20081705 Ver 1_US 52 Improvements_20081222

US 52 Operational Improvements
From I-40 Bypass to NC 65
Winston-Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina
WBS No. 34871
State Project No. 8.1622801
Federal Aid No. NHF - 52(4)
TIP Project No. U-2826B
Finding of No Significant Impact
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
And
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Division of Highways
Submitted pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act 42 U S C 4332(2)(c)
APPROVED
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Date Gregory J Thorpe, Ph , Branch Manager
troje Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
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Date John F Sullivan III, P E, Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
US 52 Operational Improvements
From I40 Bypass to NC 65
Winston-Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina
WBS No. 34871
State Project No. 8.1622801
Federal Aid No. NHF - 52(4)
TIP Project No. U-2826B
Finding of No Significant Impact
Document Prepared
in the Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc
October 2008
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Date &e-sa R Grresham, cject Manager
Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc
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Da De Tick Weaver, P E , Consultant Engineering Unit Head
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
PROJECT COMMITMENTS
US 52 Operational Improvements
From I-40 Bypass to NC 65
Forsyth County, North Carolina
Federal-Aid Project No. NHF-52 (4)
State Project No. 8.1622801
WBS No. 34871
TIP Project No. U-2826B
In addition to the Section 404 Conditions, Nationwide Permit Conditions, Regional
Conditions, State Consistency Conditions, Section 401 Conditions of Certification, and
measures detailed in NCDOT's Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface
Waters, the following special commitments have been agreed to by NCDOT
Roadside Environmental Unit and Division 9
During design and construction, efforts will be made to minimize the impact
to existing vegetative buffers and natural areas NCDOT will coordinate with
the City of Winston-Salem regarding post construction landscape
design/corrtdor plan as warranted to mitigate construction impacts and
integrate enhancements, while remaining sensitive to the environment and to
the safety of the traveling public
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, Roadway Design Unit
and Intelligent Transportation Systems Section
2 During design, NCDOT will coordinate with SHPO for the placement of the
ITS improvements
Division 9
3 NCDOT will coordinate with local media during the construction of the
project to alert the public of traffic restrictions and construction related
activities
4 NCDOT will continue to participate in on-going discussions and forums with
the Community Transportation Study Group and the City of Winston-Salem
pertaining to pedestrian safety and economic development opportunities on
the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive corridor and community cohesiveness
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements) Green Sheet
October 2008 Page 1 of 2
Proiect Development and Environmental Analysis Branch and Right Of Way
Branch
5 SHPO and NCDOT will insure that the uneconomic remnant at 143 Martin
Luther King Jr Drive is disposed of in a way that does not adversely affect the
East Winston Historic District
6 No staging will take place in the Fairview Moravian or Union Station
properties, as required by the State Historic Preservation Office In the event
of a deviation from this requirement, NCDOT will coordinate with SHPO
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements) Green Sheet
October 2008 Page 2 of 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 0 TYPE OF ACTION 1
20 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 1
30 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION 1
40 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED 3
50 SELECTED ALTERNATIVE 9
5 1 Revisions to the Selected Alternative 13
60 SUMMARY OF PROJECT IMPACTS 14
70 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND AGENCY COORDINATION 23
7 1 Circulation of the Environmental Assessment 23
72 Agency Comments Received on the Environmental Assessment 24
73 Public Officials Meeting 31
74 Pre-Hearing Open House and Combined Public Hearing 31
75 Summary of Public Comments 32
80 WETLANDS FINDING 34
90 FLOODPLAIN FINDING 34
100 BASIS FOR FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT 34
TABLES
1 Summary of Current Cost Estimate (2007)
2 Summary of Impacts for Selected Alternative
3 Opinion of Planning Level Cost for Preferred Alternative (2007)
FIGURES
1 Project Vicinity Map
2 Alternative 9
3 Alternative 10
4 Alternative 12
5 Conflict Points [in text]
6A-B Water Resources
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Agency Comments Received in Response to the Environmental Assessment
- U S Environmental Protection Agency (March 13, 2008)
- N C Wildlife Resources Commission (March 6, 2008)
- N C Department of Cultural Resources (February 28, 2008)
- N C Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality
(February 22, 2008 and April 29, 2008)
Appendix B: Citizen Comments Received in Response to the Environmental Assessment
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact
1.0 TYPE OF ACTION
Tlus Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) is a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
administrative action
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and FHWA have determined that
the selected alternative (Alternative 9) for this project will not have a significant impact on the
human or natural environments This FONSI is based on the Environmental Assessment (EA),
which was independently evaluated by the F1 WA and determined to adequately and accurately
discuss the environmental issues and impacts of the proposed project The EA was approved by
the FHWA on January 4, 2008 and provides sufficient evidence and analysis for determining that
an Environmental Impact Statement is not required
2.0 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The following individuals can be contacted for additional information on the proposed project
John F. Sullivan III, P.E.
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
310 New Bern Avenue, Suite 410
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
Telephone [phone]
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Branch Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Telephone [phone]
3.0 DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to improve approximately
12 miles of US 52 through Winston-Salem in Forsyth County, North Carolina The section of US
52 currently under study extends from I-40 to the future Northern Beltway interchange near
NC 65 (Bethama-Rural Hall Road) This section of US 52 is a busy four-lane urban freeway with
closely spaced interchanges, a high crash rate, and frequent traffic congestion The improvements
proposed as part of this project are included in the approved North Carolina Department of
Transportation (NCD07) 2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) as STIP
Project U-2826B The STIP includes $18 2 million for construction and right-of-way costs
Construction improvements considered for this proposed project include the limited use of
existing shoulders as additional travel lanes, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), ramp
closures and modifications, and traffic management improvements Right-of-way acquisition is
scheduled to begin in fiscal year (FY) 2009 and construction is scheduled to begin in FY 2010
Figure 1 shows the project vicinity
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact
Project U-2826B is intended to be an interim solution to address issues related to safety and
congestion on US 52 In 2003, the City of Winston-Salem completed a long-range (20-year)
improvement plan for the US 52 corridor (US 52 Corridor Land Use and Transportation Plan,
2003), which evaluated facility improvements required to meet Interstate design standards The
recommendations for this project have been developed in coordination with the long-range plan
in an effort to eliminate the cost and effort that would result if interim improvements had to be
retrofitted to accommodate planned long-term improvements
The current total estimated cost for the project (Alternative 9) is $16,446,302 The estimated
right of way acquisition cost, construction cost, and total cost are shown in Table 1
Table 1. Summary of Current Cost Estimate (2007)
Type of Cost Alternative 9 (Selected Alternative)
Construction Cost $13,658,000
Relocation of Utility Poles $199,302
Right of Way $2,589,000
Total $16,446,302
Currently, US 52 is a four-lane divided freeway carrying between 50,000 and 69,000 vehicles per
day (vpd) This project is focused on three mayor objectives for the US 52 corridor
¦ Reduce the number of crashes on US 52 from I-40 to 4th Street and at Akron Drive.
The crash rate on US 52 from I-40 to 4th Street is 38 percent higher than the rate for
comparable highways in North Carolina, and the injury rate is 23 percent higher From
2003 to 2006, there were 411 crashes along this segment, including 125 crashes that
resulted in an injury and 3 that resulted in a fatality Three of the top five worst
interchanges on US 52 in the study area are 3rd/5th Streets (85 crashes), Stadium Drive
(61 crashes), and Akron Drive (56 crashes)
¦ Improve traffic mobility along US 52.
Prior to the completed construction of the eastern section of the Northern Beltway (STIP
Projects U-2579 and U-2579A, scheduled to open after 2015), several freeway segments
and weaving sections along the US 52 corridor are expected to perform at a very poor
level of service, with high levels of congestion during daily peak travel periods
¦ Conform to adopted land use and transportation plans.
Improvements to the corridor are intended to be in agreement with the needs and
objectives identified in the regional land use and transportation plans and support the
future goals of the Winston-Salem Urban Area
The overall purpose of the proposed project
improvements that improve safety and mobility
following three statements
is to provide geometric and operational
This overall purpose is further detailed in the
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact
2
¦ Reduce the number of crashes on US 52 from I-40 to 4th Street and at Akron Drive.
Needs Addressed Improvements to the geometry and closure of ramps at the
interchanges of US 52 with Stadium Drive, Akron Drive, 3rd/4th/5th Streets, and the
conversion of shoulders to travel lanes from Business 40/US 421 to Martin Luther King,
Jr Drive would reduce the number of conflict points along the corridor These existing
conflict points, combined with the high traffic volumes and travel speed, contribute to the
above average crash rates for these areas along the corridor Increased use of ITS
measures also is expected to improve safety by providing better traveler information
along the corridor and helping NCDOT and local authorities to react quickly and
appropriately to various traffic incidents
¦ Improve mobility for traffic traveling on US 52 through the Winston-Salem area.
Needs Addressed Geometric improvements, including the use of the existing shoulders
as travel lanes, interchange enhancements, and elimination of interchanges, along with
ITS measures, could have a direct impact on the mobility of the facility and allow for
more efficient travel through Winston-Salem
¦ Comply with goals and objectives in existing land use and transportation plans for
US 52 in the Winston-Salem area.
Needs Addressed Compliance with previously outlined goals and objectives has
increased local support of the preferred alternative and assisted the region in addressing
some of those goals through this project
A secondary purpose for this project is to reduce the barrier effect between the communities
located on the east and west sides of the corridor Improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive
and the elimination of the one-way street pattern on 4th and 5th Streets, all of which cross the US
52 corridor, would enhance connectivity within the community
4.0 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
No alternative corridor locations were considered to be competitive with the existing, well-
defined corridor The alternatives recommended for further study include
No-Build Alternative (Alternative 0)
The No-Build Alternative means no actions would be implemented under this project (STEP
Project U-282613) Under this alternative, only "committed" state projects would be
implemented
Alternative 9
Alternative 9, shown on Figure 2, includes the following elements, in adchtion to the
"committed" projects included in the STIP
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 3
¦ Close US 52 ramps and loop at Stadium Drive (contingent on the completion of the
Salem Creek Connector between Vargrave Street and Martin Luther King, Jr Drive,
which is part of STIP Project U-2925)
¦ Convert shoulders (north and south bound) to travel lanes full time from Business 40/US
421 at US 52 interchange to the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at US 52 interchange
¦ Close US 52 ramps at 3rd and 5th Streets
¦ Build Akron Drive interchange modifications
- Southbound on-ramp - remove two-way traffic from Leo Street, allowing one-
way movement into Northside Shopping Center
- Southbound off-ramp - delete two-way movements and remove Leo Street tie-in
(north side of Leo Street)
- Leo Street - wrap Leo Street around and tie into Sheridan Street
¦ ITS Improvements
- Provide enhanced 511 service (ITS)
- Expand use of dynamic message signs and closed-circuit cameras (ITS)
- Implement adaptive signal control and detection on parallel arterials (ITS)
- Install truck rollover warnings (ITS)
The following improvements are included as approved nutigation and enhancements for
Alternative 9 as of the date of this document
¦ Mitigation for closing 3rd and 5th Street ramps Mitigation of the loss of access to
downtown Winston-Salem and the Research Park is included in the form of operational
and intersection improvements along the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive corridor and
reversion of Fifth and Fourth Streets from one-way to two-way traffic Traffic signals
would be removed on Fourth Street due to reduce traffic volumes
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at Business 40/US 421 Interchange - revise loops
to tie at intersections of First and Lowery Streets, remove slip ramp/access to
Lowery from loop, and change access to Lowery Street from the on-ramp to right
in / right out only
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Excelsior Street/Lowery Street - lengthen
southbound left turn lane to approximately 530 feet
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at C E Gray Drive- change eastbound to right in /
right out only
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at First Street - add new southbound left turn lane,
rebuild westbound off-ramp from Business 40/US 421 at Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive interchange to tie directly to First Street (resulting in the closure of First
Street from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive to Dunleith Avenue), deadend/cul-de-
sac of Wheeler Street prior to First Street, and tymg/wrappmg the eastern section
of First Street into Dunleith Avenue
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at Lawrence Street - change eastbound to right in /
right out only
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at Second Street - change eastbound and
westbound to right in / right out only
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 4
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at 3rd Street - on 3rd Street add new eastbound
shared through-left lane, change eastbound through-right lane to right turn lane,
on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive lengthen northbound left turn lane to
approximately 300 feet and lengthen southbound left turn lane, provide
approximately 100 feet of storage
Reversion of Fifth and Fourth Streets from one-way to two-way traffic
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Fourth Street - change eastbound (west side)
through-right lane to right in / right out only and change eastbound (east side) to
a right in / right out only, remove traffic signal
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Fifth Street - add new northbound left turn lane,
provide approximately 325 feet of storage, lengthen southbound left turn lane,
provide approximately 150 feet of storage
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at New Walkertown Road - lengthen southbound
left turn lane, provide approximately 440 feet of storage
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at US 52 northbound off-ramp - restripe ramp
approach to include a shared left-right turn lane, install traffic signal
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at US 52 southbound off-ramp - add westbound
right turn lane, restripe ramp approach to include a left turn, through and right
turn lanes, install traffic signal
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at US 52 interchange - add new southbound on-
ramp
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Patterson Avenue - add northbound right turn
lane on Patterson Avenue and restripe northbound Patterson Avenue to include a
left turn, through and right turn lanes
- Fourth Street - remove traffic signals at Fourth Street/Maple Street and Fourth
Street/Metropolitan Drive
¦ Mitigation and enhancement for converting shoulders on northbound and southbound US
52 to travel lanes Since shoulder areas will be converted to travel lanes, ntigation is
required to provide a safe alternative for drivers who need to stop suddenly in these areas
- Replace existing curbs with rollover type curbs
¦ Mitigation and enhancement for Akron Drive interchange modifications Mitigation is
required to guide drivers to the shopping center via an indirect route
- Enhance signage from Akron Drive to "shopping center" using route via
Sheraton Street and Patterson Avenue
¦ Emergency services mitigation Mitigation may be required for emergency medical
service vehicles due to the loss of access as a result of closing 3rd and 4th Streets If
EMS response time is negatively affected by the proposed changes, this mitigation will
be considered
- Traffic signal pre-emption for emergency medical service (EMS) vehicles will be
considered after the project is in place to mitigate for any potential problems for
EMS access
¦ Landscaping enhancement
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 5
- NCDOT will work with the City to develop a landscaping plan for the areas
impacted by this project
The following improvements are under consideration as mitigation and enhancements for
Alternative 9 as of the date of this document
¦ Enhancement for closing US 52 ramps and loop at Stadium Drive
- Enhance streetscape on Stadium Drive
- Enhance access to Salem Creek Greenway
¦ Mitigation and enhancement for converting shoulders on northbound and southbound US
52 to travel lanes Additional mitigation may be required following the conversion of
shoulders to travel lanes to provide adequate safety measures for drivers
- Modify ramp merge and diverge areas to provide comparable or more area to
merge and diverge
- Widen to provide and replace auxiliary lanes between successive on- and off-
ramps
- Increase number and service time of the Incident Management Assistance Patrol
(IMAP) trucks
- Invest in one or more trucks with specialized bumpers to "push" disabled
vehicles out of the travelway
- Build retaining walls as needed to create areas for disabled vehicles to move off
the highway
The following improvement was previously proposed as mitigation, and is now included as part
of the ITS portion of Alternative 9
¦ Enhance ITS measures to detect vehicle breakdowns more quickly where converting
shoulders on northbound and southbound US 52 to travel lanes
Alternative 10
Alternative 10, shown on Figure 3, includes the following elements, in addition to the
"committed" improvements included in the STIP
¦ Close US 52 ramps and loop at Stadium Drive (contingent on the completion of the
Salem Creek Connector between Vargrave Street and Martin Luther King, Jr Drive,
which is part of STIP Project U-2925)
¦ Build auxiliary lanes on southbound US 52 from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive to 5th
Street
¦ Close US 52 ramps at 3rd and 5th Streets
¦ Build Akron Drive interchange modifications
- Southbound on-ramp - remove two-way traffic from Leo Street, allowing one-
way movement into Northside Shopping Center
- Southbound off-ramp - delete two-way movements and remove Leo Street tie-in
(north side of Leo Street)
- Leo Street - wrap Leo Street around and tie into Sheridan Street
¦ ITS Improvements
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 6
- Provide enhanced 511 service (ITS)
- Expand use of dynamic message signs and closed-circuit cameras (ITS)
- Implement adaptive signal control and detection on parallel arterials (ITS)
- Install truck rollover warnings (ITS)
The following improvements are included as approved mitigation and enhancements for
Alternative 10 as of this document
Mitigation for closing 3rd and 5th Street ramps Mitigation of the loss of access to
downtown Winston-Salem and the Research Park is included in the form of operational
and intersection improvements along the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive corridor and
reversion of Fifth and Fourth Streets from one-way to two-way traffic
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at Business 40/US 421 Interchange - revise loops
to tie at intersections of First and Lowery Streets, remove slip ramp/access to
Lowery from loop, and change access to Lowery Street from the on-ramp to right
in / right out only
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Excelsior Street/Lowery Street - lengthen
southbound left turn lane to approximately 530 feet
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at C E Gray Drive- change eastbound to right in /
right out only
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at First Street - add new southbound left turn lane,
rebuild westbound off-ramp from Business 40/US 421 at Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive interchange to tie directly to First Street (resulting in the closure of First
Street from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive to Dunlerth Avenue), deadend/cul-de-
sac of Wheeler Street prior to First Street, and tymg/wrappmg the eastern section
of First Street into Dunleith Avenue
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at Lawrence Street - change eastbound to right in /
right out only
- Martin Luther King Jr Drive at Second Street - change eastbound and
westbound to right in / right out only
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at 3rd Street - on 3rd Street add new eastbound
shared through-left lane, change eastbound through-right lane to right turn lane,
on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive lengthen northbound left turn lane to
approximately 300 feet and lengthen southbound left turn lane, provide
approximately 100 feet of storage
Reversion of Fifth and Fourth Streets from one-way to two-way traffic
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Fourth Street - change eastbound (west side)
through-right lane to right in / right out only and change eastbound (east side) to
a right in / right out only, remove traffic signal
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Fifth Street - add new northbound left turn lane,
provide approximately 325 feet of storage, lengthen southbound left turn lane,
provide approximately 150 feet of storage
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at New Walkertown Road - lengthen southbound
left turn lane, provide approximately 440 feet of storage
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 7
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at US 52 northbound off-ramp - restripe ramp
approach to include a shared left-right turn lane, install traffic signal
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at US 52 southbound off-ramp - add westbound
right turn lane, restripe ramp approach to include a left turn, through and right
turn lanes, install traffic signal
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at US 52 interchange - add new southbound on-
ramp
- Martin Luther King, Jr Drive at Patterson Avenue - add northbound right turn
lane on Patterson Avenue and restripe northbound Patterson Avenue to include a
left turn, through and right turn lanes
¦ Mitigation and enhancement for Akron Drive interchange modifications Mitigation is
required to guide drivers to the shopping center via an indirect route
- Enhance signage from Akron Drive to "shopping center" using route via
Sheraton Street and Patterson Avenue
¦ Emergency services mitigation Mitigation may be required for emergency medical
service vehicles due to the loss of access as a result of closing 3rd and Fourth Streets If
EMS response time is negatively affected by the proposed changes, this mitigation will
be considered
- Traffic signal pre-emption for emergency medical service (EMS) vehicles will be
considered after the project is in place to mitigate for any potential problems for
EMS access
¦ Landscaping enhancement
- NCDOT will work with the City to develop a landscaping plan for the areas
impacted by this project
The following improvements are under consideration as mitigation and enhancements for
Alternative 10 as of this document
¦ Enhancement for closing US 52 ramps and loop at Stadium Drive
- Enhance streetscape on Stadium Drive
- Enhance access to Salem Creek Greenway
Alternative 12
Alternative 12, shown on Figure 4, includes the following elements, in addition to the
"committed" improvements included in the STIP
¦ Close US 52 ramps and loop at Stadium Drive (contingent on the completion of the
Salem Creek Connector between Vargrave Street and Martin Luther King, Jr Drive,
which is part of STIP Project U-2925)
¦ Build auxiliary lanes on southbound US 52 from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive to 5th
Street
¦ Build Akron Drive interchange modifications
- Southbound on-ramp - remove two-way traffic from Leo Street, allowing one-
way movement into Northside Shopping Center
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 8
- Southbound off-ramp - delete two-way movements and remove Leo Street tie-in
(north side of Leo Street)
- Leo Street - wrap Leo Street around and tie into Sheridan Street
¦ ITS Improvements
- Provide enhanced 511 service (ITS)
- Expand use of dynamic message signs and closed-circuit cameras (ITS)
- Implement adaptive signal control and detection on parallel arterials (ITS)
- Install truck rollover warnings (ITS)
The following improvements are under consideration as mitigation and enhancements for
Alternative 12 as of this document
¦ Enhancement for closing US 52 ramps and loop at Stadium Drive
- Enhance streetscape on Stadium Drive
- Enhance access to Salem Creek Greenway
5.0 SELECTED ALTERNATIVE
FHWA chooses Alternative 9 as its Selected Alternative for STIP Project U-2826B FHWA
chooses Alternative 9 as its Selected Alternative for the same reasons that NCDOT chose
Alternative 9 as its Preferred Alternative, as described below
Following the third citizens workshop, a preferred alternative was selected by NCDOT based on
input from regional leaders, stakeholders, interested citizens, the consultant's recommendation,
and the recommendation of a 15-member Study Advisory Committee The Study Advisory
Committee was comprised of representatives from FHWA, NCDOT, and local planning staff
Their recommendation was based on consensus that Alternative 9 best meets the purposes of this
project
¦ Reduce the number of crashes on US 52 from I-40 to 4th Street and at Akron Drive.
The Selected Alternative is anticipated to reduce crashes by removing the Stadium Drive
ramps and loop, removing the 3rd/5th Street ramps, and converting the shoulders to travel
lanes between Business 40/US 421 and Martin Luther King, Jr Drive
From 2003 to 2006, there were a total of 62 crashes at the interchange of Stadium Drive
and US 52, 66 percent of which were rear-end crashes It is estimated that these crashes
resulted in 7 additional, secondary crashes either upstream or downstream of the primary
crashes It is anticipated that removing the ramps and loop at this interchange will reduce
the number of crashes at this location as well as at adjacent interchanges
From 2003 to 2006, there were a total of 85 crashes at the interchange of 3rd/5th Streets
and US 52, 79 percent of which were rear-end crashes It is estimated that these crashes
resulted in 12 additional, secondary crashes either upstream or downstream of the
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 9
primary crashes It is anticipated that removing the ramps at this interchange will reduce
the number of crashes at this location as well as at adjacent interchanges
The current weaving distance between Business 40/US 421 and 3rd/5th Streets is 750
feet, and the weaving distance between 3rd/5th Streets and Martin Luther King, Jr Drive
is 1,525 feet Converting the northbound and southbound shoulders to travel lanes from
Business 40/US 421 to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will provide a dedicated weave lane
in each direction, which is anticipated to improve safety along that corridor
Currently, there are five interchanges in the 1 4-mile section from Diggs Boulevard to
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, with a total of 34 conflict points By removing the ramps
at 3rd/5th Streets, removing the ramps and loop at Stadium Drive, and adding a new
southbound on-ramp at Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, this section of US 52 will be
reduced to 19 conflict points (see Figure 5) It is anticipated that reducing conflict points
will improve safety along this corridor
With a recommended interchange spacing of one mile by FHWA, the recommended
weaving distance between two traditional diamond interchanges is approximately 2,500
feet The current weaving distance between Stadium Drive and Business 40/US 421 is
450 feet northbound and 650 feet southbound The current weaving distance between
Business 40/US 421 and 3rd/5th Streets is 600 feet northbound and 750 feet southbound
Removing the ramps and loop at the interchanges of US 52 with 3rd/5th Streets and
Stadium Drive removes the weaves between those two interchanges and the Business
401US 421 interchange It also reduces the opportunity for secondary crashes resulting
from crashes at those two interchanges Therefore, the number of crashes at Business
40/US 421 may also decrease
ITS devices such as DMS units and CCTV cameras will reduce the response time of
emergency vehicles following a crash, and will alert travelers of incidents and alternate
routes This is anticipated to reduce queuing and unexpected stopping, which may reduce
the number of secondary crashes along the corridor
¦ Improve mobility for traffic traveling on US 52 through the Winston-Salem area.
The Selected Alternative is anticipated to improve mobility by improving geometry along
the US 52 corridor, including the use of existing shoulders as travel lanes, interchange
enhancements, elimination of interchange ramps, and ITS measures
Converting the northbound and southbound shoulders to travel lanes from Business
401US 421 to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will provide an additional weave lane in each
direction Removing the Stadium Drive ramps and removing the 3rd/5th Street ramps
will remove weave issues and will reduce conflict points along the corridor These
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 10
modifications will improve mobility on US 52 from I-40 to Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive
The two-way movements on the ramps at Akron Drive will be modified to be one-way
movements only This is anticipated to reduce driver confusion and improve mobility at
that interchange by streamlining the traffic from US 52 to the mall and other destinations
¦ Comply with goals and objectives in existing land use and transportation plans for
US 52 in the Winston-Salem area.
This project is consistent with the 2005 Winston-Salem Urban Area Thoroughfare Plan,
the US 52 Corridor Land Use and Transportation Plan, the Winston-Salem/Forsyth
County Urban Area 2030 Multi-Modal Long Range Transportation Plan, the NCDOT
2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), and the Legacy
Development Guide
US 52 is designated as a freeway/expressway throughout the project area on the 2005
Winston-Salem Urban Area Thoroughfare Plan
In the US 52 Corridor Land Use and Transportation Plan, Project U-2826B is
acknowledged as an interim project consistent with the long-term goal of widening US 52
to a continuous 6-lane freeway along the project corridor
Project U-2826B is included in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Urban Area 2030
Multi-Modal Long Range Transportation Plan for the 2005-2014 time period
The NCDOT 2009-2015 STIP includes Project U-282613, with right-of-way scheduled to
begin in FY 2009 and construction scheduled to begin in FY 2010
Although the Legacy Development Guide does not specifically mention the US 52
widening project, it suggests that improvements to the US 52 corridor near downtown
Winston-Salem could encourage traffic to remain on the freeway and leave downtown
streets to serve local needs Therefore, the proposed improvements in this project would
support the visionary goals stated in the Guide
¦ A secondary purpose for this project is to reduce the barrier effect between the
communities located on the east and west sides of the US 52 corridor.
It is anticipated that the Selected Alternative will enhance connectivity within the
community by improving Martin Luther King, Jr Drive and eliminating the one-way
street pattern on 4th and 5th Streets, all of which cross the US 52 corridor
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 11
Figure 5 Conflict Points
Jr
h St
h St
d St
3usmess 4
JS 421
St
D
Conflict
Preferred Alternative = 19 conflict points
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 12
Existing = 34 conflict points
The Selected Alternative is consistent with local land use plans, zoning ordinances, and
transportation plans There are no direct impacts on community facilities and services from the
Selected Alternative The Selected Alternative will change access at the Stadium Drive
interchange, 3rd Street, 5th Street, Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, and the Akron Drive
interchanges Mitigation is included as part of the project to improve access and connectivity in
these areas
The Selected Alternative will require relocation of one residence It will require relocation of one
business, the RJ Reynolds Trucking Facility warehouse, but is not expected to result in the loss of
fobs
The Selected Alternative will not impact utilities or potentially hazardous material sites No
adverse long-term impacts to soils and topography are expected, the Selected Alternative will not
impacts streams, wetlands, floodplains, or floodways, and the Selected Alternative will not
impact biotic communities The Selected Alternative is not likely to affect any federally listed
protected, endangered, or threatened species
The Selected Alternative has No Effect on properties listed on or eligible for the National
Register of Historic Places It has No Adverse Effect on the East Winston Historic District,
which has been determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places FHWA has
issued a DeMinimus impact finding on one Section 4(f) property, and the Selected Alternative
will not directly impact any of the Section 6(f) Properties located in the study area
The Selected Alternative is not predicted to cause exceedances of the National Ambient Air
Quality Standard for carbon monoxide in 2005, 2010, or 2025 Although noise levels are
expected to exceed the noise abatement criteria in 2025, on average the noise levels would
decrease between the existing conditions and the future build condition since traffic is expected to
decrease with the construction of the Winston-Salem Northern Beltway (scheduled for 2020)
Noise bamer walls are not considered to be reasonable along US 52 or Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive
The Selected Alternative may have temporary construction impacts on water quality and
drainage, air quality, noise, construction waste, utility service, and accessibility
5.1 Revisions to the Selected Alternative
Since distribution of the EA, a design modification has been made to remove the existing bridge
that carries Greyhound Court across US 52 The Winston-Salem City Council voted in January
2008 to close the portion of Greyhound Court on the west side of US 52, which currently dead-
ends into Research Park, and hold a public hearing regarding the project ' This change will not
eliminate access to any properties The portion of Greyhound Court that will be closed will be
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 13
used as part of the Research Park expansion Since the Greyhound Court bridge across US 52
will no longer be in use when this project is constructed, NCDOT will remove it as part of this
project
The final design will also consider adding high-mast lighting at the interchange of US 52 and
Business 40/US 421
Finally, an enhancement considered for the Selected Alternative, to enhance access, safety, and
security on the existing pedestrian bridge over US 52 near Happy Hills was removed This
enhancement, which was to mitigate for Akron Drive interchange modifications, was suggested
by mistake since Happy Hills is not near Akron Drive
6.0 SUMMARY OF PROJECT IMPACTS
This section presents a description of the impacts of the Selected Alternative (Alternative 9)
Impacts for the Selected Alternative are summarized in Table 2 Impacts are given as "no
impact," "low impact," "medium impact," or "high impact "
Table 2. Summary of impacts for Selected Alternative
Topic Potential Impact Conclusion
Land Use and Zonm No Impact Non-si mficant
Socioeconomics Medium Im act Non-significant
Economics Medium Impact Non-significant
Employment Medium Impact Non-significant
Access Medium Impact Non-si mficant
Relocation Medium Impact Non-sigmficant
Community Cohesion Medium Impact Non-significant
Infrastructure and Utilities No Impact Non-significant
Cultural Resources No Adverse Effect* Non-significant
Visual Environment Low Impact Non-significant
Air Quality Low Impact Non-sigmficant
Noise Medium Impact Non-significant
Hazardous Materials No Impact Non-significant
Geology, Soils, and Mineral
Resources No Impact Non-sigmficant
Water Resources No Impact Non-significant
Biotic Communities No Impact** Non-sigmficant
Protected Species No Impact Non-significant
Construction Impacts Medium Impact Non-significant
* No Adverse Effect to the East Winston Historic District
** Impact to maintained-disturbed area only, which is not considered a biotic community
Impacts to Land Use and Zoning
The Selected Alternative is consistent with local land use plans, zoning ordinances, and
transportation plans
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 14
While the Selected Alternative will result in substantive changes to the local transportation
infrastructure, it is anticipated that direct impacts to existing land use patterns will be minor
Development throughout the corridor is well established and is not likely to undergo substantial
changes in land values (positive or negative) The Selected Alternative will alter existing traffic
patterns, by closing the Stadium Drive interchange, closing the ramps at 3rd and 5th Streets,
modifying the Akron Drive interchange, and modifying the US 52/Martin Luther King, Jr Drive
interchange ramps
The Selected Alternative improvements are proposed to positively impact corridor safety and
operations Most of these transportation benefits are related to the limited addition of capacity,
reduction of conflicting movements, and use of technology For those features of the alternatives
that do not include changes to highway interchange access, there is no impact to existing land use
Socioeconomic Impacts
Thirteen populated Census Blocks would be impacted by the Selected Alternative The largest
impacts by the Selected Alternative are in Blocks 1001, 1002, and 3031 In Block 1004, more
pavement would be converted to grassed area than the reverse, which results in an overall benefit
for that block, in terms of physical impact
Two of the Census Blocks with the greatest impacts, Blocks 1001 and 3031, have 19 percent
Hispanic Block 1002 has no Hispanic population Block 2034, the most populated Block
impacted by the project, has two percent Hispanic The affected Block with the largest percent
Hispanic (31 percent) would be benefited by the Selected Alternative since there would more
pavement converted to grassed area than the reverse in that Block
All of the three Census Blocks with the greatest impacts are at least 97 percent mmonty Block
1004, which would be benefited by this project, is 100 percent minority
Block 1003, which would be impacted by the Selected Alternative, has one resident, who is over
65 years old One of the Census Blocks (Block 1002) with the greatest impacts has 13 percent
residents over 65 years old The other two Census Blocks with the greatest impacts have 3
percent residents over 65 years old
Environmental Justice Impacts
The closing of the Stadium Drive, 3rd Street, and 5th Street ramps with US 52 will change travel
patterns, but not eliminate access to minority, Hispanic, and low-income communities These
improvements will alleviate traffic congestion and improve traffic safety for a mayor freeway that
serves regional traffic and Winston-Salem, including minority, Hispanic, and low-income
communities The change in access to these environmental justice communities is an unavoidable
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 15
effect resulting from the implementation of the project A secondary and positive impact will be
an increase in traffic on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive which will improve visibility of the local
businesses Based on the analysis above, impacts for the Selected Alternative are not expected to
be disproportionate based on race or ethnicity, given the demographics of the study area
Economic Impacts
Income Levels. The majority of the impacted areas for the Selected Alternative are within
Census Block Group 7 2, which has 43 percent of households below poverty The Block Groups
with the largest percent of households below poverty (Block Groups 2 1 and 8012) have the
smallest negative impacts in all three alternatives There is a positive impact within Block Group
801 1, which has 21 percent of households below poverty
Tax Base Changes. The Selected Alternatives will require the displacement of a RJ Reynolds
Trucking Facility warehouse building However, the building and other associated buildings are
located within the Piedmont Triad Research Park (PTRP) Master Plan and will ultimately be
displaced due to the completion of the research park Otherwise, the proposed improvements
would have little impact on adjacent property values It is not anticipated that the proposed
improvements and ramp closures would cause businesses to move to the study area, relocate to
other locations within the study area, or move outside of the study area
Employment Impacts. While the Selected Alternatives would displace a RJ Reynolds Trucking
Facility warehouse building that currently employs 42 people, RJ Reynolds officials have
indicated that the work currently being done at the site could be relocated to another local RJ
Reynolds facility The proposed improvements are consistent with the Piedmont Triad Research
Park (PTRP) Master Plan, which is anticipated to be a mayor employer
The improvement in regional mobility is expected to result in a positive impact on regional and
downtown growth, and thus provide a slight positive indirect impact to the tax base and
employment
Community Impacts
Community Facility Impacts. There are no direct impacts on community facilities and services
from the Selected Alternative However, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) has expressed
concern over the proposed closing of the 3rd Street and 5th Street ramps
Access Impacts The Selected Alternative will change access at the Stadium Drive interchange,
3rd Street, 5th Street, Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, and the Akron Drive interchange The
following summarize concerns about potential impacts resulting from these changes in access
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 16
¦ Stadium Drive ramps - While Winston-Salem State University is supportive of the
ramp closures as a means of efficiently expanding the geographic limits of its campus,
Salem Academy and College is opposed to this measure and is concerned about
circulation and access impacts for students, faculty, staff, and visitors to each of their
campuses As discussed in more detail in Section 4 3 2 of the Environmental
Assessment, Project U-2925 (Salem Creek Connector) will alleviate many of these
concerns For this reason, the Stadium Drive ramps are planned to remain open until the
Salem Creek Connector is built, rather than closing them as part of this project
¦ 3rd and 5th Street ramps - A large church and several businesses rely in part on
highway access Ramp closures would impact the ease of accessibility to the church and
businesses by non-local traffic Ramp closures would also affect accessibility for EMS
vehicles, incluchng fire trucks and ambulances Improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive and conversion to two-way traffic flow along 4th and 5th Streets will mitigate
access impacts for these facilities Traffic signal preemption for EMS vehicles will be
considered after the project is in place if additional mitigation is required
¦ Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive/Business 40/US 421 ramps - The modifications to the
off-ramp from westbound Business 401US 421 to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive would
affect the access for the Zion Memorial Baptist Church 1st Street would be closed at the
intersection of 1 st Street and Dunleith Avenue, where the church is located, to allow for
the off-ramp to tie directly into Martin Luther King, Jr Drive Traffic accessing the
church from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive or US 52 would have to take a more indirect
route along 3rd Street
¦ Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive/US 52 ramps - The ramps at the interchange of US 52
with Martin Luther King, Jr Drive would be modified to improve access
¦ Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive between 1st and 3rd Streets - To maintain the visual
integrity of the East Winston Historic District, it has been proposed to add a concrete
median along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive from 1 st Street to 3rd Street, with breaks at
existing driveways This will not affect the access for any current residents or businesses
¦ Akron Drive - Access from Leo Street and the US 52 ramps would be altered with the
proposed improvement at this location
Relocation Impacts
The Selected Alternative will require relocation of one residence and one business The residence
is located on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, and is a tenant-occupied minority residence The
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 17
business that will be relocated is the RJ Reynolds Trucking Facility warehouse located in the
southwest quadrant of the US 52/ Martin Luther King, Jr Drive interchange Tlus business
relocation would be required to accommodate the proposed US 52 southbound entrance ramp
This relocation is consistent with the Piedmont Triad Research Park (PTRP) Master Plan It is
not expected that this relocation would necessitate fob loss because the business activity would
likely be relocated rather than be closed
All relocations will be done in accordance with the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and
Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646), the North Carolina
Relocation Assistance Act (GS-133-5 through 133-18), and the NCDOT Relocation Assistance
Program The NCDOT Relocation Reports indicated that suitable replacement business sites and
residences were available based upon discussions with area realtors, newspaper listings, and
visual survey Where displacement would force an owner or tenant to purchase or rent property
at higher cost or to lose a favorable financing arrangement (in case of ownership), the Relocation
Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement Program would compensate up to $22,500
to owners who are eligible and qualify, and up to $5,250 to tenants who are eligible and qualify
Impacts to Community Cohesion
Most of the Selected Alternative improvements will occur within the existing right of way and
would not physically intrude into the surrounding neighborhoods The roadway would not be
physically widened with the exception of the proposed ramp improvements at Martin Luther
King, Jr Drive/US 52 and Akron Drive Bridge access across US 52 along Stadium Drive, 3rd,
and 5th Streets between downtown Winston-Salem and East Winston will be maintained even
though some of the US 52 ramp access will be closed The proposed ramp closures would result
in traffic pattern changes to local facilities such as Salem Academy and College, Winston-Salem
State University, numerous churches, multiple parks and greenways, and several schools as well
as to the local businesses and residences It is important to note that access would be changed,
but not eliminated Ramp closures would improve safety and may improve level of service,
which may benefit local businesses as well as other local development Although some residents
and businesses are concerned that closing ramps would further isolate some communities from
the city, future traffic volumes are anticipated to increase along US 52 and Martin Luther King,
Jr Drive due to the proposed modifications
Infrastructure and Utility Impacts
The Selected Alternative will not impact power, natural gas, or other utilities
Cultural Resources Impacts
Archaeological Resources. None of the alternatives would affect any sites eligible or listed on
the National Register of Historic Places The SHPO recommended no archaeological survey of
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 18
the project area on February 15, 2007 (see letter in Appendix B of the Environmental
Assessment)
Historic Architectural Resources. Historic properties were investigated within the Area of
Potential Effects (APE), which is 500 feet on either side (a 1,000-foot buffer) of US 52 and
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive Three properties within the APE are listed on the National
Register and two properties and one district have been determined eligible for listing on the
National Register The Selected Alternative would have No Effect on the three properties listed
on the National Register (Lloyd Presbyterian Church, Mars Hill Baptist Church, and Union
Station) and the two properties eligible for listing on the National Register (Vargrave Street
Bridge over Salem Creek and Fairview Moravian Church) It would have No Adverse Effect on
the district that is eligible for the National Register (East Winston Historic District)
Impacts to Section AD and 6(h Properties
There are no Section 4(f) impacts to the Vargrave Street Bridge over Salem Creek (Eligible),
Fairview Moravian Church (Eligible), Union Station (Listed), Lloyd Presbyterian Church
(Listed), or Mars Hill Baptist Church (Listed) by the Selected Alternative
There are "mammal" impacts to the East Winston Historic District property by the Selected
Alternative Based on the July 27, 2007 concurrence regarding Section 106 issues, as noted
above, FHWA has issued a DeMinimus impact finding on the Section 4(f) property (see
Appendix E in the Environmental Assessment) This is based on the No Adverse Effect
deternimation on the East Winston Historic Distract
The Selected Alternative will not directly impact any of the Section 6(f) Properties located in the
study area
Impacts to the Visual Environment
The Selected Alternative will not result in substantial visual impacts US 52 and Martin Luther
King, Jr Drive will stall present the same basic appearance from the surrounding neighborhoods
Ramp closures would present an opportunity for adding landscaping to screen the highway
Air Quality Impacts
The Selected Alternative is not predicted to cause exceedances of the National Ambient Air
Quality Standard for carbon monoxide in 2005, 2010, or 2025
Methodology The worst case operating signalized intersection along Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive was evaluated in the PM peak hour for the following conditions 2005 Existing at 1st
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 19
Street, 2005 Build at 5th Street, 2010 Build at 5th Street, 2025 Existing at 3rd Street, and 2025
Build at 5th Street
To conduct the air quality assessment, the line source computer model CAL3QHC was used to
predict the local CO concentration components CAL3QHC uses emission factors generated by
EPA's approved model Mobile 6
Analysis Results for Carbon Monoxide (CO) Emissions The maximum predicted CO
concentration for the existing and design years of 2005, 2010, and 2025 will be less than the
standard for each case Therefore, the CO emissions attributable the proposed US 52 and Martin
Luther King, Jr Drive improvements will not cause a violation of the state or national ambient air
quality standards (NAAQS) for CO
Noise Impacts
The noise analysis results show that 91 receivers would exceed the noise abatement criteria
(NAC) in the 2025 No-Build condition and 105 receivers would exceed the NAC in the 2025
Future Build condition
Along the US 52 corridor, all receivers exceed the NAC in the 2025 No-Build and 2025 Future
Build Conditions Despite the exceedance, on average the noise levels would decrease between
the existing condition and the 2025 Future Build condition Potential noise barrier walls were
considered at the proposed 3rd Street off-ramp closure and dust south of the existing US 52
northbound Martin Luther King, Jr Drive off-ramp It was determined that a noise barrier wall
would not be reasonable at either location due to the substantial elevation difference between
the existing US 52 roadway and the sensitive noise receivers The potential noise barrier walls
would need to be constructed higher than NCDOT's standard 25-foot maximum wall height in
order to provide adequate attenuation Therefore, noise barrier walls are not considered
reasonable along the US 52 corridor
Along the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive corridor, 67 receivers exceed the NAC in the 2025 No-
Build condition, and 80 receivers exceed the NAC in the 2025 Future Build condition However,
the majority of these receivers are expected to be only slightly higher than the 66 dBA Leq noise
level threshold Construction of noise barrier walls is not practicable along the Martin Luther
King, Jr Drive corridor because of vehicular sight distance requirements and site access
constraints Noise barrier walls are generally ineffective on roadways where driveway access is
to be maintained Although the Environmental Assessment stated that a, final noise study would
be performed during final design, this noise study will be unnecessary since the distance between
the roadway improvements and potentially impacted residences and businesses along the corridor
has not changed since preliminary design Therefore, the results of the September 2007 noise
study are still valid
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 20
Impacts on Hazardous Materials
The Selected Alternative will not impact any potentially hazardous material sites
Geolomy Soils, and Mineral Resources Impacts
The construction of the proposed road improvements and interchanges would require the removal
of soils and the placement of fill No adverse long-term impacts to soils and topography are
expected from the Selected Alternative
Water Resources Impacts
No impacts to streams, wetlands, floodplains, or floodways are anticipated to occur under the
Selected Alternative
Biotic Community Impacts
The Selected Alternative will have a net impact of 3 86 acres of maintained-disturbed area
Mamtamed-disturbed areas do not correspond to any Schafale and Weakley (1990) community
classification because the native vegetation has been removed or altered Therefore, maintained-
disturbed area impacts are not considered impacts to biotic communities, and there are no biotic
community impacts for the Selected Alternative
Rare and Protected Species. There are no federally listed endangered or threatened species that
are likely to be affected by the Selected Alternative
Federally Protected Species. Two federally listed endangered species, the red-cockaded
woodpecker (Picoides borealis) and small-anthered bittercress (Cardamine micranthera), and one
federally listed threatened species, the bog turtle (Clemmys muhlenbergii), are listed for Forsyth
County The bog turtle is listed due to similarity of appearance to the northern populations of the
species Species listed as threatened due to similarity are not biologically endangered or
threatened and are not subject to Section 7 consultation Therefore, no surveys or Biological
Conclusions are required for this species Biological Conclusions of "No Effect" were found for
the red-cockaded woodpecker and the small-anthered bittercress
Federal Species of Concern. There is only one federally listed species of concern (FSC), the
brook floater (Alasmidonta varicosa) in Forsyth County Current state and federal laws do not
require protection of FSC One FSC was designated within the study area in case the status is
upgraded in the future
Construction Impacts
The Selected Alternative will have temporary construction impacts, as described below
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 21
Water Quality and Drainage. The primary sources of water-quality degradation in urban areas
are nonpoint source discharges and stormwater runoff Measures to Hunimize these potential
impacts include formulation of an erosion and sedimentation control plan, provisions for waste
material and storage, stormwater management measures, and appropriate road-maintenance
measures
Air Quality. Temporary negative air quality impacts would occur as a result of fugitive dust/fine
particulate matter during construction operations Dust control measures may include minimizing
exposed earth surface, seeding and mulching, watering working and haul areas, and covering
stockpiles and haul trucks Emissions from construction equipment are regulated by federal
standards No burning would be performed at the project site or within the project boundaries
Noise. Although the equipment noise levels are expected to be the main contributor to the
construction activity noise eimssions, noise impacts during the project construction consistently
maintain a short duration Such noise would be limited to daylight hours as much as possible
Construction Waste. All construction waste materials generated during clearing, grubbing, and
other construction phases would be removed from the project site and burned or disposed of by
the contractor in accordance with state and local regulations Litter and other general trash will
be collected and disposed of at local landfill locations
Utility Service. The Selected Alternative may require some adjustment, relocation, or
modification to existing utilities during construction Any disruption to utility service during
construction would be minimized by phased adjustments to the utility line All modifications,
adjustments, or relocations would be coordinated with the affected utility company
Detours and Accessibility. Maintenance of traffic and sequencing of construction will be
planned and scheduled so as to minimize traffic delays within the project corridor Signs would
be used as appropriate to provide notice of road closures and other pertinent information to the
traveling public Advance notice through the local media will be made to alert the public of
traffic restrictions and construction related activities
Cost Estimate
The estimated cost for the Selected Alternative includes construction, right of way, and utilities
costs on US 52, as well as ITS costs for the proposed ITS network It also includes costs for the
mitigation and enhancement activities on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive Table 3 shows the
breakdown of costs for each portion of the project
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 22
Table 3. Opinion of Planning Level Cost for Selected Alternative (2007)
Probable Cost
Section Construction Right of Way Utilities Total Cost
Relocation
US 52 6,000,000 2,324,000 53,291 8,377,291
Martin Luther King, 3,600,000 265,000 146,011 4,011,011
Jr Drive
ITS 4,058,000 N/A N/A 4,058,000
Total 13,658,000 2,589,000 199,302 16,446,302
7.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND AGENCY COORDINATION
The following section provides a summary of the agency coordination and public involvement
efforts that took place after approval of the EA in January 2008
7.1 Circulation of the Environmental Assessment
The EA for this project was approved by the NCDOT in December 2007 and FHWA in January
2008 Copies of the approved EA were circulated to the following federal, state, and local
agencies for review and comments Written comments were received from agencies noted with
an asterisk (*) Comments are listed in Section 7 2, and copies of these letters are included in
Appendix A
Federal Agencies
U S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
U S Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)
U S Department of Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
U S Department of Defense
U S Federal Emergency Management Agency
U S Department of Transportation - Federal Railroad Administration
U S National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - National Marine Fisheries
State Agencies
N C Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse
N C Department of Cultural Resources - Division of Archives and History (NCDCR -
SHPO)
N C Department of Environmental and Natural Resources
Division of Coastal Management (NCDCM)
Division of Marine Fisheries (NCDMF)
Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ)
Division of Forest Resources
Division of Soil and Water Conservation
Division of Environmental Health
N C Department of Public Instruction
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 23
N C Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC)
N C Department of Crime Control and Public Safety
Division of Emergency Management, Floodplain Management Branch
Local Agencies
City of Winston-Salem
The EA was available for public review at the following locations
¦ NCDOT Division 9 Office
¦ Winston-Salem Department of Transportation Office
¦ Malloy Jordan East Winston Heritage Center, Winston-Salem
¦ Forsyth County Public Library, Winston-Salem
¦ Carver School Road Branch Library, Winston-Salem
¦ Southside Branch Library, Winston-Salem
¦ C G O'Kelly Library, Winston-Salem
¦ Rural Hall Branch Library, Rural Hall
Maps of the project were available for public review at the Winston-Salem City Hall and NCDOT
Division Office, and were also posted on the City's website
7.2 Agency Comments Received on the Environmental Assessment
Agency comments regarding the contents of the Environmental Assessment are as follows
Agency comment letters are in Appendix A
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (March 13, 2008 [incorrectly dated March
13, 2007 in the letter header])
Project-Specific Comments
- EPA does not have any environmental objections to the preferred Alternative 9 EPA
requests that wherever feasible, cost-effective, and consistent with the 2004 NCDOT
Noise Abatement Policy, opportunities for `minimal' noise abatement techniques be
pursued and integrated with roadway designs, such as the use of earthen berms and
landscaping screens EPA requests that near roadway sensitive receptors be
identified in the FONSI along the portions of the project that could have MSAT
concerns EPA would also appreciate receiving a copy of the FONSI for our records
Response: Comment noted.
• N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (March 6, 2008)
- Stormwater treatment is very important for this project Issues regarding stormwater
management, cumulative and secondary impacts, and their potential negative effects
on area waterways were not addressed in the EA The lack of previous stormwater
retention and intense conveyance of stormwater, the lack of streamside and
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 24
floodplain management throughout the corridor, and elevated pollutant loads caused
by industrial and commercial sites have led to ongomg stormwater, flooding and
water quality issues that are damaging downstream habitats Proper stormwater
management is critical to maintaining water quality and stable stream channels and is
needed to prevent damage to local stream enhancement and stabilization projects
(Tanners Run, Salem Creek, etc ) that have used or will use considerable
expenditures of public funds
Response: Because Project U-2826B is an interim project, this project will add
inlets as necessary without upgrading the existing storm drain network.
NCDOT Stormwater Best Management Practices Toolbox will be used since this
defines the use of stormwater controls in the linear highway environment as
required by NCDOT's NPDES permit. Improvements to the storm drain
network will be considered as part of the long-term US 52 widening project.
- We recommend that NCDOT and the City of Winston-Salem work together with this
agency and Pilot View Conservation and Development to evaluate opportunities to
provide stream restoration and additional stormwater controls along the roadway as
part of the project and mitigation efforts All areas where interchanges, ramps, and
other pavement are to be removed should be evaluated as potential sites for
stormwater improvements These areas could also help ameliorate air quality
concerns, improve urban aesthetics, and provide songbird habitats Retrofit design
options should also be analyzed throughout the project area for potential stormwater
treatment improvements Stormwater management should be required for all new
and all retrofitted public and private projects within the municipal area Where
impervious area exceeds 10 percent, stormwater management strategies that restore
pre-development hydrograph conditions are recommended We will not object to this
interim project, however we would like to discuss stream restoration and stormwater
management strategies for the road corridor improvements with NCDOT TIP
engineers and others prior to completion of final TIP plans for the corridor
Response: Comment noted. Protect U-2826B is an interim project, and
improvements to the storm drain network will be considered as part of the long-
term US 52 widening project.
• N.C. Department of Cultural Resources (February 28, 2008)
No comments
• N.C. Department of Environmental and Natural Resources - Division of Water
Quality (February 22, 2008 and April 29, 2008)
Project-Specific Comments
- This project is being planned as part of the 404/NEPA Merger Process As a
participating member, the NCDWQ will continue to work with the team
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 25
Response: Project U-2826B is not part of the 404/NEPA Merger Process.
[DWQ rescinded this comment in their April 29, 2008 comments.]
Salem Creek is class C, 303(d) waters of the State Salem Creek is on the 303(d) list
for impaired use for aquatic life due to biological integrity and overall for fecal
coliform DWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could
result from this project DWQ recommends that the most protective sediment and
erosion control BMPs be implemented to reduce the risk of nutrient runoff to Salem
Creek DWQ requests that road design plans provide treatment of the storm water
runoff through best management practices as detailed in the most recent version of
NC DWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices
Response: NCDOT Stormwater Best Management Practices Toolbox will be
used since this defines the use of stormwater controls in the linear highway
environment as required by NCDOT's NPDES permit.
- The document does not appear to present or discuss specific impacts to streams or
wetlands Anticipated impacts to each resource for each of the alternatives carried
forward (Alternative 9, Alternative 10, and Alternative 12) should be presented and
discussed The proposed type of crossing (i e bridge, culvert, etc) should be
included as well
Response: There are six streams (Salem Creek, four unnamed tributaries to
Salem Creek, and Brushy Fork) and three wetlands within the study area.
However, none of the Detailed Study Alternatives (including the Selected
Alternative) will impact any of these water resources, as shown in Table 4-17 of
the EA. No culverts or bridges will be added or modified as part of this project.
The DWQ is always concerned about runoff in the project area, even if a given
stream is not being impacted directly
Response: This project will add inlets as necessary without upgrading the
existing storm drain network. There are no outfalls within the immediate
project vicinity.
General Comments
- The environmental document should provide a detailed and itemized presentation of
the proposed impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping If
mitigation is necessary as required by 15A NCAC 2H 0506(h), it is preferable to
present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental
documentation Appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to issuance of a
401 Water Quality Certification
Response: No streams or wetlands will be impacted as part of this project.
Therefore, no mitigation will be necessary.
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 26
- Environmental Assessment alternatives should consider design criteria that reduce
the impacts to streams and wetlands from stormwater runoff These alternatives
should include road designs that allow for treatment of the stormwater runoff through
best management practices as detailed in the most recent version of NCDWQ
Stormwater Best Management Practices, such as grassed swales, buffer areas,
preformed scour holes, retention basins, etc
Response: NCDOT Stormwater Best Management Practices Toolbox will be
used since this defines the use of stormwater controls in the linear highway
environment as required by NCDOT's NPDES permit. Specific BMPs will be
incorporated into the final roadway design.
- After the selection of the preferred alternative and prior to an issuance of the 401
Water Quality Certification, the NCDOT is respectfully reminded that they will need
to demonstrate the avoidance and minimization of impacts to wetlands (and streams)
to the maximum extent practical In accordance with the Environmental
Management Commission's Rules {15A NCAC 2H 0506(h)), mitigation will be
required for impacts of greater than 1 acre to wetlands hi the event that mitigation is
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions
and values The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as
wetland mitigation
Response: No streams or wetlands will be impacted as part of this project.
Therefore, no mitigation will be necessary.
- In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules {15A
NCAC 2H 0506(h)}, mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150
linear feet to any single perennial stream In the event that mitigation is required, the
mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values
The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as stream
mitigation
Response: Comment noted.
Future documentation, including the 401 Water Quality Certification Application,
should continue to include an itemized listing of the proposed wetland and stream
impacts with corresponding mapping
Response: Comment noted.
- DWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from
this project NCDOT should address these concerns by describing the potential
impacts that may occur to the aquatic environments and any mitigating factors that
would reduce the impacts
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 27
Response: Comment noted. BMPs will be implemented.
- NCDOT is respectfully renunded that all impacts, including but not limited to,
bridging, fill, excavation and clearing, to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and
riparian buffers need to be included in the final impact calculations These impacts,
in addition to any construction impacts, temporary or otherwise, also need to be
included as part of the 401 Water Quality Certification Application
Response: Comment noted.
Where streams must be crossed, the DWQ prefers bridges be used in lieu of culverts
However, we realize that economic considerations often require the use of culverts
Please be advised that culverts should be countersunk to allow unimpeded passage by
fish and other aquatic organisms Moreover, in areas where high quality wetlands or
streams are impacted, a bridge may prove preferable When applicable, DOT should
not install the bridge bents in the creek, to the maximum extent practicable
Response: No culverts or bridges will be added or modified as part of this
protect.
Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands or streams
Response: Comment noted.
Borrow/waste areas should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practical Impacts
to wetlands in borrow/waste areas will need to be presented in the 401 Water Quality
Certification and could precipitate compensatory mitigation
Response: Comment noted.
- The 401 Water Quality Certification Application will need to specifically address the
proposed methods for stormwater management More specifically, stormwater
should not be permitted to discharge directly into streams or surface waters
Response: Comment noted.
It is believed that this project may require a Nationwide (NW) application to the
Corps of Engineers and corresponding 401 Water Quality Certification Please be
advised that a 401 Water Quality Certification requires satisfactory protection of
water quality to ensure that water quality standards are met and no wetland or stream
uses are lost Final permit authorization will require the submittal of a formal
application by the NCDOT and written concurrence from the NCDWQ Please be
aware that any approval will be contingent on appropriate avoidance and
minimization of wetland and stream impacts to the maximum extent practical, the
development of an acceptable stormwater management plan, and the inclusion of
appropriate mitigation plans where appropriate
Response: Comment noted.
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Fending of No Significant Impact 28
Bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream when possible
Response: Comment noted.
- Whenever possible, the DWQ prefers spanning structures Spanning structures
usually do not require work within the stream or grubbing of the streambanks and do
not require stream channel realignment The horizontal and vertical clearances
provided by bridges allow for human and wildlife passage beneath the structure, do
not block fish passage and do not block navigation by canoeists and boaters
Response: Comment noted.
Bridge deck drams should not discharge directly into the stream Stormwater should
be directed across the bridge and pre-treated through site-appropriate means (grassed
swales, pre-formed scour holes, vegetated buffers, etc ) before entering the stream
Please refer to the most current version of the NCDWQ Stormwater Best
Management Practices
Response: NCDOT Stormwater Best Management Practices Toolbox will be
used since this defines the use of stormwater controls in the linear highway
environment as required by NCDOT's NPDES permit.
If concrete is used during construction, a dry work area should be maintained to
prevent direct contact between curing concrete and stream water Water that
inadvertently contacts uncured concrete should not be discharged to surface waters
due to the potential for elevated pH and possible aquatic life and fish kills
Response: Comment noted.
If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its
preconstruction contours and elevations Disturbed areas should be seeded or
mulched to stabilize the soil and appropriate native woody species should be planted
When using temporary structures the area should be cleared but not grubbed
Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized
equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate
naturally and minimizes soil disturbance
Response: Comment noted.
- Placement of culverts and other structures in waters, streams, and wetlands shall be
placed below the elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a
diameter greater than 48 inches, and 20 percent of the culvert diameter for culverts
having a diameter less than 48 inches, to allow low flow passage of water and aquatic
life Design and placement of culverts and other structures including temporary
erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may result in dis-
equilibrium of wetlands or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 29
downstream of the above structures The applicant is required to provide evidence
that the equilibrium is being maintained if requested in writing by DWQ If this
condition is unable to be met due to bedrock or other hmtting features encountered
during construction, please contact the NCDWQ for guidance on how to proceed and
to determine whether or not a permit modification will be required
Response: Comment noted.
If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they should be designated to mimic natural
stream cross section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain
elevation and/or sills where appropriate Widening the stream channel should be
avoided Stream channel widening at the inlet or outlet end of structures typically
decreases water velocity causing sediment deposition that requires increased
maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage
Response: Comment noted.
- If foundation test borings are necessary, it should be noted in the document
Geotechmcal work is approved under General 401 Certification Number 3494 /
Nationwide Permit No 6 for Survey Activities
Response: Comment noted.
- Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be
implemented and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of North
Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Planning and Design Manual and the most
recent version of NCS000250
Response: Comment noted.
All work in or adjacent to stream waters should be conducted in a dry work area
Approved BMP measures from the most current version of NCDOT Construction and
Maintenance Activities manual such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and other
diversion structures should be used to prevent excavation in flowing water
Response: Comment noted.
- While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps, NC Coastal Region
Evaluation of Wetland Significance (NC-CREWS) maps and soil survey maps are
useful tools, their inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform
onstte wetland delineations prior to permit approval
Response: Jurisdictional verification of the wetlands and streams occurred
January 11, 2005, with a representative of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
- Heavy equipment should be operated from the bank rather than in stream channels in
order to rmmmize sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of introducing other
pollutants into streams This equipment should be inspected daily and maintained to
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 30
prevent contamination of surface waters from leaking fuels, lubricants, hydraulic
fluids, or other toxic materials
Response: Comment noted.
Riprap should not be placed in the active thalweg channel or placed in the streambed
in a manner that precludes aquatic life passage Bioengineering boulders or
structures should be properly designed, sized, and installed
Response: Comment noted.
- Riparian vegetation (native trees and shrubs) should be preserved to the maximum
extent possible Riparian vegetation must be re-established within the construction
limits of the project by the end of the growing season following completion of
construction
Response: Comment noted.
7.3 Public Officials Meeting
A local officials meeting was held on March 10, 2008 at the Winston-Salem Old City Hall at 1 00
p in The meeting was held prior to the Pre-Hearing Open House and Combined Public Hearing
(see below) Six public officials from the City of Winston-Salem and the City-County Planning
Board attended, plus representatives from NCDOT The purpose of the meeting was to provide a
project update and answer questions about the project NCDOT and consultant staff discussed
the purpose of the project, the project's progress to date, details of the alternatives considered in
the EA, and details shown on the Public Hearing maps Public Officials were also notified of the
format of the Pre-Hearing Open House and Combined Public Hearing
7.4 Pre-Hearing Open House and Combined Public Hearing
In accordance with 23 USC 128, the North Carolina Department of Transportation certifies that a
public hearing for the subject project has been held, and the social, economic, and environmental
impacts, consistency with local community planning and goals and objectives, and comments
from individuals have been considered in the selection of the Selected Alternative for the project
A Pre-Hearing Open House and Combined Public Hearing were held on March 10, 2008 at the
Kennedy Learning Center These meetings were announced via newsletter and in the Winston-
Salem Journal and Winston-Salem Chronicle The newsletter was mailed to approximately
10,900 study area residents and/or property owners and others who expressed interest in the
project Based on sign-in sheets, approximately 70 people attended the Pre-Hearing Open House
and Combined Public Hearing
The Pre-Hearing Open House was held from 4 30 to 6 30 pm with a drop-in format and no formal
presentation Hearing maps were displayed, and NCDOT and consultant staff discussed the
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 31
project with attendees The Combined Public Hearing immediately followed, beginning at 7 00
pm
7.5 Summary of Public Comments
The following is a summary of comments received via mail or email during the comment period
ending April 10, 2008, including those comments spoken at the Public Hearing on March 10,
2008 A detailed list of citizen comments and responses are in Appendix B
• Nine citizens spoke at the Combined Public Hearing, and 10 citizens provided written
comments Two petitions were submitted with a total of 237 names The majority of the
comments received were in opposition to closing the ramps at 3rd and 5th Streets
Reasons for wanting to leave the ramps open included concern that access and
connectivity for EMS vehicles, visitors, and residents would be reduced or eliminated,
economic development would be hindered, and displaced traffic would negatively impact
adjacent intersections in close proximity to interchange areas of Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive and Main Street
Response: Although the ramps at 3rd and 5th Streets will be closed, 3rd, 4th, and
5th Streets themselves will remain open. In addition, 4th and 5th Streets will be
converted to two-way operation as mitigation to closing the 3rd and 5th Street
ramps. With the conversion to two-way, the access between East Winston and the
medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be improved for EMS
vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses. Improvements to Martin Luther
King, Jr. Drive also will improve mobility though the East Winston area. The
improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, US 52, and 4th and 5th Streets will
increase traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, providing additional
customers to businesses in East Winston.
• Four citizens felt that additional traffic on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive would make
traffic congestion worse and/or may lead to more crashes One citizen group was
concerned that additional traffic on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive would create too much
business, and may overwhelm small business owners
Response: The improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive are consistent with
the City's long-range plans. The City is currently developing a Feasibility Study to
extend Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, and envisions that corridor becoming a
major east-west connector. The increase in traffic supports this goal. With the
addition of left-turn lanes from Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive onto E. 3rd Street
and 5th Street, and the removal of the left-turn movements at 4th Street, 2nd Street,
Lawrence Street, and C.E. Grey Street, the number of conflict points will be
reduced and capacity and safety increased. Additional improvements such as
removing the traffic signal at 4th Street and adding left turn lanes on Martin Luther
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 32
King, Jr. Drive will also enhance the mobility and safety on the corridor. The City
is currently working on a temporary upgrade to traffic signals until an integrated
signal system is developed.
• One citizen and a citizen group were concerned that the closing of the Stadium Drive
ramps would endanger students at WSSU, and asked for consideration of a pedestrian
overpass Two citizens asked that the Stadium Drive ramps be closed right away rather
than as part of Project U-2925 to alleviate safety problems
Response: The closure of the Stadium Drive ramps is part of Project U-2925. It is
supported by WSSU, and is included in their Master Plan. It is not anticipated that
this project will result in additional traffic in the WSSU area. NCDOT will work
with the City to develop a pedestrian plan for the areas affected by Project U-2826B.
The Stadium Drive ramps will be closed as part of Project U-2925 rather than
sooner in order to continue to provide access to WSSU until the Salem Creek
Connector is built.
• One citizen was concerned that Liberty Street was not included in the plans, and another
citizen asked that the removal of the bridge over Greyhound Court be added to this
project
Response: Improvements at Liberty Street were originally proposed as part of this
project, but were eliminated during the alternatives analysis process based on
feedback from citizens and the City. The City plans to make improvements to
Liberty Street as part of its long-range plans. Greyhound Court and Linden Street
have been closed as part of the Research Park expansion, and the westernmost part
of the span will be removed by the Research Park. NCDOT will remove the
remaining girders and bridge span as part of Project U-2826B.
• Six citizens felt that there had not been sufficient public involvement over the course of
this project, and one citizen group asked for additional public involvement opportunities
before a final decision was made One citizen was concerned that the schedule of this
project would conflict with the two adjacent projects (Salem Creek Connector and
Business 40)
Response: NCDOT considered 18 construction scenarios, which were eventually
narrowed down and combined into 13 alternatives. From those, 4 alternatives were
studied in more detail, and a Selected Alternative was chosen. This process took
place between 2001 and 2008, and included extensive public involvement. Citizen
Informational Workshops were held in 2001, 2003, and 2005. Newsletters and flyers
were distributed to announce upcoming meetings. NCDOT met with small groups
(including the Ministers Conference twice, Access Hispanica, the Northside
Shopping Center, and County Emergency Management Services), local officials, and
held two sets of one-on-one interviews with community leaders in 2001 and 2005.
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 33
Decisions on which alternatives to carry forward for further study took into account
public opinions expressed throughout the process. NCDOT, Division 9 will continue
to participate in on-going discussions and forums with the Community
Transportation Study Group and the City of Winston-Salem pertaining to
pedestrian safety and economic development opportunities on the Martin Luther
King, Jr. Drive corridor and community cohesiveness.
8.0 WETLANDS FINDING
In accordance with 33 CFR 328 3(b) and 23 CFR 777, three jurisdictional wetlands were
identified and delineated within the project study area (Figure 6) Each wetland included the
presence of hydrophytic vegetation, the presence of hydnc soils, and evidence of wetland
hydrology Jurisdictional verification of the wetlands and streams occurred January 11, 2005
with a representative of the USACE During that meeting, it was deternined that Wetlands 1 and
2 are isolated and not regulated under USACE jurisdiction, however, isolated wetlands are
regulated by NCDWQ
The Selected Alternative (Alternative 9) does not impact any wetlands and thus demonstrates
total avoidance of wetlands Therefore, minimization is not needed and no compensatory
mitigation will be required
9.0 FLOODPLAIN FINDING
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in cooperation with federal, state, and
local governments, has developed floodway boundaries and Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)
for Forsyth County The 100-year floodplams of streams within the study area are illustrated in
Figures 6A and 6B
Based on the proposed roadway alignments, this project is not expected to encroach on any
existing floodways or floodplams This project is not expected to adversely affect the existing
drainage pattern or water courses, or to result in any increase of urban development or associated
urban stormwater runoff
10.0 BASIS FOR FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT
The EA documents a study of the impacts of the proposed project Based upon this study and on
comments received from federal, state, local agencies and the general public, it is the finding of
the FHWA that this project will not have a significant adverse impact upon the human or natural
environment No significant impacts to natural, social, ecological, cultural, economic, or scemc
resources are expected The proposed project is consistent with local plans The project has been
extensively coordinated with federal, state, and local agencies In view of this evaluation, it has
been determined that a FONSI is applicable for this project Therefore, neither an Environmental
Impact Statement nor further environmental analysis is required
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact 34

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Subject Re U-2826B
Date Tue, 29 Apr 2008 10 59 57 -0400
From David Wainwright <David Wainwright@ncmail net>
To "Jennifer M Fuller" <jmfuller@dot state nc us>
References <48161 D49 4D723AC1 @dot state nc us>
Jennifer,
I guess it was sent to the clearing house, and was sent to us through them, dust protocol I guess I do
remember reading the EA after I looked at it You may not know if a 401 is required until the final design
is done Sometimes thing have to be changed in the design stage, and if this happens one may be
required Someone at DOT will keep track of that, and will let us know when things get finalized if one is
required In a nut shell, the DWQ does not assume that a 401 will not be required I have looked back
through the EA for this project again, as well as the comments I submitted
* This project is not in merger, that comment was erroneous That is a standard comment in our
template, and I neglected to verify that this was/wasn't in merger before sending them out, and didn't
remove it I apologize
* Typically, we look at streams and wetlands within the study corridor This project was no different
The EA does indicate in a table that there are no impact to streams or wetlands While this may be true
for this project at this time, there are several (which are listed in the EA and in my comments) which have
the potential to be impacted, in this case most likely by stormwater The DWQ is always concerned about
runoff in the project area, even if a given stream is not being impacted directly
* While NCDOT may have a preferred alternative, it is not definite that this is the alternative to be built,
other alternatives have been carried forward I do not recall seeing impacts to aquatic resources for the
other alternatives that have been carried forward So, to be on the safe side, I made note that they
should be presented, as again, the LEDPA has not been decided, only DOT's preferred alternative I
suspect will not be officially selected (or can't be) until after comments on the EA have been analyzed
* While it does not appear that a 401 will be required, the DWQ does not assume so, and comments
are made accordingly Many of the comments under the "General Comments" section are designed to
aid DOT (or other applicant) in designing/planning the project Since unforeseen situations often come up
during the final design stage of a project, the DWQ generally leaves these comments in to advise the
applicant of standard DWQ requirements This is so that the permitting and construction process is not
slowed
* The mitigation comments are supplied in case there is an unforeseen change in the design, which
may require mitigation Again, these are usually standard, as things can change during the design stage
In summary, as a permitting agency, the DWQ attempts to make applicants aware of policy and
regulations early enough in the design stage so they can be considered and the process is not slowed at
a later date The DWQ prefers to err on the safe side, and assume that a 401 may be necessary
I hope this clarifies some of my comments If it does not, if you have further concerns, or any questions,
please feel free to contact me and we can discuss this further Thank you
David Wainwright
NCDENR, Division of Water Quality
Transportation Permitting Unit
Raleigh, NC
David wainwrightAncmail net
919-715-3415
aMQ?D?
r?
North Carolina
Department of Administration
?I
?9AP 4 ?000
Michael F Easley, Governor Britt Cobb. Secretary
March 19, 2008
Mr Gregory Thorpe
N C Dept of Transportation
Project Dev & Environmental Analysis
Transportation Bldg - 1548 MSC
Raleigh, NC 27698-1548
Dear Mr Thorpe
Re SCH File # 08-E-4220-0247, EA, Proposed Interim Improvements to US 52 from 1-40 to NC66,
TIP #U-2826B
The above referenced environmental impact information has been submitted to the State Clearinghouse
under the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act According to G S 113A-10, when a
state agency is required to prepare an environmental document under the provisions of federal law. the
environmental document meets the provisions of the State Environmental Policy Act Attached to this
letter for your consideration are additional comments made by agencies in the course of this review
If any further environmental review documents are prepared for this project, they should be forwarded to
this office for intergovernmental review
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call
Sincerely,
r ?
Ms Cluys Baggett
Environmental Policy Act Coordinator
Attachments
cc Region I
Alailing Address Telephone [phone] ocanorr Address
1301 Mail Servim Center Far [phone] 1 16 West !ones Street
Raleigh NC 27699.1301 Sim Courier 1151-01-00 Raleigh North Carolina
e-mat! Chrys Qaggetr c,rrcmad net
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
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A74LA.
HCDENR
North Caroline Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Michael F Easley Goverior
MEMORANDUM
TO Chrys Baggett
State Clearmghous
FROM Melba McGee
Environmental rojects Officer
?&-IRFC?c??o09
s
Wiliam G Ross Jr Secsetar?
SUBJECT- #08-0247 Interim improvements to US 52 from I-40 to NC 66, Forsyth County
DATE March 17, 2008
The attached comments were received by this office after the response due date These comments should be
forwarded to the applicant and made a part of our previous comment package
Thank you for the opportunity to respond
Attachment
1601 Fail Service Center, Ra evi, No~lh Ca-olira 27699-1601
Pnone 919-733-4984 ! , -AX 919-715-30630 ; 4emet srrww enr state roc usiBR1
it, Fo, "-wCort- -, A' irnatw -den w nptcyer , Rr,;yde,, , 1.`, R)s Gonsnm„r Por.,
NorthCarohna
Aahmallb,
INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROTECT COMMENTS Project Number ©D 'D 2-? Due Date ? J C, o?
After review of this project it has been determined that the ENR permit(s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in order for this project to comply with North
Carolina Law Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of the form All applications, information and gtudehne's
felative to these plans and permits arc available from the same Regional Office

Normal Process Time
PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit)

? Permit to construct & operate wastewater treatment
facilities sewer system extensions & sewer systems Application 90 days before begin construction or award of construction 30 days

not discharging into state surface waters contracts On site inspection Post-application technical conference usual (90 days)
NPDES permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application ISO days before begin activity On site inspection Pre-applicanon
? permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities conference usual Additionally, obtain permit to construct wastewater 90 120 days
discharging into state surface waters treatment facility granted after NPDES Reply time, 30 days after receipt of (N/A)
plans or issue of NPDES pent-whichever is later
? Water Use Permit Pre application technical conference usually necessary 30 days
(N/A)
? Well Construction Permit Complete application must be received and permit issued prior to the 7 days
installation of a well (15 days)
Application copy must be served on each adjacent rnpanart property owner
? Dredge and Fill Permit On site inspection Pre application conference usual Filling may require 55 days
Easement to Fill froin N C Department of Administration and Federal (90 days)
Dredge and Fill Permit
Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement Application must be submitted and permit received prior to

Ed'
facilities and/or Emission Sources as per 15 A NCAC construction and operation of the source 1f a penmd Is required m an
90 days
(2Q 0100 tltru 2Q 0300) area without local zoning then there are additional requirements and
timelines (2Q 0113)

? Permit to construct & operate Transportation Facility as
5
0
NC
C Application must be submitted at least 90 days prior to construction or
90 da
s
per 1
(2D
A
A
800, 2Q 0601) modification of the source y
Any open burning associated with subject proposal
must be in compliance with 15 A NCAC 2D 1900
Demolition or renovations of structures containing
asbestos material must be in compliance with 15 A

?
NCAC 20 1110 (a) (l) which requires notification and
N/A 60 days
removal prior to demolition Contact Asbestos Control (90 days)
roup 919 707 5950
? Complex Source Permit required under 15 A NCAC
2D 0800
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of) 973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity An erosion &
sedimentation control plan will be requited if one or more acres to be disturbed Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality 20 days
?
Section) At least 30 days before beginning activity A fee of $65 for the first acre or any part of an acre An express review option is
(30 days)
available with additional fees
Sedimentation and erosion control must be addressed to accordance with NCDOT's approved program Particular attention should be given to (30 days)
design and installation of appropriate perimeter sediment trapping devices as well as stable stormwater conveyances and outlets t
On-site inspection usual Surety bond filed with ENR Bond amount vanes
? Mining Permit with type mine and number of acres of affected land Any are mined greater 30 days
than one acre must be permitted The appropriate bond must be received (60 days)
before the permit can be issued
I ? I North Carolina Burning pent I 1 On-site Inspection by N C Division Forest Resources if permit exceeds 4 days I 1 day I
(N/A)

? Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit - 22
couches in coastal N C with organic sods On site inspection by N C Division Forest Resources required "if more than
five acres of ground clearing activities are involved Inspections should be
requested at least ten days before actual btim is planned I day
(N/A)
fl d Refining Fatilities- -- ---- ---- - - - -- --- - - - --- -NtA° -- --- -- ------- - --90 120 days ____---
(N/A)
If permit required, application 60 days before begun construction Applicant
must hire N C qualified engineer to prepare plans inspect construction
certify construction is according to ENR approved plans May also require
? Darn Safety Permit permit under mosquito control program And a 404 permit from Corps of 30 days
Engineers An inspection ofsite is necessary to verify Hazard Classification A (60 days)
munmmn fee ofS20000 must accompany the application An additional
processing fee based on a percentage or the total project cost will be required
upon comDleuon
1,
Normal Process Time
(statutory time limit)
PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS '

?
t t
P
d
ll
l
l
ll File surety bond ors5,00o with ENR running to State of NC conditional that
ll
d
d b
ll 10 days
ermi
o
ri
exp
oratory oi
or gas we any we
opene
y
ri
operator shall, upon abandonment, be plugged N/A
according to ENR rules and regulations

O
Geophysical Exploration Permit Application filed with ENR at least 10 days prior to issue of permit
Application by letter No standard application form 10 days
N/A

?
State Lakes Construction Permit Application fees based on structure size is charged Must include descriptions
& di awings of sti uctui e & proof of owner ship of i ipai ian 15 20 days
N/A
- - -
- - - - -
property
--

?
401 Water Quality Certification
N/A 60 days
(130 days)
? CAMA Permit for MAJOR development 5250 00 fee must accompany application 55 days
(150 days)
? CAMA Permit for MINOR development $50 00 fee must accompany application 22 days
(25 days)
Several geodetic monuments are located in or near the project area If any monument needs to be moved or destroyed, please notify
O N C Geodetic Survey, Box 27687 Raleigh, NC 27611
Abandonment of any wells of required must be in accordance with Title 15A Subchapter 2C 0100
Notification of the proper regional office is requested if "orphan" underground storage tanks (LISTS) are discovered during any excavation operation
O Compliance with 1 SA NCAC 2H 1000 (Coastal Stormwater Rules) IS required 45 days
(N/A)
? Tar Painhco or Neuse Riparian Buffer Rules required
* Other comments (attach dilnonal pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority)

aci'?
I el
A /I
p
a
3"'/
,
N C Devi 1 oi, cb l e .,? ?? Sc e rz> yr"- 05 }'?'?c.sa,-? _Z:Z?

INV
_ J

REGIONAL OFFICES
Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office marked below
•
0 Asheville Regional Office 0 Mooresville Regional Office O Wilmington Regional Office
2090 US Highway 70 610 East Center Avenue, Suite 301 127 Cardinal Drive Extension
• Swannanoa, NC 28778 Mooresville, NC 28115 Wilmington, NC 28405
• [phone] [phone] [phone]
0 Fayetteville Regional Office 0 Raleigh Regional Office 0 Winston-Salem Regional Office
225 North Green Street, Suite 714 3800 Barrett Drive, Suite 101 585 Wauglitown Street
3ay.estgm ]ei N1C_2830a _5043_____ Raleigh., NC 27609_ __ Winston-Salem.NQ 22107
[phone] [phone] [phone]

0 Washington Regional Office
943 Washington Square Mall
Washington, NC 27889
• [phone]

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a•
Department of Administration 1'1.coi1s1"," On
Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch
Michael F Easley, Governor Britt Cobb, Secretary
Mr Gregory Thorpe
N.C. Dept. of Transportation
Project Dev & Environmental Analysis
Transportation Bldg. - 1548 MSC
Raleigh, NC 27698-1548
Dear Mr. Thorpe
Re SCH File # 08-E-4220-0247, EA, Proposed Interim Improvements to US 52 from I-40 to NC66,
TIP #U-2826B
The above referenced environmental impact information has been submitted to the State Clearinghouse
under the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act According to G.S. I I3A-10, when a
state agency is required to prepare an environmental document under the provisions of federal law, the
environmental document meets the provisions of the State Environmental Policy Act Attached to this
letter for your consideration are the comments made by agencies in the course of this review
If any further environmental review documents are prepared for this project, they should be forwarded to
this office for intergovernmental review
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call
Sincerely,
CA4 "&g
Ms Chrys Baggett
Environmental Policy Act Coordinator
Attachments
ddSrA7td
North Carolina
March 14, 2008
RECEIVED
Division of Highways
MAR 19 2006
cc: Region I
Mailing Address
1301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1301
Telephone [phone]
Fax[phone]
State Courier 851-01-00
e-mail Chrys Baggett@ncmail net
Location Address
116 West Jones Street
Raleigh, North Carolina
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
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4 PIA
NCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Michael F Easley, Governor William G Ross Jr, Secretary
?0?10111Z 13?q fsi
MEMORANDUM tj,'?o MAR 2008
CE
omm
TO Chrys Baggett I?
State Clearinghouse
FROM Melba McGee
Environmental Review Coordinator
RE 08-0247 Proposed US 52 Operational Improvements from Existing
I-40 to Existing NC 65, Forsyth County
DATE March 10, 2008
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has reviewed the
proposed information The applicant is encouraged to consider the attached
recommendations by the Division of Water Quality Addressing these comments
during the review process and/or during the NEPA Merger Process will avoid
delays during the permit phase
Thank you for the opportunity to review
Attachments
1601 Mall Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601
Phone [phone] FAX: [phone] Internet. www.enr.state nc us/ENR/
An Equal Opportunity I Affirmative Action Employer - 50 % Recycled 110 % Post Consumer Paper
Ppc6ne Carolina
AgAM4711b,
•
-?F WATER Michael F Easley, Governor
P William G Ross Jr, Secretary
0 N
h
ort
r?
Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
C
Coteen Sullins, Director
>
Division of Water Quality •

February 22, 2008 •
MEMORANDUM
To Melba McGee, DENR Environmental Coordinator
Division of Water Quality r, _J
From David Wainwright
, •
Subject Comments on the Environmental Assessment related to the proposed US 52 Operational
Improvements from existing 1-40 to existing NC 65, Forsyth County, Federal Aid Project •
No NI-IF-52(4), State Project No 8 1622801, TIP U-2826B
Project Number 08-0247

This office has reviewed the referenced document dated January 4, 2008 The Division of Water Quality •
(DWQ) is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities that
impact Waters of the U S , including wetlands It is our understanding that the project as presented will
result in impacts to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and other surface waters The DWQ offers the •
following comments based on review of the aforementioned document
•
Project Specific Comments: •
1 This project is being planned as part of the 404/NEPA Merger Process As a participating team
member, the NCDWQ will continue to work with the team •
2 Salem Creek is class C, 303(d) waters of the State Salem Creek is on the 303(4) list for impaired
use for aquatic life due to biological integrity and overall for fecal coliform DWQ is very
concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from this project DWQ recommends •
that the most protective sediment and erosion control BMPs be implemented to reduce the risk of
nutrient runoff to Salem Creel: DWQ requests that road design plans provide treatment of the storm
water runoff through best management practices as detailed in the most recent version of NC DWQ •
Sim mwater Best Alfanagement Practices •
3 The document does not appear to present or discuss specific impacts to streams or wetlands
Anticipated impacts to each resource for each of the alternatives carried forward (Alternative 9,
Al •
ternative 10, and Alternative 12) should be presented and discussed The proposed type of
crossing (i a bridge, culvert, etc ) should be included as well
General Comments:

4 Environmental documents should provide a detailed and itemized presentation of the proposed •
impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping If mitigation is necessary as required
b
15A NCAC 2I3 0506
h
t
f
bl •
y
(
), i
is pre
era
e to present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan
with the environmental documentation Appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to •
issuance ofa 401 Water Quality Certification •

th •
oCarohna
Transportation Permitting Unit N ?!!t!!lYT??tf
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699 1650 •
2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250, Raleigh North Carolina 27604
Phone [phone] FAX [phone] Internet hilo /1h2o enr state nc ustnewetlands .
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer- 50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper •
Environmental assessment alternatives should consider design criteria that reduce the impacts to
streams and wetlands from storm water runoff These alternatives should include road designs that
allow for treatment of the storm water runoff through best management practices as detailed in the
most recent version of NC DWQ Stormwater Best Afanagement Practices, such as grassed swales,
buffer areas, preformed scour holes, retention basins, etc
After the selection of the preferred alternative and prior to an issuance of the 401 Water Quality
Certification, the NCDOT is respectfully reminded that they will need to demonstrate the avoidance
and minimization of impacts to wetlands (and streams) to the maximum extent practical In
accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules {I 5A NCAC 2H 0506(h)),
mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than I acre to wetlands In the event that
mitigation is required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions
and values the NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as wetland
mitigation
7 In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules 115A NCAC
2H 0506(h)), mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150 linear feet to any single
perennial stream In the event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan shall be designed to
replace appropriate lost functions and values The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be
available for use as stream mitigation
8 Future documentation, including the 401 Water Quality Certification Application, should continue
to include an itemized listing of the proposed wetland and stream impacts with corresponding
mapping
9 DWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from this project NC
DOT should address these concerns by describing the potential impacts that may occur to the
aquatic environments and any mitigating factors that would reduce the impacts
10 NC DOT is respectfully reminded that all impacts, including but not limited to, bridging, fill,
excavation and clearing, to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and riparian buffers need to be included
in the final impact calculations These impacts, in addition to any construction impacts, temporary
or otherwise, also need to be included as part of the 401 Water Quality Certification Application
11 Where streams must be crossed, the DWQ prefers bridges be used in lieu of culverts However, we
realize that economic considerations often require the use of culverts Please be advised that
culverts should be countersunk to allow unimpeded passage by fish and other aquatic organisms
Moreover, in areas where high quality wetlands or streams are impacted, a bridge may prove
preferable When applicable, DOT should not install the bridge bents in the creek, to the maximum
extent practicable
12 Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands or strearns
13 Borrow/waste areas should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practical Impacts to wetlands in
borrow/waste areas will need to be presented in the 401 Water Quality Certification and could
precipitate compensatory mitigation
14 The 401 Water Quality Certification application will need to specifically address the proposed
methods for stormwater management More specifically, stormwater should not be permitted to
discharge directly into streams or surface waters
15 It is believed that this project may require a Nationwide (NW) application to the Corps of Engineers
and corresponding 401 Water Quality Certification Please be advised that a 401 Water Quality
Certification requires satisfactory protection of water quality to ensure that water quality standards
are met and no wetland or stream uses are lost Final permit authorization will require the submittal
of a formal application by the NCDWT and written concurrence from the NCDWQ Please be
aware that any approval will be contingent on appropriate avoidance and minimization of wetland
and stream impacts to the maximum extent practical, the development of an acceptable stormwater
management plan, and the inclusion of appropriate mitigation plans where appropriate
16 Bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream when possible
17 Whenever possible, the DWQ prefers spanning structures Spanning structures usually do not
require work within the stream or grubbing of the streambanks and do not require stream channel
realignment The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges allow for human and
wildlife passage beneath the structure, do not block fish passage and do not block navigation by
canoeists and boaters
18 Bridge deck drains should not discharge directly into the stream Stormwater should be directed
across the bridge and pre-treated through site-appropriate means (grassed swales, pre-formed scour
holes, vegetated buffers, etc ) before entering the stream Please refer to the most current version of
NC DWQ Stor inwatei Best Management Pi actices
19 If concrete is used during construction, a dry work area should be maintained to prevent direct
contact between curing concrete and stream water Water that inadvertently contacts uncured
concrete should not be discharged to surface waters due to the potential for elevated pH and
possible aquatic life and fish kills
20 If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction
contours and elevations Disturbed areas should be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and
appropriate native woody species should be planted When using temporary structures the area
should be cleared but not grubbed Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other
mechanized equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate
naturally and minimizes soil disturbance
21 Placement of culverts and other structures in waters, streams, and wetlands shall be placed below
the elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches,
and 20 percent of the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than 48 inches, to allow
low flow passage of water and aquatic life Design and placement of culverts and other structures
including temporary erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may result in
dis-equilibrium of wetlands or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and down stream of the
above structures The applicant is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is being
maintained if requested in writing by DWQ If this condition is unable to be met due to bedrock or
other limiting features encountered during construction, please contact the NC DWQ for guidance
on how to proceed and to determine whether or not a permit modification will be required
22 If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they should be designed to mimic natural stream cross
section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation and/or sills where
appropriate Widening the stream channel should be avoided Stream channel widening at the inlet
or outlet end of structures typically decreases water velocity causing sediment deposition that
requires increased maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage
23 If foundation test borings are necessary then it should be noted in the document Geotechnical work
is approved under General 401 Certification Number 3494/Nationwide Permit No 6 for Survey
Activities
24 Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be implemented
and maintained in accordance with the most recent version of North Carolina Sediment and Erosion
Control Planning and Design Manual and the most recent version ofNCS000250
25 All work in or adjacent to stream waters should be conducted in a dry work area Approved BMP
measures from the most current version of NCDOI Construction and Maintenance Activities
manual such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and other diversion structures should be used to
prevent excavation ?n flowing water
26 While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps, NC Coastal Region Evaluation of
Wetland Significance (NC-CREWS) maps and soil survey maps are useful tools, their inherent
inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform ons?te wetland delineations prior to permit
approval
27 Heavy equipment should be operated from the bank rather than in stream channels in order to
minimize sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of introducing other pollutants into streams This
equipment should be inspected daily and maintained to prevent contamination of surface waters
from leaking fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, or other toxic materials
28 Riprap should not be placed in the active thalweg channel or placed in the streambed in a manner
that precludes aquatic life passage Bioengineering boulders or structures should be properly
designed, sized and installed
29 Riparian vegetation (native trees and shrubs) should be preserved to the maximum extent possible
Riparian vegetation must be reestablished within the construction limits of the project by the end of
the growing season following completion of construction
the NCDWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on your project Should you have any
questions or require any additional information, please contact David Wainwright at [phone]
cc John Thomas, US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh Field Office
Federal Highway Administration
Chris Militscher, Environmental Protection Agency
Marla Chambers, NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Amy Euliss, DWQ Winston-Salem Regional Office
File Copy
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
TO Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DENR
FROM Marla Chambers, Western NCDOT Permit Coordinator w,4- eta'fn&,
Habitat Conservation Program. NCWRC
DATE March 6, 2008
SUBJECT Review of the Environmental Assessment for NCDOT's proposed project to make
interim improvements to US 52 from I-40 to NC 66, Forsyth County TIP No U-
2826B OLIA Project No 08-0247, due 3/6/2008
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has submitted for review an
Environmental Assessment (EA) document for the subject pioject Staff biologists with the
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have reviewed the information
provided These comments are provided in accordance with the provisions of the National
Environmental Policy Act (42 U S C 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act
(48 Stat 401, as amended, 16 U S C 661-667d)
The NCDOT proposes to improve safety and traffic operations on existing US 52, a multi-lane
freeway through Winston-Salem, from I-40 to NC 66 Project U-2826B is intended to be an
interim solution to address issues related to safety and congestion on US 52 Construction
improvements considered for this proposed project include the limited use of existing shoulders
as additional travel lanes, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), ramp closures and
modifications, and traffic management improvements
Streams in the project area include Mill Creek, Leak Fork, Grassy Creek, Salem Creek, Brushy
Fork, and associated unnamed tributaries (UT's), however only Salem Creek, Brushy Fork and
their UT's were included in the Natural Resource Technical Report study area and examined in
the EA Salem Creek is on the 303(d) list of impaired waters Mill Creek and Leak Fork cross
the northern portion of the project and Leak Fork runs parallel to the roadway for a considerable
distance It doesn't appear that roadway improvements are proposed for this area of the project,
however, if any construction activities do occur in this vicinity, additional environmental
analysis will be necessary No additional direct impacts to streams, wetlands, floodplains, or
floodways are anticipated to occur under any of the project alternatives, however cumulative
Mailing Address. Division of Inland Fisheries - 1721 Mail Service Center - Raleigh, NC 27699-1721
Telephone: [phone] - Fax: [phone]

LIS 52 from 1-40 to NC 66 2 March 6, 2008
rorsyth County
impacts, including stormwater impacts, to streams and water quality from this and other past and
planned transportation and development projects in the vicinity are considerable
Area streams are generally in poor biological and hydrological condition due to intense
imperviousness and urban development, primarily industrial and commercial Numerous studies
have shown that when 10-15% of a watershed is converted to impervious surfaces, there is a
serious decline in the health of receiving waters (Schueler 1994) and the quality of fish habitat
and wetlands are negatively impacted (Booth 1991, Taylor 1993) These area streams are good
candidates for restoration and enhancement (stabilization) activities Streams along the corridor,
such as Leak Fork Creek, should be fully evaluated and considered for mitigation purposes for
cumulative impacts from this and other NCDOT projects in Winston-Salem and to provide up-
front mitigation for future improvements to this roadway
As stated in our scoping comments, dated May 20, 2005, stormwater treatment is very important
for this project Issues regarding stormwater management, cumulative and secondary impacts,
and their potential negative effects on area waterways were not addressed in the EA. The lack of
previous stormwater retention and intense conveyance of stormwater, the lack of streamside and
floodplain management throughout the con-idor, and elevated pollutant loads caused by industrial
and commercial sites have led to ongoing stormwater, flooding and water quality issues that are
damaging downstream habitats Proper stormwater management is critical to maintaining water
quality and stable stream channels and is needed to prevent damage to local stream enhancement
and stabilization projects (Tanners Run, Salem Creek, etc ) that have used or will use
considerable expenditures of public funds
We recommend that NCDOT and the City of Winston-Salem work together with this agency and
Pilot View Conservation and Development (336-750-0522) to evaluate opportunities to provide
stream restoration and additional stormwater controls along the roadway as part of the project
and mitigation efforts All areas where interchanges, ramps, and other pavement are to be
removed should be evaluated as potential sites for stormwater improvements These areas could
also help ameliorate air quality concerns, improve urban aesthetics, and provide songbird
habitats Retrofit designs options should also be analyzed throughout the project area for
potential stormwater treatment improvements Stoimwater management should be required for
all new and all retrofitted public and pnvate projects within this municipal area Where
impervious area exceeds ten (10) percent, stormwater management strategies that restore pre-
development hydrograph conditions are recommended Information on Low Impact
Development (LID) practices and measures can be found at www lowimpactdevelopment ors;,
httj? //www epa gov/owow/nls/lid/lydnatl pdi and http //www stormwatercentei net/ Measures
to mitigate secondary and cumulative impacts can be found in the Guidance Memorandum to
Address and Mitigate Secondary and Cumulative Impacts to Aquatic and TerYestnal Wildlife
Resources and Water Quality (NCWRC 2002)
We will not object to this interim project, however we would like to discuss stream restoration
and stormwater management strategies for the road corridor improvements with NCDOT TIP
engineers and others prior to completion of final TIP plans for the corridor- Mr Charles
Anderson with Pilot View Conservation and Development, Inc, Mi John Thomas with the US
Army Corps of Engineers and staff of the NC Division of Water Quality should be invited to
US 52 from 1-40 to NC 66
Forsvth County
March 6, 2008
these discussions Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project If you
have any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at [phone]
Literature Cited
Booth, D 1991 Urbanization and the natural drainage system-impacts, solutions, and
prognoses Northwest Environmental Journal 7(1) 93-118
NCWRC (North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission) 2002 Guidance Memorandum to
Address and Mitigate Secondary and Cumulative Impacts to Aquatic and Terrestrial
Wildlife Resources and Water Quality NCWRC, Raleigh Available-
http //%v<uw ncwildlife org/pg07_WildlifeSpeciesCon/pg7c3_rmpacts pdf (February
2003)
Schuelei, Torn 1994 The Importance of Imperviousness Watershed Protection Techniques
1 3 (pp100-111)
Taylor, B L 1993 The influences of wetland and watershed morphological characteristics and
relationships to wetland vegetation communities Masters thesis Dept of Civil
Engineering University of Washington Seattle, WA
Cc Cyndi Karoly, 401 Certification Unit
NC Division of Water Quality-Raleigh
E-copy John Thomas, USACOE-RRO
Steve Tedder, NCDWQ-WSRO
David Wainwright, NCDWQ-RRO
Charles Anderson, Pilot View C&D, Inc
Ron Linville, NCWRC
,,•• NORTH CAROLINA ESTATE CLEARINGHOUSE
DEPARTMENT OP AtOINISTRATION
INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW '" `-,
FEB 13 2008 `
• STATE NUMBER 08-E-4220-0247 F02
• DATE REC h
AGENCY RESPONSE 03/06/2008
• REVIEW CLOSED 03/11/2008 -
• MS RENEE GLEDHILL-EARLEY
• CLEARINGHOUSE COORD
DEPT OF CUL RESOURCES
ARCHIVES-HISTORY BLDG - MSC 4617
• RALEIGH NC
REVIEW DISTRIBUTION M'N2?0?08 _?3
• CC&PS - DEM, NFIP 8?+ C=) 1???• ?'?
DENR LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS
•'(?
AIQ4
DEPT OF AGRICULTURE 14 -
4.>O
DEPT OF CUL RESOURCES
• DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION ?6l81119? ?j N ?7's°?DSi
• NORTHWEST PIEDMONT COG
PROJECT INFORMATION C?,?aq Q8
. APPLICANT N.C Dept of Transportation
• TYPE National Environmental Policy Act
• ERD Environmental Assessment CQ
• DESC• Proposed Interim Improvements to US 52 from I-40 to NC66, TIP #U-2826B
• CROSS-REFERENCE NUMBER 05-E-4220-0315
• The attached project has been submitted to the N C State Clearinghouse for
intergovernmental review Please review and submit your response by the above
. indicated date to 1301 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-1301
If additional review time is needed, please contact this office at [phone]
. AS A RESULT OF THIS REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED
• NO COMMENT
• COMME S ATTACHED
SIGNED BY
40
Q
• DATE aO 0
•
•
•
FEB 18 2008
U S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION 4 RALEIGH OFFICE
TERRY SANFROD FEDERAL COURTHOUSE
310 NEW BERN AVENUE
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA 27601
Date March 13, 2007
Dr Gregory J Thorpe, Ph D
Manager, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
SUBJECT EPA Review Comments of the Federal Environmental Assessment for
U-282613, US 52 Operational Improvements, Winston-Salem, Forsyth
County
Dear Dr Thorpe
The U S Environmental Protection Agency Region 4 (EPA) has reviewed the
subject document and is commenting in accordance with Section 309 of the Clean Air
Act and Section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) The
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) are proposing operational improvements to US 52 from I-40
Business to NC 65, in Winston-Salem, Forsyth County for an approximate distance of 12
miles The primary objective of the US 52 improvements is to improve safety and
mobility
Due to anticipated impacts to Section 404 resources, the proposed project was not
included in the Section 404/NEPA Merger 01 process There were numerous alternatives
evaluated in the Environmental Assessment (EA) and NCDOT employed a ranking
system (Page 2-9) in order to screen alternatives The ranking system focused most
substantially on safety and congestion in terms of their relative importance An
evaluation matrix was further employed using a Baseline and various scenarios
(Scenarios 1 & 3, 2 & 4, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 6c, 7, 10, 1 la, l lb, 12, 13, Al, A2, A3 and C)
These preliminary alternatives were narrowed down to 10 alternatives and 3 options for
Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) improvements (Al, A3 and C) These potential
alternatives were further defined and analyzed by NCDOT The analysis included a
performance matrix (e g Table 2-5, Page 2-20) that provided indicators based upon
safety, Level of Service (LOS), speed on Study Area roadways, cost, construction
duration, right of way requirements, and design exceptions Three alternatives were
retained and carried forward for further consideration based upon this performance
matrix (i e , Alternatives 9, 10 and 12)
NCDOT further assessed the impacts to the human and natural environment with
the 3 alternatives and has recommended Alternative 9 as its preferred alternative
Alternative 9 There would be 1 relocated residence and 1 relocated business from the
selection of this alternative Noise receptor impacts are expected to be 105 receptors that
would exceed the noise abatement criteria (compared to 91 receptors under the 2025 No-
build Alternative) Noise walls are not expected to be reasonable along US 52 due to
design, constructability and cost considerations There are also anticipated to be 67
receptors to be impacted along the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive corridor However, 80
receptors would be impacted above the noise abatement criteria under the 2025 No-build
condition Similarly, noise walls are not considered by NCDOT to be practicable along
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive There has been one historic district that may be minimally
impacted by the proposed project (1 e, The East Winston Historic District- EWHD) A
"No Adverse Effect" determination for the EWHD has been made
There are no direct impacts anticipated to wetlands and streams, riparian buffers,
threatened and endangered species, prime farmlands, hazardous material sites, churches
and schools and Environmental Justice communities There are no specific impacts to
intact terrestrial communities (Maintained/previously disturbed areas only) Air quality
impacts, including Mobile Source Acute Toxics (MSATs) issues, are described on pages
3-43 to 3-50, 4-27 to 4-30, 5-13 and 5-15 of the EA Based upon the Carbon monoxide
(CO) emissions assessment, the ambient air quality standards for both 1-hour peak and 8-
hour are not expected to be exceeded in the 2025 design year EPA does not disagree
with the overall assessment regarding MSATs presented on page 3-50 Improved
mobility and the reduction in congestion from operational improvements could off-set
localized increases in MSAT emissions An identification of any near roadway sensitive
receptors, such as daycare facilities, schools, nursing homes, hospitals, etc , in relation to
the specific US 52 improvements would have an added value to the qualitative MSAT
assessment provided EPA requests that any near roadway sensitive receptors be
identified in the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)
In summary, EPA does not have any environmental objections to the preferred
Alternative 9 EPA requests that wherever feasible, cost-effective, and consistent with
the 2004 NCDOT Noise Abatement Policy, opportunities for `minimal' noise abatement
techniques be pursued and integrated with roadway designs, such as the use of earthen
berms and landscaping screens EPA requests that near roadway sensitive receptors be
identified in the FONSI along the portions of the project that could have MSAT concerns
EPA would also appreciate receiving a copy of the FONSI for our records Thank you
for the opportunity to comment
Sincerely,
Christopher A Milrtscher, REM, CHMM
Merger Team Representative
NEPA Program Office
For Heinz J Mueller, Chief
EPA Region 4 NEPA Program Office
Cc C Coleman, FHWA
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Transcript Comments
Nine citizens spoke at the Combined Public Hearing Below is a summary of their comments
Jim Campbell - 1304 2°a Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Mr Campbell does not want to close the ramps at 3`d, 4"', and 5`h Streets He does not think
there are enough fatalities or critical accidents to make it worth reducing access for
emergency responders He stated that closing those ramps would also put a lot of pressure on
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, and take away economic development opportunities in the east
Winston section of town Mr Campbell prefers Alternative 12 He would also like to change
5`h Street to two-way street, which would also help emergency responders Mr Campbell
also asked if the City of Winston-Salem or the East Winston area could put this to a vote
Response
The 3'd and 5`h Street interchange and the Business 401US 421 interchange are the two
highest crash locations on US 52 One reason for the high crash rate is the short weave
distance between the two interchanges, which is below Federal and State safety standards
Although the ramps at 3'd and 5`h Streets will be closed, 3'a 4`" and 5`" Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4th and 5th Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3'd and 5`h Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses Improvements to
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area The
improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, US 52, and 4eh and 5th Streets will increase
traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, providing additional customers to businesses in
East Winston
Jim Shaw - 3471 Cumberland Street, Winton-Salem, NC 27105
Mr Shaw represents NAACP in Forsyth County and the Community Development
Corporation Mr Shaw does not want to close the ramps at 3'd, 4`h, and 5`h Streets He stated
that it is already difficult to get to medical facilities on the west side of town, and closing the
ramps will make it more difficult Mr Shaw asked if the decision had already been made,
and if public input at this point could change the Preferred Alternative
Response
Although the ramps at 3'd and 5`h Streets will be closed, 3'a 4`" and 5`h Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4rh and 5`h Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3'd and 5`h Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Fending of No Significant Impact B-1
NCDOT presented its preferred alternative, Alternative 9, at the public hearing FHWA
selects its preferred alternative as part of this final environmental document, the Finding of
No Significant Impact (FONSI)
Vivian Spears - 634 Ontario Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27105
Ms Spears does not want to close the ramps at 3`d, 4`h, and 511, Streets She feels that the
decision has already been made, and stated that this is not the first time something has been
decided before the public has heard about it
Response
NCDOT presented its preferred alternative, Alternative 9, at the public hearing FHWA
selects its preferred alternative as part of this final environmental document, the Finding of
No Significant Impact (FONSI)
John Houser - 319 S Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Mr Houser is concerned about connectivity He stated that if the 3`d, 41h, and 5`h Street ramps
are closed, the traffic will go to the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive exit and the Main Street
exit He does not think those two areas can handle additional traffic Connectivity is
important for emergency responders, police, and commuters Growth of the Research Park
will require more connectivity He would prefer to make 3`d, 4`h, and 5`h Streets two-way, and
he wants to improve Martin Luther King, Jr Drive He also said that Liberty Street is
confusing because it doesn't connect He prefers to close Stadium Drive now, not wait until
after the Salem Creek Connector is built
Response
Although the ramps at 3rd and 5`h Streets will be closed, 3rd 4th and 5`h Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4`h and 5th Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3rd and 5`h Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses
Although direct access from US 52 to East Winston will be reduced with the closing of the 3rd
and 5th Street ramps, visitors and residents will be able to continue to access the East
Winston area via the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive interchange Improvements to Martin
Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area
It is anticipated that the traffic currently using the 3rd and 5rh Street ramps will instead use
the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive interchange A signage plan will be developed in
coordination with interested stakeholders from the Division, the City, and citizen groups
following Projects U-2826A and U-2826B The improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact g-2
Drive are consistent with the City's long-range plans The City is currently developing a
Feasibility Study to extend Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, and envisions that corridor
becoming a major east-west connector The increase in traffic supports this goal
Improvements at Liberty Street were originally proposed as part of this project, but were
eliminated during the alternatives analysis process based on feedback from citizens and the
City The City plans to make improvements to Liberty Street as part of its long-range plans
Although the Liberty Street corridor is discontinuous and confusing, it will not affect traffic
using the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive interchange or other interchanges modified as part
of this project
Stadium Drive improvements will likely be designed and let as part of Project U-2925 This
improvement was originally identified and studied under this project, U-2826B as a short-
term solution However, because of the reduced access impacts, especially to Salem Collage
and Academy, it was decided to wait to close the Stadium Drive ramps until after the Salem
Creek Connector was built The Division retains the possibility of closing these ramps before
the Salem Creek Connector is completed f deemed necessary for safety reasons
Jonathan Weston - 495 N Cleveland Avenue, Winston-Salem, NC 27161
Mr Weston would like to know what impact closing the 3`d, 4th, and 5th Street ramps will
have on businesses in the area
Response
Although the ramps at 3rd and 5th Streets will be closed, 3rd 4th, and 5th Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4th and 5th Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3rd and 5th Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses
Although direct access from US 52 to East Winston will be reduced with the closing of the 3rd
and 5th Street ramps, visitors and residents will be able to continue to access the East
Winston area via the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive interchange Improvements to Martin
Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area, and these
improvements together will increase traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, providing
additional customers to businesses in East Winston
John Larson - Old Salem
Mr Larson prefers to close Stadium Drive now He agreed that the 3`d, 4th, and 5th Street
ramps create a hazard He suggested that mitigation be developed so that drivers don't exit
onto Main Street when accessing East Winston Mr Larson is also concerned about the close
schedules of this project, the Salem Creek Connector, and the Business 40 project He
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-3
suggested that NCDOT coordinate with Crossing 52, an organization that tries to find the
balance between highways connecting and dividing the City
Response
Stadium Drive improvements will likely be designed and let as part of Project U-2925 Since
all three projects are led by NCDOT, the construction schedules of each will be coordinated
A signing plan will be developed in coordination with interested stakeholders from the
Division, the City, and citizen groups following Projects U-2826A and U-2826B
Linda Hobbs - 516 S Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC
Ms Hobbs suggested to other citizens at the hearing that they share this information with
their neighborhoods, and encourage their neighbors to make a comment
Response
No response is necessary
Chad Nolan - 10`'' Floor, RJCST Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC 27157
Mr Nolan represents the Piedmont Triad Research Park He would like NCDOT to consider
including the removal of the bridge over Greyhound Court as part of this project He also
requested additional signage for Research Park south of I-40
Response
Greyhound Court and Linden Street have been closed as part of the Research Park
expansion, and the westernmost part of the span will be removed by the Research Park
NCDOT will remove the remaining girders and bridge span as part of Project U-2826B A
signing plan will be developed in coordination with interested stakeholders from the Division,
the City, and citizen groups following Projects U-2826A and U-2826B
Brenda Humphrey - 1150 Barclay Terrace, Winston-Salem, NC 27106
Ms Humphrey asked about the project limits for the Salem Creek Connector project
Response
The Salem Creek Connector is part of Project U-2925 Ms Humphrey is encouraged to
contact NCDOT for more information about that project
Written Comments
Ten written comments were received, including two petitions Below is a summary of the
comments
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-4
Community Transportation Study Group
The Community Transportation Study Group submitted a comment that was signed by a
representative of Mt Zion Baptist Church, the President of the Minister's Conference of
Winston-Salem and Vicinity, the Pastor of St Mark's Baptist Church, the Pastor of Hanes
C ME Church, the Executive Director of the S G Atkins Community Development
Corporation, the Chairman of the Liberty Street Community Development Corporation, and
the Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church
1 More careful analysis of the impact of the Preferred Alternative is required before a final
determination is made Potential impacts include
a Traffic congestion along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive
b Public safety and emergency responder access between East Winston (Marti
Luther King, Jr Drive) and medical facilities in West Winston
c Reduced access for employees who live or work in East Winston
d Cumulative impacts of this project and the Salem Creek Connector
e Economic impact on small businesses (more potential customers is offset by
potential parking issues and potential overwhelming of small businesses)
f Community cohesiveness (make sure additional division does not occur from this
project)
2 Mitigation proposed by NCDOT may be necessary, but is not sufficient Additional
mitigation recommendations include
a Traffic calming devices at WSSU, Cleveland/File intersection, and
Hrghland/MLK
b Pedestrian overpasses at WSSU and Cleveland/File intersection
c Additional traffic signal synchronization
d Small business assistance and training (to better accept the advantages that
NCDOT has identified)
e Small business opportunities (construction, vending, catering, supplies, etc ) to
take advantage of construction activities
f Additional community policing (necessary due to increased traffic) - NCDOT
can serve as an advocate of, and in concert with, citizens to the WSPD
g New srgnage to offset disruption and disorientation (churches, community
organization/services) - the Community Transportation Study Group would like
to be involved in determining appropriate srgnage plans
h Environmental justice impacts - consider social impacts as well as physical
impacts
3 Additional opportunities will be necessary in order for faith organization, small
businesses, community groups, and individuals to provide an appropriately detailed level
of input The community has not been adequately informed of the extent to which these
planned improvements will impact their lives At least one additional public hearing -
with an extended presentation of the Preferred Alternative by NCDOT and an opportunity
for additional members of the community's institutions and general public to comment, is
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-5
requested The Community Transportation Study Group is willing to help promote any
additional public involvement
Response
Although the ramps at 3rd and 5`h Streets will be closed, 3'a 4`" and 5'' Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4`h and 5`h Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3rd and 5`h Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses Improvements to
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area The
improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, US 52, and 4`h and 5`h Streets will increase
traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, providing additional customers to businesses in
East Winston
The Salem Creek Connector is proposed to connect Stadium Drive with Martin Luther King,
Jr Drive After the Salem Creek Connector is built, the Stadium Drive interchange ramps
will be closed This project will work together with the Salem Creek Connector to provide
safer access for Winston Salem State University, Salem College and Academy, and other
drivers through the area Since the Salem Creek Connector has not been designed yet, this
document does not consider the cumulative impacts of the two projects The Project U-2925
environmental documentation will take the US 52 improvements into account
The improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive are consistent with the City's long-range
plans The City is currently developing a Feasibility Study to extend Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive, and envisions that corridor becoming a mayor east-west connector The increase in
traffic supports this goal
With the addition of left-turn lanes from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive onto E 3rd Street and
5rh Street, and the removal of the left-turn movements at 4`h Street, 2"d Street, Lawrence
Street, and CE Grey Street, the number of conflict points will be reduced Additional
improvements such as removing the traffic signal at 4`h Street and adding left turn lanes on
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will also enhance the mobility and safety on the corridor The
City is currently working on a temporary upgrade to traffic signals until an integrated signal
system is developed
NCDOT will work with the City on traffic calming devices and on a pedestrian plan for areas
affected by Projects U-2826A and U-2826B A signage plan will be developed in
coordination with interested stakeholders from the Division, the City, and citizen groups
following Projects U-2826A and U-2826B NCDOT, Division 9 will continue to participate
in on-going discussions and forums with the Community Transportation Study Group and the
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-6
City of Winston-Salem pertaining to pedestrian safety and economic development
opportunities on the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive corridor and community cohesiveness
NCDOT considered 18 construction scenarios, which were eventually narrowed down and
combined into 13 alternatives From those, 4 alternatives were studied in more detail, and a
Preferred Alternative was chosen This process took place between 2001 and 2008, and
included extensive public involvement Citizen Informational Workshops were held in 2001,
2003, and 2005 Newsletters and flyers were distributed to announce upcoming meetings
NCDOT met with small groups (including the Ministers Conference twice, Access Hispanica,
the Northside Shopping Center, and County Emergency Management Services), local
officials, and held two sets of one-on-one interviews with community leaders in 2001 and
2005 Decisions on which alternatives to carry forward for further study took into account
public opinions throughout the process
The Office of Civil Rights has, and will continue to coordinate with the City and citizens on
these and other issues Small group meetings are available throughout the duration of the
project
Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership
The Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership held a special meeting of the Transportation
Linkages Committee of the Infrastructure Committee to discuss this project In addition to
invited representatives from the City of Winston-Salem, this meeting was attended by
representatives of John S Clark Co, AT&T, Cavanaugh Solutions, WRCP Architects,
Piedmont Triad Research Park, Goler CDC, Stimmel & Associates, Z Smith Reynolds
Foundation, and the Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership Three recommendations were
given to NCDOT regarding Project U-2826B
1 That NCDOT consider the addition of a cloverleaf exit ramp from northbound US 52
onto Martin Luther King, Jr Drive so as to keep traffic continuously moving into a
smooth transition onto Martin Luther King, Jr Drive
2 That NCDOT extend Martin Luther King, Jr Drive to the Cherry/Marshall intersection
and then subsequently be extended to Broad Street It is deemed necessary by the
Transportation Linkages committee that this project be completed before Business 40 is
closed for renovation
3 Supports the closure of the 3rd, 4d', and 5"', Street ramps due to mayor safety concerns, but
at the same time encourages NCDOT to study the feasibility of making improvements to
East 5th Street to help portray this stretch of 5th Street as a gateway from Business 40
westward into the downtown area
Response
The proposed location for a cloverleaf exit ramp is currently on school property The Cityis
considering extending Martin Luther King, Jr Drive as part of a Feasibility Study, and
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-7
improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive are part of the City's long range plan The
Preferred Alternative includes converting 4`h and 5`h Streets to two-way
Marilyn M. Little - 498 Salt Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Ms Little does not want to close the ramps at 3rd 4`h, and 5`h Streets She is concerned that
the traffic from the 3rd 4`h, and 5`h Street ramp closures will be forced to the Main Street exit,
which will back up into and adversely impact the historic district and residential
neighborhood of Old Salem She is concerned that closing the ramps would also have
negative impacts on the surrounding area, including isolating the neighborhood socially,
culturally, and commercially from the downtown area and the rest of the Winston-Salem
community, decreasing access for police and emergency responders, and complicating
routing access toffrom the area and likely overloading the at grade intersections on Martin
Luther King, Jr Drive She stated that Alternatives 9 and 10 will increase the barrier effect
between East and West Winston, and she prefers Alternative 12 She is concerned that
community input will not be taken into consideration in the final decision
Response
It is anticipated that the traffic currently using the 3rd and 5`h Street ramps will instead use
the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive interchange A signage plan will be developed in
coordination with interested stakeholders from the Division, the City, and citizen groups
following Projects U-2826A and U-2826B
Although the ramps at 3rd and 5`h Streets will be closed, 3ra 4`h, and 5`h Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4`h and 5`h Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3rd and 5`h Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses Improvements to
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area The
improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, US 52, and 4`h and 5`h Streets will increase
traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, providing additional customers to businesses in
East Winston
The Preferred Alternative is consistent with the Draft Northeast Winston Area Plan
(February 29, 2008) As described on pages 69 through 71, the Area Plan includes
potentially closing the ramps at 3rd Street and 5`h Street, improving Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive, and converting 4`h Street and 5`h Street to two-way
Citizen Informational Workshops were held in 2001, 2003, and 2005 Newsletters and flyers
were distributed to announce upcoming meetings NCDOT met with small groups (including
the Ministers Conference twice, Access Hispanica, the Northside Shopping Center, and
County Emergency Management Services), local officials, and held two sets of one-on-one
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-8
interviews with community leaders in 2001 and 2005 Decisions on which alternatives to
carry forward for further study took into account public opinions throughout the process
FHWA selects its preferred alternative as part of this final environmental document, the
Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)
Danita Dominquez + Petition (13 names) - 444 E Sprague Street, Winston-Salem, NC
27127
Ms Dominquez prefers Alternative 12 She felt that communication with the public was
handled poorly on this project Ms Dommquez submitted a petition that is opposed to
closing the ramps at 3rd, 4"', and 5ffi Streets The signers are concerned that the closures
would effectively destroy traffic to downtown in conjunction with the Business 40 project
The petition states that the Northeast Winston Neighborhood Association feels that it would
cause mayor traffic issues on Sprague Street and S Main Street, and will destroy the City's
way of maneuvering around downtown easily
Response
Citizen Informational Workshops were held in 2001, 2003, and 2005 Newsletters and flyers
were distributed to announce upcoming meetings NCDOT met with small groups (including
the Ministers Conference twice, Access Hispanica, the Northside Shopping Center, and
County Emergency Management Services), local officials, and held two sets of one-on-one
interviews with community leaders in 2001 and 2005 Decisions on which alternatives to
carryforward for further study took into account public opinions throughout the process
Although the ramps at 3'd and Sih Streets will be closed, 3'd 4ih, and 5`h Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4ih and Sih Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3'd and Sih Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses Improvements to
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area The
improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, US 52, and 4ih and 5`h Streets will increase
traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, providing additional customers to businesses in
East Winston
It is anticipated that the traffic currently using the 3'd and Sih Street ramps will instead use
the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive Interchange A signage plan will be developed in
coordination with interested stakeholders from the Division, the City, and citizen groups
following Projects U-2826A and U-2826B The improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive are consistent with the City's long-range plans The City is currently developing a
Feasibility Study to extend Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, and envisions that corridor
becoming a mayor east-west connector The increase in traffic supports this goal
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-9
The Preferred Alternative is consistent with the Draft Northeast Winston Area Plan
(February 29, 2008) As described on pages 69 through 71, the Area Plan includes
potentially closing the ramps at 3rd Street and 5`h Street, improving Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive, and converting 0 Street and 5`h Street to two-way
This project is not anticipated to create significant additional traffic on Sprague Street or S
Main Street Additional signage will direct drivers to the north Martin Luther King, Jr Drive
corridor The US 52 and Martin Luther King, Jr Drive improvements are also not expected
to affect accessibility downtown Winston-Salem
Marjorie Wdldns - 1320 Calvert Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27107
Ms Wilkins does not want to close the ramps at 3°d, 4`h, and 5th Streets She is concerned that
it would be more difficult to access downtown and the Research Park from US 52 from the
northeast, east and southeast parts of Winston-Salem She feels that closing ramps seems to
hrmt access for individuals patronizing businesses on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive and
surrounding areas Ms Wilkins is also concerned about additional traffic on Martin Luther
King, Jr Drive, particularly around WSSU The proposed closure of the 3rd, 4`h, and 5`h Street
ramps, as well as the Stadium Drive ramps, will endanger students as they cross the street at
the campus She suggested that a pedestrian overpass would alleviate this potential problem.
Response
Although the ramps at 3rd and 5`h Streets will be closed, 3rd 4`h and 5`h Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4`h and 5`h Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3rd and 5`h Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses Improvements to
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area The
improvements to Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, US 52, and 4`h and 5`h Streets will increase
traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, providing additional customers to businesses in
East Winston
With the addition of left-turn lanes from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive onto E 3rd Street and
5`h Street, and the removal of the left-turn movements at 4`h Street, 2"d Street, Lawrence
Street, and C E Grey Street, the number of conflict points will be reduced
The closure of the Stadium Drive ramps is supported by WSSU, and is included in their
Master Plan It is not anticipated that this project will result in additional traffic in the
WSSU area NCDOT will work with the City to develop a pedestrian plan for the areas
affected by Project U-2826B
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-10
Pastor G.L. Brown - Forest Hill Baptist Church, 402 E Polo Road, Winston-Salem, NC
27105
Pastor Brown is concerned that the project includes closing the on-ramp to US 52 south from
Akron Drive He does not want to close this ramp because of the impact to residents and
visitors, as well as to businesses at the commercial centers of the Northside Shopping Center,
Ogburn Station and the areas around Smith Reynolds Airport He feels there will also be
impacts to churches and other community facilities as a result of closing that ramp
Response
The on-ramp to US 52 south from Akron Drive will not be closed as part of this project
Modifications to the ramps to improve safety at that interchange will result in a new access
pattern from Northside Shopping Center, Ogburn Station, and other facilities in the
northwest corner of the interchange to approach southbound US 52
Millicent J. Allen - 305 Grethor Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Ms Allen is concerned that when the number of accidents is decreased on US 52, the traffic
will be increased on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, thereby increasing the risk of accidents on
that road There are numerous traffic signals that create problems during the peak traffic
hours
Response
The 3'd and 5`h Street interchange and the Business 401US 421 interchange are the two
highest crash locations on US 52 One reason for the high crash rate is the short weave
distance between the two interchanges, which is below Federal and State safety standards
Although traffic will increase on Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, mobility will be improved
With the addition of left-turn lanes from Martin Luther King, Jr Drive onto E 3'd Street and
5`h Street, and the removal of the left-turn movements at 4`h Street, 2"d Street, Lawrence
Street, and C E Grey Street, the number of conflict points will be reduced Additional
improvements such as removing the traffic signal at 4`h Street and adding left turn lanes on
Martin Luther King, Jr Drive will also enhance the mobility and safety on the corridor The
City is currently working on a temporary upgrade to traffic signals until an integrated signal
system is developed
Marva Reid + Petition (224 names)
Marva Reid submitted a petition that is opposed to closing the 3`d, 4`h, and 5`h Street ramps
The petition stated that the Area Plan for the North East Winston area has just been approved
The signers feel that closing these ramps would disenfranchise the business community and
create a disparity in EMS access The stated that, although the need to close these ramps was
based on one crash a day on the ramps, that if the ramps are closed there will be multiple
crashes as on Europe's Autobahns They resent that DOT has presented this without
exploring other options They feel that this only benefits a few people while isolating and
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-11
polarizing this area from the rest of Winston-Salem The signers request that these plans be
re-examined, also looking at the Area Plans and the City's overall plans
Response
The Preferred Alternative is consistent with the Draft Northeast Winston Area Plan
(February 29, 2008) As described on pages 69 through 71, the Area Plan includes
potentially closing the ramps at 3rd Street and 51h Street, improving Martin Luther King, Jr
Drive, and converting 4th Street and 5th Street to two-way The Preferred Alternative also
complies with the goals and objectives for US 52 in the Winston-Salem area in the following
land use and transportation plans 2005 Winston-Salem Urban Area Thoroughfare Plan, the
US 52 Corridor Land Use and Transportation Plan, the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County
Urban Area 2030 Multi-Modal Long Range Transportation Plan, the NCDOT 2009-2015
State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP), and the Legacy Development Guide
Although the ramps at 3rd and 5`h Streets will be closed, 3rd 4`" and 5`" Streets themselves will
remain open In addition, 4`h and 5`h Streets will be converted to two-way operation as
mitigation to closing the 3rd and 5`h Street ramps With the conversion to two-way, the access
between East Winston and the medical facilities and residences in West Winston will be
improved for EMS vehicles, residents, and those accessing businesses
Although direct access from US 52 to East Winston will be reduced with the closing of the 3rd
and 5`h Street ramps, visitors and residents will be able to continue to access the East
Winston area via the Martin Luther King, Jr Drive interchange Improvements to Martin
Luther King, Jr Drive will improve mobility though the East Winston area, and these
improvements together will increase traffic along Martin Luther King, Jr Drive, providing
additional customers to businesses in East Winston
The current weaving distance between Business 401US 421 and the 3rd Street ramps is 650
feet northbound and 750 feet southbound, which is well below the current Federal and State
design guidelines Closing the 3rd and 5`h Street ramps will improve safety along US 52, but
it is not anticipated that speeds will increase as a result of this project
NCDOT considered 18 construction scenarios, which were eventually narrowed down and
combined into 13 alternatives From those, 4 alternatives were studied in more detail, and a
Preferred Alternative was chosen This process took place between 2001 and 2008, and
included extensive public involvement Citizen Informational Workshops were held in 2001,
2003, and 2005 Newsletters and flyers were distributed to announce upcoming meetings
NCDOT met with small groups (including the Ministers Conference twice, Access Hispanica,
the Northside Shopping Center, and County Emergency Management Services), local
officials, and held two sets of one-on-one interviews with community leaders in 2001 and
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact g-12
2005 Decisions on which alternatives to carry forward for further study took into account
public opinions throughout the process
Charles Harvey - 500 West e Street, Winston-Salem, NC
Mr Harvey represents the Housing Authority of Winston-Salem He asked for a copy of the
public hearing transcript
Response
A copy of the transcript and these post-hearing meeting minutes will be mailed to Mr
Harvey
Evelyn L. Davis - 1636 N E 23 d Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27105
Ms Davis asked for a copy of the public hearing transcript
Response
A copy of the transcript and these post-hearing meeting minutes will be mailed to Ms Davis
U-2826B (US 52 Operational Improvements)
Finding of No Significant Impact B-13