area include eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus), black rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta), eastern milk snake (Lampropeltis triangulum), and eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina). Terrestrial amphibians expected to occur within the project study area include Jordan's salamander (Plethodon jordani), white spotted slimy salamander (P. cylindraceus), Yonahlossee salamander (P. yonahlossee), redback salamander (P. cinereus), mountain dusky salamander (Desmognathus ochrophaeus), red-spotted newt (Notophthalmus viridescens), wood frog (Rana sylvatica), and American toad (Bufo americanus). 15 1 b. Aquatic Limited kick-netting, dip-netting, seining, and visual observation of stream banks and channel within the project study area were conducted. Fish species documented within the project study area include central stoneroller (Campostoma anomalum) and white sucker (Catostomus commersoni). Several individual trout were observed but not caught; species identification was not possible. The varied riverine habitat and good water quality is expected to support numerous species of minnows, darters, and other fish. Potential nongame fish which may be present include central mottled sculpin (Cottus bairdi), warpaint shiner (Luxilus coccogenis), rosy side dace (Clinostomus funduloides), and fantail darter (Etheostoma flabellare). Potential game fish which may be present include rainbow trout (Onocorhyncus mykiss), brown trout (Salmo trutta), brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), smallmouth bass (Microterus dolmieu), and rock bass (Ambloplites rupestris) (Menhinick 1991, Rohde et al. 1994). There are no anadromous fish within this system. Streambank surveys did not reveal any evidence of freshwater mussels or middens. Kick-net surveys and limited bottom sampling were conducted within the channel. Organisms collected were identified to Order and include mayflies (Ephemeroptera), stoneflies (Plecoptera), caddisflies (Trichoptera), blackflies (Diptera), horseflies (Diptera), waterpennies (Coleoptera), dragonflies (Odonata), snails (Gastropoda), and crayfish (Decapoda). Limited surveys did not result in documentation of any salamanders in Winkler Creek. Species expected within the project study area include blackbelly salamander (Desmognathus quadramaculatus), seal salamander (D. monticola), northern dusky salamander (D. f iscus), red salamander (Pseudotriton ruber), and spring salamander (Gyrinophilus porphyriticus). The stream provides suitable habitat for a few aquatic and semi-aquatic reptiles and amphibians such as northern water snake (Nerodia sipedon) and queen snake (Regina septemvittata). 4. Anticipated Impacts to Wildlife Due to the limited extent of infringement on natural communities; Alternatives 1, 2 and 5 will not result in significant loss or displacement of known terrestrial animal populations. Alternatives 3 and 4 will result in a greater impact to wildlife populations due to the greater impact to natural communities. Wildlife movement corridors are currently limited within the project study area and are not expected to be significantly impacted by the proposed project. Potential down-stream impacts to aquatic habitat will be avoided by bridging the system to maintain regular flow and stream integrity. In addition, temporary impacts to downstream habitat from increased sediment during construction are expected to be reduced by 16 limiting in-stream work to an absolute minimum, except for removing a portion of the substructure below the water. BMP's for the protection of surface waters and HQW guidelines (Design Standards in i Sensitive Watersheds) should be strictly enforced to reduce impacts. BMP-BDRs will be followed to minimize impacts associated with anticipated bridge demolition activities. Impacts to trout populations will be minimized by avoiding all in-stream work during the trout spawning season, between October 15 and April 15. E. SPECIAL TOPICS 1. Waters of the United States Surface waters within the embankments of Winkler Creek are subject to jurisdictional consideration under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act as "Waters of the United States" (33 CFR 328.3). The waters in Winkler Creek within the project study area exhibit characteristics of riverine, upper perennial, unconsolidated bottom, permanently flooded waters (R3UBH) (Cowardin et al. 1979). The unnamed, intermittent tributary exhibit characteristics of palustrine, forested, broad-leaved evergreen, intermittently flooded waters (PF03J). All alternatives for this project will bridge the open waters of Winkler Creek negating the need for direct encroachment into riverine waters. Due to the presence of special resource waters (C Tr +), efforts will be made to limit any in-water work to an absolute minimum, except for the removal of the portion of the substructure below the water. j Anticipated impacts to wetlands and open water areas are estimated based on the area of each jurisdictional area within the proposed right-of-way width of 100 feet (30.5 meters); actual areas within construction limits will be less. No impacts to open water areas associated with Winkler Creek are expected due to the use of channel-spanning structures. During bridge removal, NCDOT's Best Management Practices, including erosion control measures will be used. Therefore, it is anticipated that I removing the existing end bents will result in no impact to surrounding surface waters. Alternatives 1, 2 and 3 each contain potential impacts outside their respective 100 feet (30.5 meters) right-of-way associated with demolition of the existing structure. A summary of potential jurisdictional impacts is presented below: i 17 Table 3.0 Estimated Impacts to Jurisdictional Areas per Alternative ESTIMATED IMPACT - WETLANDS z Acres (Hectares) O U W Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4 Alternative 5 Q Impacts Temp. Impacts Temp. Impacts Temp. Impacts Impacts Demo. Demo. Demo. (Preferred) '- Impacts Impacts Impacts Open Water 0.08 0.00 0.03 0.05 0.04 0.08 0.08 0.08 (0.03) (0.01) (0.02) (0.02) (0.03) (0.03) (0.03) Wetlands 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.01 (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) (0.01) Total 0.08 0.01 0.03 0.06 0.04 0.09 0.09 0.09 (0.03) (0.01) (0.01) (0.03) (0.02) (0.04) (0.04) (0.04) TOTAL 0.09 0.09 0.13 0.09 0.09 ALTS: (0.04) (0.04) (0.06) (0.04) (0.04) ESTIMATED IMPACT - STREAM CHANNEL Linear Feet (Meters) Stream 100 20 100 25 100 130 130 130 Channel (31) (6) (31) (8) (31) (40) (40) (40) Impacts (ft) TOTAL 120 125 230 130 130 ALTS (37) (39) (171) (40) (40) Alternatives 1, 2, 4 and 5 each contain approximately 0.08-acre (0.03-hectare) of open water. Alternative 3 contains approximately 0.12-acre (0.05-hectare) of open water. Alternative 3 includes a longer section of Winkler Creek than the other alternatives (approximately 230 linear feet (70.1 meters) for Alternative 3, approximately 120-130 linear feet (37-40 meters) for Alternatives 1, 2, 4 and 5). The unnamed, intermittent tributary to Winkler Creek is outside the right-of-way area for all proposed alternatives and will not be impacted by construction activities. ?- Wetlands subject to review under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344) are defined by the presence of three primary criteria: hydric soils, hydrophytic vegetation, and evidence of 18 hydrology at or near the surface for a portion (12.5 percent) of the growing season (DOA 1987). Based on the three-parameter approach, three jurisdictional wetlands are present within the project study area (See Figure 5). The. first wetland is a side-slope seep located adjacent to Winkler Creek, approximately 70 feet (21 meters) downstream from the bridge on the western bank. This wetland area exhibits characteristics of a palustrine, forested wetland with broad-leaved deciduous and broad-leaved evergreen vegetation with evidence of hydric soil characteristics (i.e., gleying 5GY5/1 at 8 inches), intermittent surface flooding and saturation at the surface (PF01/3J). Vegetation includes tulip poplar and nonvascular moss. This area is approximately 50 feet long (15 meters) and 15 feet (4.6 meters) wide. The proposed rights-of-way associated with Alternatives 1, 2, 4 and 5 include approximately 0.01-acre (0.004-hectare) of this wetland. Alternative 3 will not impact this wetland. The second wetland consists of a small, vegetated rocky bar on an inside bend of Winkler Creek, approximately 500 feet (152 meters) upstream from the bridge. This wetland exhibits characteristics of a palustrine, forested wetland with broad-leaved deciduous vegetation and evidence of hydric soil [i.e. gleying, 5GY5/1 at 6 inches (1.5 centimeters)], and intermittent surface flooding and saturation at the soil surface (PF01J). This wetland has a dominance of hydrophytic vegetation, including sweet birch, wild rose and Christmas fern, with small rosebay at the edge and is approximately 8 feet (2.4 meters) wide and 30 feet (9.1 meters) long. None of the proposed alternatives will impact this wetland. j The third wetland consists of a series of seeps associated with the unnamed, intermittent stream located south of Winkler Creek and a floodplain area at the base of the seeps, immediately adjacent to j Winkler Creek. This wetland exhibits characteristics of a palustrine, forested wetland with broad-leaved evergreen vegetation and evidence of hydric soil characteristics (i.e., gleying 5GY5/1 at surface), and intermittent surface flooding and saturation at the soil surface (PF03J). This wetland has a dominance of hydrophytic vegetation including sweet birch, tulip poplar, rosebay, and greenbrier (Smilax sp.). Within the project study area, this wetland is approximately 20 feet (6.1 meters) wide and 80 feet (24 meters) long, sloping from the southern boundary to Winkler Creek. None of the proposed alternatives will impact this wetland. a. Permits This project is being processed as a Categorical Exclusion (CE) under Federal Highway { Administration (FHWA) guidelines. Nationwide Permit (NWP) #23 [33 CFR 330.5(a)(23)] has been i 19 issued by the COE for CEs due to expected minimal impact. DWQ has issued a General 401 Water ?- Quality Certification for NWP #23. However, use of this permit will require written notice to DWQ. In the event that NWP #23 will not suffice, minor impacts attributed to bridging and associated approach improvements are expected to qualify under General Bridge Permit 031 issued by the Wilmington COE District. Notification to the Wilmington COE office is required if this general permit is utilized. Watauga County is among the twenty-five mountain counties designated as having trout waters. Winkler Creek is not a DPMTW, but is considered a trout water by DWQ (DENR 2001). The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) has implemented discretionary authority to override certain nationwide and general permits which authorize the discharge of dredged or fill materials into trout waters. Generally, projects involving trout stream infringement, including all waters upstream to and above their headwaters, can be processed under either General Bridge Permit 031 or Individual Permit. Projects in trout waters require review by NCWRC. b. Mitigation Evaluation Avoidance - Due to the nature of the project, i.e. bridge and the topographic limitations within the project study area, avoidance of impacts is not possible. Each alternative contains jurisdictional wetland areas or open water areas which will be subject to impact. Wetland and stream impacts for each alternative are previously discussed in Section E-Special Topics and Table 3.0. Minimization - The alternative corridors presented were developed in part to demonstrate minimization of wetland and stream impacts. Preliminary wetland determinations within these corridors will be used to further minimize wetland and stream impacts during the design phase of this project. Mitigation - Compensatory mitigation is not proposed for this project due to the limited nature of project impacts. However, utilization of BMPs is recommended in an effort to minimize impacts, including avoidance of placing staging areas within wetlands. Temporary impacts associated with the construction activities could be mitigated by replanting disturbed areas with native species and removal of temporary fill material upon project completion. 20 2. Protected Species a. Federal Protected Species Species with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T) or officially proposed (P) for such listing, are protected under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The following federal protected species are listed for Watauga County (list dated February 28, 2000): Common Name Scientific Name Status Bog turtle Clemmys muhlenburgii T(S/A) t Carolina northern flying squirrel Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus E Spreading avens Geum radiatum E ?- Roan Mountain bluet Houstonia montana E Heller's blazing star Liatris helleri T Spruce-fir moss spider Microhexura montivaga E Bog Turtle - The bog turtle is a small turtle reaching an adult size of approximately 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 centimeters). This otherwise darkly-colored species is readily identifiable by the presence of a bright f orange or yellow blotch on the sides of the head and neck (Martof et. al. 1980). The bog turtle is typically found in bogs, marshes, and wet pastures, usually in association with aquatic or semi-aquatic vegetation and small, shallow streams over soft bottoms (Palmer and Braswell 1995). In North Carolina, bog turtles have a discontinuous distribution in the Mountains and western Piedmont. NHP records do not indicate that bog turtle has been documented within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: The bog turtle is listed as Threatened due to Similarity of f i t. Appearance [T(S/A)]. T(S/A) species are not subject to Section 7 consultation and a biological conclusion is not required. However, this project is not expected to affect bog turtle due to lack of suitable habitat, which consists of bogs and marshes. NO EFFECT. Carolina Northern Flying Squirrel - The Carolina northern flying squirrel is an isolated, endangered subspecies of the more wide-ranging northern flying squirrel. Flying squirrels are nocturnal and have a loose, fully furred fold of skin on each side of the body between the wrists and the ankles that enable the squirrels to glide from trees to other trees or to the ground for foraging. Carolina northern flying squirrel can be distinguished from the similar southern flying squirrel (G. volans) by larger size [10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 centimeters) total length] and by having gray rather than white bases of the ventral hairs (Weigl 1987). 21 j i The Carolina northern flying squirrel typically occurs in spruce-fir forests and mature hardwood forest adjacent to spruce-fir forests at elevations above 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) (Weigl 1987). Endemic to the Appalachians of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee, this subspecies is known from the Great Smoky Mountains, Roan Mountain, and Mount Mitchell. NHP records do not indicate that Carolina northern flying squirrel has been documented within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: The proposed project is not expected to affect Carolina northern flying squirrel since elevations within the project study area are a maximum of 3,320 feet (1,012 meters) above MSL, significantly below the reported minimum elevation of 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) for this species. Suitable habitat for this species, consisting of spruce-fir or mature hardwood forest, was not identified within the project study area. NO EFFECT. Spreading Averts - Spreading avens is an erect, densely hairy, perennial herb up to 20 inches (51 centimeters) tall. A basal rosette of odd-pinnately compound leaves is produced from a horizontal rhizome. These leaves are long stalked and terminated by a large kidney-shaped lobe; tiny leaflets are usually present below the terminal lobe (Kral 1983). Small, sessile, serrated leaves are found on the flowering stem. Lanceolate sepals and relatively long petal lengths of 0.5 to 0.8 inches (1.3 to 2.0 centimeters) help differentiate spreading avens from related species (Massey et al. 1983). Bright yellow, five-petaled flowers approximately 2.4 to 3.1 inches (6.1 to 7.9 centimeters) across are produced from June to August; these are followed between July and October by hairy achenes with a persistent, straight style approximately 0.2 inches (0.5 centimeters) long (Massey et al. 1983). Vegetative parts may emerge in May and persist through October. Spreading avens usually occurs at elevations greater than 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) above MSL in mountain grass balds or in grassy clearings in heath balds as well as in crevices of granitic rock. This species cannot tolerate shading or crowding (Kral 1983). Spreading avens is found in a few northwestern counties of North Carolina, and in nearby counties of Tennessee. NHP records do not indicate spreading avens has been documented within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: The proposed project is not expected to affect spreading avens since elevations within the project study area are a maximum of 3,320 feet (1,012 meters) above MSL, significantly below the reported minimum elevation of 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) for i._ .' this species. Suitable habitat for this species, consisting of balds or rock outcroppings, was not identified within the study project area. NO EFFECT. 1 22 Roan Mountain Bluet - Roan Mountain bluet, formerly treated as a variety of the summer bluet (Houstonia [=Hedyotis] purpurea), is a low, erect to spreading perennial herb with a squarish stem typically growing to 6 inches (15 centimeters) high. The leaves are opposite, sessile, rounded basally but taper to a pointed tip and have smooth, toothless margins. Small, deep purple, tubular flowers are produced on small terminal clusters in June and July with fruiting occurring in July and August. It differs from the more common H. purpurea by having larger, smooth-edged leaves, and. by larger flowers, capsules, and seeds (Weakley 1993). Roan Mountain bluet is endemic to the high Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, mostly from 4,200 to 6,300 feet (1,280 to 1,921 meters) above MSL in elevation. It grows in crevices of rock outcrops as well as in thin, gravelly soils of grassy balds near summit outcrops (Weakley 1993). NHP records do not indicate that Roan Mountain bluet has been documented within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: The proposed project is not expected to affect Roan Mountain bluet since elevations within the project study area are a maximum of 3,320 feet (1,012 meters) above MSL, significantly below the reported minimum elevation of 4,200 feet (1,280 meters) for this species. Suitable habitat for this species, consisting of balds, was not identified within the project study area. NO EFFECT. Heller's Blazing Star - Heller's blazing star is an erect herbaceous perennial with glabrous stems that reaches heights of 4 to 20 inches (10.1 to 50.8 centimeters). The leaves are simple, linear to lanceolate, alternate, and arranged spirally along the stem. Leaf size is variable, with a gradual decrease in size up the stem. The inflorescence consists of compact heads arranged in a raceme-like fashion along the stem. The heads typically contain seven to ten tubular florets which may be purple to lavender in color. Heller's blazing star is distinguished from related species by shorter height and relatively short pappus (modified calyx lobes) half or less the length of the corolla tube. Flowers are produced from July to September, with fruiting occurring from August to October (Massey et al. 1983). Heller's blazing star has been found on rocky summits at high elevations in the mountains of western North Carolina. This species typically is found in full sun growing in shallow, acidic soils on or around granitic outcrops, ledges, and cliff faces (Kral 1983, Massey et al. 1983). Heller's blazing star is reported to occur at elevations between approximately 3,500 to 6,200 feet (1,067 to 1,890 meters) above MSL. I 23 I , r NHP records do not indicate that Heller's blazing star has been documented within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: The proposed project is not expected to affect Heller's blazing star since elevations within the project study area are a maximum of 3,320 feet (1,012 meters) above MSL, below the reported minimum elevation of 3,500 feet (1,067 meters) for this 1 species. Suitable habitat for this species, consisting of rocky summits exposed to full sunlight, was not identified within the study project area. NO EFFECT. Spruce-Fir Moss Spider - The spruce-fir moss spider is one of the smallest members of the primitive suborder of spiders often referred to as tarantulas. Adults of this species measure only 0.10 to 0.15 inch (0.25 to 0.38 centimeters). Coloration ranges from light brown to yellow-brown to a darker reddish brown. Its chelicerae project forward well beyond the anterior edge of the carapace and no marking are found on its abdomen. Other distinguishing characteristics include a pair of very long posterior spinnerets and the presence of a second pair of book lungs located posterior to the genital furrow. The spruce-fir moss spider is found only in the highest mountain peaks at or above 5,400 feet (1,646 meters) in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. It is known only from Fraser fir and red spruce forest communities. The typical habitat of this spider is found in damp, but well- drained moss mats growing on rock outcrops and boulders in well-shaded situations. The abundant springtails in the moss mats provide the most likely source of food for the spider (http://nc- es.fws.gov/spider/sprummoss.html). BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION - The proposed project is not expected to affect the spruce-fir moss spider since elevations within the project study area are a maximum of 3,320 feet (1,012 meters) above MSL, below the reported minimum elevation of 5,400 feet (1,646 meters) for this species. Suitable habitat for this species, consisting of spruce-fir or Fraser fir forest, was not identified within the project study area. NO EFFECT. Federal species of concern - The February 28, 2000 FWS list also includes a category of species designated as "Federal species of concern" (FSC). The FSC designation provides no federal protection under the ESA for the species listed. The presence of potential suitable habitat (Amoroso 1999, LeGrand and Hall 1999) within the project study area has been evaluated for the following FSC species listed for Watauga County: 24 r. Common Name Scientific Name State Status Potential Habitat Southern Appalachian saw-whet owl Aegolius acadicus SC(PT) Y Hellbender Cryptobranchus alleganiensis SC N Cerulean warbler Dendroica cerulea SR Y Southern Appalachian red crossbill Loxia curvirostra SR(PSC) N Alleghany woodrat Neotoma magister SC Y Southern Appalachian black-capped chickadee Poecile atricapillus practicus SC N Kanawha minnow Phenacobius teretulus SC Y Southern water shrew Sorex palustris punctulatus SC N Southern Appalachian yellow-bellied sapsucker Sphyrapicus varius appalaciensis SC(PSC) Y Appalachian cottontail Sylvilagus obscurus SR N Green floater Lasmigona subviridus E Y Diana fritillary butterfly Speyeria dana SR Y Frasier fir Abies fraseri C N Mountain bittercress Cardamine clematitis C N Tall larkspur Delphinium exaltatum E-SC N Glade spurge Euphorbia purpurea C N Bent avens Geum geniculatum T N Butternut Juglans cinerea W5 Y Gray's lily Lilium grayi T-SC N Bog bluegrass Poa paludigena E N -E-Endangered, T-Threatened, SC- Special Concern, C -Candidate, SR - Significantly Rare, W - Watch List, P - Proposed NHP files do not document any FSC occurrences within the project study area. NHP files do document two FSC occurrences, both of Kanawha minnow, within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. The first occurrence of this species is a 1968 record at the SR 1522 bridge over Middle Fork South Fork New River, approximately 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers) east of the project study area. The second occurrence of this species is a 1995 record at the US 421 bridge over the South Fork New River, approximately 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers) northeast of the project study area. No other FSC occurrences have been documented within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the project study area. 25 b. State Protected Species Plant and animal species which are on the North Carolina state list as Endangered (E), Threatened (T), or Special Concern (SC) receive limited protection under the North Carolina Endangered Species Act (G.S. 113-331 et seq.) and the North Carolina Plant Protection Act of 1979 (G.S. 106-202 et seq.). NHP records do not document the occurrence of any state-listed species within the project study area. Records from the project vicinity include only the previously discussed occurrences of Kanawha minnow, which is a State SC species as well as a Federal Species of Concern. No other state-listed aquatic or terrestrial species with the designations E, T, or SC have been documented within 3.0 miles (4.8 kilometers) of the study project area. F. Floodplains Field surveys were performed and a Hydraulic Technical Memorandum was produced for this project in May 2000. Watauga County is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program. Bridge No. 12 is located in a 100-year Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) floodplain, Zone AE (See Figure 6). A detailed study was prepared and established a 100-year flood elevation of 3,156.5 feet (962.3 meters) for Bridge No. 12. The flood profile shows the existing structure is overtopped by the 10- year through 100-year flood event. VI. CULTURAL RESOURCES A. Compliance Guidelines This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, implemented by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at Title 36 CFR Part 800. Section 106 requires Federal agencies to take into account the effect of their undertakings (federally funded, licensed, or permitted) on properties included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places and afford the Advisory Council a reasonable opportunity to comment on such undertakings. B. Historic Architecture A field survey of the area of potential affect (APE) was conducted during July 1999. All structures within the APE were photographed during field visits to the site. The photographs were reviewed by a NCDOT staff architectural historian. This information was then forwarded to the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO). Per memo dated February 3, 2000, the SHPO states, "there are no 26 i properties considered eligible for the National Register and no further evaluation of this project is necessary" (See memorandum in Appendix). C. Archaeology ii In a letter dated February 9, 2001, the SHPO stated "We have conducted a review of the project and are aware of no properties of architectural, historic, or archaeological significance, which would be affected by the project. We have no comment on the project as currently proposed" (See letter in Appendix). VII. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS The project is expected to have an overall positive impact on the local area. Replacement of an l inadequate bridge will result in safer and more efficient traffic operations. i i The project is considered to be a Federal "Categorical Exclusion" due to its limited scope and lack of substantial environmental consequences. The bridge replacement will not have an adverse effect on the quality of the human or natural environment with the use of the current NCDOT standards or specifications. The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning regulation. No change in land use is expected to result from the construction of the project. No adverse effect on individual families or communities is anticipated. Right-of-way acquisition will be limited. No relocatees are expected with implementation of the preferred alternative (See relocation report in Appendix). No adverse effect on public facilities or services is anticipated. The project is not expected to adversely affect social, economic, or religious opportunities in the surrounding area. The proposed project will not require right-of-way acquisition or easement from any land protected under Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966. This project has been coordinated with the United States Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all Federal agencies or their representatives to 1 27 consider the potential impact to prime farmland of all land acquisition and construction projects. There are no soils classified as prime, unique, or having state or local importance in the vicinity of the project. Therefore, the project will not involve the direct conversion of farmland acreage within these classifications. This project is in 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. This project is located in Watauga 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. Noise levels could increase during construction but will be temporary. If vegetation is disposed of by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations of the North Carolina State Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC2D.0520. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements for highway traffic noise of Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 772 and for air quality (1190 Clean Air Act Amendments and the National Environmental Policy Act) and no additional reports are required. A search was performed of the project study area utilizing the ASTM Standard Practice for Environmental Site Assessments (E 1527-97). This search included the NPL (National Priority List), CERCLIS (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information System), RCRIS (Resource Conservation and Recovery Information), and UST (Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Database) as well as other applicable databases. The results of this search documented no mapped sites found on the target site or within the ASTM search radius. The Executive Summary of this search is contained in the Appendix. Watauga County is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Regulatory Program (FIRM). The approximate 100-year floodplain in the project area is shown on Figure 6. The amount of floodplain area to be affected is not substantial. There are no practical alternatives to crossing the floodplain area. Any shift in alignment will result in a crossing of about the same magnitude. All reasonable measures will be taken to minimize any possible harm. 28 The project will not increase the upstream limits of the 100-year floodplain. On the basis of the above discussion, it is concluded that no significant adverse environmental effects will result from implementation of the proposed project. VIII. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT Public involvement for this project initially involved compiling a database of property owners, area business persons and local public officials. This database was used to send out Newsletter No. 1 on April 10, 2000 announcing the project and detailing Alternatives 1, 2, 3 and 4. Alternative 5 was added in 2001 to provide an existing location alternative that did not cause an appreciable change in floodplain elevations. No comments or questions were received from local public officials or citizens. 29 Aho 0 KILOMETER 3.2 KILOMETER 6.4 / !. North CarQ?i Dgparlrtre? Transportation 0 MILE 2.0 M€LE 4.0 EnrironruntalAnalos Brard 421 SCALE WATAUGA COUNT"( 421 i RiDGE NO. 12 ON SR 1549 32' Winkler Creek Road } Over Winkler Creep T.Lo. No. B-3530 10i I FIGURE 1395 ROCKY MTN. ELEV.. 4078 0 1 } '.sr *13 ,.c.?'?A•? Ill ',? / , Ill onke ? . ? ? .• L? Ill 1 w [ll Ill ? ?,_ •. L? Ill VI . ? by jjp WATAUGA COUNTY BRIDGE No. 12 SR 1549 Over Winkler Creek B-3536 Looking east towards bridge Looking north towards west end of bridge Looking north under west end of bridge Figure 3 m Un, g ?oz - 2 o v 0 2 a r q v 4 ? TV) rn z 0 ? ?? ? w a L e? ? Z v C4 waZ Z ? N T rn .p o 0 OLIP zs- oA - D ?- O Q> co Z X0 X Z m - !i x 0 0 J ,` FEDERAL CORRESPONDENCE p . D OCT - 4. 1999 RUMMEL, KLEPPER & KML PIA E'CZH, NO Tennessee Valley Authority, Suite 218, 4105 Fort Henry Drive, IUngsport, Tennessee 37663-2250 September 30, 1999 Rummel, Klepper and Kahl, LLP 5800 Faringdon Place Suite 105 Raleigh, North Carolina 27609-3960 Dear Ms. Leight: North Carolina DOT Bridge Placement This is in response to your August 31, 1999, request for TVA's approval of plans pursuant to Section 26a of the TVA Act for Bridges and Indicated locations. These projects are located outside the Tennessee River drainage area and no TVA land or landrights are involved.. Therefore, TVA's approval of the plans is not required. I am including an application map and other information for your use in the future. Please let me know if I may be of further assistance. I can be reached at 423-239-2002. Sincerely, s Frank B. Edmondson Land Use Specialist Upper Holston Watershed Team Resource Stewardship Enclosures cc: Regulatory Branch United States Corps of Engineers Wilmington District 151 Patton Avenue Room 43 Asheville, North Carolina 28801-5006 PMW on regcw paper I ? +r +. r 14 \1 United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Asheville Field Office 160 Zillicoa Street Asheville, North Carolina 28801 January 12, 2000, Mr. William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch North Carolina Department of Transportation P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Gilmore: ' IQ T. , P. P '?fw`?7T R- Q G t t nr7 i fig; V1 According to your letter of December 8, 1999, received December 17, 1999, the North Carolina Department of Transportation is proposing the following four bridge replacement projects: • B-3066; replacement of Bridge No. 49 and Bridge No. 50 on SR 1522 over Middle Fork and East Fork, respectively, tributaries of the South Fork New River, Watauga County, North Carolina (our Log Number 4-2-00-034) • B-3533; replacement of Bridge No. 43 on SR 1306 over Howard's Creek in the South Fork New River system, Watauga County, North Carolina (our Log Number 4-2-00-035) • B-3536; replacement of Bridge No.12 on SR 1549 over Flannery Fork Creek in the South Fork New River system, Watauga County, North Carolina (our Log Number 4-2-00-036) • B-3405; replacement of Bridge No 65 on SR 1361 over Big Horse Creek in the North Fork New River system, Ashe County, North Carolina (our Log Number 4-2-00-037) As requested, we have reviewed the proposed projects and are providing the following comments in accordance with the provisions of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543) (Act) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 661-667e).. Enclosed is a list of the federally endangered and threatened species known from Ashe and Watauga Counties, North Carolina. A federally threatened plant species--Virginia spiraea. (Spiraea virginiana )--is known to occur in the New River system in Ashe County and may also occur in this river system in Watauga County. Accordingly, even though this species does not appear on the species list for Watauga County, surveys should be conducted to determine if this species may potentially be affected by the three proposed projects in Watauga County. an&the project in Ashe County. The legal responsibilities of a Federal agency or its designated non-Federal representative under Section 7 of the Act are on file with the Federal Highway Administration. The enclosed list also includes species of. Federal concern that are currently under status review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service which may occur in the areas potentially affected by the proposed projects. Species of Federal concern are.not legally protected under the Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section.7; unless they are formally proposed.or listed as endangered or threatened. We are including these species in our response to give you advance notification and to request your assistance in protecting them if any are found in the vicinity of your proj ects. The information that accompanied your letter concerning these pro]] ects provided information relating only to the removal of the existing bridges. ? "According to this information, no temporary fill will be associated with any of the four projects and the existing structures will be moved in such a manner that no components will be dropped into the water. However, your letter also stated that construction will be scheduled to avoid. in-stream activities in order to minimize] .impacts in trout waters according to :dates to be determined by the North Carolina Wildlif& Resources Commission. What in-stream construction. activities will take place and what potential impacts are associated with these activitiesT We recommend that no heavy equipment be operated in the stream channel and that any cutting. and removal of woody vegetation along the stream banks be avoided to the maximum extent possible. We also recommend that any existing fill in the flood plain associated with the existing structures and approaches be removed. These areas should be returned to the natural elevation of the flood plain in order to restore its natural function and to minimize the potential for stream-bank and channel scouring that may occur during storm flows as a result of any constriction of the-flood plain or stream channel associated with the existing structures. As stated above, the information that you provided addressed only the removal of the existing bridges; no information was provided concerning the types of structures that will replace the existing bridges or what measures will be implemented to minimize the potential effects associated with the new structures and their construction. We recommend that the existing structures be replaced with bridges. We recommend that each new bridge design include provisions for the roadbed and deck drainage to flow through a vegetated buffer prior to reaching the affected stream. This buffer should be large enough to alleviate any potential effects from the run-off of storm water and pollutants. The bridge designs should not alter the natural stream and stream bank morphology or impede fish passage. Any piers or bents should be placed outside the bank-full width of the streams. The bridges and approaches should be designed to avoid any fill that will result in damming or constriction of the channel or flood plain. If spanning the flood plain is not feasible, culverts should be installed in the flood plain portion of the approaches in order to restore'some of the hydrological functions of the flood plain and reduce high velocities of flood waters within the affected areas. We recommend that erosion- and sedimentation- control measures be in place prior to any ground-disturbing activities. Wet concrete should never be allowed to come into contact with the stream. We appreciate the opportunity.to provide these comments. If you have any=questions or concerns, please contact Mr. John-Fridell of our staff at 828/258-3939, Ext. 225. We have assigned each of these projects a separate log number, please reference these numbers in any future correspondence concerning these projects. Sinc ly, Brian P. Cole State Supervisor Enclosure cc: Mr. Ron Linville, Western Piedmont Region Coordinator, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, 3855 IdlewildRoad, Kernersville, NC 27284-9180 Mr. Bob Johnson; U.S. Army. Corps of Engineers,' Asheville. Regulatory Field Office,151..Patton Avenue, Room. 143, Asheville, NC 28801-5006 ENDANGERED, THREATENED, AND CANDIDATE SPECIES AND FEDERAL . SPECIES OF CONCERN, ASHE AND WA:TAUGA. COUNTIES, NORTH. CAROLINA This list was adapted from the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program's County Species List.: It is.a listing, for Ashe and Watauga Counties, of North Carolina's:federally listed. and proposed: endangered,,. threatened,. and candidate species and. Federal.-species: of concern (fora complete .list of rare species in the . state, please. contact the North Carolina Natural. Heritage Program).` The information in this list is compiled from a variety of sources, including field. surveys, --museums and .herbariums, literature, and personal communications. -The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program's database is dynamic, with new records being added and old records being revised -as new information is received. Please note that this list cannot be considered a definitive record of listed species and Federal species of concern, and it should not be considered a substitute for field surveys. Critical habitat: Critical habitat is noted, with a description., for the counties where it is designated. Aquatic species: Fishes and aquatic invertebrates are noted for counties where they are known to occur. However, projects may have effects on downstream aquatic systems in adjacent counties. COMMON NAME . SCIENTIFIC NAME STATUS ASHE COUNTY Vertebrates Bog turtle Kanawha minnow Appalachian cottontail Appalachian Bewick's wren Invertebrates Green floater Pygmy snaketail Diana fritillary butterfly Regal fritillary butterfly Gammon's Senelmis riffle beetle Vascular Plants Manhart's sedge Tall larkspur Glade spurge Spreading avens Appalachian oak fern Swamp pink Roan Mountain bluet Butternut Heller's blazing star Gray's lily Bog bluegrass Clemmys muhlenbergii . T(S/A)'- Phenacobius teretulus FSC Sylvilagus obscurus FSC Thryomanes bewickii altus FSC Lasmigona subviridus FSC Ophiogomphus howei FSC Speyeria diana FSC* Speyeria idala FSC* Stenelmis gammoni FSC Carex manharth FSC Delphinium exaltatum FSC . Euphorbia purpurea FSC Geum radiatum Endangered Gymnocarpium appalachianum FSC Helonias bullata Threatened Houstonia montana (=Hedyotis purpurea Endangered var. montana) Juglans cinerea FSC Liatris helleri Threatened Lilium grayi FSC Poa paludigena FSC December 20, 1999 Page I of 3 COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME STATUS Carolina saxifrage Virginia spiraea Nonvascular Plants Bluff Mountain reindeer lichen Rock gnome lichen WATAUGA COUNTY Saxifraga caroliniana Spiraea virginiana Cladonia psoromica Gymnoderma lineare Vertebrates Southern Appalachian saw-whet owl Bog turtle Hellbender Cerulean warbler Carolina northern flying squirrel Southern Appalachian red crossbill Alleghany woodrat Southern Appalachian black-capped chickadee Kanawha minnow Southern water shrew Southern Appalachian yellow-bellied sapsucker Appalachian .cottontail Invertebrates Green floater Diana fritillary butterfly Vascular Plants Fraser fir Mountain bittercress Tall larkspur Glade spurge Bent avens Spreading avens Roan Mountain bluet Aegolius acadicus Clemmys muhlenbergii Cryptobranchus alleganiensis Dendroica cerulea Glaucomys sabrinus coloratus Loxia curvirostra Neotoma magister Parus atricapillus practicus Phenacobius teretulus Sorex palustris punctulatus Sphyrapicus varius appalaciensis Sylvilagus obscurus Lasmigona subviridus Speyeria dana Abies fraseri Cardamine clematitis Delphinium exaltatum Euphorbia purpurea Geum geniculatum Geum radiatum Houstonia montana (=Hedyotis purpurea var. montana) FSC Threatened FSC Endangered .FSC T(S/A)1 FSC FSC Endangered FSC FSC* FSC FSC FSC* FSC FSC* FSC FSC FSC FSC FSC FSC** FSC Endangered Endangered Butternut Juglans cinerea FSC Heller's blazing star Liatris helleri Threatened Gray's lily Lilium grayi FSC Bog bluegrass Poa paludigena FSC* KEY: Status Definition Endangered A taxon "in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range." Threatened A taxon "likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range." December 20, 1999 Page 2 of 3 FSC A Federal species of concern--a species that may or may not be listed in the future (formerly . C2 candidate species or species under consideration for listing for which there is insufficient information to support listing). T(S/A) Threatened due to similarity of appearance (e.g., American alligator )-a species that is threatened due to similarity of appearance with other rare species and is listed for its protection. These species are not biologically endangered or threatened and are not subject to Sectick 7 .. consultation. Species with 1, 2, 3, or 4 asterisks behind. them indicate historic, obscure, or incidental records. . *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. ***Incidental/migrant record - the species was observed outside of its normal range or habitat. ****Historic record - obscure and incidental record. 'In the November 4, 1997, Federal Register (55822-55825); the northern population of the bog turtle (from New York south to Maryland) was listed as T (threatened), and the southern population (from Virginia south to Georgia)was listed as T(S/A) (threatened due to similarity of appearance). The T(S/A) designation bans the collection and interstate and international commercial trade of bog turtles from the southern population. The T(S/A) designation has no effect on land-management activities by private landowners in North Carolina, part of the southern population of the species. In addition to its official. status as T(S/A), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service considers the southern population of the bog turtle as a Federal species of concern due to habitat loss. December 20, 1999 Page 3 of 3 N ,lo O DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS P.O. BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NORTH bAROLINA 28402-1890 IN REPLY REFER TO January 20, 2000 Regulatory Division I I Action ID Nos. 199921349 &200020363-200020365 2?:'4 Mr. William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager North Carolina Department of Transportation Project Development and Environmental • Analysis Branch Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Gilmore: Reference is made to your request dated December 8, 1999, for comments regarding the proposed Group XXII Bridge Replacement Projects in Watauga and Ashe Counties, North Carolina. The projects involve the replacement of 5 bridges at 4 separate locations. The replacement of Bridge Numbers 49 and 50 is located. on SR 1522, over.Middle Fork and East Fork (tributaries to the New River), southeast of Boone, Watauga County, TIP No. 3066 (Action ID 200020363). Bridge Number 43 is located on SR 1306, over Howard's Creek, northeast of Boone, Watauga County, TIP No. 3533 (Action ID 200020364). Bridge Number 12 on SR 1549 over Flannery Fork Creek, in Boone, Watauga County, TIP No. B-3536 (Action ID 200020365). Finally, Bridge No. 65 on SR 1361 over Big Horse Creek, northwest of Lansing, Ashe County, TIP No. B-3405 (Action ID. 199921349). We have reviewed the subject document and have determined that based upon a review of the information provided and available maps, it appears that the projects may impact jurisdictional waters of the United States and their associated wetlands subject to our regulatory authority pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Any discharge of excavated, or fill material into waters of the United States and/or any adjacent wetlands that may be present within the project limits will require Department of the Army (DA) permit authorization. Department of the Army authorization will be determined based upon the extent of jurisdictional area impacted by the project, project design and construction limits. Should the project be eligible for nationwide. permit authorization, you must coordinate with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to ensure that the project will not have an adverse impact upon trout resources. Furthermore, it is recommended that you coordinate with Mr. Jay Wild (919) 982-2587 to ensure that TIP No. B-3066 in Watauga County does not occur within an area of the New River which is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. Nationwide permits are not available within areas designated as a Wild and Scenic River. Finally,. all bridge demolitions should adhere to the latest NCDOT Policy: Bridge Demolition and Removal in Waters of the United States (BDR Policy), including the Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal. Due to the limited information provided regarding. the extent of jurisdictional impacts associated with the project, we will be unable. to provide specific comments regarding DA permit requirements until additional data are furnished regarding the limits of the jurisdictional impacts within constriction limits of the proposed project.. When this information becomes available, it should be forwarded to our office for review and comment, as well as a determination of DA permit eligibility. Any questions related to DA permits for these projects should be addressed to Mrs. Jean B. Manuele, Raleigh Field Office, telephone. (919) 876-8441,. Extension 24. Sincerely, E. David Franklin Assistant Chief, Regulatory Division 2 STATE CORRESPONDENCE 4?we NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION July 28, 1999 Ms. Kimberly S. Leight Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP 5800 Faringdon Place, Suite 105 Raleigh, NC 27609-3960 SUBJECT: Rare Species, High Quality Natural Communities, and Significant Natural Heritage Areas at Five Proposed Bridge Replacement Sites in Ashe and Watauga Counties, North Carolina. Dear Ms. Leight: The NC Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) does not have a record of high quality natural communities, state park and recreation areas, or Significant Natural Heritage Areas at or within a 1.0 mile radius of the proposed bridge replacement project sites in Ashe and Watauga counties, North Carolina. However, there are records of rare aquatic species within a 1.0 mile radius of three of the sites. Table 1 (attached) gives the particulars of my site reviews. Habitat requirements are also stated. I do not have any information about trout stream designations. The NC Wildlife Resources Commission or US Fish. and Wildlife Services may have this information. Enclosed are lists of rare species known to exist in Ashe and Watauga counties. If habitat for any of these species exist at the sites, they may be present there.Consultant acquired knowledge of the existing habitat should determine if a survey is necessary. Please do not hesitate to contact me at the address below or call me at (919) 715- 8703 if you have any questions or need further information. Sincerely, Susan Reece Giles Information Specialist N.C. Natural Heritage Program Enclosure 27699-1615 P.O. BOX 27687, RALEIGH NC HONE 919-733-4181 FAX 919-715-3085 AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY /AFFIRMATIVE ACTT O% RECYCLED/1 O% POST-CONSUMER PAPER Table 1: Element Occurrences at the Proposed Bridge Replacement Project Sites in Ashe and Watauga Counties. }?• vy} : • {y 'd ryO:Yc}'•2.}. :tti•.+ h.;? •}, X $...•V. 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V r,•Six.i}.'?M>.:${{;2}iyr}}J:i':T3•?.•.$:yv:{.yR;.}.?i.f7;{`;.:$:?U .r,'•S}}ww$ y ??y :., , .fi:?:{•.?+.?{.}yY.;:+';ti'.{• „yi••,'• ,yWK ? , f. . • :?{: .+`•.?,•.,}y%?:i+:?t$:$(.'i B-3405 SR1361 at Big Horse Kanawha darter SR - Creek (465) (Etheostoma kanawhae)*, record from 1963 at this bridge. 363430N, 813427W B-3066 SRI 522 at Goshia At Goshia Creek/SR1522: Creek and South Fork, Kanawha minnow SC FSC New River (#49 & 50) (Phenacobius teretulus) * in 1968. At both sites in 1995: Kanawha darter SR - (Etheostoma kanawhae)*; Tongue-tied minnow SR - (Exoglossum laurae)# B-3533 SR1306 at Howard's No element occurrences Creek (#43) B-3536 SRI 549 at Flannery No element occurrences Fork Creek (#12) *Range in NC: New (upper Kanawha) River drainage. Uncommon-(minnow); common (darter) Habitat: Rubble and gravel rifIles and runs of creeks (minnow only) and small tomedium rivers (both). #Range in. NC: Upper New River drainage. Fairly. common, but less widespread and abundant than historically. Habitat: Rocky pools and runs of creeks and small to medium rivers; often near vegetation or other cover. NC NATURAL HERITAGE PROGRAM COUNTY SPECIES LIST COVER SHEET The county species list from the NC Natural Heritage Program is a listing of the elements of natural diversity (rare species, exemplary natural communities, and special animal habitats) known to occur in a county. The information on this printout is compiled from a variety of sources, including field surveys, museums and herbaria, literature, and personal communications. The Heritage Program's Biological and Conservation Database (BCD) is dynamic, with new records being added and old records being revised as new information is received. The BCD was developed and is maintained using methodology developed by The Nature Conservancy. The enclosed list cannot be considered a definitive record of natural heritage elements, and it should not be considered a substitute for field surveys. When this information is used in any. document, we request that the printout date be given and that the NC Natural Heritage Program be credited. - This cover sheet explains the four columns of status codes that are given on the right-hand side of the county status list. STATE STATUS CODE STATUS CODE STATUS E Endangered P_ Proposed (E, T, or C) T Threatened SR Significantly Rare SC Special Concern EX Extirpated C Candidate Plant statuses are determined by the Plant Conservation Program (NC Department of Agriculture) and the Natural Heritage Program (NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources). E, T, and SC species are protected by state law (Plant Protection and Conservation Act, 1979). C and SR. designations indicate rarity and the need for population monitoring and conservation action. Animal statuses that indicate state protection (E, T, and SC) are published in Endangered Wildlife of North Carolina, March 16, 1992, Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program (NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources). SR and EX statuses are Natural Heritage Program designations. SR indicates rarity and the need for population monitoring and conservation action. FEDERAL STATUS This status is designated by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Federally listed Endangered and Threatened.species are protected. under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended through the 100th Congress. Unless otherwise noted, definitions are taken from the Federal Register, Vol. 56, No. 225, November 21, 1991 (50 CFR Part 17).. CODE STATUS DEFINITION LE Endangered A taxon "in danger of extinction throughout all of a significant portion of its range." LT Threatened A taxon "likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all of a significant portion of its range." P_ Proposed A taxon proposed for official listing as endangered or threatened. C Candidate A taxon under consideration for which there is sufficient information to support listing. This category was formerly designated as 'a Candidate 1 (Cl) species. FSC Federal "Species of Concern" (also called "Species at Risk"). Formerly defined as a taxon under consideration for which there is insufficient information to support listing; formerly designated as a Candidate 2 (C2) species. Currently, the-US Fish and Wildlife Service.does not recognize this as an official designation. T(S/A) Threatened due to Similarity of Appearance. The Endangered Species Act authorizes the treatment of a species (subspecies or population segment) as threatened even though* it is not otherwise listed as threatened if: (a) The species so closely resembles in appearance a threatened species that enforcement personnel would have substantial difficulty in differentiating between the listed and unlisted species; (b) the effect of this substantial difficulty is an additional threat to a threatened species; and (c) such treatment of an unlisted species will substantially facilitate the enforcement and further the policy of.the Act. The American Alligator has this designation due to similarity of appearance to other rare crocodilians. The Bog Turtle (southern population) has this designation due to similarity of appearance to Bog Turtles in the threatened northern population. GLOBAL AND STATE RANKS These ranks are determined by The Nature Conservancy's system of measuring rarity and threat status. "Global" refers to worldwide ranks and "State" to statewide ranks. STATE RANK DEFINITIONS S1 Critically imperiled in North Carolina because of extreme rarity or otherwise very vulnerable to extirpation in the state. S2 Imperiled in North Carolina because of rarity or otherwise vulnerable to extirpation in the state. S3 Rare or uncommon in North Carolina. S4 Apparently secure in North Carolina, with many occurrences. S5 Demonstrably secure in North Carolina and essentially ineradicable under present conditions. SA Accidental or casual; one to several records for North Carolina, but the state is outside the normal range of the species. SH Of historical occurrence in North Carolina, perhaps not having been verified in the past 25 years, and suspected to be still extant in the state. SR Reported from North Carolina, but without persuasive documentation for either accepting or rejecting the report. SX Believed to be extirpated from North Carolina. SU Possibly in peril in North Carolina, but status uncertain; more information is needed. S? Unranked, or rank uncertain. -B. Rank of breeding population in the state. Used for migratory species only. .N, Rank of non-breeding population in the state. -Used -for migratory -species only. _Z_ Population is not of significant conservation concern; applies to transitory, migratory species. GLOBAL RANI{ DEFINITIONS .G1 Critically imperiled globally because of extreme rarity or otherwise very vulnerable to extinction throughout its range. G2 Imperiled globally because of rarity or otherwise vulnerable to extinction throughout its range. G3 Either very rare and local throughout its range, or found locally in a restricted area. G4 Apparently secure globally, although it may be quite rare in parts of its range (especially at the periphery). G5 Demonstrably secure globally, although it may be quite rare in parts of its range (especially at the periphery). GH Of historical occurrence throughout its range. GX Believed to be extinct throughout its range. GU Possibly in peril, but status uncertain; more information is needed. G? Unranked, or rank uncertain. G_Q Of questionable taxonomic status. T Status of subspecies or variety; the G rank refers to the species as a whole. ADDITIONAL DEFINITIONS Elements following county names marked with one or two asterisks indicate obscure or historic records. * Obscure record: the date the element was last observed in the county is uncertain. ** Historic record: the element was last observed in the county more than 20 years ago. Scientific and common names listed in parentheses are synonyms listed in US Fish and Wildlife Service, 1992, Endangered and Threatened Species of the Southeastern United States (The Red Book). 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E ) 4 E yE yE uEAj 0 U O 7roV 91-) zU zU 'JrorU z16 8 ,7%U'7.U ,7roiU zU zU zU 'ZroU ?j r?1 f-+?µ.? Q . ® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission® 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director August 23, 1999 Ms. Kimberly S. Leight Rummel, Klepper & Kahl 5800 Faringdon Place Suite 105 Raleigh, NC 27609-3960 Subject: NCDOT Bridge Replacement Projects • B-3066, Bridges No. 49/50 on SR 1521, Watauga Co. • B-3533, Bridge No. 43 on SR 1306, Watuaga Co. • B-3536, Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549, Watauga Co. • B-3405, Bridge No. 65 on SR 1361, Ashe Co. Dear Ms. Leight: This is in response to your August 19, 1999 letter requesting scoping comments for the above referenced bridge replacements. While it is not known how these bridges will be replaced, it is our recommendation that all of the bridges be replaced with another spanning structure. We would be opposed to the use of culverts, either CMP or RCBC, since culverts are often improperly installed, creating fish migration blockages, excessive damage to riparian zones, and channel morphology changes that damage instream aquatic habitat. Because plans are incomplete for these bridge replacements, we have not identified any additional concerns at this time. However, once plans are finalized for these projects and submitted for review during the 404/401permit process, we may offer additional recommendations to lessen impacts to aquatic resources. In order for biological staff of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to provide a meaningful review, the environmental document prepared for these projects should include the following information: 1) Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a listing of federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concern animal and plant species. Contact is the Ms. Susan Reece Giles of the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (919/733- 7701) and Mr. Mark Cantrell of the US Fish and Wildlife Service (7041258-3939, ext. 227). 2) Description of waters and/or wetlands affected by the project. 3) Project snap identifying wetlands and streams. Identification of wetlands may be accomplished through coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Steve Chapin, 704/271-4014). If the Corps is not consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be identified and criteria listed. 4) Description of project activities that will occur within wetlands and stream channel alterations. Acreages of wetlands impacted and linear feet of stream channels to be relocated, channelized or culverted by each alternative designs should be listed. Project sponsors should indicate whether the Corps has been contacted to determine the need for a 404 Permit under the Clean Water Act. Contact is Mr. Steve Lund at 704/271-4857. 5) Description of project site and non-wetland vegetative communities. 6) The extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or fragmentation of wildlife habitat. 7) Any measures proposed to avoid or reduce impacts of the project or to mitigate for unavoidable habitat losses. A mitigation plan should be prepared and submitted along with the EA for review by permitting agencies. 8) A list of document preparers which shows each individual's professional background and qualifications. All of these projects will impact waters supporting trout. Howard's Creek (B-3533) and Big Horse Creek (B-1361) are Designated Public Mountain Trout Water (DPMTW) managed for stocked and wild trout by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC). Flannery Fork (B=3536), Middle Fork and East Fork (B-3066) are not DPMTW, however these streams do contain some wild trout. All of the. streams carry the NC Division of Water Quality Trout (Tr) designation. During the permitting process for these bridge replacements, we will recommend that instream work and land disturbance within the 25-foot wide buffer zone be prohibited during the trout spawning season of October 15 through March 31 to protect the egg and fry stages of trout from off-site sedimentation during construction. We probably will have additional recommendations once final plans for each project is submitted for review. Concerning trout stream classifications, the NCWRC and NC Division of Water Quality both classify trout waters, which can be confusing. Streams classified by the NCWRC as DPMTW are based on public access for fishing. Several classifications exist for NCWRC management purposes, Hatchery Supported for streams receiving stocked fish and Wild for streams containing populations maintained by natural reproduction. A complete listing of streams by county and by regulation managed by the NCWRC can be found in the 1999-2000 NC Inland Fishing, Hunting & Trapping Regulations Digest, available at most huntingifishing stores and Wa1. Mart and Kmart. Streams classified as Tr by DWQ are based on their ability to support and maintain trout populations and are not necessarily open to public fishing. Nearly every stream in the mountains contains the DWQ Tr designation. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on these bridge replacements during the early phase of the scoping process. If you have any questions concerning these comments please contact me at 336/366- 2982. S' cerely,, o oeK t H. Mickey, Jr. Stream Restoration Coordinator Habitat Conservation Program Vn Y a V` Carolina Wildlife Resources December 22, 1999 Mr. William D. Gilmore, PE, Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch NC Department of Transportation P. O. Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 RE: Comments for Group XXII Bridge Replacement Projects, TIP: B-3066, B-3533, B-3536 (Watauga County) and B-3405 (Ashe County) Dear Mr. Gilmore: The North Carolina Wildlife Resources. Commission has received your letter requesting our comments on the above projects. It is our understanding that you desire to prepare a Federal Categorical Exclusion for the four bridge replacement sites. Our main concern with the proposed projects is that it is unclear how these bridges will be replaced. We do recommend that they be replaced with spanning structures and not with culverts. Each of the streams involved supports trout species and will require a moratorium during various trout spawning seasons. This moratorium should be from October 15 through April 15 to protect the egg and fry stages of brown, brook and rainbow trout. The following information about the associated streams may be helpful in your determinations. 1. B - 3066 - Waters under Bridge #49 are Designated Public Mountain Trout Water and support wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Waters under Bridge #50 support wild brown trout and rainbow trout. 2. B - 3533 -Waters under Bridge #43 are Designated Public Mountain Trout Water/Hatchery Supported and support wild brown and rainbow trout populations. 3. B - 3536 -Waters under Bridge #12 support wild rainbow and brown trout . populations. .i12 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604,1188,919,733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director 2 4. B - 3405 - Waters under Bridge #65 are high quality Designated Public Mountain Trout Water. Both wild and hatchery supported trout utilize these waters. If concrete will be used, work must be accomplished so that wet concrete does not contact stream water. This will lessen the chance of altering. the stream's water chemistry and causing a fish kill. Heavy. equipment should be operated from the bank rather than in the stream channel in order to minimize sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of introducing other pollutants into the stream. Stringent erosion control measures should be installed-where soil is. disturbed and maintained until project completion. Temporary or permanent herbaceous vegetation should be planted on all bare soil within .15 days of ground disturbing activities to provide long-term erosion. control. The flood plain should not be modified or restricted by the replacement structure or by maintenance activities.. Storm,water. should be diverted-from the bridge(s) as sheet flow instead of piped or channeled to the stream. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this project during the early stages of your planning. If I can. be of further assistance, please contact me at 336/769-9453. Sincerely, James Ronald Linville Western Piedmont Regional Coordinator Habitat Conservation Program N. C: Wildlife Resources Commission -P #_?j'(n - Federal Aid # 5i-1q (?jl County_ CONCURRENCE FORM FOR PROPERTIES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES lrief Project Descn?pption 2 n ,nln r+ e F?r'i?np + 12 - in a , representatives of the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHwA) North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office. (SHPO) Other viewed the subject project at A scoping meeting _? Historic architectural resources photograph review session/consultation Other hl parties present agreed there are no properties over fifty years old within the project's area of potential effect. there are no properties less than fifty years old which are considered to meet Criterion Consideration G within the project's area of potential effect. y/ there are properties over fifty years old (list attached) within the project's area of potential effect, but based on the historical information available and the photographs of each property, properties identified as ?Y O pe r11 eS l _ L4 - are / considered not eligibl for the National Register and no further evaluation of them is necessary. there are no National Register-listed properties within the project's area of potential effect. fined: -3 cepresentativ , N DOT Date ?HwA, for the Division Administrator, or other Federal Agency Date ?ep sentative, SHP Date .ate Historic Preservation Officer ' abate If a survey report is prepared, a final copy of this form and the attached list will be included. North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office David L. S. Brook, Administrator Midhael F. Easley, Governor Lisbeth C. Evans, Secretary February 9, 2001 Kimberly S. Leight Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP 5800 Fardngdon Place, Suite 105 Raleigh, NC 27609-3960 Division of Archives and History Jeffrey J. Crow, Director Re: Bridge Replacement Group =I, B-3536, Watagua. County, ER 01-8279 Dear Ms. Leight: Thank you for your letter of December 6, 2000, concerning the above project. We have conducted a review of the project and. are aware of no properties of architectural, historic, or archaeological significance, which would be affected by the project. We have no comment on the project as currently proposed. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, Environmental Review Coordinator, at 919/733-4763. Sincerely, David Brook Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer DB:kgc cc: Mary Pope Furr, NCDOT Tom Padgett, NCDOT Location Mailing Address Telephone/Fax Administration 507 N. Blount St, Raleigh, NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh 27699-4617 (919) 733-4763.733-8653 Restoration 515 N. Blount St, Raleigh, NC 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh 27699-4613 (919) 733-6547.715-4801 Survey & Planning 515 N. Blount St, Raleigh, NC 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh 27699-4618 (919) 733-4763 •715-4801 0111 . STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID MCCOY GOVERNOR SECRETARY December 17, 1999 MEMORANDUM TO: William D. Gilmore, PE, Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch FROM: Qjst. Yates, Director SUBJECT: Scoping Review for Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 Over Flannery Fork Creek, Watauga County, TIP Project No. B-3536 This memo is to respond to a request for comments on the subject bridge replacement project. This section of SR 1549 is not a part of a designated bicycle route, nor is it included in the TIP as needing incidental bicycle and pedestrian accommodations. There is no indication in .our files of bicycle or pedestrian requests from the County for this section of roadway. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the subject project. If there is a need for. additional information, please contact Tom Norman, Facilities Program Manager, at 715-2342. CBY/tpn Division of Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Pl;one (919) 715 2346 • Fax (919) 715 4422 Email: cbyates@mail.dot.state,nc,us ' r y REQUEST FOR R/W COST ESTIMATES )ATE: 07-14-00 D. NO: ' B-3546 WATAUGA !OUNTY: ROJECT NO: 8.2 7517 01 NGINEER: JOHN CONFORTI/I ,STIMATED. NO OF PARCELS: .ESIDENTIAL RELOCATION: ?USINESS RELOCATION: .AND AND DAMAGE: JTILITIES. .CQUISITION: TOTAL ESTIMATED R/W COST: ALT. OR SEC. 1 &D .4 0/ 0. ALT. OR SEC. 2 5 0/ 0 ALT. OR SEC. 3 4. 1 12000 ALT. OR SEC. 4- 6 0•/ 0 0/ 0- `off 0 0/ 0 0/ 0 65000 155000 90000 503000 7000 3500 3500 10500 10000 12500 15000 .15000 82400 171000 120500 528500 ROJECT DESCRIPTION AND SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: YPE OF PLANS FURNISHED FOR ESTIMATES: PRELIM RIOR ESTIMATES OF LAND AND DAMAGES (WITH DATES): I "N v1WULV Vl\ Ll..LV1\LLIVLU !'11\l.i 1JLVl`111"L\ Z'Xl q 1, 1 LliLZUli lilll LL111Y. MOUNT THAT HAS BEEN ADDED TO LAND AND DAMAGE TO COVER, CONDEMNATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE 3CREASES: $ AND OR: 3D % .TOMMY NANCE (DAB 09-14=00 STIMATED BY.: (OTE: THIS ESTIMATE WAS NOT BASED UPON FINAL RIGHT OF WAY PLANS NOR FINAL DESIGN DATA. THERFORE, ITS ACCURACY IS SUBJECT TO WHATEVER PLANS AND / OR DESIGN DATA PROVIDED BY REQESTING PARTY. > a. » • AUG 2 g 2001 REQUEST FOR R/W COST ESTINIATE DATE: ' b8-lo-o1 B-3536 COUNTY: - WATAUGA PROJECT NO.: 8.2751701 ENGINEER: JOHN CONFORTI/P ZSTIMATED NO. OF PARCELS: RESIDENTUL RELOCATION: 3USINESS RELOCATION: LAND AND DAMAGE: 1TILITIES: A.CQUISTION: TOTAL ESTL IATED R!W COST ALTERNATE OR SE 5. f?ch 4? . 0 0 0 0 / 0 40,000 25,000 12,500 77,500 ROJECT DESCRIPTION A:I? D SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: REPLACE BRIDGE 130. 12 OVER FLANNERY FORK CREEK- YPE OF PLANS FURNISHED FOR ESTIIV.LkTES: PRELIM _**DUE SEPTEMBER 4, 2001** RIOR ESTINL4,TES OF LAND AND DAM-WES (WITH DATES): INCREASES OR DECREASES ARE SIGNIFICANT, PLEASE EXPLAIN: iOUYT THAT HAS BEEN ADDED TO LAND AND DAMAGE TO COVER CONDEIVINAtIONAND ADMINISTRATIVE -rREASES: S AND OR: 30 ,'INIATED BY: TOMMY NANCE (DATE) 08-22-01 `'E: THIS ESTIMATE WAS NOT BASED UPON FINAL RIGHT OF WAY PLANS NOR FINAL DESIGN DATA. :REFORE, ITS ACCURACY IS SUBJECT TO WHATEVER PLANS ANDI OR DESIGN DATA PROVIDED BY QUESTING PARTY. RELOCATION REPORT M E.I.S. [--1 CORRIDOR [:] DESIGN North Carolina Department of Transportation DMSION RIGHT OF WAY OFFICE PROJECT: 8.2751701 COUNTY WATAUGA Alternate PREFERRED DS Alternate. I I.D. NO.: B-3536 F.A. PROJECT ' DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: SR 549 Bridge #12 over Flannery Creek STIM..ED DISPLACEES E A.T. INCOME LEVEL - Type of Displacee Owner Tenant Total Minority 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 usinesses :... VALUE OF DWELLING ; .. :: _ . :.: DSS'DWEL. ING AVAILABL>t.. ,, ... Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners 11 Tenants For S ale 11 For R ent Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20rn 0 $ o-150 0 0-20m 0 $ 0-150 0 . ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS 20-40M 0 150-250 0 20-40M 0 150-250 1 Yes No Explain all "YES" answers. 40-70M 0 250-400 0 40-70M 9 250-400 11 X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100m 0 400-600 0 70-100m 13 400-600 51 X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up 0. 600 UP 0 100 UP 230+ 600 UP 27 .: displacement? TOTAL 0 ;= 4 0 252+ 90+ X 3. Will business services still be available after . _::. ...:. .. REMARKS (Re§pond .by:NUmber) ::_;?.:;::.:.r;;•.`; ::.;:..::. . > 5 project? 3) Business services in area of the project are not being X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, affected. `r indicate size, type, estimated number of 6) Newspaper, Visual Survey, MLS, and Internet. employees, minorities, etc. 8 Will be implemented as necessary. X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? 11) Watauga County Housing Authority. 6. Source for available housing (list). 12) Yes, as indicated by the available housing list. X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? 14) See items 4 and 6. X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. families? X 10 . Will public housing be needed for project? X 11 . Is public housing available? X 12 . Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing ;r housing available during relocation period? X 13 . Will there be a problem of housing within financial means? X 14 . Are suitable business sites available (list 'Comments: (A) Available housing list was compiled from a source). Partial list and does not indicate the total available housing in -- 15 . Number months estimated to complete Watauga County. 'yam` RELOCATION? N/A 3i Judy C: Joines /, 8-14-2000 JN ' ' L - ?? Right of ,ay Ag t . Date Approved b Q to rorm io.4 KeviseaWrrao a anginal a 1 copy: State Kelocation Agent 2 Copy Area Relocation Office RELOCATION REPORT_______l E.I.S. F'_1 CORRIDOR F? DESIGN North Carolina Department of Transportation DIVISION RIGHT OF WAY OFFICE PROJECT: 8.2751701 COUNTY WATAUGA Alternate 1 of Alternate I.D. NO.: B-3536 F.A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT. SR,*,549 Bridge #12 over Flannery Creek Type of Displacee Owner Tenant Total Minority 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Businesses 0 0 0 0 = - Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For R ent Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20M 0 $ 0.150 . 0 0-20M 0 $ 0-150 0 • r - .::. : 0-40M 0 150-250 p 20-40M Q 150-250 1 Yes No Ex plain all "YES" answers. 40-70M Q 250-400 0 40-70M 9 250-400 11 X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100M Q 400-600 0 70-100M 98 400-600 51 X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up 0 600 up Q 100 up '230+ 600 up 27 displacement? TOTAL 0 0 'ate: 252+ 90+ X 3. Will business services still be available after . 0 `" a, , 90 a project? 3) Business services in area of - the project are not being X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, affected. `.: indicate size, type, estimated number of employees, minorities, etc. 6) Newspaper, Visual Survey, MLS, and Internet. 8) Will be implemented as necessary. X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? 11) Watauga County Housing Authority. 6: Source for available housing (list). 12) Yes, as indicated by the available housing list. X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? 14) See items 4 and 6. X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. families? X 10. Will public housing be needed for project? X 11. Is public housing available? X 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing housing available during relocation period? X 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financial means? X 14. Are suitable business sites available (list Comments: (A) Available housing list was compiled from a rY? } 15. source). Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION? N/A Partial list and does not indicate the total available housing in Watauga County. +ff x?. Judy C. Joines 8-14-2000 . r1 ` c J Q? :.' Right o ay ge Date Approved by Date Form 15.4 Revise 02195 d Oriainal & 1 Coov: State Relocation Aoent 2 Copy Area Relocation Office F7ELOCATION REPORT A E.I.S. CORRIDOR F"? DESIGN .. North Carolina Department of Transportation DIVISION RIGHT OF WAY OFFICE PROJECT:. 8.2751701 COUNTY WATAUGA Alternate 2 of Alternate I.D. NO.: B-3536 F.A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION OF PROJE CT: SR 1549 Bridge #12 over Flannery Creek m -; . ? _. - - -- - - - - - - - -- .yam:.. . Type of Displacee Owner Tenant Total Minority 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Businesses 0 0 0 0 V= - Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tena nts For Sale For R ent Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20m 0 so-160 0 0-20M 0 so-150 0 _ 20-40M 150-250 0 0 20-40M 0 150-250 1 Yes No Ex plain all "YES" answers. 40-70M 0 250-400 0 40-70M g 250-400 11 X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100M 0 400-500 0 70400m 13 400-600 51 X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up 0 600 uP 0 100 UP 230+ 600 UP 27 displacement? TOTAL 0 0 252+ t { 90+ . t s. .. ?Y. .'Fr".. X 3. Will business services still be available after project? 3) Business services in area of the project are not being X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, affected. indicate size, type, estimated number of 6) Newspaper Visual Survey MLS and Internet employees, minorities, etc. , , , . 8) Will be implemented as necessary. X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? 11) Watauga County Housing Authority. 6. Source for available housing (list). 12) Yes, as indicated by the available housing list. ' X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? 14) See items 4 and 6. X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. ?: :.. famines? X 10. Will public housing be needed for project? X 11. Is public housing available? X 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing M"? housing available during relocation period? X 13. Will there be a problem of housing within f . ` ' -i financial means? X 14. Are suitable business sites available (list Comments: (A) Available housing list was compiled from a t 3 source). Partial list and does not indicate the total available housing in I 15. = Number months estimated to complete Watauga County. - tai" RELOCATION? N/A r' Judy C. Joines 8-14-2000 c"ne, Right ofy Ag t Date " Approved bi D Ate run" 10.4 MewseaOOULO a Original & 1 Copy: State Relocation Agent 2 Copy Area Relocation Office 7-] 7] r'- 7RIOCATION REPORT M E.I.S. r-JCORRIDOR ? DESIGN North Carolina Department of Transportation DIVISION RIGHT OF WAY OFFICE PROJECT: . 8.2751701 COUNTY WATAUGA Alternate 3 of Alternate I.D. NO.: B-3536 A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: SR f,549 Bridge #12 over Flannery Creek Type of Displacee Owner Tenant Total . Minority 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 Businesses 0 0 0 0 Farms 0 0 0 . 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20M 0 $ 0-150 Q 0-20M Q $ 0-150 Q 20-40M 0 150-250 Q 20-40x1 Q 150-250 1 Yes No Ex plain all "YES" answers. 40-70M Q 250.400 1 40-70m 9 250400 11 X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100m 0 400-600 Q 70-100m 13 51 X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up p so0 uP Q 100 uP 230+ 27 displacement? J TOTAL 0 252+90+ X 3. Will business services still be available after :: r ° } R'. =- project? 3) Business services in area of the project are not being X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, affected. =µ a indicate size, type, estimated number of 6) Newspaper Visual Survey MI-S and Internet. rr employees, minorities, etc. , , , 8) Will be implemented as necessary. X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? 9) It is possible there may be some elderly, large, or disabled 6. Source for available housing (list). families affected on the project X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? 11) Watauga County Housing Authority. X .8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? 12) Yes, as indicated by the available housing list. X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. 14) See items 4 and 6. .a families? X 10 . Will public housing be needed for project? X 11 . Is public housing available? X 12 . Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing housing available during relocation period? X 13 . Will there be a problem of housing within M?;- _; financial means? X 14 . Are suitable business sites available (list Comments: (A) Available housing list was compiled from a source). Partial list and does not indicate the total available housing in ?. 15 . Number months estimated to complete Watauga County. (B) There is a probability that there are some Minority residents. However, a fair estimate from the limited 44 s contact and present information cannot be determined w , ; = RELOCATION? NIA until initial contacts with those affected are made. ? : 0 L Judy C. Joine 8-14-2000 ?? 4f? Right ayAgent Date Approved by Da e Form 15.4 Revised'02/95 d - Original 8?1 Copy: State Relocation Agent 'RELOCATION REPO ?tT M E.I.S. F-1 CORRIDOR [:] DESIGN North Carolina Department of Transportation DIVISION RIGHT OF WAY OFFICE PROJECT: 8.2751701 COUNTY WATAUGA Alternate 4 of 5 Alternate I.D. NO.: B-3536 F.A. PROJECT DESCRIPTION OF PROJE Type of Displacee Owner CT: SR./:549 Bridge #12 over Flannery Creek Tenant Total Minority 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Businesses 0 0 0 0 O ... .._ ... =" Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent Non- Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20M 0 $ 0-150 0 0-20M 0 $ 0-150 0 ; M 20-40M 0 150-250 20-40M 0 150-250 Yes No Ex plain all "YES" answers. 40-70M 0 250-400 0 40-70M 9 2504OO 11 X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100m 0 400-600 0 70400m 13 51 X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up 0 600 up k 0 100 uP 230+ 27 .'; displacem ent? TOTAL 0 0 252+ 90+ X 3. Will business services still be available after WORM . project? 3) Business services in area of the project are not being X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, affected. indicate size, type, estimated number of employees, minorities, etc. I 6) Newspaper, Visual Survey, MLS, and Internet. 8) Will be implemented as necessary. X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shoitage? 9) It is possible there may be some elderly, large, or disabled 6. Source for available housing (list). families affected on the project X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? 11) Watauga County Housing Authority. X . 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? 12) Yes, as indicated by the available housing list. X 9: Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. ' 14) See items 4 and 6. families? X 10. Will public housing be needed for project? X 11. Is public housing available? X 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing housing available duri ng relocation peri od? - X 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financial means? I X 14. Are suitable business sites available (list Comments: (A) Available housing list was compiled from a source). 15. Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION? N/A F Partial list and does not indicate the total available housing in Watauga County. Judy C. Joines 8-14-2000 g &J Right of Way Agent Date Approved b Dat I-OrM 10.4 Kevisec uziub a Original & 1 Copy: State Relocation Agent 2 Copy Area Relocation Office LOCAL CORRESPONDENCE Watauga County Board of Education OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT MARGARET E. GRAGG EDUCATION CENTER TEL: (828) 2647190 P.O. BOX 1790 BOONE N.C. 28607 FAX: (828) 2647196 February 15, 2000 Kimberly S. Leight Rummel, Klepper & Kahl 5800 Faringdon Place Suite 105 Raleigh, NC 27609-3960 Dear Ms. Leight: PEB i g 7NnnI RUMW-L, KLU'PEK & KAHL RALEIGH: Nr,, In response to your correspondence with Mr. Townsend, I would like to provide the following information for your company. Bridges 49 and 50 are crossed eight times each day by four buses. Closing these bridges during school operating hours would cause considerable hardship in routing buses, and would significantly increase the bus ride times for students living in the area. However, with enough advance warning, we could work around this closure. Bridge 43 across Howard's Creek is crossed five times per day by three buses. Closing this bridge during school operating months would mean that approximately 60 students would not have bus service because there is no practical way to route around this closure. Bridge 12 across Winkler's Creek is crossed four times per day by two buses. Again, this would involve considerable re-routing of buses and a significant increase in ride times for students. However, this closure is probably the easiest to deal with in terms of number of students affected. If I can provide any further information, please call. Sincerely, 90'LA Pom Toni Parlier Transportation Information Management System Coordinator WATAUGA COUNTY SCHOOLS TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT P.O. BOX 1790 BOONE, NC 28607 Educate for productive citizenship and life-long learning. WATAUGA COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL / EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 330 QUEEN ST. BOONE, NC 28607 (828) 2644235 FAX (828) 262-5725 TDD 1-800-735-2962 Voice 1-800-735-8262 Kimberly S. Leight. Environmental Specialist 5800 Faringdon Place Suite 105 Raleigh NC 27609 Dear Ms. Leight: a Mly 02 JUN 22 2000 RUMMEL, KLEPPER & KAHL RALEIGH, NC After recelAngyour-letter concerning information on emergency services that would-be-a cwd-with the proposed bridge replacement projects, I have met with-Boone Fire, Meat Camp VFD and Watauga Medics. To answer the-first-question, yes there are emergency services located within .5-mile-ofthe-proposed replacements. Boone Fire " Department Statiun-H-andWatauga, Medics Base II are located less than .5, mile from Bridge 49 & 50. To answer the second question, Boone Fire Department would not be able to make the turn onto Blairmont Drive if alternative route No. 3 is used. Meat Camp°VFD;=Watausa Medics and Boone FD also request the weight limit for apparatus on temporary bridges. Nyou have-any-questions, please feel free to contact me at the office. Sincerely, Tim Nelson Fire/EM TM/ss w T WATAUGA COUNTY Department of Plaluting & Inspections 842 W. King St. # 7 Boone, North Carolina 28607 December 31, 1999 • Phone (828) 265-8043 TDD 1-800-735-2962 Voice 1-800=735='8262 Far (82'8Y•265-8080 ?E.C EI V t%--Ilham D. Gilmore, Manager Proiect Development and Environmental Analysis Branch I.C. Department of Transportation P.C- Box 25201 Raleigh, N.C. 27611-5201 Re: Bridge Replacement Projects Dear Mr. Gilmore: IJAIV 6 '2000 In response to your Decernber 15, 1999 merno please consider the following comments. Generally speaking, bridge replacements are ,:welcome, in that it is assumed the results will be improved safety and traffic flow. However, during demolition and construction, it is imperative that the streams be protected from sedimentation or other pollution, and that access for emergency vehicles not be impeded. Additionally, the citizens of Watauga County are interested in and willing to participate fully in government projects so 'going the extra mile" in regard•to providing public information and seeking citizen input would be prudent. Specific comments for each project areas follows. - 8-3066. Proximity to the Boone Golf Course and Watauga Medical Center, as well as heavy traffic on the road are concerns. These bridges are within the Boone town Limits. Comments should besought from the Town of Roone. - 8-3533. Close proximity to a private school should be considered. Howard's Creek at that point is classified High {duality Waters (HQW) by the N.C. Environmental Management Commission. ? M - B-3536. Close proximity to the municipal grater supply intake. should be a strong consideration. This bridge is within the Boone town limits. Comments should besought from the Town of Boone- - B-3405. This project is in As he County. If you need more information, please contact me. Sincerely, oA. Furman, AICi' Director cc: Wayne Herron, Town of Boone y r A search of available environmental records was conducted by Environmental Data Resources, Inc. (EDR). The report meets the government records search requirements of ASTM Standard Practice for Environmental Site Assessments, E 1527-97. Search distances are per ASTM standard or custom distances requested by the user. TARGET PROPERTY ADDRESS BRIDGE NO. 12 BOONE, NC 28607 TARGET PROPERTY COORDINATES Latitude (North): 36.198450 - 36' 11' 54.4" Longitude (West): 81.672990 - 81 ° 40' 22.8" Universal Tranverse Mercator. Zone 17 UTM X (Meters): 439495.5 UTM Y (Meters): 4005968.8 USGS TOPOGRAPHIC MAP ASSOCIATED WITH TARGET PROPERTY Target Property: 2436081-136 BOONE, NC Source: USGS 7.5 min quad index TARGET PROPERTY SEARCH RESULTS The target property was not listed in any of the databases searched by EDR. SURROUNDING SITES: DATABASES WITH NO MAPPED SITES No mapped sites were found in EDR's search of available ( "reasonably ascertainable ") government records either on the target property or within the ASTM E 1527-97 search radius around the target property for the following Databases: FEDERAL ASTM STANDARD NPL:------------------------. National Priority List Delisted NPL:---------------. NPL Deletions CERCLIS-------------------- Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information . System CERC-NFRAP:--------------- Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Information . System CORRACTS:----------------. Corrective Action Report RCRIS-TSD------------------ Resource Conservation and Recovery Information System RCRIS-LOG:-.--------------. Resource Conservation and Recovery Information System ERNS:----------------------- Emergency Response Notification System STATE ASTM STANDARD SHWS:----------------------. State Haz. Waste SWF/LF:-----------.---------. Solid Waste Facilities UST:------------------------. Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Database FEDERAL ASTM SUPPLEMENTAL CONSENT:------------------ Superfund (CERCLA) Consent Decrees TC464562.2s EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 A ROD:------------------------ ROD FINDS: ----------------------- Facility Index System/Facility Identification Initiative Program Summary Report HMIRS:---------------------- Hazardous Materials Information Reporting System MLTS:----------------------- Material Licensing Tracking System MINES:---------------------- Mines Master Index File NPL Lien:-------------------. NPL Liens PADS:----------------------- PCB Activity Database System RAATS:---------------------. RCRA Administrative Action Tracking System TRIS:------------------------ Toxic Chemical Release Inventory System TSCA:----------------------- Toxic Substances Control Act STATE OR LOCAL ASTM SUPPLEMENTAL NC HSDS:------------------- Hazardous Substance Disposal Site IMD:------------------------- Incident Management Database EDR PROPRIETARY DATABASES Coal Gas:-------------------. Former Manufactured gas (Coal Gas) Sites. SURROUNDING SITES: DATABASES WITH MAPPED SITES Unmapped (orphan) sites are not considered in the foregoing analysis. Elevations have been determined from the USGS 1 degree Digital Elevation Model and should be evaluated on a relative (not an absolute) basis. Relative elevation information between sites of close proximity should be field verified. EDR's definition of a site with an elevation equal to the target property includes a tolerance of +/- 10 feet. Sites with an elevation equal to or higher than the target property have been differentiated below from sites with an elevation lower than the target property (by more than 10 feet). Page numbers and map identification numbers refer to the EDR Radius Map report where detailed data on individual sites can be reviewed. Sites listed in bold italics are in multiple databases. FEDERAL ASTM STANDARD RCRIS: The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act database includes selected information on sites that generate, store, treat, or dispose of hazardous waste as defined by the Act. The source of this database is the U.S. EPA. A review of the RCRIS-SQG list, as provided by EDR, and dated 12/22/1999 has revealed that there is 1 RCRIS-SQG site within approximately 0.25 miles of the target property. Lower Elevation Address Dist / Dir Map ID Page IRC INC 736 GREENWAY RD 116 - 114E A2 5 STATE ASTM STANDARD LUST: The Leaking Underground Storage Tank Incidents Management Database contains an inventory of reported leaking underground storage tank incidents. The data come from the Department of Environment, Health & Natural Resources' Incidents by Address. A review of the LUST list, as provided by EDR, and dated 01/2812000 has revealed that there are 5 LUST sites within approximately 0.5 miles of the target property. TC484562.2s EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2 M w Lower Elevation Address Dist / Dir Map ID Page INTERNATIONAL RESISTIVE CORP 305 GREENWAY RD 1/8 - 1/4E Al 5 APPALCART TRANSPORTATION WINKLER CREEK RD. 1/4 -1/2NNE 3 6 SKI FIRST TRACKS NC 105 S. 1/4 -1/2NNW 4 7 FOSCOE FIRE DEPT. RT. 105 1/4- 1/2 NNE 5 8 CHARLOTTE MCCALL RESIDENCE 287 FACULTY ST 1/4 -1/2 NNE 6 9 TC484562.2s EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3 9/09/99 I8.2751703 B-3536 '. 0 0 0 ton ° m m l 57 S O Z CA N [1 ° O Z D N J • r < '? C ` tNi? N ? 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TIT No`$co $o I„ ?y ?Gi^ ??'154i O1$00 i r TO O ? 2m? Mrn (Aa yyyQQy?? ? a Al. n y C ]?U ? JAI I ? --? ?- ? ? c I V ? ? ?? ?+y z ? +?i a ©© I In -I UJ C" Fn W 0 N W (,I 1 O N Z 0 p N N A Z a ,ate m ? ? m m x 7 ? Z N zr lC m? 4 A O ' r 18-NOV-200 09:56?1\b3536.pf1 cur eor AT'RD01S0 0 - 5/14/99 W W W W W W W N O A O 0 O O A :: ... .... ..?: : If fl.. ii::Eiii A : :: om ::: t :: lj 1 .. p :: N 111 ::: :: <zi o w ::: CO ::k: :: 1 W ":0 Z x::11:::?:: A:: A:::?::?I:::?:: ?::: ::. ::: iC7 :n:: % V i T p O 'O s z z? Q ? w r z m i m m ?g S W W W W W W W rmi? ?? (71 N O W O L A L. C)1 0 P 0 V O co O A o STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA 00 1 Ct IS W 0%+-a?5cl DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 DAVID' cCOY_, GOVERNOR Y; A December 08, 1999 Mr. John Hennessy Division of Water Qulaity NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources 4401 Reedy Creek Road Raleigh, NC 27607 SUBJECT: Request for Comments for Group XXII Bridge Replacement Projects The North Carolina Department of Transportation has retained Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP to prepare the Federal Categorical Exclusions for four (4) bridge replacement projects in North Carolina. The bridge replacement projects are included in the 2000-2006 North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The purpose of this letter is to solicit your input concerning potential impacts of the demolition and removal of the existing structure and environmental conditions near the projects. Attached is the bridge demolition information, vicinity map, bridge typical section and bridge profile for each of the following projects. 1. B-3066, Watauga County, Replace Bridge Nos. 49 & 50 on SR 1522 over Middle Fork and East Fork (tributaries to the New River) 2.. B-3533, Watauga County, Replace Bridge No. 43 on SR 1306 over Howard's Creek 3. B-3536, Watauga County, Replace Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 over Flannery Fork Creek 4. B-3405, Ashe County, Replace Bridge No. 65 on SR 1361 over Big Horse Creek Please note that there will be no formal interagency scoping meetings for these projects. This letter constitutes solicitation for scoping comments related to these projects. To allow us to fully evaluate the impacts of the proposed project, please respond in writing by January 05, 2000, concerning any beneficial or adverse impacts of the proposed project relating to the interest of your agency. If you have any questions or comments concerning these projects, please contact Mr. John Conforti of this Branch at 733-7844, ext. 208 or Ms. Kim Leight, Rummel, Klepper & Kahl, LLP at (919) 878-9560. Sinceroly? William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Attachment BRIDGE DEMOLITION AND REMOVAL T.I.P. No. B-3536 Structure No. 94012 Bridge No. 12 on SR 1549 over Flannery Fork Creek Watauga County Division 11 Federal-Aid Project No. 8.2751701 State Project No. BRZ-1549(3) Description: This project contains a bridge removal over Waters of the U.S. Bridge No. 12 is located on SR 1549 over Flannery Fork Creek in Watauga County. The deck and curbs for the superstructure are timber on I-Beams. The substructure consists of timber piles and bents. The deck, curbs and pile end bents will be removed without dropping them into the Waters of the US during construction. No temporary fill associated with the removal of this bridge is anticipated. Bridge No. 12 was built in 1955. The structure includes 1 span totaling 40'-6" in length. The bridge has a sufficiency rating of 2 out of 100. The posted weight limit is 12 tons for single vehicles and 15 tons for truck-tractors semi-trailers. Calculations: • Superstructure: No temporary fill associated with removal 'of the superstructure is anticipated since the deck is composed entirely of steel and timber and will be removed in such a manner that no components will be dropped in the water. Say 0 yd3 from superstructure • Substructure: No temporary fill associated with removal of the substructure is anticipated since the end bents are composed entirely of timber and will be removed in such a manner that no components will be dropped in the water. Say 0 yd3 substructure TOTAL: 0 yd3 of temporary fill in Waters of the US. Moratorium: Construction will be scheduled to avoid instream activities to minimize impacts in trout waters per dates to be determined by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. • Section 7 Consultation: None anticipated. FAWORD\DOCUMEN1139951\Bridge Demo 2.doc 1395 N 1 1322 1351 1324 i Cry ° 6 1325 g 1404 1327 1102 1333 IQ ?S S 1321 1326 1331 N 1306 320 •3 '4 y3 1102 `0 Sands 1379 1313 1541, 1405 _ 1332 1d ?O Cry Lov;l) BOONE POP. 14 055 HOWARD KNO ?r SOUTH 1331 23 , LEV. 444 321 421 FOr 6 328 8 1391 Adams 194 z Bridge i?o. 12 1 221 zr 421 ROCKY MTN. ELEV.4078 194 3 9 5 'o ° 221 4 321 p 6D 1.8 105 27 r 1522 1514 1552 1549 Bamboo 1.2 1553 550 1 1552 E 1550 1549 1524 1547 r 1653 1532 r? 1608 1525 Shulls Mill 1541 1666 t? 538 1581 221 v 321 1541 0 a 154 ` 1539 1531 1639 h ?6g7 N 6 ?L .2 FLAT 1514 h 1637 - 1552 MTN. TOP o y w A 20 1541 ELEV.4595 1616 .5 4 -w 1530 0 KILOMETER 3.2 KILOMETER 6.4 I? North Carolina Department of Transportation 0 MILE 2.0 MILE 4.0 Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch 421 321 421 SCALE SR 1549 Bridge No. 12 over Flannery Fork Creek WATAU GA CO Watauga County . T.I.P. No. B-3536 N W H - I, I N I__L_ (I) 0 3 0 Q (I) U ? N Q _ W W O +I ?O ?` ?O O (Mzz I- LO ?~ 6'~ XQ?: N MW (\1 W N i CD m _ m co 0 Q U I- 00 co co u H C? bb 030 90 u6p•owap9ESE9?"6p?9ESf-9\tS66C\......?:f W H 0 Mill LI P 0 ' 1 PI -4 1 N 1 1 N m ?,J LO N LO ' W C'7 W J O H m O LL H ? 1 O M /'1r1 1 ? n I II z H co H X W 66 030 90 u6p•...p9£5£9\u6p\9£5£-9\1566£\souwoa\:f WATAUGA COUNTY BRIDGE NO. 12 B-3536 Looking West Looking North Figure 4