20141169 All Versions_Indirect and Cumulative Impact Analysis_20040412

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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
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US 17§ INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE
IMPACT ANALYSIS
TIP No. R-2514
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April 12, 2004
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Table of Contents
Chapter Page
Executive Swmnan_I 4
1.0Inl roduction 5
2.0 Project Description 5
2.1 Purpose and Need 5
2.2 Project Alternatives 6
3.0 Identification of Study Area Boundary 9
3.1 Methodology Used to Determine Boundary 9
3.2 Indirect and Cumulative Impact Study Area Boundary 12
4.0 Study Area Direction and Goals 12
4.1 Demographics and Social Characteristics 12
4.1.1 Community Characteristics 12
4.1.2 Population Estimate and Projections 16
4.2 Employment Characteristics 17
4.2.1 Employment by Sector (2000) 17
4.2.2 Civilian Labor Force Estimates and Unemployment Rates 18
4.2.3 Commuter Patterns 19
4.2.4 Major Employers 20
4.3 Social and Housing Characteristics of Communities 22
4.4 Current and Proposed Transportation Projects 30
4.5 Existing Land Use 31
4.6 Review of Local Plans 31
4.6.1 Jones County 32
4.6.2 Craven County 36
4.6.3 Onslow County 38
4.7 Environmental Regulations 43
5.0 Inventory of Notable Features 43
5.1 Architectural Resources 44
5.2 Archaeological Resources 45
5.3 Hazardous Material Sites 46
5.4 Topography and Soils 46
5.5 Prime, Important, and Unique Farmlands 48
5.6 Protected Species 48
5.7 Water Quality 51
TIP R-2514, US 17 widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, 10 Report
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6.0 Identification of Impact Causing Activities 52
6.1 Review of Project-Related Impacts 53
6.2 Review of Non-Project Related Impacts 56
7.0 Identification of Potential IndirectlCunnrlntive Impacts forAnalysis 57
7.1 Potential for Project Induced Growth and Induced Growth Effects 58
'7.2 Potential for Encroachment Alteration Effects 59
8.0 Reeornmendation for Future Action 60
Appendix A. Listing of Project Contacts and Data Sources 61
List of Tables Page
Table 1. Population and Housing Characteristics 13
Table 2. Age of Housing Stock 14
Table 3. Gender and Racial Composition 15,.
Table 4. Income and Poverty 16
Table 5. Past, Present, anclTuture Population 16
Table 6. County Employment by Sector 18
Table 7. Civilian Labor Force Estimates and Unemployment Rates 19
Table 8. Commuting 20
Table 9. Major Employers by County -15' Quarter 2003 21,
Table 10. TIP Projects Within Vicinity of US 17 Widening Project 30
Table il. Environmental Impacts 53
Table 12. Section 4F and Environmental Justice/Community Impacts 54
List of Figures Page
Figure 1. Homes in the Goshen Community of Jones County 14
Figure 2. Bender Burkot East Coast School Supply - Pollocksville 20
Figure 3. Belgrade Fire Department - Craven County 23
Figure 4. Maysville, US 17 24
Figure 5. Clinton Chapel Memorial AME Zion Church - Garnett Heights 26
Figure 6. Town of Pollocksville Wastewater Plant 26
Figure 7. Pollocksville - US 17 27
Figure 8. Jones County Administration Building - Trenton, NC 32
Figure 9. Welcome to Craven County Sign - US 17 36
Figure 10. Welcome to Onslow County Sign -US 17 38
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of Nety Bern, ICI Report 2

List of Figures Page
Figure 11. Foscue Plantation House 44
Figure 12. New House Construction in the Garnett Heights Community 56
Figure 13.
it Maysville Development Corporation Sign - US 17 57
List of Maps Page
Map 1. Project Segment Map i
Map 2. Project Alternatives Map ii
Map 3. Study Area Boundary Map iii
Map 4. Community Map iv
Map 5. Architectural and Archaeological Resources Map v
Map 6. Soils Map vi
Map 7. Neese River Subbasin 03-04-11 Map vii
Map 8.
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1 White Oak River Subbasin 03-05-01 Map viii

TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 3

Executive Summary
The North Carolina Department of Transportation has proposed (TIP R-2514) to
improve a 16-mile portion of US 17 between SR 1330 (Deppe Loop Road)/SR 1439
(Spring Hill Road) south of Maysville/Belgrade and the Jones/Craven County line,
south of New Bern.
The objective of this report is the identification of potential indirect and cumulative
impacts that will occur as a result of the proposed project. The county boundaries of
Jones, Craven, and Onslow Counties were designated as the first-level ICI study area
boundary with additional boundaries being derived from the one and one-half mile
radii surrounding the proposed Jones/Craven County interchange as well as the
intersection of US 17 and NC 58. The vision, goals, and notable features of the study
area were identified to serve as a basis from which to evaluate the proposed project's
potential to induce growth and stimulate land use change. After careful and thoughtful
analysis it has been deemed that TIP R-2514, US 17 widening from north of Jacksonville
to south of New Bern in itself is not likely to induce extensive development within the
entire study area. Findings include:
Y While the urbanized areas of Jacksonville are located south of the project site, it is not likely
that this project would spur "path of development" growth in the Onslow County portion
of the project due to lack of infrastructure and the vision for development outlined in the
Onslow County Citizens Comprehensive Plan. Therefore, a detailed analysis of induced .
growth and its potential impacts is not warranted.
Y There is minimal potential for project-induced growth at the location of the proposed
interchange Qones/Craven County line). While this site is located within proximity to the
increasingly-urbanized area of New Bern in Craven County, the lack of infrastructure and
soils that are not suitable for septic systems are development-limiting factors. Therefore, a
detailed analysis of induced growth and its potential impacts is not warranted.
? It is possible that encroachment-alteration effects associated with this project will affect
notable features location with the study area; however, as very little development has taken
place or is expected to occur within the foreseeable future, impacts are not of a cumulative
nature and can be minimized by adherence to Neuse Rules and the use of best management
practices. Therefore, additional analysis is not warranted.
? The potential for project-induced growth is greatest at the intersection of NC 58 and US 17
as this site is already served by water and sewer, has soils that can support development,
and there are supportive County regulations. As conditions are favorable for development
at this location, a detailed analysis of induced growth and the potential for impact on area
goals, notable features, and emissions is warranted.
? If Alternative 41A is selected, the impacts to the Goshen community would be deemed
cumulative in nature as the comnhrmity has already been impacted by the construction of
the Town of Pollocksville's wastewater treatment plant and as result experienced loss of
land, disruption to the community, and loss of farmland rental income. With the selection
of this alternative additional study, community involvement, and mitigation is suggested.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 4

1.0 Introduction
The objective of this report is to identify the indirect and cumulative impacts that may
occur as a result of TIP R-2514, the widening of US 17 from north of Jacksonville to
south of New Bern. The North Carolina Department of Transportation's (NCDOT)
Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumudative Impacts of Transportation Projects will be
used as the framework for this report.
The Guidance details an eight-step process to identify, analyze, and assess indirect and
cumulative effects of transportation projects:
1. Definition of the Study Area Boundary;
2. Identification of the Study Area's Direction and Goals;
3. Inventory of Notable Features;
4. Identification of Impact-Causing Activities;
5. Identification of Potential Indirect/Cumulative Impacts for Analysis;
6. Analysis of Tndirect/Cumulative Effects;
7. Evaluation of Analysis Results; and
8. Assessment of the Consequences and Development of Appropriate Mitigation
and Enhancement Strategies.
As the task order for this report specifies that only steps 1 through 5 are to be completed
at this time, this report will not attempt to analyze effects or address potential
consequences as related to R-2514.
2.0 Project Description
The North Carolina Department of Transportation has proposed to improve a 16-mile
portion of US 17 between SR 1330 (Deppe Loop Road)/SR 1439 (Spring Hill Road) south
of Maysville/Belgrade and the Jones/Craven County line, south of New Bern. The
existing two-lane facility winds through the Towns of Maysville and Pollocksville and
from the Onslow County border through Jones County to the Craven County border.
2.1 Purpose and Need
The proposed project is included in the North Carolina Department of Transportation's
2002-2008 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The primary purpose of the
proposed project, as expressed in the draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), is
to improve safety on existing US 17, improve traffic flow and along with companion
projects on adjacent sections of US 17, provide a high speed regional travel corridor for
US 17. It is anticipated that economic development in this rural portion of Eastern
North Carolina would be enhanced by improving US 17 to a modern, high-speed,
multi-lane facility. In addition, US 17 also serves as a military access route and a
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?i TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, 10 Report 5
hurricane evacuation route; therefore, a high-speed multi-lane facility would facilitate
faster vehicular travel during military mobilizations and weather-related emergencies.
2.2 Project Alternatives
To allow for better comparison of alternatives, the sixteen mile corridor was divided
into three segments (Map 1 - Project Segment Map):
1. Segment 2 - 4.8 miles from SR 1330 (Deppe Loop Road)/ SR 1439 (Spring Hill
Road) south of Belgrade, through Belgrade and Maysville, to north of the
Maysville town limits. There are four alternatives contained in this segment.
2. Segment 3 - 3.4 miles from north of Maysville town limits to south of SR 1114
(Lee's Chapel Road), south of Pollocksville. There is one alternative with three
widening options contained in this segment.
3. Segment 4 - 7.9 miles from south of SR1114 (Lee's Chapel Road), south of
Pollocksville; through Pollocksville to the Jones/Craven County line. There are
seven alternatives contained in this segment.
Twelve (12) preliminary alternatives were considered to meet the purpose of the
proposed project and carried forward for detailed study (Map 2 - Project Alternatives
Map). Alternatives considered included . the No-Build, Alternative Modes of
Transportation, Transportation Systems Management, and Build Alternatives.. The
Build Alternatives include alternatives to improve the existing facility and bypass
alternatives on new locations, east and west of the Towns of Maysville and
Pollocksville.
Alternative 2 - follows the existing alignment though Belgrade and Maysville. A
four-lane divided facility is proposed along the existing alignment of US 17 from
SR 1330 (Deppe Loop Road)/SR 1439 (Spring Hill Road) to SR 1331 (White Oak
River Road)/SR 1440 (Belgrade Extension Road) in Belgrade. From this
intersection to the northern Maysville Town limits, the existing alignment is
proposed to be widened to a five-lane, curb and gutter roadway. From this point
to the end of Segment 2, the facility transitions back to a four-lane divided
highway.
Y Alternative 2A - consists of a four-lane divided bypass of Belgrade and Maysville.
This alternative follows the existing alignment of US 17 from SR 1330 (Deppe
Loop Road)/SR 1439 (Spring Hill Road) approximately 0.5 miles north. The
alternative then continues north on a new location west of. Belgrade and
Maysville. This alternative crosses SR 1331 (White Oak River Road)
approximately 0.7 miles west of US 17 and SR 1116 (Fourth Street) approximately
0.5 miles west of US 17. From this point, the alternative ties to existing US 17just
north of the Maysville Town limits.
? Alternative 2B - consists of a four-lane divided facility that follows the existing
alignment of US 17 into Belgrade then bypasses Maysville to the east of the
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening h'an North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 6

existing alignment. This alternative follows the existing alignment of US 17 from
SR 1330 (Deppe Loop Road)/SR 1439 (Spring Hill Road) to approximately .25
miles north of SR 1331 (White Oak River Road)/SR 1440 (Belgrade Road). This
alternative then continues north on a new location across the White Oak River
i and east of Maysville. The alternative crosses NC 58 approximately 0.4 miles
east of US 17 and then ties to existing US 17 just north of the Maysville town
limits. This alternative crosses through a small portion of the Croatan National
Forest, just north of Maysville.
Y Alfernative 2C - consists of a four-lane divided facility that follows the existing
alignment of US 17 through Belgrade to the White Oak River (Onslow/Jones
County line) and then bypasses Maysville to the west. This alternative then joins
the same aligrunent as Alternative 2A approximately 0.4 miles south of SR 1116
(Fourth Street). Alternative 2C then crosses SR 1116 (Fourth Street)
approximately 0.5 miles west of US 17 and ties to the existing US 17 just north of
the Maysville town limits.
? Alternative 3 - consists of widening the existing alignment to a four-lane divided.
facility to the east of the existing alignment from the end of Segment 2 north of
Maysville to approximately .4 miles-south of SR 1112 (Lee's Chapel Road). No
streets or roadways intersect this segment: .
? Alternative 4A - utilizes the existing alignment south and north of Pollocksville
and bypasses Pollocksville to the east utilizing the abandoned railroad bed. The
section south of Pollocksville consists of a four-lane divided facility widened to
the east from the end of Segment 3 to approximately 0.3 miles north of SR 1108
(Ravenswood Lane). From this point, the alternative proceeds on new location to
the abandoned railroad bed east of US 17. Once it joins the abandoned railroad
bed, the alignment continues to SR 1004 (Beaufort Road). The alternative crosses
SR 1004 (Beaufort Road) approximately 0.2 miles east of US 17. The alternative
then changes to a five-lane rural section at this intersection and then proceeds
north across the Trent River before curving back to the west to join the existing
alignment just north of Pollocksville. This alternative then continues along the
existing alignment of US 17 as a five-lane rural section to the end of the project-
corridor at Deep Gully and the Jones/Craven County line.
Y Alternative 4B - generally is an eastern bypass of Pollocksville and the
communities north. This alternative follows the same general alignment as
Alternative 4A to just north of the Trent River; however, this alternative consists
of a four-lane divided typical section for its entire length. From just north of the
Trent River, Alternative 4B continues along the abandoned railroad bed to the
north then curves towards the west and crosses US 17. An interchange is
proposed at this location just inside Jones County south of Deep Gully. The
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening From North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 7

interchange is part of the New Bern bypass project (R-2301) and is proposed to be
a Full-control diamond interchange.
? Alternative 4D - consists of a four-lane divided western bypass on new location
around Pollocksville and north before tying to the New Bern bypass (R-2301) at
the Jones/Craven County line. Beginning at the end of Segment 3, approximately
0.4 miles south of SR 11-12 (Lee's Chapel Road) this alternative almost
immediately leaves the existing alignment of US 1.7. The new alignment
proceeds in a northerly direction crossing SR 1114 (Lee's Chapel Road)
approximately 0.1 miles west of US 17, SR 1112 (Riggstown Road) approximately
0.4 miles west of US 17, NC 58 approximately 0.4 miles west of US 17, and SR
1337 (Goshen Road) approximately 0.6 miles west of US 17. Just north of SR
1337, this alternative crosses Goshen Branch and the Trent River. The Trent
River crossing is approximately 1.0 river mile west and upstream of the existing
US 17 bridge. Alternative 4D then continues north crossing SR 1121 (Oak
Grove/Hargett Road) approximately 0.75 miles west of US 17 and curves slightly
to the east to follow the eastern edge of the Progress Energy power line
easement. The alternative then continues in a northeasterly direction across SR
1002 (Ten Mile Fork Road) approximately 0.5 miles west of US 17. Turning
slightly towards the east, the alternative crosses SR 1330 (Simmons Loop Road)
in two locations both approximately 0.25 miles west of US 17. Alternative 4D
then joins the New Bern bypass (R-2301) at Deep Gully (Jones/Craven County
line). A directional interchange is proposed to tie the US 17 bypass to existing US
17 (Business) at this location just south of Deep Gully Qones County).
? Alternative 4E - follows the same corridor as Alternative 4D from the end of
Segment 3 to just north of the Trent River. Just north of the Trent River, the
alignment curves farther west to avoid the historic FOSCrte Plantation property.
This alternative continues to travel in a northerly direction and crosses SR 1121
(Oak Grove/Hargett Road) approximately 0.8 miles west of US 17. Just north of
SR 1121, the alignment begins to curve back towards the east and crosses SR 1002
(Ten Mile Fork Road) approximately 1.3 miles west of US 17. Alternative 4E then
rejoins Alternative 4D south of Deep Gully (Jones/Craven County line) and
follows Alternative 4D for the remainder of the corridor.
? Alternative 4G - follows the same corridor as Alternative 4D from the end of
Segment 3 to just north of the Trent River. Just north of the Trent River, the
alignment then curves toward the east and crosses US 17 to follow the
abandoned railroad bed east of US 17. The alternative crosses SR 1121 (Oak
Grove/Hargett Road) approximately 0.3 miles west of US 17 and crosses US 17
approximately 1.4 miles north of the Trent River in Pollocksville. Once
Alternative 4G joins the abandoned railroad bed it follows the same alignment as
Alternative 4B to the northern project limits.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 8

? Alternative 4H - follows the same corridor as Alternative 4D from the end of
Segment 3 to just south of NC 58. From this point, Alternative 4H shifts farther
to the west to minimize impacts to the Goshen Community and avoid impacts to
the Historic FosCUe Plantation. The alternative crosses NC 58 approximately 0.7
miles west of US 17 and continues in a northwesterly direction to cross SR 1337
(Goshen Road) approximately 1.3 miles west of US 17. Alternative 4H then
crosses the Trent River approximately 1.75 river miles west and upstream of the
existing US '17 bridge. After crossing the Trent River, the alternative heads in a
northeasterly direction and crosses SR 1121 (Oak Grove/Hargett Road)
' approximately 1.2 miles west of US 17. This alternative then joins and follows
Alternative 4E at SR 1002 (Ten Mile Fork Road) for the remainder of the corridor.
? Alternative 41- follows the same alignment as Alternative 4B to just north of the
Trent River: From this point, the alternative curves westward and crosses US 17
approximately 0.4 miles north of the Trent River. Alternative 41 then continues
west to avoid the Historic Foscue Plantation, crosses SR 1121 (Oak Grove/Hargett
Road) approximately 0.5 miles vest of US 17 and crosses SR 1002 (Ten Mile Fork
Road) approximately 1.4 miles west of US 1.7. Just north of SR 1002, the
alternative curves sharply towards the east and joins Alternative 4E for the
I I remainder of the corridor. ,
3.0 Identification of Study Area Boundary
According to Guidance document, a study area is defined as the broad geographic limits
within which the proposed project would likely have an influence. When estimating
the direct effects of proposed transportation projects, sturdy areas are often delineated
using a set distance, such as from the centerline or right-of-way limits. However, since
indirect and cumulative effects can occur at a distance in time or space removed from
the project, wider limits must be set.
3.1 Methodology Used to Determine the Study Area Boundary
The Guidance document outlines five parameters for determining study area
boundaries:
1. Political/Geographical;
2. Commuteshed;
3. Growth Boundary/Service Area;
4. Watershed/Habitat; and
5. Interview/Public Involvement.
Political/Geographical - As the proposed project spans an area of 16 miles in Onslow,
Jones, and Craven Counties, the county boundaries should be the first-level political
study area boundary. The county boundary will allow the full usage of Census
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 9
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Transportation Planning Package (CTPP) data, North Carolina Rural Economic
Development Center data, as well as county land use, water and sewer, and strategic
plans to assist in the development of future growth patterns.
Commuteshed - As stated in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), US 17
is the primary north-south corridor east of I-95, providing access to the coastal region of
North Carolina and serving as both a military access route as well as a hurricane
evacuation route for the beaches to the east of the study area. Improvements to the US
17 corridor are part of the North Carolina Transportation 2001 plan, which identified
US 17 as a key economic development highway for the state. This proposed project will
improve the transportation connection between the major economic centers of
Jacksonville and New Bern.
As noted in the Guidance document, effects related to project-induced development are
dependent upon changes in accessibility. To fully account for this effect, the study area
should be sized to coincide with a set commuting range or travel time to a major
destination. The predominant commuter patterns for this project are travel along US 17
within Jones County as well as travel to and from the employment centers of
Jacksonville (OUslow County) to the south and New Bern (Craven County) to the north.
Therefore, the county boundaries of Jones, Craven, and Onslow counties constitute the
Commuteshed boundary.
Growth Boundary/Service Area - As the overwhelming majority of the proposed 16-
mile project is located in Jones County, including the Towns and extra-territorial
jurisdictions (ETJs) of Maysville and Pollocksville, the growth boundary/service area for
this study shall include the Jones County boundary. In addition, there is an interchange
proposed for the northern tie of this project to the New Bern bypass at the Jones/Craven
County line. As induced development effects are most often found up to one and one-
half miles around an interchange; a radius will be drawn around, the interchange to
capture the potential area of influence at this location. A second radius will be drawn
around the intersection of US 17 and NC 58 as it is expected that induced development
could occur within this area. These secondary areas of analysis will not replace the
larger growth boundary, but will delineate focus areas that have the greatest potential
for induced growth.
A portion of the project is located in Onslow County in White Oak Township. The area
is predominantly forest (67.9 percent) and agricultural lands (26.2 percent) with the
community of Belgrade representing an area of existing residential and commercial
development along US 17. As the area in Onslow County is heavily forested and there
are no current plans to serve the area with sewer, it appears unlikely that project
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening fron North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 10
induced growth will occur in this area. Based on the data presented above, one can
surmise that the focus of future growth will be centered in Jones County with potential
growth occurring within the one and one-half mile radius surrounding the interchange
into Craven County.
Watershed/Habitat - As encroachment-alteration effects arising from the project or
project-induced growth may have effects on a watershed or habitat it is important to
consider these issues when determining the overall study area boundary. According to
the DEIS, streams within the project area belong to two coastal drainage areas: the
White Oak River and the Trent River. The White Oak River is a minor drainage area
discharging into the Atlantic and the Trent River is a subbasin of the Neuse River. In
addition to the drainage areas, the project is also located in two subbasins. The project
area from the Jones/Craven County line to south of. Pollocksville is located in Neuse
River Subbasin 03-04-11. The area south of Pollocksville to the end of the project in
Onslow County is located in White Oak River Basin 03-05-01.
According to the DEIS, there is potential that the federally-listed and endangered red-
cockaded woodpecker. (RCW) may be located within the study area; however, while
there are no,documented cases of -RCW activity within the area, RCW cavity trees have
been documented within 1.8 miles of the study area in Croatan National Forest.
Given the lack of direct evidence of the existence of RCW within the project area,
coupled with the fact that the majority of the above-mentioned subbasins are located
within Jones and Onslow Counties it does not seem necessary to set an additional
natural resource-based boundary.
Interview/Public Involvement - A significant amount of public input was received for
the US 17 Widening Project as a part of the DEIS and Community Impact Assessment
process. As a part of the CIA effort, interviews were held with residents of Belgrade,
Maysville, Chadwick, Hatchville, Garnett Heights, Goshen, Pollocksville, Oak Grove,
Murphytown, Ten Mile Fork, and Deep Gully communities. In addition to personal
interviews, citizen workshops and community meetings were held to obtain comments
and suggestions related to the proposed project. Residents were asked to comment on
the various widening and bypass alternatives. While there was not a consensus for one
specific alternative, the majority of the residents stated that something had to be done to
improve safety and reduce the amount of traffic on US 17. Concerns expressed by the
residents included relocation, division of communities, impacts to existing businesses if
a bypass alternative was selected, unfair treatment to minority populations, the fear of
isolation, the fear of "living on top of a highway", and safety of the many people who
i walk along or cross US 17 to visit relatives and friends.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report

While all of the input is extremely important to the selection of a preferred alternative, it
does not suggest the need for an enhanced geographic boundary larger than the three-
county area.
3.2 Indirect and Cumulative Impact Study Area Boundary
Based on the five techniques detailed in Section 3.1, the county boundaries of Jones,
Craven, and Onslow Counties will be designated as the first-level ICI study area
boundary with additional boundaries being derived from the one and one-half mile
radii surrounding the proposed Jones/Craven County interchange as well as the
intersection of US 17 and NC 58 (Map 3 - Study Area Boundary).
4.0 Study Area Direction and Goals
The purpose of this section of the analysis is to describe the demographic, social, and
economic conditions of the study area; as well as detail local land use and economic
development policies, community goals, current transportation plans, and any regional
influences. An appreciation of this information will aid in understanding the potential .
of the US 17 widening project to induce growth and development.
4.1 Demographics and Social Characteristics
4.1.1 Community Characteristics -Jones, Onslow, and Craven Counties
Demographic information from the United States Bureau of the Census, Rural Economic
Development Council, and the North Carolina State Data Center were compiled to
provide a profile of Jones, Onslow, and Craven Counties. "fables 2, 3, 4, and 5 provide a
historical perspective as well as a current "snapshot" of the socio-economic make-up of
the area.
Population
All three counties experienced a population increase from 1990 to 2000. Onslow County
experienced the smallest population growth, adding only 517 persons during the past
decade. The small increase can be attributed to the downsizing of the military base
population at Camp LeJeune Marine Corps Base in Jacksonville. Craven County grew
by just under 10,000 people for a 12 percent increase. Jones County grew by 10.3
percent adding 967 persons, reversing a several decades trend of declining population.
'PIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, 10 Report 12
Table 1
Population and-Housing Characteristics
Jones Crann Onslow Slate of NC
1990 2000 Change 1990 2000 Change 0D0 Change 1990 2000 Change
Population 9,414 10,381 10.3% 81,613 91,436 12% 0,355
' 0.30% 6,628,637 8,166,268 23.4%
Persons per Square 1,1re 20 22 4 115.3 129.1 ? 6,1 a 136
1 165
2
Persons Per Household 2.7 2.53 v 2.64 2.5 i .72 v .
2,54 .
2.49 v
Housing Units 3,829 4,679 22.2% 32,293 38,150 18.1% 2 7
,726
26 17.2% 2,818,193 3,523,944 25%
Median Value of Housing Units $43,700 $75,100 71.8% $65,900 $96,600 46.6% ,900 38.1% $65,800 $108,300 64.6%
Homeovmership Rate 71.2% 79.8% ? 57.9% 66.7% • .1% s 68% 69
4%

Rental Rate
28.8%
20,2%
v
42.1%
33.3%
t
.9%
1
32% .
30.6% n
e
Median Rent $164 $396 141% $302 $501 65.9% 18 63,9% $284 $548 92.9%
.,r„Unn of me i.eusus; ma'a rconornic uevelopnient Council; and North Carolina State Data
Center.
As noted in the Community Impact Assessment, Jones County's population changes are
quite different from Onslow and Craven Counties, as well as the state overall. Based on
2000 Census data, of the 100 counties in North Carolina, Jones County ranks 9511 in total
population (down from a 9011' place ranking in 1990). Onslow is the 10t1 most.populous
while Craven County with a 2000 population of 91,436 is the 2811, most populous in the
state. It is important to note that while Jones, Craven, and Onslow Counties experienced
a population increase during the past decade it was much less than other regions and
the state during the same time 'period.'"' ` . ' .
Housing
An analysis of the housing characteristics of the area provides an insight into the
availability and types of housing located within the study area.
? In 2000 in Jones County there were 4,679 housing units of which 618 or 13.2
percent were vacant. The 2000 housing stock was comprised of 62 percent
single-family detached homes, 35 percent mobile homes, and 3 percent multi-
family units.
? In 2000 in Onslow County there were 55,726 housing units of which 13.6 percent
were vacant. The 2000 housing stock was comprised of 55 percent single-family
detached homes, 24 percent mobile homes, and 21 percent multi-family units.
? In 2000 in Craven County there were 38,150 dwelling units of which 9.3 percent
were vacant. The 2000 housing stock was comprised of 62 percent single-family
detached homes, 18 percent mobile homes, and 20 percent multi-family homes.
To sum, in 2000, in the three-county study area there were 98,555 housing units of
which 12 percent were vacant. The study area housing stock is comprised of 58 percent
single-family detached units, 22 percent mobile homes, and 20 percent multi-family
units.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bent, ICI Report 13

the study area it is important to know
the age of the structures. The
decennial census collects information
related to the year struchures were
built. As can be seen in Table 3 on
the following page, approximately
25 percent of the housing stock in the
study area was built between 1990
and 2000 while over one-half of the
area's housing stock was built prior
to the year 1979.
Figure 1: Homes in the Goshen Conununity of Jones County
Table 2
Age of Housing Stock

Year Structure -801 Percent
Jones I of Total 1 Percent
Craven of Total
Onslow Percent
of Total
1999 to 2000 202 j 4.3% 1,277 3.3% 2,071 3.7%
j 1995 to 1998 479 10.2% 3,982 10.4% 6-,822 j_ 12.2% _
1990 to 1994 529 11.3% 3,976 10.4% 5,966 10.7%
1980 to 1989 745 15.9% 9,178 24.1% 13,176 23.6% _
1970 to 1979 899 192% 6,859 18.0% 11,204 20.1% _
j 1960 to 1969 560 12.0% 4,239 11.1% 7,247 13.0% _
1940 to_ 1959 _ 726 15.5% 6,220 I 16.31M.
8,243
14.8%
_
1939 or earlier 539 11.5% 2,419 6.3% 997 1.6%
Total Units 4,679 1 100.0% 38,150 100.0% 55,726 1 100.0%
Sow-ce: United States Bureau of the Census, Table DP-1, Profile of Genend Housing Characteristics.
Another important component of housing is tenure or the length of time a
homeowner/householder has occupied their home. Residents of the United States are
becoming much more mobile and move more often than in the past; however, this is not
the case in Jones County, where the majority of the residents have lived in the same
home for a significant amount of time. According to Census 2000 data, 62.1 percent of
the residents of Jones County have lived in their home since 1990. Onslow County,
which is home to Camp LeJeune Marine Corps Base and therefore has a more transient
population, reported that 36.8 percent of its population had resided in the same home
since 1990 while Craven County reported a figure of 46.8 percent.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern,, ICI Report 14
., a
All three counties experienced significant growth in new housing construction and in
turn an increased homeownership rate during the 1990 to 2000 time period. Onslow
County experienced the greatest increase in homeownership (12.2 increase) followed by
Craven County at 8.8 percent, and Jones County at 8.6 percent. Jones County's 2000
homeownership rate of 79.8 percent was the highest of the three-county study area and
higher than the state figure of 64.6 percent.
In 2000, the median value of an owner-occupied housing unit in North Carolina was
$108,300. While Jones, Craven, and Onslow Counties all experienced significant
increases, during the 1990 to 2000 period, in the median value of owner-occupied
housing units, ranging from 38.1 percent to 71.8 percent, the values of the housing stock
are significantly less than the state median value. At $75,100, the Jones County value is
69 percent of the state value.
According to Census data, the 2000 median rental rate for a housing unit in North
Carolina was $548, an increase of nearly 93% percent from the 1990 figure of $284. The
2000 rental rates in the three-county study area range from $396 in Jones County to a
high of $518 in Onslow County. Each of the three counties experienced significant
increases in median rents from the 1990 to 2000 time period; specifically, Jones County
saw an increase of 141 percent ($164 to $396), Craven County 65.9 percent ($302 to
$501), and Onslow County 63.9 percent ($284 to $548). The median monthly housing
rental rates for the three-county study area are less than the statewide median value.
Table 3
Gender and Racial Composition
Jones Craven Onslow State of NC
1990 2000 Change 1990 2000 Change 1990 2000 Change 1990 2000 Change
Male 47% 48.2% v 49.8% 50.5% ? 59.8% 55.2% r 48.4% 49%
Female 53% 51.8% v 50.2% 49.5% a 40.2% 44.8%. n 51.6% 51% e
White 60.4% 61% ? 71.9% 69.9% v 74.7% 72.1% v 75.6% 72.1% v
Black 39.1% 35.9% • 25.9% 25.1% ? 19.9% 18.5% v 21.9% 21.6% F
Other 0.5% 3.1% ? 2.2% 5% a 5.4% 9.4% • 2.5% 6.3% s
')ollrce: Ueltea States 81n'eau 01 the Census.
Between 1990 and 2000 Jones and Craven Counties experienced an increase in the
percentage of male residents while Onslow County experienced a decrease in the
number of male residents. The decrease can be attributed to the downsizing of the
military with less men being stationed at Camp LeJeune.
Between 1990 and 2000 the State of North Carolina, Craven County, and Onslow
County all experienced a decrease in the percentage of white residents. All three study
area counties as well as the state of North Carolina experienced a decrease in the
TIP R-2514, US 17 widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 15

percentage of black residents and a corresponding increase in the number of residents
classified as other (non-white and non-black).
Table 4
Income and Poverty
Jones Craven onslow Slate of NO
1990 2000 Change 1990 2000 Change 1990 2000 Change 1990 2000 Change
Median Household Income $19,392 $20,882 59.2% $25,619 $35,966 404% $23,386 $33;756 44.3% $26,647 $39,184 479(
Per Capita Income $8,832 $15,916 80.2% $11,619 $18,423 58.6% $10,713 $14,853 30.6% $12,885 $20,307 57.6%
Persons Below Poverty level 20.2% 16.9% ? 13.6% 13.1% a 12.1% 12.91
4
12.9%
12.3%
v
Source: United Slates Bureau of the Census.
Of the three study counties, during the time period of 1990 to 2000, Jones County
experienced the largest percentage growth in median household income from $19,392 to
$30,882 for an increase of over 59 percent. However, at $30,882 Jones County had the
lowest median household income of the three-county study area and earned only 78.8
percent of the median state household income.
Information on "persons below the poverty level" is included to determine the
percentage of the population that could be deemed low-income. Between 1990 and
2000 Jones and Craven Counties experienced a decrease in the number of people
classified as below file poverty level; while Onslow County experienced a slight
increase. The percent of people beneath the poverty level in 2000 in the State of North
Carolina was 12.3 percent; Jones County at 16.9 percent was 4.6 percentage points above
the state total and correspondingly had the highest percentage of low-income persons
in the three counties in the study area.
4.1.2 Population Estimate and Projections
Table 5
Past, Present, and Future Population

Year
Jones
Craven
Onslow State of
NC
1980 9,705 71,043 112,784 5,880,095
1990 9,414 81,613 149,838 6,632,448
2000 10,381 91,436 150,355 8,049,313
2010' 11,010 97,513 157,963 9,491,372
2020' 11,574 102,080 166,376 10,966,139
2030" 11,980 105,070 172,890 12,447,597
% growth 80 to 00 6.9% 28.7% 33.3% 36.9%
growth 00 to 30 15.4% 14.9% 14.9% 54.6%
Source: United States Bureau of file Census and file North Carolina State Data Center.
"Note that the 2010, 2020, and 2030 figures are projections.
Between 1980 and 2000 each of the counties in the study area experienced population
growth. The most explosive growth (33.3 percent) occurred in OilS10W County between
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 16

1980 and 1990 due to increased military personnel based at Camp LeJeune. It is also
interesting to point out that, between 1990 and 2000 in an era of military downsizing,
i Onslow County experienced a population increase of only 517 persons for a less than
one percent growth rate during the 1990s. Since 1960, Jones County has experienced
three decades of population loss; however, this trend was reversed between 1990 and
2000 when the County grew by 967 persons for a 10.3 percent population increase.
Population changes in Jones County are quite different than that of Craven and Onslow
Counties. During the 1980 to 2000 time period, Craven and Onslow counties
experienced population increases in excess of 28 percent while Jones County grew by
just under seven percent. The North Carolina State Data Center predicts that the
growth rates in Craven and Onslow Counties will slow between 2000 and 2030 while it
is anticipated that Jones County will experience a population increase of 15.4 percent.
The projected increase in population can be attributed to growth in the eastern and
northwestern portions of the county and planned roadway improvements that could
spur economic development as well as possible outgrowth of the Global Transpark in
neighboring Lenoir County.
4.2 Employment Characteristics
To fully understand the socio-economic make-up of the study area it is important to
have an understanding of the employment by sector, labor force, major employers,
unemployment rates, and commuting patterns. The following information was
obtained from the North Carolina Employment Security Commission, United States
Bureau of the Census (Table DP-3), and the Jones County Economic Development
Office.
4.2.1 Employment by Sector (2000)
According to 2000 Census data, the educational, health, and social services sectors
comprised the highest percentage of the total insured employment in the three county
study area. Jones County at 4,313 had the smallest number of insured employment
while Onslow County at just over 49,000 had the largest insured employment. Other
sectors with significant amounts of insured employment include retail, construction,
and manufacturing.
A concern expressed in the Jones County Strategic Plan is the small number of
manufacturing jobs in Jones County (533 versus 4,860 in Craven County and 2,682 in
Onslow County). Jones County economic development officials would like to see a
more diversified workforce which could insulate the County from drastic business cycle
declines.
'nP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 17
Table 6
County Employment by Sector
Jones Craven Onslow
County Countv COUnty*
2000 Industrial Sector Employment % Employment % Employment %
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and
Hunting and Mining 296 6.9% 802 2.2% 996 2.0%
Construction 489 11.3% 2,665 7.5% 5,022 10.2%
Manufacturing 533 12.4% 4,860 13.6% 2,682 5.5%
Wholesale Trade 108 - 2.5% 796 2.2% 943 1.9%
Retail Trade 525 12.2% 4,337 12.1% 7,496 15.3%
Transportation, Warehousing, and
Utilities 245 5.7% 1,426 4.0% 2,253 4.6%
Information 79 1.8% 724 2.0% 1,393 2.8%
Financial, Insurance, Real Estate 90 2.1% 1,575 4.4% 2,234. 4.6%
Professional, Management 204 4.7% 2,730 7.6% 3,224 6.6%
Educational, Health and Social
Services 1,048 24.3% 7,432 20.8% 10,865 22.2%
Art, Entertainment, Recreation,
Accommodations and Food Service 263 61% 2,674 7.5% 4,790 9.8%
Public Administration 231 5.4% 2,060 5.8% 4,558 9.3%
Other 202 4.70/( 3,644 10.20/6 2,564 5.2%
Total 4,313 100% 35,725 100% 49,020 100%
Source: United States Bureau of the Census, DP-1, 2000.
"Note employment is only for civilian jobs, data is not shown for military employment.
4.2.2 Civilian Labor Force Estimates and Unemployment Rates
In 1990 in the three-county study area there were 79,561 people in the civilian labor
force (employed and unemployed). By the year 2000, this figure had increased to 94,876
and as of 2002, the civilian labor force stood at 93,168. Between 1990 and 2002, Jones
and Craven County's civilian labor forces increased by just over 10 percent as compared
to 23.2 percent for Onslow County and 20.2 percent for the state.
An important determinant of the overall economic well-being of an area is the
unemployment rate. For the years 1990 and 2000, unemployment rates in the three-
county study area were higher than the state figure. Between 2000 and 2002 all three
counties experienced an increase in their respective unemployment rates. Jones
County's unemployment rate increase of 1.9 percentage points was less than Craven
County's 2.3 percentage point increase and the state's 3.1 percentage point increase, but
was less than Craven County's 1.7 point increase. The increases can be attributed to the
economic slow-down as well job elimination in key industries in the area.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 18
Table 7
Civilian Labor Force Estimates and Unemployment Rates
Jones Count 1990 2000 2002
Labor Force 4,411 4,987 4,858
Employed 4,201 4,751 4,535
Unemployed 210 236 323
Unemployment
Rate 4.8% 4.7% 6.6%
Onslow COUnt 1990 2000 2002
Labor Force 41,498 51,396 51,128
Employed 39,430 49,584 48,143
Unemployed 2,068 1,812 2,985
Unemployment
Rate 5.0% 3.5% 5.8%
Craven Count 1990 2000 2002
Labor Force 33,652 38,493 37,182
Employed 32,085 36,900 36,156
Unemployed 1,567 1,593 2,009
Unemployment
Rate 4.7% 4.1% 5.8%
North Carolina 1990 2000 2b02
Labor Force 3,468,300 4,145,152 4,171,462
Employed 3,324,000 3,995,484 3,890,025
Unemployed 144,300 149,668 281,437
Unemployment
Rate 4.2% 3.6% 6.7%
Source: Ernploymeni Security Commission, Civilian Labor Force Estimates.
4.2.3 Commuter Patterns
As shown in Table 8 and in Map 4 - Commuting Patterns, 72.5 percent of the employed
residents of Jones County commute outside of the county to work whereas only 12.1
and 14.1 percent respectively commute outside of Craven and Onslow counties. Of the
three study counties, Jones County had the highest mean travel time to work at 29.7
minutes and Craven County had the lowest at 20.6 minutes (based on 2000 Census
data). It can be deduced that Jones County residents have a longer commute time
because they must cross county lines more frequently, and therefore travel a longer
distance, to reach places of employment in the urban area of Onslow and Craven
Counties.
Of the 4,267 employed residents of Jones County who commute outside the county,
nearly 50 percent travel to either Onslow or Craven counties. Of the 41,848 employed
residents of Craven County who commute outside the county, just over one percent
travel to Jones or Onslow counties. Of the 79,320 employed residents of Onslow
County who commute outside of the county, just over 2 percent travel to Jones or
Craven counties. Given that the major employment centers in the area are in New Bern
'rip R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 19
? I L
' ? II
and Jacksonville it can be presumed that the majority of this travel is being conducted
on US 17 through Jones County.
Table 8
Commuting
Out m

•
ConnmNeu;
conuutms
o
Ito..
etean
as P.
Cant Pe.Sarls aS V...om Count Wino travel
;
u Welkin'] of Pmsons Workers Net Cnuvnulioo 'I OOC to
6uplayed Out limployed in In WodLoi in I.ivtu0 in cmnnmt6iq Ilatin Work
Count Residents Commuters Residents county cmnnuaars coup coon a (b 2880
Jones -1267 3092 72.5 _ 1,994 819 411 1,175 -2,273 0.467 29.7 minutes
Craven 41,848 5,917 14.1 _
46,329 io 22.4 35,931 4-,481 1.107 _ 20.6 minutes
Onslmv 79,399 9,920 17.1 76,316 6,537 8.6 69779 -3,063 0.%1 21.2 minutes
(a) Net Commuting = the difference between persons working in the county and employed residents of the county as
well as the difference between in commuters and out commuters.
(b) Commuting Ratio = the ratio of persons working in the county to employed residents of the county. A value of
one implies zero commuting; a value greater than one corresponds to net in commuting; less than one, to net out
commuting.
Source: North Cmolint State Otta Center, North Carolina Committing to Work, 2000 Census.
4.2.4 Major Employers
Each quarter the North Carolina Employment Security Commission issues information
for the ten major employers for each county in the state. Table 9 below provides the
name of the employer, the industry, and an employment range -151 quarter 2003. (A
range is provided to protect confidentiality.)
According to first quarter 2003 employment data, the two largest (non-military)
employers in Onslow County are Wal-Mart and Covergys Customer Management
Group. Both of these companies employ between 500 and 999 people. In Craven
County there are three firms that have an employment of between 500 and 999:
Brunswick Corporation, Moen
Incorporated, and Weyerhauser. The
largest employers in Jones County are
Trent Village Nursing Home which
employed between 100 and 249 persons,
Eastern Carolina Internal with 50 to 99
employees, and Bender Burkot East
Coast School Supply with 50 to 99
employees.
Figure 2: Bender Burkot East Coast School Supply - Pollocksville
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 20
'Table 9 - Major Employers by County - 1s' Quarter 2003
Employment
Craven Count Employer Industry Range
Brunswick Corporation Manufacturing 500-999
Moen Incorporated Manufacturing 500-999
Weyerhauser Co. Manufacturing 500-999
BSH Home Appliance Corp- Manufacturing 250-499
Trade, Transportation &
Wal-Mart Associates, Inc. Utilities 250-499
Babcock & Wilcox Construction Construction 250-499
McDonalds Leisure & Hospitality 250-499
Professional& Business
Adecco USA, Inc. Srvcs. 250-499
Carolina Telephone & Telegraph Information 250-499
Trade, Transportation &
Vertex Aerospace, LLC Utilities 250-499
Employment
Jones Count Employer Industry Range
Education and Health
Trent Village Nursing Home, Inc. Services 100-249
Education and Health
Eastern Carolina Internal Services 50-99
Bender Burkot East Coast Trade,.Transportation &
School Supply. Utilities 50-99
Education and Health
Home Health & Hospice Care Services 20-49
Trade, Transportation &
Charles Blythe Equipment Co. Utilities 20-49
Blue Rock Structures, Inc. Construction . 20-49
Professional& Business
Jenkins Gas & Oil, Inc. Srvcs. 20-49
Murphy-Brown, LLC Natural Resources & Mining 20-49
Trade, Transportation &
Preston Taylor Foods, Inc. Utilities 20-49
Jones Count Cotton Gin Natural Resources & Minim 20-49
Employment
Onslow Count Indust Range
Trade, Transportation &
Wal-Mart Associates, Inc. Utilities 500-999
Covergys Customer Mgmt. Professional & Business
Group Srvcs. 500-999
Ecommerce Support Centers Information 250-499
Trade, Transportation &
Food Lion, LLC Utilities 250-499
McDonalds Leisure & Hospitality 250-499
Coastal Enterprises of
Jacksonville Education & Health Services 250-499
Stanadyne Corporation Manufacturing 250-499
Professional & Business
Telemarketing Concepts Srvcs. 250-499
Professional& Business
Atlantic Personnel Services Srvcs. 250-499
Marine Federal Credit Union Professional & Business 250-499
Sauce: Employment Security Commission - Largest Private Employers by County, 19 Quarter 2003.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 21
•n .
It is apparent from the ESC data that Jones County employers are much smaller than
those in Craven and Onslow Counties. According to Roy Fogle, Economic Development
Director for Jones County, the following "top ten employers" are located either along
US 17 or within a several block area: Blue Rock Structures (1524 Highway 17 South in
Pollocksville), Eastern Carolina Internal Medicine (Highway 17 South in Pollocksville),
Home Health and Flospice Cate (1004 Jenkins Avenue in Maysville), Trent Village
Nursing Center (Highway 17 South in Pollocksville), Bender-Burkot East Coast School
Supply Company (Highway 17 North - Sermon Lane in Pollocksville), and Jenkins Gas
Company (Highway 17 in Pollocksville).
4.3 Social and Housing Characteristics of Communities
As noted in the DEIS and the Cannutnity Impact Assessment, TIP project No. R-2514,
which proposes the improvement of US 17 from SR 1336 (Deppe Loop Road)/SR 1349
(Spring Hill Road) south of Belgrade to the Jones/Craven County line could potentially
impact one community in Onslow County and two towns and eight communities in
Jones County.
Executive Order 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minoritt/.nnd
Low Income Populations was signed by President Clinton on February 11, 1994 and
requires that all Federal agencies administer and implement programs and actions so
that "disproportionately high and adverse" effects to minority and low-income
populations are avoided. To fully comply with the Executive Order, project-related,
indirect and cumulative impacts to the minority and low-income comnumities are to be
considered.
The towns and communities located within the study area include (Map 5 -
Community Map):
? The Belgrade community (Onslow County), located south of the Town of
Maysville along the east and west sides of US 17;
? The Town of Maysville (Jones County), located between the Belgrade community
and the Chadwick Community along the east and west sides of US 17;
? The Chadwick community (Jones County), located between the towns of
Maysville and Pollocksville along the east and west sides of US 17;
? The Hatchville community (Jones County), located west of US 17 and southwest
of the Town of Pollocksville along the north and south sides of NC 58:
? The Garnett Heights community (Jones County), located east of US 17 and
southeast of the Town of Pollocksville on the south side of Beaufort Road (SR
1004);
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 22
9 The Goshen community Qones County), located west of US 17 and the Town of
Pollocksville on the north and south sides of Goshen Road, an extension of
Pollock Street;
The Town of Pollocksville (Jones County), located northeast of the Hatchville
community and south of the Oak Grove/Murphytown communities along the
east and west sides of US 17,
Y The Oak Grove/Murphytown communities (Jones County), located north of the
Town of Pollocksville on the north and south sides of Oak Grove Road and the
east and west sides of US 17 and Killis Murphy Road; and,
? The Ten Mile Fork/Deep Gully comnumities Qones County), located north of the
Oak Grove/Murphytown communities on the north and south sides of Ten Mile
Fork and the east and west sides of US 17.
(The following detailed community descriptions were taken from the Wilbur Smith
Associates Community Impact Assessment, dated January 2002 with the addition of
Census 2000 information.)
Figure 3: Belgrade Fire Deparhnenf
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Beni, ICI Report 23
'-f -;. '
TOZUn of MallSVilIC
The Town of Maysville, the largest town in Jones County, is a small racially-mixed (35
percent white, 63 percent black,
and 2 percent other - Census 2000)
town with a 2002 population of
FW
1,002. As noted in the Jones County
Comprehensive Strategic Plan -
eptemher 2001, Maysville is the
S
only town in Jones County that has
been able to sustain a long-term
growth in population (an increase
of 184 persons between 1950 and
2002). It is presumed that this
growth is due to its geographic
location, as US 17 and NC 58
intersect in Maysville. Figure 4: Maysville- LIS 17
The Town of Maysville is located along both sides of.US 17 for approximately 1.2 miles
and is bounded by the Croatan National Forest to the north and the White Oak River to
the south. Roy Fogle, Economic Development Director for Jones County, noted that
Maysville is becoming a small bedroom community for the City of Jacksonville. Recent
development and expansion has occurred along NC 58, the main roadway to Emerald
Isle and other beach areas.
According to the Census, there were 461 housing traits located within the town as of
April 2000. Of these units 386 were occupied and 75 were either abandoned or vacant.
Of the vacant/abandoned units, 37 were single-family detached, 4 were single-family
attached, and 34 were mobile homes. The housing unit mix in the town consisted of 247
single-family detached units, 4 single-family attached units, 179 mobile homes, and 33
multi-family units.
Most residents work outside Maysville and utilize US 17 for their commute. Work
travel is equally divided between New Bern and Jacksonville, with some residents
working in Pollocksville and Maysville. Residents of Maysville are served by Maysville
city water, Jones County garbage service, Sprint telephone service, and Progress Energy
electric.
Chadwick Community
The Chadwick community is an African-American community located between
Maysville and Pollocksville along both sides of US-17. On the eastern side of US 17, the
TIP R-251.4, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 24
community extends for approximately 0.5 miles and is bounded on t11e north, east and
south by the Joseph Nathan Foscne Plantation. On the western side of US 17, the
community extends for approximately 1.3 miles and is bounded on the west and south
by the Lee's Chapel community. All of the properties within the Chadwick Community
have a driveway with direct access to US 17. Many of the residential structures are
within 50 to 100 feed of the roadway.
According to Census 2000 data, the Chadwick community includes 59 residential
structures (46 single-family detached dwellings and 13 mobile homes), 16 (13 single-
family detached dwellings and 3 mobile homes) of which are located on the eastern side
of US 17 and 43 (33 single-family detached dwellings and 10 mobile homes) of which
are located on the western side of US 17. There are no churches, recreation areas,
businesses, or industries within he community. As of March 2000, 47 structures (40
single-family detached dwellings and 7 mobile homes) were inhabited and 12 structures
(6 single-family detached dwellings and 6 mobile homes) were either abandoned or
vacant.
The Chadwick community does have Jones County water service, garbage collection,
cable television, and electricity by Progress Energy. As the residents of Chadwick are
outside of the town limits, they have not been offered service by the Town of
Pollocksville for sewage treatment and must utilize septic systems.
Hatchville Connnunihi - Hatchville, a small African-American community, is located
approximately .4 miles southwest of Pollocksville along both sides of NC 58. The
community is bounded to east by US 17 and to west by SR 1338. According to Census
2000 data, the Hatchville community consists of 58 residential structures (single-family
detached, mobile homes, and a multi-family structure), 2 churches and 2 businesses.
There are 23 structures on the north side of 58 (15 single-family detached homes, 6
mobile homes, 1 church, and 1 business) and 39 structures on the south side of NC 58
(29 single-family detached homes, 7 mobile homes, 1 multi-family structure, 1 church,
and 1 business). As of April 2000, 10 of the structures (6 single-family detached homes,
2 mobile homes, and 2 businesses) were abandoned or vacant.
The Hatchville community has Jones County water and Pollocksville sewer service,
curbside trash service, Progress Energy electricity, and phone service by Sprint.
Garnett Heights Coi n iLttLb - Garnett Heights, a small African-American community is
located approximately .35 miles southeast of Pollocksville and US 17 along the south
side of SR 1004 (Beaufort Road). Garnett Heights is bounded to the north and east by
floodplains and wetlands of Mill Creek, a tributary of the Trent River. The community
rip R-2514, US 17 widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 25
consists of 54 residential structures (43 single-family detached homes and 11 mobile
homes) and a Church. Six single-family detached home are located north of SR 1004 and
37 single-family detached homes
and 11 mobile homes are located
.11P 36?, south of SR 1004. As of April 2000,
6 single-family detached homes
were either abandoned or vacant.
The Garnett Heights community is
served by Town of Pollocksville
water and sewer, curbside garbage
collection, cable television,
Progress Energy electricity, and
Sprint phone service.
Figure 5: Clinton Chapel Memorial AME Zion Church in Garnett Heights
Town of Pollocksville - The Town of Pollocksville, a predominantly white (79 percent
white, 20 percent black, and 1 percent other) community located in Jones County along
both sides of US 17 had a 2002
population of 269. US 17
serves as the town's main All
?11 WC_U?
street and many businesses
and homes line the highway
along both sides. The town is
bounded to the north by the
Trent River, to the east by
Mill Creek, by Fourth Street
to the west and SR 1004
(Beaufort Road) and Hines
Street to the south.
Figure 6: Pollocksville - US 17
The abandoned Seaboard Coastline railroad is located approximately one block east of
US 17. The majority of the town and most its public facilities are located west of the
abandoned railroad. According to the Census there were 156 housing units located in
the Town of Pollocksville in 2000. Of these units 116 were occupied and 40 were vacant.
The housing stock was comprised of 131 single-family detached housing units and 25
mobile homes. Of the vacant units 30 were single-family and 10 were mobile homes.
TIP R-2514, US "17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 26
It was noted in the Community Impact Assessment report that most residents work in
New Bern, Jacksonville, Pollocksville, Trenton or Maysville. Residents of Pollocksville
are served by Janes County water, Progress Energy electricity, Sprint phone service,
garbage collection, and cable television. Residents within the town limits receive city
sewer services while those north of the Trent River use septic tanks.
The Town of Pollocksville opposes any alternative that would follow the existing
Highway 17 through the center of Pollocksville or follow a path on the eastern edge of
Town. In a February 20, 1996, memorandum from Mayor James V. Bender to NCDOT it
was stated that "any alternative which touches any part of the present city limits
threatens the very existence of the Town. The Town has just installed a new $3.2
million wastewater collection and treatment system ...any widening of Highway 17
through the city limits of Pollocksville would mark the beginning of the end for the
Town of Pollocksville as an incorporated municipality. The citizens of the Town are
opposed to any such alternative, and have indicated their support for a western by-pass
route." A western bypass alternative would potentially cumulatively impact the
Goshen connmunity, as is noted in the following section.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 27

Figurer. Tozon of Pollocksville Wastewater Treatment Plant.

In the early 1990s the Town of Pollocksville built a sewer treatment plant in the Goshen
community directly across from the Goshen cemetery. The land needed for the project
was owned by several of the founding families of the community who for aesthetic and
historical reasons did not want a sewage treatment plant in Goshen. The residents
resisted selling their land and in the end the properties were condemned. A lawsuit
was filed which resulted in the Town of Pollocksville paying the landowners market
price for the land. The landowners never accepted the payment because they opposed
the project and the amount of the compensation. While the residents of Goshen can see
and smell the sewage treatment plant they are not provided sewer service, though the
plant does have the capacity to accommodate the community. The residents of the
community rely on septic tanks for sewage disposal but are served by Jones County
water, garbage collection, cable television, Progress Energy electricity, and Sprint phone
service. The mobile home park located in the community has unpaved roads. and
provides community wells for water and individual septic systems.
Murkliftoron Community - Murphytown is a small predominantly African-American
community located along both sides of US 17 between the Town of Pollocksville and the
Ten Mile Fork and Deep Gully communities. An old segment of US 17, now known as
SR 1336 (Killis Murphy Road), represents the northern and southern limits of the
community. There are no cross-streets in Murphytown and the residents have
driveway access to US 17 with many of the homes within' 50 to 100 feet of the roadway.
The community consists of 34 residential structures (29 single-family detached units
and 5 mobile homes) and 2 businesses. Seventeen of the residential structures (14
single-family and 3 mobile homes) are located on the eastern side of US 17; and the
other 17 residential structures (15 single-family and 2 mobile homes) and 2 businesses
are located on the western side of US 17. As of November 2000, 31 residential structures
(26 single-family detached and 5 mobile homes) were occupied and 3 single-family
units and one business were either abandoned or vacant. There are no churches;
recreation areas, or industries located within the community.
The Murphytown community is served by Jones County water, garbage collection,
Progress Energy. electricity, and Sprint telephone service but relies on septic systems for
sewage disposal.
Oak Grove Coni n inihr - The Oak Grove community is a racially-mixed community that
is located along both sides of Oak Grove Road, west of Murphytown. The Oak Grove
community includes 58 residential structtu•es (42 single-family detached and 14 mobile
homes). Twenty-one of the residential structures (16 single-family detached and 5
mobile homes) are located on the southern side of Oak Grove Road and 31 residential
structures (22 single-family detached and 9 mobile homes) are located on the northern
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 28
side of US 17. As of November 2000, 53 structures (39 single-family detached and 14
mobile homes) were occupied and 5 structures (3 single-family detached and 2 mobile
homes) were abandoned or vacant. There are no churches, recreation areas, businesses
or industries located within the community.
The Oak Grove community is served by Jones County water; garbage collection,
Progress Energy electricity, and Sprint telephone service but relies on septic systems for
sewage disposal.
Ten Mile Fork Connnunihi - The Ten Mile Fork Community, a small predominantly white
community is located between the Oak Grove ad Murphytown communities and the
Deep Gully community. There are no cross streets within the Ten mile Fork
Community; residents have driveway access to Ten Mile Fork Road. The community
consists of 25 residential structures (21 single-family detached and 4 mobile homes) and
one business. "Thirteen of the residential structures (11 single-family detached and 2
mobile homes) are located on the southern side of Ten Mile Fork Road and 12
residential structures (10 single-family detached and 2 mobile homes) are located on the
northern side of US 17. There is one business located in the old Ten Mile Fork gas .
station. `A's of NoJeinbe'r2000;,all 25 structures were'occupied. There are no churches;:..
recreation areas, or industries located within the community.
The Ten Mile Fork community is served by Progress Energy electricity, cable television,
and Sprint telephone service but relies on individual septic tanks for sewer and private
wells for water.
Deep Gully Comm nitd - The Deep Gully Community, a small predominantly white
community is located along both sides of US 17 from the intersection of US 17/Ten Mile
Fork Road to the Jones/Craven County line. There are no cross-streets within the
community and residents have direct driveway access to US 17. Most of the residences
are located within 50 to 100 feet from the roadway. The community consists of 31
residential structures (24 single-family detached and 7 mobile homes), one business,
and one day care center. Fourteen of the residential structures (12 single-family
detached and 2 mobile homes) are located on the eastern side of US 17 and 17
residential structures (12 single-family detached and 5 mobile homes) are located on the
western side of US 17. Twenty-nine of the structures (20 single-family detached and 9
mobile homes) were occupied as of November 2000. Four of the residences were either
abandoned or vacant. The business, Mid-Atlantic Propeller, and the day care center are
located on the eastern side of US 17. There are no churches, recreation areas, or
industries located within the community.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening From North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 29
The Deep Gully community is served by Progress Energy electricity, cable television,
and Sprint telephone service but relies on individual septic tanks for sewer and private
wells for water.
4.4 Current and Proposed Transportation Projects
As stated in the DEIS, US '17 is classified as a principal arterial in the Statewide
Functional Classification System and is part of the Federal. Aid Primary System. The
existing roadway consists primarily of a two-lane facility with three-lane, curb and
gutter facilities in the towns of Maysville and Pollocksville. There is currently on-street
parking in both of the towns. Sidewalks are provided in certain areas along the west
side of US 17 in Maysville and along the east side of US 17 at the Trent River Bridge in
Pollocksville.
NC 58 is the only North Carolina route that passes through the study area. This
highway extends from Warrenton to Atlantic Beach and serves as an access route to the
beach areas. Traveling from Trenton, NC 58 enters the study area just south of
Pollocksville where it intersects with US 17. NC 58 is shared with US 17 south to
Maysville where it diverges in a southeasterly direction towards the coast.
US 17 through Jones County (from Craven to Onslow County) is the primary roadway
for residents traveling to work, shopping, and for other appointments. In addition, as
noted in the Jones County Thoroughfare Plan, two sections of US 17 are designated as
part of NC Bike Route 3 (Ports of Call). The portions of US 17 included are from
Onslow County to SR 1116 (Fourth Street) and from NC 58 to SR 1004 (Beaufort
Road/Island Creek Road). Bicycle traffic should be expected on these sections of US 17.
The proposed widening of US 17 extends into Craven County as Transportation
Improvement Project R-2301A and is included in the Craven County Thoroughfare
Plan. Table 10 shows other TIP projects located within the vicinity of this project.
Table 10
TIP Projects Located Within Vicinitv of US 17 WideninL, Project (R-2514)
TIP Project Count Location Status
U-2107 Onslow Jacksonville Bypass Under Construction
R-2514A Onslow N. of Jacksonville to S. of
Maysville Design in Progress
R-2301A/B Craven New Bern Bypass Design in Progress
B-3483 Jones Mill Creek Bridge
Replacement Unknown
Source: Draft EIS, US 17 Widening From North of Jacksonville to South. of Neto Bern, (R-2514).
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, 10 Report 30
4.5 Existing Land Use
As noted in the Draft EIS and verified through field visits, the majority of the study area
is located in rural, unincorporated sections of Jones and Onslow Counties. The land use
in this area is predominantly agricultural, forests, and wetlands, as well as low-density
single-family residential and sparse commercial development. Much of the area is
located adjacent to the Croatan National Forest and is surrounded by private
commercial forestlands. The private land use can be classified as agricultural and
residential. As previously noted in the Housing section of this report, the majority of
the residential units are single-family residences and mobile homes.
An October 2003 field visit revealed that the study area is characterized by sparse
residential development with more dense development in and near the Towns of
Maysville and Pollocksville as well as the community of Belgrade. Likewise,
commercial and industrial development is scattered throughout the study area, with the
greatest concentration of non-residential development occurring near Maysville,
Pollocksville, and Belgrade and along US 17.
4.6 Review of Local Plans
This portion of the analyses will detail existing study area land use, development,
strategic, capital improvement and thoroughfare plans. These local plans are typically
used as guides in the development and siting of future residential and commercial
growth. A review of the pertinent local plans will assist with the assessment of potential
project-related induced growth.
Jones and Craven Counties do not currently have a Comprehensive or Growth
Management Plan to guide the growth and development of their counties, but do have
Strategic Plans that address land use issues and concerns. Jones County does not have a
zoning ordinance; however, development must be in accordance with state rules and
regulations. Craven County does have limited land-use control through zoning.
Onslow County has land-use control through zoning and does have a draft "Citizens
Comprehensive Plan" (9/27/02).
As the overwhelming majority of the project as well as the two potential areas of
induced growth, the intersection of US 17/NC 58 and the proposed interchange, are
located within Jones County, the Jones County Thoroughfare Plan was also reviewed.
rip R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 31
4.6.1 - Jones County
]ones Countif Strategic Plait - (September 2001)
While the "Jones County Strategic Plan" is not a traditional land use plan per se, it does
detail an important vision for the
County by outlining strategies related to
economic development, agriculture,
travel/tourism/arts, education, and
environment/community facilities, as
well as specific strategies for the Towns
of Maysville and Pollocksville. (Note
that only strategies relevant to
transportation, land use, growth and
development, and the environment will
be included.)
Figure 8: Jones County Administration Building - Trenton, NC.
Vision Statement: Jones.County will continue to be an attractive, family-oriented,
rural area with an abundance of natural beauty and resources that encourage
planned economic development and . educational opportunities. We will
maintain a high quality of life using a diversity of ideas and creative solutions
brought together by a proactive leadership that continues to make Jones County
a better place to live, work, play, and worship.
? Economic Development Strategies:
o Amend existing or enact new state legislation that is fair to small rural counties
for the distribution of tax credits and other financial incentives for new and
expanding industry in Jones County.
o Constrict a speculative shell building in Jones County.
o Develop the Joint Industrial Park in cooperation with Craven County.
o Establish new industrial/commercial sites in Pollocksville and Maysville.
o Develop a targeted industry marketing program to attract specific types of
industries to Jones County.
o Construct adequate wastewater treatment systems in Maysville, Pollocksville,
and Trenton.
o Complete four-laning of US Highway 17 from the Craven County line to Onslow
County which will be conducive to future development in Jones County.
o Join a 15 county group to explore alternative sources of potable water.
o Conduct and develop a County Land Use Plan to identify various areas of the
county that are most suitable for various uses, such as housing development.
TIP R-2514, US V Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report . 32
y c
y+ n h?- 77;-
o Implement a County Community Housing Program to work directly with
private developers to construct new affordable housing.
o Ensure that County ordinances are conducive to planned and desirable housing
development.
? Travel/TourisrnlArts Strategies:
o Restore the Old Brock Mill Pond as historic area and tourism attraction.
o Update all information on Jones County located on the state of North Carolina
Tourism website and add a link to the Jones County website.
o Create a 13 county Tourism Commission.
o Provide expanded exposure to the fine arts for the citizens of Jones County.
o Establish and maintain historical districts for Jones County towns.
o Establish a road side park at the Royal Oak Site Qones{Onslow County line).
o Develop and promote new agri-tourism sites in Jones County."
o Install highway historic markers for site of interest on all major highways.
o Establish new walking trails and canoeing routes.
? Environnrerrtal/Connmrnity Facilities Strategies:
o Complete a county water resource marketing plan to sell potable water to
surrounding counties and municipalities.
o Complete a countywide water and sewer rate assessment to ensure that rates are
high enough to support adequate maintenance and depreciation of all water and
wastewater plants and distribution systems.
o Complete a countywide Land Use Plan.
o Complete a countywide Well Head Protection Plan.
o Provide additional space to house the County Sheriff Department.
? Toeon of Pollocksville Strategies:
o Work in conjunction with the county government, NCDOT, US 17 Highway 17
Association, and others to ensure that the proposed US 17 Highway Bypass is
routed in a manner conducive to the future development and growth of the
Town. Ensure that the bypass is not routed through any part of the Town's
jurisdictional limits.
o Work with community planners and the NC Division of Community Assistance
to design a method of extending the Town's planning and zoning jurisdiction
(ETJ) to include the new Highway 17 Bypass corridor.
o Secure funding and work with county government and county developers to
extend the town's water and sewer treatment facilities to areas in the ET) to
sustain current, and attract new, economic and community development
projects.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 33
> TozonofMaysville Shategies:
o Form a citizen group and work in conjunction with county government to ensure
that the proposed US Highway 17 Bypass is routed in a manner conducive to the
future development and growth of the Town.
o Perform an analysis of existing wastewater treatment capacity to determine
actions needed to correct deficiencies.
o Make an application to the NC Department of Commerce for participation in the
"Main Street" Downtown Revitalization Program.
Thoroughfare Plan Technical Report for focus County - (February 1999)
The North Carolina Department of Transportation's Statewide Planning Branch
prepared a Thoroughfare Plan for Jones County in 1999. The impetus for the plan was
the desire by the County to adequately plan for future transportation needs. An
expressed concern was the increased development in the eastern and northwestern
portions of the County as well as potential future growth. The Thoroughfare Plan was
requested to determine the impact of the existing and future development on the
existing transportation system.
The following growth assumptions were stated in the Thoroughfare Plan:
? The eastern portion of Jones County, which is primarily served by US 17, has the
highest growth expectations in the county, specifically in the White Oak and
Pollocksville Townships (from the intersection of NC 58 and US 17 in
Pollocksville to the Jones/Craven County line.)
> The US 17 corridor is identified by Jones County as a growth focus with an
expectation of future residential and commercial/retail growth.
> Residential and commercial/retail development is expected within the vicinity of
US 17.
> The recommended improvements to US 17 (R-2514), in addition to
accommodating the expected traffic increase, may help spur economic
development within the area which will in turn provide an expanded tax base.
Capital Improvement Plan for Meeting Infrastructure Needs of Jones County and its
Municipalities - October 2001
The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) was prepared to evaluate existing Jones County
infrastructure and recommend improvements to accommodate sustained growth and
development within the County. There are currently three water systems in place in
Jones County: Jones County Regional Water System, Town of Maysville, and Town of
Pollocksville. There are also three sewer systems in place in Jones County: Town of
Maysville, Town of Pollocksville, and Town of Trenton.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 34
Jones County Regional Water System - The JCRWS serves approximately 2,700 homes
with central water and maintains emergency connections with water systems in the
towns of Maysville and Pollocksville. Since the initial construction of the system, the
customer base has grown rapidly as rural homes abandoned private wells in favor of
central water. This increased demand has reduced available surplus capacity. In
consideration of existing supply and distribution needs, the JCRWS is in the process of
implementing the following capital improvement projects: the construction of two
wells, two elevated storage tanks, and distribution system upgrades. Tile two new wells
will provide surplus capacity to accommodate residential growth, new commercial
needs, and/or service to adjacent water systems.
Town of Maysville - The Town operates independent central water and sewer systems
serving an estimated 484 customers. The existing water system consists of one well, one
elevated storage tank, one water treatment facility, and distribution piping. It was noted
in the CIP that the existing water system facilities are in need of substantial
improvements as a result of aging (25+ years) and continued use. To meet current
service demands, the Town has an immediate need for one new well, the rehabilitation
of the existing well and substantial upgrades to the water treatment facility. As the
Town does not anticipate experiencing significant population growth it has not planned
for a capacity increase but rather focuses on long-term maintenance of facilities.
The Town operates an 180,000 gallon per day wastewater treatment facility with
effluent discharging into the White Oak River (Neese River Basin). The facility
experiences operational problems and is periodically assessed fines by DWQ. The
Town is currently working to bring this facility into compliance with NPDES permit
effluent limits. In addition, the existing wastewater treatment plant cannot comply
with Neuse River rules and upgrades are necessary to allow the facility to efficiently
operate. An alternative to facility upgrades is the construction of a new land
application wastewater treatment facility. Land for spray irrigation must be located
within close proximity to the Town.
Town of Pollocksville - The Town operates independent central water and sanitary sewer
systems. The water system consists of two wells, a water treatment plant, an elevated
storage tank, and distribution piping that currently serves 298 customers. The Town
maintains an emergency connection with the Jones County Regional Water System. As
the Town does not anticipate experiencing significant population growth it has not
planned for a capacity increase but rather focuses on long-term maintenance of
facilities.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 35
The Town operates a land application wastewater treatment facility (located in the
Goshen community) that currently serves 801 customers. The permitted capacity is
102,000 gallons per day while the average flow is 61,000 gallons per day. The land
application system complies with Neuse River rules as no effluent is discharged into the
basin. As noted above, the facility has surplus capacity that would accommodate
additional residential and commercial growth. It was noted in the CIP that the Town of
Maysville and Jones County may wish to promote and develop commercial growth
opportunities within the Town.
4.6.2 - Craven County
Craven 2006 - Strategically Planning for the NeW Millenium
While the Craven County "Craven 2006 - Strategically Planning for the New
Millenium" document is not a land use plan, it much like the Jones County Strategic
Plan, does detail an important
.7777 -7-77-7 vision for the County by
outlining missions, findings, and
_ recommendations related to the
t a?x s environment, economic
iy JS, ?!
J.it'f development, and education.
Figure 9: Welcome to Craven County Sign - LIS 17
i Environment
? Mission: To improve, conserve, protect, and use the environment in ways that
ensure long term social, environmental, and economic benefits for Craven County.
? Findings: Craven County is both urban and rural, and each form of land
development presents its own risks to water quality. As the population increases,
land will continue to be developed for urban uses, specifically residential,
commercial, and industrial which in turn raises issues related to the disposal and
treatment of wastewater.
o Recommendation 1: Develop and adopt a Uniform Growth Management Plan
and implement that Plan through the adoption by county and municipal
governments of ordinances, policies, incentives, and other tools.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, 10 Report 36
?i
o Recommendation 2: Develop a coordinated and comprehensive approach to
address wastewater treatment and disposal issues. The paramount goal
being that all wastewater should be appropriately treated before it is released
into the environment. This wastewater planning must acknowledge the
widespread use of individual septic systems in the County and provide for
the disposal of septage during regular maintenance of those systems.
o Recommendation 3: Control the quantity and quality of water entering the
Neuse Estuary by: (1) developing a regional approach to reducing urban and
residential stormwater impacts, and (2) reducing nitrogen leaving Craven
County croplands by 30 percent through the use of Best Management
Practices (BMPs).
Economic Development
? Mission: To create prosperity and stability in Craven County's economy through
emphasis on retention and growth in desirable sectors of business and industry.
? Findings:
Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors of the Craven County economy. There
is a need to develop and coordinate tourism efforts on a county-wide and regional
basis to maximize the return from investments in this highly productive area. In.
addition there is a need to improve the desirability of Craven County as a tourist
destination. -Zoning the major highway corridors, such as Highways 70 and. 17,
should be a high priority in a comprehensive effort to improve the appearance of the
county.
? Recommendation 1: Strengthen and expand tourism in Craven County.
o Action Steps: Protect and improve the physical appearance of the County and
its communities by: (1) identifying entry way corridors and focusing efforts
on improving their appearance, (2) developing and enforcing corridor
standards that the protect the County's appearance along the highway links;
(3) update, expand, and fund the 1990 Urban Design Plan; and (4) develop
and implement a comprehensive sign system throughout Craven County;
and, encourage adoption of billboard regulations along all corridors.
? Recommendation 2: Support the expansion and enhancement of existing businesses,
and create an environment that entices new businesses to locate to Craven County.
o Action Steps: (1) Assure the constant availability of industrial space by
encouraging both public and private sectors to option sites, plan and budget
for infrastructure and services, and construct shell building space; (2) include
the necessary utility sleeves or conduit pipes in all highway right-of-ways
planned in all future Transportation Improvement Plans (.TIPS) prepared for
Craven County; (3) continue to support the Highway 17 Association; and (4)
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 37
continue to support the Craven County Economic Development Commission
and Committee of 100.
4.6.3 Onslow County
OIISI07V COUntli Citizens Comprehensive Plan (9127102)
Onslow County is the only county in the study area to have a Comprehensive Plan. The
"Onslow County Citizens Comprehensive Plan - OCCCP" is an update to the "1997
Dnslow County Land Use
Plan." The OCCCP is focused
on four mission statements
and corresponding broad
policy areas. (Please note that
listing every policy would be
extremely lengthy, only those
policies related to the US 17
widening project will. be
presented).
Figure 10: Welcome to Onslow County sign - US 17
Mission Statement for Land Use and Development - Onssow County shall employ advanced
planning for orderly growth, so as to ensure the efficient use of land according to its
suitability for development, the cost-effective, coordinated provision of infrastructure
and services, the proper design and livability of its communities, neighborhoods and
rural areas, and the continued preservation and productivity of its farms, woodlands,
wetlands, and estuarine areas.
? Preferred Development Pattern
o Encourage developments which contribute to a distinct "town and country" or
"village and country" development pattern. (The intent of the policy is to foster a
return to balanced, full-service communities, allow for the preservation of true open
space, productive farms, woodlands, and important natural areas, to coordinate and
minimize costs of extending infrastructure and services, to avoid higher taxes, and
to minimize traffic congestion and negative environmental impacts associated with
suburban sprawl.)
71P R-2519, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 38
? Housing and Neighborhood Development
o Encourage development to occur at densities appropriate for their location. Location
factors shall include whether the development is within an environmentally
sensitive area, the type of sewage treatment available to the site, and the proximity
of the site to existing urban services.
o Developments in the unincorporated county shall be encouraged to employ
greenspace development as an environmentally sound, economically cost effective,
and visually attractive alternative to large lot sprawl.
o Innovative and flexible land planning and development practices shall be
encouraged to create neighborhoods which better safeguard land, water, energy,
and historic resources.
o Factors in determining the preferred locations for higher-density residential
development shall include: close proximity to employment and shopping centers,
access to major thoroughfares and transit systems, the availability of public services
and facilities, and compatibility with adjacent areas and land uses.
o All forms of.housing development should be discouraged from "leapfrogging" into
the countryside, thereby destroying the rural character of Onslow County, breaking
up farmland, and making the provision,oturban'services costly to homebuyers and
tax payers.
o So as to preserve the traffic moving function of the County's primary roads, prevent
traffic accidents, and avoid land locking interior land parcels, Onslow County shall
discourage residential and commercial strip development along the county's
primary roads. Flag lots shall not be permitted along primary roads unless justified
by unusual or unforeseeable parcel or topographic constraints.
? Commercial and Office Development
o Highway-oriented commercial uses should be clustered along segments of
highways and contain land uses which are mutually compatible and reinforcing in
use and design; they should be designed in such a way as to minimize signage,
access points, and uncontrolled strip development.
o Large commercial centers should be located adjacent to intersections of major
roadways.
o Incompatible commercial encroachment within or immediately adjoining existing
residential areas shall be prohibited.
o Strip development along the area's major streets and highways shall be discouraged.
New strip development on isolated single lots along major streets and highways
shall be discouraged.
o New or redeveloped commercial development along major county roadways shall
be encouraged to retain or create a buffer of trees adjoining the road right-of-way.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 39
Y Agriculttu•al and Rural Area Preservation
o Agriculture and directly-related residential activities shall be the preferred land uses
in rural and active agricultural areas.
o Rural and active agriculhrral lands having a high productive potential shall be
conserved, to the extent possible, for appropriate agricultural uses.
o Farms and woodlands shall be recognized as an integral part of the planning area's
open space system.
o County actions concerning infrastructure and regulations shall serve to direct new
development first to compact, targeted growth areas near existing towns.
o County actions should provide protection to existing agricultural and woodland
activities from incompatible uses.
Mission State tent for Infrastructure and Services - Onslow County shall provide (or.
encourage others to provide) necessary infrastructure and services consistent with
properly managed growth and desirable economic development. Priorities shall
include a balanced, multi-modal transportation system, assured sources of quality
drinking water, carefully planted wastewater treatment services, effective,
environmentally sound stormwater management, and fiscally efficient, environmentally
responsible solid waste management.
Y Transportation Policies
o Transportation planning shall be employed to promote a hierarchical, functional
transportation system, to prioritize needed improvements, and to promote the
proper arrangement of land patterns by controlling the location of streets, highways,
trails, and other modes of transportation.
o A program of improvements and maintenance to maximize the use of existing
roadways shall be employed as a cost effective and environmentally sound means of
meeting area transportation needs.
o Onslow County supports the construction and full extension of the US 7 Bypass
around Jacksonville, as well as other facility needs as endorsed for inclusion in the
State Transportation Improvement Program.
? Water and Sewer Service Policies
o Centralized water and sewer services should be concentrated within targeted service
areas, where development densities make the provision of services economically
efficient, or where the characteristics of the land make it particularly well-suited for
development.
o Centralized sewer services shall generally avoid parts of the county intended
primarily for agriculture and to protect farmland from development pressures
brought about by such sewers. Exceptions to this policy may include extensions for
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 40

major economic development initiatives, and extensions to address imminent public
health problems or related environmental hazards.
o The County shall support the provision and/or expansion of centralized sewer
services when such services will serve to steer dense development away from
valuable environmental areas, such as floodplains and water supply watersheds.
? Stormwater Management, Drainage and Flooding Policies
o Onslow County will work to require the retention and management of natural
vegetation in buffer areas along its creeks and rivers.
o The County shall consult with the NC Department of Transportation and the NC
Division of Water Quality on all future road projects so that successful solutions
may be shared.
' o Development activities within the 100-year floodplain or near water bodies shall be
carefully controlled. If development must occur, low intensity uses such as
recreation and agriculturally-related activities shall be preferred.
o Onslow County shall discourage the placement of septic systems within the 100-year
floodplain.
. Mission Statement for Resource Management and Use - Onlsow County shall' encourage the
long-term management and wise use of its natural resources including, particularly,
-ocean and estuarine resources, surface and ground water systems, wetland and;
.
floodplain ecosystems, and other important natural areas. Management efforts shall
work to protect the natural productivity of these areas and their critical role in storm
protection and hazard mitigation.
? Natural Heritage Areas and Public Forests Policies
o The County shall take no action which would irreparably harm the long-term
viability of valuable natural heritage sites in the county. If action must be taken to
achieve public health, safety, and welfare objectives, project designs shall seek to
incorporate features which preserve and protect natural features as an integral part
of the project design.
o Onslow County shall work proactively with the Hoffman Forest Foundation, NC
State University, and the State of North Carolina to act as a proper steward for the
long-term management and use of this important natural resource area.
Mission Statement for Economy and Culture - Onslow County shall seek to ensure a high
quality of life for its citizens, by working to attract and expand a diversified economic
base (including a strong military component), ample parks and recreation facilities, an
active arts and cultural community, affordable, quality health and elder care, an
TIP R-25"14, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 41

excellent public school system, sustained interest in the area's history and traditions,
and area-wide support for community cleanliness and beauty.
Y Economic Development Policies
o New and expanding industries and businesses shall be encouraged which diversify
the local economy, train and utilize a more highly skilled labor force, and increases
per capita income.
o The County shall protect, enhance, and encourage a high quality of life, including
the conservation and management of natural and man-made resources, as an
effective component of an economic development and diversification strategy.
o The County shall seek to foster travel and tourism and agricultural industries that
are compatible with a high quality of life.
o The County shall promote coordination of economic development resources among
various local institutional agencies and seek regional cooperation and interaction
among areas with shared economic interests.
o The County endorses a pro-business/pro-growth attitude, balanced by a concern for
preserving the natural assets and quality of life factors that made the area attractive
to visitors and permanent residents.
o The proper management of growth, including wise land use planning, and the
coordinated provision of water and sewer utilities, shall be viewed as important
factors in economic development. ' , , .
? Parks and Recreation Policies
o Future park development and open space preservation shall be planned to provide
for the proper distribution of recreation and open space opportunities within the
planning area.
o In determining future sites for parks, recreation and water access facilities, multiple
objectives for natural area conservation, visual enhancement, promotion of cultural
and historic preservation, watershed and flood prone area protection shall be
considered.
o Identifying, planning for and developing a system of open space greenways and
hiking trails within the County shall be supported. The use of natural corridors
such as streams and floodplains, and man-made corridors such as utility and
transportation rights-of-way and easements, shall be emphasized.
o Onslow County shall work proactively with other local and state governments,
utility companies, industries, and other major landowners in the development of
walking and bicycling trails for the public.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, TO Report 42

Cultural History Historic Preservation and Revitalization Policies
o Local efforts to identify, designate and preserve sites, buildings and districts of
particular historic significance shall be supported as a means of enhancing their
economic, cultural, and tourism value to the area.
o The destruction of significant architectural, historic and archaeological resources in
the planning area shall be discouraged.
4.7 Environmental Regulations
The study area for this project is located within two river basins - the Neuse River Basin
and the White Oak River Basin. The North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ),
under the direction of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is
responsible for protecting the water resources of the state.
Neuse River Riparian Area Rules - Specific rules for protecting the Neuse River Basin
were adopted on 12/10997 by the North Carolina Environmental Management
Commission (EMC). There are two major rules that apply to this basin: (1) mandated 30
percent reduction of nitrogen loading and (2) establishment and preservation of 50-foot
wide riparian buffers directly adjacent to surface waters. Under this' rule, the first 30
feet of the buffer is to remain essentially undisturbed while the landward 20 feet is to be
vegetated (certain uses are allowed in this zone). There are currently no specific rules
regulating development within the White Oak River basin.
An additional regulation that applies to land development within the study area is the
Sedimentation and Erosion Control Act. This act requires that any person who will be
disturbing more than one acre of land submit a Sedimentation and Erosion Control Plan
to the Division of Land Resources. The full regulation is located at
w%vw.Lilr.eiir.state.nc.us/iicac.(io
e.
5.0 Inventory of Notable Features
This section of the report creates a baseline for identification of indirect and cumulative
impacts by creating an inventory of the important and notable features of the area.
Notable features are defined in the literature as sensitive species and habitats, valued
environmental components, unusual landscape features, and vulnerable elements of the
population. These features can occur naturally or may be man-made, such as historic
structures.
As noted in the Guidance document, the objective of creating the inventory is to
identify specific valued environmental aspects within the study area against which the
project may be assessed. The data contained in this section of the report was obtained
11' K-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, 10 Report 43
from a review of the DEIS, the Soil Conservation Service, the Division of Water Quality
website, and the North Carolina National Heritage Program. Note that information
related to environmental justice issues is contained in Section 4.3 "Social and Housing
Characteristics of Communities."
The following features within the study area have been identified and mapped, as
appropriate (Map 6 - Architectural and Archaeological Resource, Map 7 - Soils Map,
Map 8 - Neuse River Subbasin 03-04-11 Map, and Map 9 - White Oak River Subbasin
03-05-01 Map):
? 5.1 Architectural Resources
? 5.2 Archaeological Resources
? 5.3 Hazardous Material Sites and Underground Storage Tanks
? 5.4 Topography and Soils
? 5.5 Prime, Important, and Unique Farmlands
? 5.6 Protected Species
? 5.7 Water Quality
5.1 Architectural Resources
As noted in the DEIS, the investigation of the architectural resources of the study area' '
was conducted in two phases: (1) a survey to identify all significant or potentially
significant architectural resources as defined by the criteria of the National Register of
Historic Places and (2) a survey to identify all significant architectural resources that
were built prior to 1946, as defined by the criteria of the National Register of Historic
Places.
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and Section 4(0 of the
Department of Transportation Act of
1966 provide protection for historic
properties from actions by the
federal government, including
roadway projects: In addition, North
Carolina state law also requires
consideration of the potential effect
of any state action on any properties
listed on the National Register of
Historic Places.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, 1C1 Report 44
Figure 11: Fosene Plantation House
Properties Listed in the National Register
Foscne and Simmons Plantations (Foscne Plantation) - located on both sides of US 17,
approximately 2.2 miles north of Pollocksville in Jones County.
? Bryan Lavender House - US 17/Main Street in Pollocksville in Jones County.
? Bryan-Bell Farris (Oakview Plantation) - located on both sides of NC 58 approximately 2
miles west of Pollocksville in Jones County; bordered on the north by the Trent River, the
south by Little Hell and Bender Branches, on the east by Goshen Branch, and on the west by
Mill Run.
Properties Determined Eligible for the National Register
i ? Pollocksville Historic District
? Maysville Historic District
Properties Listed in the National Register Study List
? Trent River Plantation - located in Pollocksville just north of the Trent River.
? Zinnie Eubanks House/Store - located at the eastern edge of the intersection of SR 1440
(Belgrade Extension Road) and SR 1434 (Belgrade/Swanboro Road) in the community of.
Belgrade in Onslow County.
Properties Considered Eligible for the National Register
? Gas Station/Store - located at the intersection of US 17 and SR 1002 (Ten Mile Fork Road) in .
the community of Ten Mile Fork in Jones County.
Antos L. Sinnnnons, Jr. Horse - located on US 17 just north of the Foscue House within the
Foscue•and Simmons Plantation.
? J. Nathan Foscne Farm - located on the east side of US 17 between Pollocksville and
Maysville.
? Henderson-Provost House - located at the intersection of SR 1440 (Belgrade Extension Road)
and SR 1434 (Belgrade/Swansboro Road), approximately .1 mile east of US 17 in the
community of Belgrade in Onslow County.
5.2 Archaeological Resources
Per the DEIS, a preliminary archaeological survey was conducted and documented in a
June 2, 1995 letter. Three archaeological sites were identified within the study area;
however, these sites lie outside of the preliminary corridor areas and will be unaffected
by the proposed alternatives.
Background research for the DEIS revealed that US 17 from Belgrade to the north is in
the vicinity of the colonial post road that linked New Bern, Pollocksville, and
Swansboro. It is anticipated that the project area north of Belgrade in the vicinity of US
17 may contain sites dating as early as the colonial period. In addition, sections of the
proposed alternatives adjacent to Deep Gulley, Scott Creek, the Trent River, the White
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 45

Oak River, and Starkey's Creek are expected to be the location of marry prehistorical
archaeological resources in the area. It was noted in the DEIS that upon the selection of
the LEDPA (least environmentally damaging practical alternative) an archaeological
survey be performed in accordance with NCDOT and SHPO guidelines.
5.3 Hazardous Material Sites and Underground Storage Tanks (UST)
Roadway construction projects, as well as other types of development, have the
potential to disturb existing hazardous waste sites. Hazardous waste sites, as noted in
the DEIS, are generally defined as a material or combination of materials that may
present a potential hazard to human health or the environment. The materials may be
solid, liquid, or gas and are characterized as flammable, explosive, corrosive,
radioactive, reactive, toxic, and infectious. Possible hazardous material sites include
dumps, landfills, salvage yards, industrial sites, pits and lagoons as well as above and
below ground storage tanks (such as those associated with service stations).
The NCDOT Geotechnical Unit performed a field reconnaissance of the study area in
January of 1994. This survey identified 28 potential sites for underground storage tanks
and/or hazardous material sites. An additional three sites were identified during a June
1995 field inspection. Refer to pages 3-48 and 3-49 of the DEIS for the name, location,
and description of the potentially hazardousmaterial sites.
5.4 Topography and Soils
The topography in the study area can be characterized as rather flat, but with low,
gently sloping rolling hills with somewhat steeper slopes found along the edges of
streams and river floodplains. According to the DEIS,'elevations within the study area
range from 44 feet above mean sea level near Deppe to near sea level along the Trent
River.
Soils
All of the counties within the study area have published soil surveys. As the types of
soils vary from county to county, this section of the report will focus on the soils found
within the direct vicinity of the project.
? Rains-Goldsboro-Lunchburg - Nearly level, poorly drained to moderately well-
drained soils that have loamy or clayey subsoil, found on uplands. The soil is
used for cultivated crops and wood lands. It is not well-suited to urban uses
due to a seasonal high water table.
? Pantego-Torhunta - Nearly level, very poorly drained soils that have loamy
subsoil, found on uplands. Nearly all of the area in this soil type is
woodland, crops, and pasture. Poorly suited to urban uses due to the
seasonal high water table.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South. of New Henn, ICI Report 46
Y C roatan - Nearly level, very poorly drained organic soils that are found on
uplands. The areas of this soil type consist mainly of woodland or wildlife
management areas. Poorly suited to urban uses due to low-strength and a
seasonal high water table.
Woodington-Stallings-Autrilville - Nearly level and gently sloping with a
mixture of poorly drained, somewhat poorly drained, and well-drained soils
that have loamy subsoil, found on uplands. The areas of this soil type are
used for row crops. Wetness is a limitation for urban uses.
Y Leaf-Lenoir-Craven - Nearly level to sloping with a mixture of poorly drained,
somewhat poorly drained, and moderately well-drained soils that have
I I clayey subsoil, found on uplands. These soils are used for woodland, row
crops, and pasture. Poorly suited to urban uses because of slow permeability,
j low strength, moderate to high shrink-swell potential, and the seasonal high
water table.
Y Muckalee - Located on major streams and flood plains, Muckalee soils are
nearly level, poorly drained soils that have loamy and sandy underlying
material. Muckalee soils are found in forested areas and are poorly suited to
urban and recreation sues because of wetness. Well-suited to use as habitat
for wetland wildlife.
? Alpin-Kenansville - Located adjacent to the Trent River and other major
streams, this soil type is nearly level and- gently sloping and features
excessively drained and well-drained soils that have sandy or loamy subsoil.
Well-suited to urban uses.
f
t Y Mrrrville-Ponzer-Leon - Located on flats and in depressions, these soils are
nearly level and gently sloping and are poorly and very poorly drained.
Nearly all of these soils are located in woodlands. Development limitations
include a high water table, frequent ponding, and weakly cemented subsoil.
Y Tarboro-Seabrook-Araphoe - Nearly level and gently sloping with a mixture of
moderately and excessively well-drained sandy soils that are found along the
Neese and Trent Rivers and other major streams. These soils are found in
woodlands, row crops, and pastures. Droughtiness and wind erosion are
limiting factors.
Y Masontown-Muckalee-Dorovan - Located at the lowest elevations, these soils
' are found along major streams and are nearly level with a mixture of poorly
and very-poorly drained soils. These soils are found in hardwood forests.
Poorly-suited to urban uses because of a continuous high water table and
frequent flooding.
Source: United States Departnieat of Agrindhire, Soil Conservation Service, "Soil Surveys of Craveo (1984),
Onsloro (1992), mid Jones (1981) Counties, North Carolina."
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 47
5.5 Prime, Important, and Unique Farmlands
The United States Department of Agriculture defines prime, important, and unique
farmlands as having good potential for food and fiber production. Prime farmlands are
further defined as soils that are best suited to food, feed, forage, fiber and oilseed crops.
This soil produces the highest yields with minimal expenditure of energy and economic
resources and farming of these soils results in the least damage to the environment. In
general, prime soils have slopes between zero and eight percent and are not flooded or
saturated with water for extended periods of time. Approximately 224,399 acres of 43
percent of Onlsow County and 35;600 acres or 12 percent of Jones County are classified
as prime farmlands. There are no areas of unique farmlands in the study area. The
United States Department of Agriculture has determined that Jones County is the
second most tobacco dependent county in the State of North Carolina and ninth in the
nation.
5.6 Protected Species
The United States Fish & Wildlife Service has listed 10 species that are either
endangered or threatened and that may occur in Jones or Onslow Counties as of May 1,
1997 (Draft EIS page 3-66). As the study area also includes Craven County, additional
research was undertaken to ascertain if there were any federally-listed endangered or
threatened species located in the county as well as update the 1997 information.
According to the North Carolina National Heritage Program database there are two
additional threatened or endangered species that were not already shown in the May
1997 listing (Leatherback Sea Turtle and Sensitive Jointvetch). Species with the federal
classification of endangered or threatened are protected under the Endangered Species
Act (ESA) of 1973 (16 USC 1531 et seq.).
Federally-Listed Species Designation Potential Habitat
Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Endangered Yes
Eastern Cougar Endangered No
Rough-Leaved Loosestrife Endangered No
Cooley's Meadowrue Endangered No
Leatherback Sea Turtle Endangered No
Green Sea Turtle Threatened No
Loggerhead Sea Turtle Threatened No
Piping Plover Threatened No
Seabeach Amaranth Threatened No
American Alligator Threatened Yes
Leatherback Endangered No
Sensitive Jointvetch 'T'hreatened No
Source: Draft EIS, October 2002, trage 3-66; North Caroliea Natural Heritage Program
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 48
i
There are two species listed as either endangered or threatened that potentially could be
located in the study area: the red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) and the American
alligator.
The RCW is identified by a black head, prominent white cheek patch, and black=and-
white barred back. According to Hooper et al. RCW's are typically found in association
,with a clan, which is a cooperative breeding group consisting of a breeding pair and one
or more male offspring fledged in the previous one to three years. It was noted in the
Draft EIS, page 3-67, that there were no documented cases of RCW activity in the
project area but that RCW cavity trees had been documented within 1.8 miles of the
study corridor in Croatan National Forest.
It was noted in the Draft EIS, page 3-70, that the American alligator is listed as
threatened based on the similarity in appearance to other federally-listed crocodilians.
The species is not biologically endangered or threatened and is not subject to Section 7
consultation. Potential habitat for the American alligator exists within the subject area
and while construction activity may temporarily displace any American alligators in the
vicinity, it is not anticipated that there will be any long-term impacts.
Also included in the May 1997 listing was a list of "Federal Species of Concern" for
Jones and Onslow Counties. As the study area also includes Craven County, additional
research was undertaken to ascertain if there were Federal Species of Concern located in
the county as well as update the 1997 information. According to the North Carolina
National Heritage Program database there are two additional species of concern that
were not already shown in the May 1997 listing (A Dart Moth and the Anointed Sallow
Moth). The FSC designation provides no federal protection under the ESA for the
species listed. The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NHP) lists rare plants
and animals, exemplary examples of natural communities, and special animal habitats
found in the state. The following table details important plants, animals, and natural
communities found within Jones and Onslow Counties as listed by NHP (with
designations updated as of May 2003).
Federal Species of Concern State Desienation _ Potential Habitat
Bachman's Sparrow Special Concern Yes
Henslow's Sparrow Significantly Rare Yes
Southern Hognose Snake Significantly Rare No
Black Rail Significantly Rare No
Mimic Glass Lizard Special Concern Yes
Eastern Painted Bunting Significantly Rare No
Carolina Gopher Frog Special Concern Yes
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 49
Federal Species of Concern State Designation Potential Habitat
Croatan Crayfish Significantly Rare Yes
Carolina Splcenwort Endangered No
Chapman's Sedge Watch List No
Hirst's Panic Grass Candidate No
Venus Flytrap Candidate No
Pondspice Candidate Yes
Boykin's Lobelia Candidate No
Carolina Bogmint Candidate Yes
Godfrey's Sandwort Endangered No
Loose Watermilfoil Threatened No
Savanna Cowbane Watch List No
Carolina Grass-of-Parnassus Endangered No
Awned Meadowbeauty Threatened No
Thorne's Beaksedge Candidate No
Carolina Goldenrod Endangered No
Spring-Flowering Goldenrod Endangered Yes
Carolina Asphodel Candidate No
A Dart Moth Significantly Rare No
Anointed Sallow Moth Significantly Rare No
Source: Draft EIS, October 2002, page 3-66; North Carolhia Natural H eritage Program.
Species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and plants with the North Carolina
state designation of endangered, threatened, or special concern receive limited
protection under the North Carolina Endangered Species Act and the North Carolina
Plant Protection Act of 1979.
A review of North Carolina National Heritage Program records indicate that few state-
listed species have been documented within the past 20 years in the study area. The
Carolina Gopher Frog was documented in 1954 but no recent activity has been
confirmed. A site designated as the Maysville Goldenrod Roadsides, Spring-Flowering
Goldenrod, is the only rare and unique natural area identified by NHP that exists
within the study area. Spring-Flowering Goldenrod is listed as a State Endangered
Species as well as a Federal Species of Concern. The site is located in a narrow strip
along US 17 beginning approximately .5 miles north of Maysville and extending
approximately 2.0 miles north. The site is essentially located within the existing
NCDOT right-of-way. Spring-Flowering Goldenrod has also been documented along
the western shoulder of US 17 south of Belgrade.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 50
In addition, two state-listed species have been documented in the study area. The
,I Eastern Lamp Mussel (designated as state-threatened) has been documented in the
Trent River at US 17 and the Neuse River Waterdog has been documented in Mill Creek
north of SR 1004. Two state-candidate species (not officially-listed or proposed for
l listing) have also been identified within the study area. The Florida Yellow-Eyed Grass
has been reported along US 17 at Starkey's Creek and Hooker's Milkwort has been
reported along US 17just south of Belgrade.
5.7 Water Quality
This section of the report identifies water resources within the study area that
contribute to water quality. The three-county study area is divided between the Neuse
and White Oak river basins, specifically sub-basin 03-04-11 in the. Neuse and subbasin
03-05-01 in White Oak (Maps 8 and 9). .
North Carolina's River Basins
1-1- HIV
Source NCDENR, Division. of Water Quality.
Neuse River Subbasin 03-04-11 - (According to the NCDENR, Division of Water Quality,
Basinwide Assessment Report (November 2001), the primary land use in this coastal
plain subbasin is agriculture and forest (including a portion of the Croatan National
Forest) with a small urban area around Trenton (in Jones County - west of the US 17
corridor.
[Mote Oak River Subbasin 03-05-01 - According to the NCDENR, Division of Water
Quality, Basinwide Assessment Report (June 2000), the subbasin consists of the White
Oak River and its tributaries in Onslow, Jones, Craven, and Carteret Counties. Most of
this area lies within the Croatan National Forest and the Hoffman State Forest and is
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 51
relatively undisturbed. With the exception of the Town of Maysville, most of the
development is on the coast near the town of Swansboro and Cape Carteret.
Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) requires states to develop a list of waters
not meeting water quality standards or which have impaired uses. Basinwide Water
Quality Plans, prepared by the North Carolina Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (NCDENR), Division of Water Quality, were reviewed to determine
the presence, if any, of impaired waters within the study area. No impaired waters
were found to be located within the study area or within the areas identified as having
the potential for induced development; however, DWQ did note some concerns over
the upper White Oak River. It was noted in the Basinwide Water Quality Plan that
there were indicators of nutrient loading, channelization, habitat removal and habitat
degradation in the upper White Oak River. In addition, it was stated that "continued
development, road building, wetland ditching and draining and poor de-snagging
practices have the potential to cause degradation of aquatic habitats and water
quality ...and that best management practices should be implemented to reduce water
quality impacts."
6.O Identification of Impact-Causing Activities
The previous sections of the report have focused on the identification of trends, goals,
and notable features. This step in the analysis will identify direct impacts and impact-
causing activities that may come into conflict with the goals, visions, and notable
features of the study area.
The Guidance document lists the following types of impact causing activities.
1. Modification of Regime - alteration of habitat, flora, hydrology, and other
features;
2. Land Transformation and Construction - construction method, ancillary
elements;
3. Resource Extraction - excavation and dredging;
4. Processing - storage of supplies;
5. Land Alteration - landscaping, erosion control;
6. Resource Renewal Activities - remediation, reforestation;
7. Changes in Traffic - traffic patterns on project and adjoining facilities;
8. Waste Emplacement - landfill, waste discharge;
9. Chemical Treatment - fertilization, deicing; and,
10. Access Alteration - changes in access, circulation patterns and travel time to
major attractors. Transportation projects that produce a significant change in
accessibility between major nodes of employment, housing, and commercial
development can make an area more attractive to development. Basic
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 52
i
information regarding a project's propensity to change accessibility can help
II gauge whether this effect merits investigation. Changes in accessibility imply
changes in travel demands and travel patterns.
Impact-causing activities (direct, indirect, and cumulative) include those that are project
related as well as those that result from past, present, and future
development/transportation projects undertaken by both public and private entities.
6.1 Review of Project-Related Impacts
Chapter 4 of the DEIS, documents environmental consequences and direct impacts
stemming from the US 17 widening project (R-2514). Impacts assessed include those
related to land use and transportation planning; socio-economics; community facilities
and services; cultural resources; visual impacts; and impacts to the natural
environment. The most significant land use impacts would be related to the agricultural
and forestry operations located within the study area. Residential and commercial
establishments would also be impacted as a result of the construction of the new
highway. Chapter 4 of the DEIS assessed the impacts of the no-build alternative as well
as the twelve study alternatives that were detailed in section 2.1 of this report: The
following tables (adapted from Table 2-2 on page 2-12. of the DEIS) detail
environmental, Section 4F, and Environmental Justice/Community Impacts.
TOW 11
!Environmental Impacts (R-2514)

-
Alternative

Residential
Impacts

Business
Impacts

Cemetery
Impacts
Wetland
Impacts
(Acres) Total
Length
In
Hiles Feet
Of
Stream
Impacts Length
Of
Floodplain
Crossing
Alt 2 8(0) 8(0) 0 14.3 4.72 -
169 154
Alt 2A 6(0) 0(0) 1 33.380 4.39 2,066 3,923
Alt 2B 12(0) 4(l) 0 35.842 8.2 2,357 2,303
Alt 2C 11 (0 5(l) 2 22.956 4.71 2,851 1,676
Alt 3 16(2) 0 0 21.073 3.36 - 150 0
Alt 4A 27(0) 3(0) 0 3.891 7.92 2,014 538
Alt 4B 14(0) 4(0) 0 7.146 8.09 1;612 1,361
Alt 4D 12(2) I(o) 0 46.405 8.28 911 2,581
Alt 4E 10(2) 0 0 52.693 8.57 547 2,581
Alt 4C 20(2) 0 1 28.271 8.37 1,505 3,523
Alt 4H 12(0) 0 0 41.381 8.70 873 4,628
Alt 41 7(0) 3(0) 0 30.488 9.07 1,220 561
The numbers in parentheses refer to vacant structures.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 53
Table 12
Section 4F and Environmental Justice/Community Impacts

A If et oa Iive
Section 4F Disruption to Eoviinnnu•ntal
Justice and Conununit y Areas
Aft 2 Maysville, Croatan Belgrade, Maysville
Alt 2A Croatan None
Aft 2B Croatin Belgrade, Maysville
Alt 2C Croatan Belgrade
Alt 3 Foscue Plantation, Croatan Chadwick

Alt 4A Pollocksville, Foscue Plantation,
Ten Mile Fork Pollocksville, Murphylown,
Ten Mile Fork
Alt 4B Pollocksville, Foscue Plantation Pollocksville
Alt 4D Foscue Plantation Hatchville, Goshen, Oak Grove
Alt 4E None Hatchville, Goshen, Oak Grove
Alt 4G Foscue Plantation Flatchville, Goshen, Oak Grove
Alt 4H Bell Plantation Goshen
Alt 41 Pollocksville Pollocksville, Oak Grove
Source: Draft Erlviraruuentat Impact Statement (R-2514), October 2002, page 2-12.
Land Use and Transportation Plmning Impacts - Land use impacts can be defined as
changes to a particular land use which occur as a result of the construction of a new
highway project. The new right-of-way would directly impact agricultural lands and
displace residences and businesses (as shown in table 11). Indirect changes in land use
occur as development increases in the vicinity of the new highway, including increased
commercial and industrial development near new intersections and the planned
interchange. It is anticipated that the project area would benefit from.the improved
transportation facility by attracting commercial and industrial development to the area.
With the creation of new jobs in the area, residents of Jones County would not have to
travel outside of the county to work; therefore, decreasing the number of commuters
crossing county tines and the amount of emissions. The proposed improvements would
also improve access to New Bern and Jacksonville thereby reducing travel times.
As residential uses tend to follow commercial uses, it can be presumed that additional
residential units would be built within the study area requiring the conversion of
agricultural and forested lands to residential land uses.
Socio-Economic Impacts - The no-build alternative would not directly impact the
cohesion of the communities already separated by US 17. However, there would be an
indirect impact as the increased speed and traffic on the proposed highway would
make it difficult for a pedestrian to cross the new roadway. In addition, there could be
changes to community cohesion as a result of the separation of neighborhoods, isolation
of portions of neighborhoods, or separation from community facilities.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of Neiv Bern, ICI Report 54
Economic Gnpacts - It is anticipated that both positive and negative impacts will be
associated with this project. The area should benefit economically in both the short
I, term and the long term. During construction there will be employment opportunities
for local residents and increased retail activity from construction personnel. Once the
project is finished, it is anticipated that the new modern facility will attract new
commercial and industrial development.
Onslow and Jones Counties and the Towns of Maysville and Pollocksville could suffer
some loss of total tax base due to the acquisition of right-of-way; however, this loss
could be made up with the addition of industrial, commercial, and residential
development.
New commercial and tourist-related businesses are likely to be built at new intersection
and interchange locations. While this is positive for the new businesses it could
negatively impact any businesses that are bypassed. The existing businesses in
Maysville and Pollocksville could suffer if through traffic is rennoved.
Connnunity Facility and Service Impacts - None of the proposed alternatives would have
direct impacts on schools, churches, or parks and recreation facilities within the study
area. - Several of the alternatives would impact privately-owned campgrounds;. picnic
sites, and small cemeteries.
Alternate 3 would impact the Croatan National Forest. An area approximately 108 feet
wide by 2.4 miles long would be impacted by right-of-way acquisition and
approximately 31.5 acres of the National Forest would be impacted.
Cultural Resource Impacts - The no-build alternative would not impact any of the
existing Section 417 sites. Each of the alternatives, with the exception of Alternative 4E,
will have some impacts on Historic Architectural Sites located within the study area.
See Table 12 and pages 4-24 and 4-25 of the DEIS for detailed information regarding the
impacts.
Visual Impacts - The no build alternative will not create any visual impacts within the
study area.. The build alternatives would have some visual impacts on adjacent
properties that were once wooded or in agricultural use. The proposed facility will
follow the existing grades to the extent possible and will be designed as a four or five-
lane facility with partial control of access. There are no grade separations proposed as
part of this project.
Environmental Impacts - The proposed project crosses the White Oak River and the Trent
River along with numerous other tributaries and streams. The 100-year floodplain will
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 55
be encroached by all of the alternatives in Segments 2 and 4 and none of the alternatives
can completely wetland areas or avoid stream crossings.
Impacts to Federal and State-Protected Species - The red cockaded woodpecker (RCW) will
not be impacted by the proposed project as no RCW nesting cavities were found within
any of the project alternatives nor within .5 miles of any potentially suitable foraging
habitat foiund in the project study area. Widening along Section 3 of the project could
have a major direct impact on the colony of spring-flowering goldenrod, which is listed
as a state and federal protected species.
6.2 Review of Other Impact-Causing Activities
As noted above, impact-causing activities in the study area may result from past,
present, and future projects that are unrelated to the proposed project. " Examples
include other transportation projects, private development projects (residential,
commercial, or industrial), and changes in local development regulations.
Very few projects, other than those transportation projects identified in Chapter 4.4
(Current and Proposed Transportation Projects), were identified within the study area.
A visual survey of the area revealed some small-scale (individual home construction)
residential development within existing residential areas. Interviews with local
planning officials in Jones, Craven,
and Onslow Counties did not
indicate that any developments of
considerable size were currently
under review or construction. Some
small-scale commercial/retail
development has occurred within
the past few years in the US 17 study
area, but.nothing of the size or scope
to be classified as "impact causing."
Figure 12: New (muse construction in the Garnett Heights conurnuvty.
The Jones County Board of Commissioners recently approved an economic
development incentive grant policy that will allow county officials to negotiate reduced
fees and taxes in return for employing a set number of employees. As economic
developers and site location specialists learn of this policy, there is the possibility of
increased industrial/commercial development within Jones County. The establishment
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 56
of the Maysville Industrial
Park, a twenty acre park
located on US 17 north
adjacent to the Maysville
town limits could also lure
industrial and commercial
development (as well as
new residential uses) to the
area.
Figure 13: Maysville Development Corporation Sign - US 17.
7.0 Identification of Potential Indirect and Cumulative Impacts for
Analysis
As noted in the Guidance document there are three major types of indirect/cumulative
effects:
1. Induced Growth effects - Changes in traffic patterns and the alteration of
accessibility attributable to the design of the project can induce residential and
commercial growth in the study area. These effects fall into three general
categories: projects planned to serve specific land development, projects likely to
stimulate complementary land development, and projects likely to influence
intraregional location decisions (development shifts).
2. Induced Growth Related effects - The effects related to induced residential and
commercial growth and not project design features, such as increased emissions
as a result of development at the urban fringe.
3. Encroachment-alteration effects - Effects that alter the behavior and functioning
of the physical environment are related to project design features but are indirect
1 in nature because they can be separated from the project in time or distance.
These effects can be considered cumulative in nature when they are additive
over time or have an interactive effect on the environment. There are two broad
' categories of encroachment-alteration effects: ecological effects and socio-
economic effects.
I
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 57

7.1 Potential for Project Induced Growth and Induced Growth Effects
TIP R-2514, US 17 widening from north of Jacksonville to south of New Bern in itself is
not likely to induce extensive development within the entire study area. While the
urbanized areas of Jacksonville are located south of the project site, it is not likely that
this widening project would spur "path of development" growth in the Onslow County
portion of the project. This presumption is based on several facts: (1) that the area is not
currently served by water and sewer; (2) the area is not on a long-range plan to receive
water and sewer and county regulations stipulate that new development should be
directed towards compact, targeted growth areas near existing towns; (3) the area is
predominantly in forest and agricultural use; and (4) that the Onslow County Citizens
Comprehensive Plan advocates preservation of true open space, productive farms,
woodlands, and important natural areas and discourages the "leapfrogging" of housing
developments into the countryside, destroying the rural character of the area, breaking
up farmland, and making the provision of urban services costly to hwnebuyers and
taxpayers alike.
There is a better chance that complementary land development, such as highway-
oriented businesses (gas stations, rest stops, motels) will develop near the site of the
proposed interchange as well as at the intersection of NC 58 and US 17. However,.
accessibility to the transportation facility is but one of the factors that influences growth
and development. As noted in the Guidance document the presence of water and sewer,.
local political and economic conditions, location attractiveness; consumer preferences,
and the rate and path of urbanization in the region all play a role in development.
Intersection of NC 58 and US 17 - The potential for project induced
growth/complementary land development at this location is the greatest of all in the
study area as this site is already served by water and sewer, has soils that can support
development,- and Jones County and the Town of Pollocksville operate under a pro-
business climate that encourages commercial growth in the area. The Jones County
Strategic Plan advocates the establishment of new industrial/commercial sites as well as
the construction of residential housing units in Pollocskville. In addition, while the
counties in the study area have not been designated by EPA as non-attainment areas for
the 8-hour ozone standard, the potential does exist that there will be changes in mobile
source emissions as a result of induced growth and the corresponding increase in the
number of vehicle trips per day in the area. As conditions are favorable for
development at this location, a detailed analysis of induced growth and its potential for
impact on important area goals, notable features, and emissions is warranted.
Proposed Interchange Location at the Jones/Craven County Line - While this site is
located within close proximity to the increasingly-urbanized area of New Bern in
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 58
Craven County, the lack of water and sewer service in the area and soils that are not
suitable for septic systems are development-limiting factors. As conditions are not
currently favorable for development at this location and there is no indication that the
area will experience "path of development" growth from New Bern, a detailed analysis
of the induced growth and its potential impacts on the visions, resources, and notable
features of the study area is not warranted.
7.2 Potential for Encroachment Alteration Effects
As noted in the Guidance document, the alteration of the behavior and functioning of
the affected environment caused by project encroachment can be characterized into two
broad categories - ecological effects and socioeconomic effects.
The following indirect and cumulative effects of transportation project actions can have
important consequences for ecosystems:
• Habitat fragmentation front physical alteration of the environment;
• Lethal, sublethal and reproduction effects from pollution;
• Degradation of habitat from pollution;
Disruption of ecosystem functioning from direct.mortality impacts; and
• Disruption of natural processes, from altered energy flows.
It is possible that encroachment-alteration effects associated with the widening of US 17
will affect notable features located within the study area, primarily the Foscue
Plantation, Neuse and White Oak River basins, and the Spring Flowering Goldenrod
site north of Maysville. However, as very little development activity has taken place or
is expected to occur within the foreseeable future, the environmental impacts are not of
a cumulative nature and can be minimized by the adherence to Neuse Rules, the use of
best management practices, and if necessary the replanting of Spring Flowering
Goldenrod. Therefore, additional analysis is not warranted.
Encroachment by transportation projects can directly affect the physical nature of a
neighborhood by altering traffic patterns and access and by relocating homes,
businesses, and public facilities. These direct effects can result in indirect/cumulative
effects that can be magnified by the cumulative impacts of other actions. These effects
include alterations to:
• Neighborhood cohesion;
• Neighborhood stability;
• Travel patterns of commuters and shoppers;
• Recreation patterns at public facilities;
• Pedestrian dependency and mobility;
• Perceived quality of the natural environment,
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 59

Appendix A.
Listing of Project Contacts and Data Sources
Craven County, North Carolina. Craven 2006: Strategically Planning for the New Millenium. Undated
document.
Craven County Planning and Inspections Director, Don Baumgardner. Telephone conversation regarding
growth and development within Craven County. October 29, 2003.
Hamel, P.B. Land Manager's Guide to Birds of the South. The Nature Conservancy, Southeastern Region,
Chapel Hill, NC. 1992.
Jones County Economic Development'Director, Roy Fogle. Personal Interview. October 28, 2003.
Jones County Committee of 100 Newsletter, Fall 2003.
Jones County, North Carolina - Economic Development Office. "Directory of Jones County Businesses."
July 2003.
Jones County, North Carolina - Economic Development Office. "New Tax Base Additions - New Jobs."
Memorandum dated, October 20, 2003.
Jones County, North Carolina. Jones County Comprehensive Strategic Plait: Planning Together for a Better
Future. Carolina Opportunities. September 2001.
Jones County, North Carolina. Capital Improvement Plait: Jones Counh/. McDavid Associates, Inc. October
2001.
Jones County, North Carolina. Thoroughfare Plan Technical Report for Jones Comity. North Carolina
Department of Transportation, Statewide Planning Branch, Small Urban Planning Unit. February 1999.
Jones County website. www.co.jones.ncus
North Carolina Department of Commerce. EDIS County Profiles - Jones, Craven, and Onslow Counties.
www.emedis.commerce slate ns us/countyprofiles.
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, Water
Quality Planning Section. Basinwide Assessment Report - Neuse River Basin. November 2001.
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Office of Conservation and
Community Affairs, Natural Heritage Program. www, neparks nel/nhp/search lit [III.
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, Water
Quality Planning Section. Basinwide Assessment Report- White Oak River Basin. June 2000.
North Carolina Department of Transportation. Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumulative Impacts of
Transportation Project in North Carolina. Volumes I and If. The Louis Berger Group, November 2001.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 61

i
Appendix A.
Listing of Project Contacts and Data Sources
North Carolina Employment Security Commission, Labor Market Information. "Civilian Labor Force
Estimates." www.ncesccum/Imi/default
North Carolina Employment Security Commission, Labor Market Information. "Largest Private
Employers by County, Pt quarter 2003." u•ww.ncesc.com/Imi/default
North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management, North Carolina State Demographics.
? )?tvtv.demogslate.nc.us.
North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center, Inc. Rural Data Bank - County Profiles for Jones,
Craven, and OnSIOw Comities. www.ncntralcenter.ore.
North Carolina State Data Center. "North Carolina Commuting to Work, 2000 Census, County
Summary.,' w•ww.sdc.slalanc.us.
North Carolina State Data Center. "Profile 1 - Characteristics of the. Population, 1990 Census of
Population and Housing -STF 1, Jones, Craven, and Onslow Counties:' www.censusstate.ncus.
'Onslow`County,' North Carolina. Olislouv'CommtY Cilizots Comprehensive Plan. Glenn Harbeck'Associafes.'.'
9/27/2002 revised draft.
Onslow .County., Planning Director, Bill Price. Telephone conversation regarding growth and
development within Onslow County. October D,2003.
President's Council on Environmental Quality. CEQ Guidance "Considering Cumulative Effects Under
i the National Environmental Policy Act." 1997.
The Jones Post. "The forgotten interstate." May 30, 2002.
The Jones Post. "Four-laning of US 17 promised, again." November 29, 2001.
.The Jones Post. "County's Committee of 100 looks back on year." March 7, 2002.
The Jones Post. "The long, winding road." May 23, 2002.
The Jones Post. "US 17 bypass going nowhere fast." June 6, 2002.
The Sun journal. "US 17 needs to stay atop DOT's priority list, supporters say." November 13, 1998.
The Sun Journal. "Transpark hurts road repairs." Judy 6, 1999.
The Sun Journal. 'Locals, DO'I' meet to iron out road plans." July 21, 1999.
The Sun Journal. "Building roads to the future." October 4, 1999.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 62

Appendix A.
Listing of Project Contacts and Data Sources
The. Sun Journal. "US 17 promises continue." May 22, 2002. _
Town of Maysville website. tvtvtv?ccoe or};lCov t In Rehion I'/i41at'sville(n?aysvillc.htm.
Town of Pollocksville website. tvwtv.co.jnncs.nc.us/I'ellockA hWi.
United States Environmental Protection Agency website. wtvw.epa.govloznnedesi}nations.
United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis. "North Carolina Per Capita
Personal Income." wtvw.bea.doc.govArea/rer?ianal/rein.
United States Department of Commerce, US Census Bureau website, American FactFinder,
wn'w.factfinclencensus.gov.
United States Department of Commerce, US Census Bureau website, Census 2000 STF-1 and DP-1.
wtvw.ceitsus.gov.
United States Department of Commerce, US Census Bureau, Census Transportation Planning Package
(CTPP). Table 1 - Profile of Selected 1990 and 2000 Characteristics. ,
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service. Soil Survey of Jones County,
North Carolina. 1981.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service. Soil Survey of Onslow
County, North Carolina. 1992.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Soil Conservation Service. Soil Survey of Craven
County, North Carolina. 1989.
Wilbur Smith Associates. Community Impact Assessment for 17 Widening from North of Jackso ville to South of
New Bent. January 2002.
Wilbur Smith Associates. Draft Environmental Impact Statement - US 17 Widening front North of Jacksonville
to South of New Bent, TIP R-2514. October 2002.
TIP R-2514, US 17 Widening from North of Jacksonville to South of New Bern, ICI Report 63
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