R2822

Eastern Band of the Cherokee tribal lands are situated on either side of NC 143 near the east project
terminal. The Buffalo Independent Baptist Church is located on this parcel. In addition, the Eastern
Band of the Cherokee (Snowbird) Senior Center is located on SR 1149 (Jackson Branch Road), which
intersections NC 143 approximately 0.6 mile east of the east project terminal.
Carver Cemetery is located on the north side of NC 143, approximately 0.6 mile east of SR 1148 (West
Buffalo Road).
11. Other Facilities
A waste disposal convenience center is located on the north side of NC 143 approximately 0.6 mile east
of SR 1118 (I. U. Gap Road).
The Blue Boar Inn is located on the north side of NC 143, just west of West Buffalo Creek.
12. U. S. Forest Service and N. C. Forest Service Resources
U.S. Forest Service lands (Nantahala National Forest) border NC 143 on one or both sides for a distance
of approximately 5 miles within the limits of the project (approximately 70 percent of the project length).
Those lands are more prevalent on the north side of NC 143. U. S. Forest Service facilities within or
near the project study area include:
• Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, located just west of the west project terminal
• Snowbird Picnic Area, located on the north side of NC 143 between Snowbird Creek and SR 1118
(I. U. Gap Road)
• Snowbird Loop Nature Trail, located on the south side of NC 143 opposite the picnic area
• Massey Branch Accessible Fishing Pier and Boating Access, located on the north side of NC 143
approximately 2.2 miles east of the east project terminal
• Cheoah District Ranger Station, located on the south side of NC 143 approximately 2.4 miles east of
the east project terminal
• Camp Santeetlah Historic Trail and Cheoah Trail, accessed via the ranger station
• Massey Branch Fitness Trail, crosses NC 143 approximately 2.9 miles east of the east project
terminal
The Graham County headquarters of the N.C. Forest Service is located on the north side of NC 143
approximately 1.8 miles east of the east project terminal.
13. Protect Purpose
14. Study Area
The proposed study area is variable in width and is shown in Figure 3.
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CONCURRENCE MEETING
INFORMATION PACKET
FOR YOUR REVIEW
PRIOR TO MEETING ON
JANUARY 23, 2007
PROJECT ENGINEER
WILSON STROUD
R-2822 B
Please bring this packet
to the meeting.

.w SINE o
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GoVERNOR
AGENDA
Western Concurrence Meeting
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Board Room, Transportation Building
Raleigh, North Carolina
LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM - Wilson Stroud, Project Planning Engineer, NCDOT-PDEA Branch
TIP No. R-2822 B - NC 143 (Santeetlah Road), from the Cherohala Skyway to NC 143 Business
west of Robbinsville
Graham County, Division 14
Team Members:
David Baker, USACE
Wilson Stroud, PDEA
Jake Riggsbee, FHWA
Chris Militscher, USEPA
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Karen Compton, USFS
Marla Chambers, WRC
Brian Wrenn, DWQ
Sarah McBride, SHPO
Harold Draper, TVA
Tyler Howe, EBCI
Matt Roark, Southwestern RPO (non-signatory)
NCDOT Technical Sunnort Staff and Other A2encv Staff:
Joel Setzer, Division 14 Sarah Smith; TPB
Jamie Wilson, Division 14 Carla Dagnino, NEU
Jim Speer, Roadway Design Mary Pope Furr, HEU
John Lansford, Roadway Design Ed Lewis, HEU
David Chang, Hydraulics Teresa Hart, PDEA
John Frye, Structure Design James Bridges, PDEA
* The purpose of this meeting is to achieve Concurrence on CP 1.
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
NEPA/404 Merger Team Meeting
TIP Project No. R-2822 B
Federal Aid Project No. STP-1127 (1)
State Project Number 8.2930301
WBS Element 34508. 1.1
NC 143
From the Cherohala Skyway to NC 143 Business
West of Robbinsville
Graham County
RTH?
P?7o
OF TFiAr
January 23, 2007
Transportation Building Board Room
Concurrence Point 1
(Purpose and Need, Study Area Defined)
NC 143
From the Cherohala Skyway to NC 143 Business
West of Robbinsville
Graham County
TIP Project R-2822 B
1. Purpose of Today's Meeting
The purpose of today's meeting is to reach concurrence on Point 1 (purpose and need, study area
defined) for TIP Project R-2822 B.
2. Project Description
TIP Project R-2822 B is included in the Draft NCDOT 2007-2013 Transportation Improvement Program
and proposes to upgrade NC 143 from the Cherohala Skyway to NC 143 Business west of Robbinsville
in Graham County. The project has a total length of 6.7 miles and is shown in Figure 1. The project is
also shown in Figure 2 (aerial mosaic) and Figure 3 (USGS quad map).
It is recommended that NC 143 be improved to provide two 11-foot travel lanes and 4-foot (useable
width) grassed shoulders. Horizontal and vertical alignment improvements are also proposed in order to
provide a minimum design speed of 35 mph.
NC 143 is designated as a north-south route, but runs primarily east-to-west in the project area. For that
reason, the project will be regarded as running east-to-west.
3. Proposed Improvements
From the west end of the project to just east of West Buffalo Creek (2.4 miles), the existing alignment of
NC 143 is acceptable. It is anticipated the proposed improvements in this area will consist of
resurfacing, and widening the pavement to 22 feet, regrading the shoulders, and replacing guardrail as
needed. No alignment improvements are recommended in this area. It is anticipated these improvements
will be contained mostly within the existing 70-foot right of way.
From just east of West Buffalo Creek to the east end of the project (4.3 miles), existing NC 143 has a
less desirable horizontal alignment. In this area it is recommended that the roadway be reconstructed to
achieve a design speed similar to that found west of West Buffalo Creek. A two-lane, 22-foot pavement
with 4-foot (useable width) grassed shoulders is recommended. The proposed width of right of way and
easements will vary, depending upon the terrain.
4. Project Status, Schedule, and Brief History
NCDOT is preparing an Environmental Assessment for the project, which is currently scheduled for
completion October 2008. The FONSI is scheduled for completion in February 2010. Right of way
acquisition and construction are scheduled to begin in Fiscal Years 2010 and 2012, respectively. A
Section 4(f) Evaluation may also be required.
A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 11, 2001. A meeting with the U. S.
Forest Service was held in Asheville on April 28, 2003 to discuss possible design alternatives. No public
involvement has been performed, to date.
-2-
5. Project Need
NC 143 is the primary east-west corridor in Graham County and is designated as a rural major collector
It is a narrow, winding two-lane facility passing through mountainous terrain. NC 143 begins at NC 28
in neighboring Swain County, passes through Robbinsville (the largest municipality in the county and
the county seat), and ends at the Tennessee state line. It continues, as the Cherohala Skyway, into
Tennessee, ending at Tellico Plains. NC 143 was, until the Skyway was opened to traffic in 1996,
signed as a secondary road. No major improvements have been performed since the route was
designated as NC 143, and the facility does not meet typical NC route design standards.
NC 143 provides the only access to the Cherohala Skyway from North Carolina. The Cherohala Skyway
is a National Scenic Byway, one of only two in North Carolina, the other being the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Skyway, also designated (on the North Carolina side) as NC 143, begins at the west end of the
subject project and ends at Tellico Plains, Tennessee. The Skyway is marketed by local governments,
businesses, and chambers. of commerce as a tourist destination for its scenic views. It attracts many
motorcyclists and motorists, many of whom are unfamiliar with the winding alignment along NC 143
within the project limits.
Due to its rugged mountainous terrain, Graham County is very isolated in terms of access, which has
contributed to its hindered economic development. In the past the county has qualified for the TIER
Assistance Grant, which is typically given to economically disadvantaged areas. The county's economy
is heavily dependent upon tourism, including motor touring, camping, hiking, and white water rafting.
In March, 2003, the Graham County commissioners adopted a resolution supporting the subject project
as a means of enhancing the county's tourism industry.
Twenty-five crashes were reported along the project during the February 1, 2002 to January 31, 2005
study period. As shown below in Table 1, the crash rates for the subject section of NC 143 exceeded not
only the statewide rates for rural two-lane NC routes in all categories, but also the critical rate for total
and non-fatal injury crashes. Fourteen of the crashes (56 %) involved motorcycles, the majority of
which were single-vehicle run off road or overturning vehicle crashes. Sixty-four percent of the
motorcycle crashes occurred on Saturday or Sunday, and 93 % of the motorcyclists involved in the
accidents held out-of-state driver's licenses. Nine of the fourteen motorcycle crashes (and eleven of the
25 total crashes) occurred within a half-mile section of the project ending approximately 0.4 mile vest of
the NC 143 intersection with SR 1125 (Buchanan Branch Road). This section of the project has several
horizontal curves on fairly steep grades. The remainder of the crashes were spread evenly along the
length of the project. Overall, approximately 94 percent of the crashes were of the run-off-road
accidents type, with approximately 35 percent occurring during darkness.
Table 1
Crash Rate Comparisons
Rate Number of
Crashes Crashes per 100
Million Vehicle
Miles Statewide Rate Critical Rate
Total 25 277.75 184.65 264.71
Fatal 1 11.11 2.31 16.20
Non-Fatal 14 155.54 73.77 126.42
Night 8 88.88 62.66 111.62
Wet 4 44.44 33.28 70.47
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6. Associated TIP Projects
No other TIP projects exist in the project vicinity.
7. Existing Conditions
The subject segment of NC 143 consists of a two-lane pavement 18 to 22 feet in width with grassed
shoulders 2 to 6 feet in width. It includes numerous sharp curves, including five with advisory speed
limits of 20 or 30 mph. Some roadway grades along the project are fairly steep, but none have advisory
postings. No turn lanes are provided. No traffic signals exist along the project, and all intersections are
at-grade and stop sign-controlled. The posted speed limit ranges from 45 to 55 mph, although those
speeds are attainable only in a few areas. The project area is mostly rural and wooded, with scattered
residences and businesses. Public lands (mainly the Nantahala National Forest) border the project for
approximately 70 percent of its length. No access control is provided along the project, although the
mountainous terrain itself tends to control development.
11J est of the project, NC 143 (the Cherohala Skyway) consists of a two-lane, 22-foot roadway with 6-foot
useable shoulders. East of the project, NC 143 consists of a two-lane, 20-foot roadway with 2-4 foot
G? grassed shoulders.
Two bridges exist along the project. Bridge number 131, which carries NC 143 over West Buffalo
5 Creek (Santeetlah Lake) Lust east of SR 1148 (West Buffalo Road), is 320 feet in length, has a bridge
roadway width of 30 feet, and was constructed in 1971. Bridge number 13 (Doctors Richard and Nettie
G? C. Parrette Memorial Bridge), which carries NC 143 over Snowbird Creek just west of SR 1118 (I.U.
Gap Road), is 180 feet in length, has a bridge roadway width of 25 feet, and was constructed in 1982.
?o Both bridges have an acceptable clear roadway width, and it is anticipated neither will require
replacement or widening. y 1
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8. Traffic Volumes _'>o o CcC6v? 7 J
Current traffic volumes on this section of NC 143 (year 2003) range from 940 vehicles per day (vpd)
near the west project terminal to 1900 vpd near the east terminal. The anticipated maximum traffic
demand in the year 2025 is 3300 vpd, based upon a 2.5 percent yearly increase in traffic volumes. If the
proposed improvements to NC 143 are performed, traffic volumes could increase at a higher rate due to
improved access and increased tourism. Traffic projections will be updated as part of the project study,
and seasonal traffic projections will also be obtained, as needed.
9. Natural Resources
The project is located within the Cheoah subbasin of the Little Tennessee River basin and crosses the
following (and possibly other) streams: Teeoatlah Branch, West Buffalo Creek, Long Hungry Branch,
and Snowbird Creek. C(% c
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Both Wed Buffalo Creek and Snowbird Creek are hatchery-supported trout streams and contain wild
rainbow trout. A construction moratorium for rainbow trout will be required between January 1 and
April 15. No in-stream work or land disturbance will be allowed within a 25-foot buffer zone around
either creek or their tributaries during the moratorium. Snowbird Creek is also stocked with
brown/brook trout, but since very few of those trout will survive to spawn, the main concern is with wild
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rainbow trout. The spawning moratorium period for brownibrook trout is October 15-April 15.
Santeetlah Lake is located within the project study area and is managed by the Tennessee Valley
Authority.
Six federally-protected species are listed in Graham County, including four endangered species (E) and
two threatened species (T):
• Carolina northern flying squirrel (E)
• Indiana bat (E)
• Appalachian elktoe (E)
• Rock gnome lichen (E)
• Bog turtle (T)
• Virginia spiraea (T)
Snowbird Creek is the only stream within the project limits with suitable habitat for the Appalachian
elktoe. No mussels were found during a survey of that stream conducted in May 2005. No other surveys
of federally-protected species have been conducted.
Acidic rock is present in the project area. Precautions will need to be taken to prevent exposing the
acidic rock, especially in the vicinity of streams.
10. Cultural Resources
SHPO has recommended that structures over fifty years of age be identified and evaluated and that the
findings of those studies be reported.
The Snowbird Mountain Lodge, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adjoins. NC
143 on the south side for a distance of approximately 0.5 mile near the west project terminal. SHPO,
FHWA, and NCDOT concurred in 1997 that the project will have no adverse effect on this resource,
with the condition that the design of the retaining wall in the vicinity of the lodge will be (1) developed
in consultation with the SHPO and (2) compatible with the historic property. The need for a retaining
wall in the vicinity of the lodge will be further evaluated, and appropriate consultation with SHPO will
be performed.
SHPO also noted the presence of the Snowbird Suspension Bridge, located on the south side of NC 143
approximately 0.1 mile east of Snowbird Creek. This private bridge spans Snowbird Creek and provides
access to a residence from NC 143. This bridge will be evaluated as part of the project study.
SHPO has indicated there is a high probability of significant archaeological resources in the project area,
given the topographic and hydrologic setting. SHPO has recommended a comprehensive archaeological
survey be conducted for the project. Several sites identified in previous studies were determined to have
the potential to contain significant information.
Traditional cultural properties may be located within the project area. Such properties are eligible for
inclusion in the National Register because of their association with cultural practices or beliefs of a
living community that are (a) rooted in that community's history and (b) important in maintaining the
continuing cultural identity of the community. Coordination with the Eastern Band of the Cherokee and,
possibly, other Native American nations, as well as with the Tribal Historic Preservation Office, will be
required.
-5-
Eastern Band of the Cherokee tribal lands are situated on either side of NC 143 near the east project
terminal. The Buffalo Independent Baptist Church is located on this parcel. In addition, the Eastern
Band of the Cherokee (Snowbird) Senior Center is located on SR 1149 (Jackson Branch Road), which
intersections NC 143 approximately 0.6 mile east of the east project terminal.
Carver Cemetery is located on the north side of NC 143, approximately 0.6 mile east of SR 1148 (West
Buffalo Road).
11. Other Facilities
A waste disposal convenience center is located on the north side of NC 143 approximately 0.6 mile east
of SR 1118 (I. U. Gap Road).
The Blue Boar Inn is located on the north side of NC 143, just west of West Buffalo Creek.
12. U. S. Forest Service and N. C. Forest Service Resources
U.S. Forest Service lands (Nantahala National Forest) border NC 143 on one or both sides for a distance
of approximately 5 miles within the limits of the project (approximately 70 percent of the project length).
Those lands are more prevalent on the north side of NC 143. U. S. Forest Service facilities within or
near the project study area include:
• Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, located just west of the west project terminal
• Snowbird Picnic Area, located on the north side of NC 143 between Snowbird Creek and SR 1118
(I. U. Gap Road)
• Snowbird Loop Nature Trail,-located on the south side of NC 143 opposite the picnic area
• Massey Branch Accessible Fishing Pier and Boating Access, located on the north side of NC 143
approximately 2.2 miles east of the east project. terminal
• Cheoah District Ranger Station, located on the south side of NC 143 approximately 2.4 miles east of
the east project terminal
• Camp Santeetlah Historic Trail and Cheoah Trail, accessed via the ranger station
• Massey Branch Fitness Trail, crosses NC 143 approximately 2.9 miles east of the east project
terminal
The Graham County headquarters of the N.C. Forest Service is located on the north side of NC 143
approximately 1.8 miles east of the east project terminal.
13. Project Purpose
The purpose of this project is to improve safety along NC 143 by constructing wider travel lanes and
shoulders and by improving the horizontal alignment, thereby providing a safer facility with a design
more typical of 4906' routes.
14. Study Area
The proposed study area is shown in Figures 2 and 3.
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4 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND WBS: 34508.1.1 1
vy . iP ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH ROBBINSVILLE
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Date: DEC 2006 BY: JT
TIP PROJECT R-2822B

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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA MAR DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDo TIPPETT
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
February 22, 2002
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Karen B. Taylor, PE, Project Development Engineer,
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Branch
SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting Minutes for the Upgrade of
Existing NC 143 from the Cherohala Skyway to
SR 1127, Graham County, Federal Aid Project
No. STP-1127(l), State Project No. 8.293030 1,
TIP Project No. R-2822B
A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 11, 2001, at 2:30 p.m. in
the Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch conference room
(Room 470). The following people were in attendance:
Jake Riggsbee Federal Highway Administration
Ron Watson Division 14
John Taylor Location & Surveys
Van Argabright Program Development
Michael Summers Program Development
Jerome Nix Hydraulics Unit
Bill Moore Geotechnical Unit
Ramesh Fofaria Structure Design
Vincent McCants Congestion Management
Regina Page Congestion Management
David Bailey Right of Way
Jacqueline Graham Roadway Design
John Lansford Roadway Design
James Speer Roadway Design
Katherine English Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Lubin Prevatt Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Eric Midkiff Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Karen Boshoff Taylor Project Development and Environmental Analysis
After brief introductions, an overview of the proposed project followed:
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION - FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING _-
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE. WWW.DOH. DOT. STATE. NC.US RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
Scoping Meeting Minutes
TIP R-2822B
Page 2
Project Description and Schedule
The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to widen NC 143 from the
Cherohala Skyway to SR 1127 in Graham County to a 22-foot pavement width with
4-foot usable shoulders. Some horizontal realignment is proposed to straighten several
curves. The total length of the project is approximately 5.9 miles.
An Environmental Assessment (EA) will be completed for this project. A Programmatic
4(f) Evaluation will need to be completed for possible impacts to the Snowbird Mountain
Lodge that is listed on the National Register for Historic Places. A Finding of No
Significant Impact (FONSI) is anticipated to follow the EA and Programmatic 4(f)
Evaluation. The proposed schedule for TIP Project No. R-2822B is:
Environmental Assessment (EA) due August 2004*
Programmatic 4(f) Evaluation complete August 2004*
Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) due May 2005*
Begin Right of Way Acquisition: April 2006
Construction Let date: April 2008
*Note: The document completion dates have been modified since the Scoping meeting.
Purpose and Need of Project
The purpose of the proposed project is to improve accessibility to the region and promote
economic vitality.
Graham County is a poor county with a high unemployment rate and is very dependent
on tourism. Improving the existing roadway will promote tourism in the area. The
Cherohala Skyway, a ridge route between Tennessee and North Carolina, opened in
October 1996, and was immediately acclaimed as one of the most scenic routes in the
United States, especially when fall colors are in full view. North Carolina declared the
road a Scenic Byway in April 1997. The U.S. Forest Service has made an effort to keep
the area as natural as possible along this scenic roadway. Guardrails are a natural, rusted
- brown to blend in with the earth and trees. Scenic overlooks are located alongside the
road for visitors to experience the solitude in this pristine area.
However, the section of NC 143 between Robbinsville and the Cherohala Skyway is a
narrow road with poor horizontal and vertical alignment. Improvements to this section of
NC 143 will provide better access into Graham County and intended to promote tourism
and stimulate the economy.
Existing Conditions
NC 143 is. classified as a Rural Principal Arterial. The existing facility consists of two
lanes with an 18-foot pavement width and 2-foot usable shoulders.
Scoping Meeting Minutes
TIP R-2822B
Page 3
Two major structures are located along the proposed project. Bridge No. 131 over West
Buffalo Creek was built in 1971 and has a sufficiency rating of 95.8. The bridge is
320 feet long and has a deck width of 32.5 feet. Bridge No. 13 over Snowbird Creek was
built in 1982 and has a sufficiency rating of 88.4. The bridge is 180 feet long and has a
deck width of 273 ) feet. Replacement is not proposed since both structures have adequate
deck width and are in good shape. Adding guardrails at the approaches may be required.
The horizontal alignment on NC 143 is poor. The existing terrain is mountainous.
There are no traffic signals on NC 143 within the proposed project limits. There are no
railroad crossings on NC 143 or any railroads located in the project area. No
accommodations for bicycles and pedestrians are currently provided.
The project area is mostly wooded and rural. Scattered residences and farms are located
along both sides of NC 143. More than 50 percent of the land adjacent to NC 143 within
the project limits is US Forest. Service land. Most of the adjacent landowners in the
project area are Native American Cherokee Indian. There is a picnic area located just
north of NC 143 next to Snowbird Creek at the eastern approach of Bridge No. 13.
Accident Data and Traffic Volumes
Thirty-five (35) accidents were reported between January 1997 and July 2001 on NC 143
within the project limits. Vehicles running off the road accounted for 25 of the accidents.
Traffic volumes in the project area were generated for the base year 2001 and the design
year 2025. The current traffic volumes (base year 2001) along the mainline of NC 143
range from 500 vehicles per day (vpd) to 1,400 vpd. The projected traffic volumes for
the design year 2025 range from 800 vpd to 2,600 vpd.
Proposed Improvements
Proposed improvements involve widening the existing two-lane facility to a 22-foot
pavement width with 4-foot usable shoulders.
No traffic signals are proposed for this project. No bicycle and/or pedestrian
accommodations are proposed at this time.
Environmental Concerns
Snowbird Mountain Lodge, listed on the National Register for Historic Places, is located
near the western terminus of the project.
There is a possibility that Traditional Cultural Properties (TCP's) may also be located in
the project area. A traditional cultural property can be defined generally as one that is
eligible for inclusion in the National Register because of its association with cultural
practices or beliefs of a living community that (a) are rooted in that community's history,
and (b) are important in maintaining the continuing cultural identity of the community.
Scoping Meeting Minutes
TIP R-2822B
Page 4
Identifying and evaluating such properties can require detailed and extensive
consultation, interview programs, and ethnographic field work. Coordination with the
Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) will be required for this project.
Water resources within the project area are located in the Little Tennessee River Basin.
According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC), Snowbird
Creek and West Buffalo Creek are both hatchery supported waters and contain some wild
rainbow trout. A 25-foot buffer zone will be required around both creeks and all of their
tributaries. A construction moratorium for rainbow trout will be required between
January 1 and April 15. No in-stream work or land disturbance will be allowed within
the buffer zone during the moratorium. Snowbird Creek is also stocked with I
brown/brook trout, but very few of the hatchery stocked brown/brook trout will survive to
spawn, so the main concern is with the wild rainbow trout.
Santeetlah Lake is located to the north of NC 143 in the project area and falls under the
jurisdiction of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The TVA needs to be included in
the NEPA/404 Merger Team.
Graham County has four federally endangered species (Carolina northern flying squirrel,
Indiana bat, Appalachian elktoe, and Rock Gnome Lichen) and two federally threatened
species (Bog turtle and Virginia spiraea) listed on the US Fish and Wildlife Threatened
and Endangered Species list. A critical habitat designation is also listed for the
Appalachian elktoe.
uestions/Comments
Between the western project terminus and the West Buffalo Creek crossing, the proposed
improvements will mostly be contained within the existing right-of-way. Mr. Ron
Watson, Division Engineer for Division 14, stated that no alignment improvements
should be made for this section of NC 143 since the pavement is already 22 feet wide and
the shoulders should be adequate to install guardrail while maintaining a 4-foot usable
width. It appears that the only improvements required for this section of NC 143 will be
to resurface the pavement, regrade the shoulders, and to make sure the existing guardrail
is up to standards. However, east of West Buffalo Creek, the horizontal alignment of the
existing road is especially poor and additional right of way will be required to straighten
the curves. \
A concern was raised regarding the maintenance of traffic during construction. Mr.
Watson mentioned that a new location alternative was previously considered for this
project. Mr. John Lansford explained that two new location alternatives were studied in
1996. Both alternatives proposed a 1,180-foot (360-meter) long bridge over Santeetlah
Lake. According to Mr. Lansford, one of the alternatives has a very sharp curve on the
south end of the proposed bridge as well as a steep grade. The other alternative has a
much better alignment and would be both easier to construct and safer, to drive on.
According to Mr. Watson, the residents along NC 143 would prefer a new location
alternative, rather than improving existing NC 143. He requested that the new location
alternative be studied as well as improving existing NC 143.
` Scoping Meeting Minutes
TIP R-2822B
Page 5
Acidic rock is present in the project area. Precautions will need to be taken to prevent
exposing the acidic rock, especially with a new location alignment.
The projected traffic volumes for NC 143 seemed low. Mr. Watson requested that new
traffic counts be done in late September and early October during tourist season. A new
traffic forecast request will need to be submitted to Statewide Planning.
Planning studies for the proposed project has been suspended until November 2002 due
to lack of manpower in the Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch.
The right of way and let dates will not be affected by the suspension of work.

N. C. I]EPARTMENT OF TRANSPOkTATION
-
TRANSMITTAL SLIP DATE '.
5?0 Z-
TO REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.

FROM: REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.

ACTION
? NOTE` AND7FlLE ? PER, OUR CONVERSATION i.
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ?. PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ..?
FOR YOUR APPROVAL
???,7
11 ? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? .PLEASE ANSWER -/?- FOR. YOUR COMMENTS,
? PREPARE REPLY-FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
`? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVEST.IGATE'AND REPORT ,
COMMENTS; ?:

JAMES B. HUNT JR
GOVERNOR
P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
May 22, 1995
MEMORANDUM TO:
FROM:
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TP ANSPORTATION
Mr. Eric Galamb
DEM - DEHNR, 6t
Michael L. Paylo
Project Planning
oor
RECEIVED
MAY 2 51995
ENVtRONMEo TA^uCIENCES
R. SAMUEL HUNT III
SECRETARY
SUBJECT: SR 1127 (Kilmer Road) from`New Tellico Plains Road to
SR 1116 (Massey Branch) near Robinsville, Graham
County, Federal Aid Project No. STP-1127(1), State
Project No. 8.2930301, TIP No. R-2822
A scoping meeting was held on May 16, 1995 at 10:00 a.m. in the
Planning and Environmental Conference Room (Room 470). The purpose of the
meeting was to discuss and determine the scope of the project and develop
and identify a range of alternatives to be studied.
The following people were in attendance at the meeting:
David Cox
Eric Galamb
Vince Barone
Ray Moore
Jerry Snead
Jack Matthews
Don Wilson
Johnny Metcalf
Betty Yancey
Sandra Stepney
John Lansford
Whit Webb
Lubin V. Prevatt
Julie A. Hunkins
Scott P. Gottfried
Michael L. Paylor
NCWRC
DEM
FHWA
Structure Design
Hydraulics
Photogrammetry
Location and Surveys
Roadside Environmental
Right of Way
Roadway Design
Roadway Design
Program Development
Planning and Environmental Branch
Planning and Environmental Branch
Planning and Environmental Branch
Planning and Environmental Branch
9
May 22, 1995
Page 2
Following a brief description of the proposed project, including the
current TIP schedule, these major points were discussed:
1. The Roadway Design Branch will provide functional designs for the
proposed project in March, 1996 and preliminary designs by June,
1996. A Citizens Informational Workshop will be scheduled by the
Planning and Environmental Branch upon receipt of preliminary
alignment information. Due to the anticipated delay in receiving
the necessary preliminary alignment information, the schedule of
the environmental assessment will likely be changed in the
future. The new schedule for the environmental assessment will
be determined when preliminary alignments are received from
Roadway Design.
2. The Planning and Environmental Branch will coordinate with the
Bridge Maintenance Unit to determine the need for the
rehabilitation of Bridge No. 131, which is located over Lake
Santeetlah in the vicinity of West Buffalo Creek.
3. Updated traffic forecasts will be necessary; current forecasts do
not take into account the anticipated increase in traffic that
the construction of the New Tellico Plains Road will produce.
4. The proposed project is located in a Tennessee Valley Authority
(TVA) watershed, and Lake Santeetlah, as well as its tributaries,
are designed trout waters. The N.C. Wildlife Resources
Commission (NCWRC) requests that High Quality Water (HQW)
sedimentation and erosion control measures be implemented for
this project. It was recommended that meetings should be held
between the NCDOT and the NCWRC regarding mitigation measures in
areas where acid rock is present. Additional meetings regarding
the presence of acid rock will be held when more accurate
geotechnical information is available. The NCDOT will coordinate
with the TVA, the NCWRC, and the Division of Environmental
Management (DEM) regarding these issues. It was recommended that
a mitigation plan for acid rock be included in the environmental
assessment.
5. Two streams, Barker Branch and Teeoatlah Branch, parallel the
existing alignment in some areas. The DEM requests additional
coordination with the NCDOT throughout the project planning
stage.
6. Hydraulics is developing erosion control plans for trout waters;
they will be referred to as Trout Water Standards. Some tenets
of these standards include reforestation at crossings and a trout
water buffer zone.
7. It was recommended the design standards for the proposed project
should not exceed the design standards which have been
implemented on the New Tellico Plains Road.project, located at
the subject projects western terminal. The design speed of the
New Tellico Plains Road is approximately 40 miles per hour (MPH).
s
May 22, 1995
Page 3
8. Improving the segment of the existing alignment from SR 1125
(Barker Branch Road) to SR 1116 (Massey Branch) will be
considered as an alternate; the presence of acid rock along the.
new location corridor may result in the new location alternate
being removed from consideration.
9. It has been determined that an interagency scoping meeting is
necessary, and will be scheduled early during the planning stage.
10. The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has identified one
site along the project which is listed in the National Register
of Historic Places. The Snowbird Mountain Lodge, located
approximately one-half mile from the western project terminal, is
listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This
historic property is located immediately adjacent to SR 1127
(Kilmer Road). The SHPO has also requested that archaeological
surveys be performed in areas where proposed alignment is on new
location.
MLP/wp
ACTION
? NOTE AND FILE --.? PER!OUR CONVERSATION
?. NOTE AND RETURN TO. ME Q PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS. ,?. FORYOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND. SEE?ME-ABOUT THIS ? FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE -? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE. ACTION ?, INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:
.:. RECEIVED
.? ?. JUN 4 81995
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA +DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT J2 R. SAMUEL HUNT III
GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 SECRETARY
June 5, 1995
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Eric Galamb
DEM - DEHNR, 6th Floor
FROM: H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manage
Planning and Environmental Br
SUBJECT: SR 1127 (Kilmer Road) from New Tellico Plains Road to
SR 1116 (Massey Branch) near Robbinsville, Graham County,
Federal Aid Project No. STP-1127(1), State Project No.
8.2930301, T.I.P. No. R-2822
The Planning and Environmental Branch of the Division of Highways has
begun studying the proposed improvements to SR 1127 (Kilmer Road). The
project is included in the 1995-2001 North Carolina Transportation
Improvement Program and is scheduled for right of way in fiscal year 1999 and
post year construction.
The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) call for pavement upgrades
on the two-lane section of SR 1127 from New Tellico Plains Road to Bridge No.
131, which is in the vicinity of West Buffalo Creek. From Bridge No. 131 to
SR 1116 (Massey Branch), SR 1127 will be relocated as a two-lane facility.
The new location facility will involve a crossing of Lake Santeelah.
Consideration will also be given to the utilization of the existing
roadway from Bridge No. 131 too SR 1116. Geological survey testing to
determine the extent of acid rock contamination along the alternative
alignments will be needed to assess alignment feasibility.
We would appreciate any information you might have that would be helpful
in evaluating potential environmental impacts of the project. If applicable,
please identify any permits or approvals which may be required by your
agency. Your comments will be used in the preparation of a federally funded
Environmental Assessment. This document will be prepared in accordance with
the National Environmental Policy Act. It is desirable that your agency
respond by July 20, 1995 so that your comments can be used in the preparation
of this document.
If you have any questions concerning
L. Paylor, Project Planning Engineer, of
Extension 231.
the project, please contact Michael
this Branch at [phone],
HFV/plr
Attachment
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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
m DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
1112 PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL
BRANCH
GRAHAM COUNTY
SR 1127 (KILMER ROAD)
FROM NEW TELLICO PLAINS ROAD
TO SR 1116 MASSEY BRANCH
NEAR ROBBINSVILLE
TIP NO. R-2822
R D ?'?? 0 MILE I FIG. I
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Environmental Management
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
July 7, 1995
?EHNR
TO: Melba McGee, Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs
FROM: Monica Swihar^, Water Quality Planning
SUBJECT: Project Review #95-0888; Scoping Comments - NC DOT
Proposed Improvements to SR 1127, TIP No. R-2822
The Water Quality Section of the Division of Environmental
Management requests.that the following topics be discussed in the
environmental documents prepared on the subject project:
A. Identify the streams potentially impacted by the project.
The stream classifications should be current.
B. Identify the linear feet of stream channelizations/
relocations. If the original stream banks were vegetated,
it is requested that the channelized/relocated stream banks
be revegetated.
C. Number of stream crossings.
D. Will permanent spill catch basins be utilized? DEM requests
that these catch basins be placed at all water supply stream
crossings. Identify the responsible party for maintenance.
E. Identify the stormwater controls-,(permanent and temporary)
to be employed.
F. Please ensure that sediment and erosion and control measures
are not placed in wetlands.
G. Wetland Impacts
1) Identify the federal manual used for identifying and
delineating jurisdictional wetlands.
2) Have wetlands been avoided as much as possible?
3) Have wetland impacts been minimized?
4) Discuss wetland impacts by plant communities affected.
5) Discuss the quality of wetlands impacted.
6) Summarize the total wetland impacts.
7) List the 401 General Certification numbers requested
from DEM.
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 1 0% post-consumer paper

Melba McGee
July 7, 1995
Page 2
H. Will borrow locations be in wetlands? Borrow/waste areas
should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practicable.
Prior to approval of any borrow/waste site in a wetland, the
contractor shall obtain a 401 Certification from DEM.
I. Did NCDOT utilize the existing road alignments as much as
possible? Why not (if applicable)?
J. To what extent can traffic congestion management techniques
alleviate the traffic problems in the study area?
K. Please provide a conceptual mitigation plan to help the
environmental review. The mitigation plan may state the
following:
1. Compensatory mitigation will be considered only after
wetland impacts have been avoided and minimized to the
maximum extent possible.
2. On-site, in-kind mitigation is the preferred method of
mitigation.' In-kind mitigation within the same
watershed is preferred over out-of-kind mitigation.
3. Mitigation should be in the following order:
restoration, creation, enhancement, and lastly banking.
Please note that a 401 Water Quality Certification cannot be
issued until the conditions of NCAC 15A: 01C.0402 (Limitations on
Actions During NCEPA Process) are met This regulation prevents
DEM from issuing the 401 Certification until a FONSI or Record of
Decision (ROD) has been issued by the Department requiring the
document. If the 401 Certification application is submitted for
review prior to issuance of the FONSI or ROD, it is recommended
that the applicant state that the 401 will not be issued until
the applicant informs DEM that the-FONSI or ROD has been signed
by the Department.
Written concurrence of 401 Water Quality Certification may
be required for this project. Applications requesting coverage
under our General Certification 14 or General Permit 31 will
require written concurrence. Please be aware that 401
Certification may be denied if wetland impacts have not been
avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable.
10972.mem
cc: Eric Galamb
R?OF??FO ?? .,,?G•?
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F,y?,iRON ,?S ?:? ?•??.
?1Tgti c?Fiy
IFS ?s
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
TRANSMITTAL SLIP DAT;4
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR. APPROVAL
--? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS _ X FOR YOUR INFORM.T.-N
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
--' ? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
-: ? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
-- COMMENTS:_
S
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TPANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
R. SAMUEL HUNT II I
SECRETARY
April 13, 1995
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Eric Galamb
DEM - DEHNR, 6th Floor
FROM: H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for SR 1127 (Kilmer Road) from
New Tellico Plains Road to SR 1116 (Massey Branch) west
of Robbinsville, Graham County, Federal Aid Project
No. STP-1127(1), State Project No. 8.2930301, TIP
ID No. R-2822
Attached for your review and comments are the scoping sheets for the
subject project (See attached map for project location). The purpose of
these sheets and the related review procedure is to have an early "meeting
of the minds" as to the scope of work that should be performed and thereby
enable us to better implement the project. A scoping meeting for this
project is scheduled for Tuesday, May 16, 1995 at 10:00 A. M. in the
Planning and Environmental Branch Conference Room (Room 470). You may
provide us with your comments at the meeting or mail them to us prior to
that date.
Attachment i1c,,?j "?
Thank you for your assistance in this part of our planning process.
If there are any questions about the meeting or the scoping sheets, please
call Michael Paylor, Project Planning Engineer, at 733-7842, Ext. 231.
MP/plr 6YOV0
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PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
Date APRIL 18. 1995
Revision Date
Project Development Stage
Programming
Planning X
Design
TIP # R-2822
State Project # &2930301
F.A. Project # STP-1127(1)
Division FOURTEEN
County GRAHAM
Route(s) SR 1127
Functional Classification RURAL MINOR ARTERIAL
Length 9.5 KM (5.6 MILES)
Purpose of Project IMPROVE THE SAFETY AND TRAFFIC CAPACITY OF THE
FACT ITY
Description of Project (including specific limits) and major elements of work: UPGRADE
EXISTING ROADWAY, WITH SOME, NEW LOCATION- SR 1127 (KILMER ROAD). FROM NEW
TELLICO PLAINS ROAD TO SR 1116 (MASSEY BRANCH) IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDE
CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BRIDGE OVER LAKE SANTEETLAH AND REALIGNMENT OF
ROADWAY FROM NORTH OF SR 1125 (BUCK BRANCH ROAD) TO THE VICINITY OF BRIDGE
NO 131 OVER WEST BUFFALO CREEK FROM WEST BUFFALO CREEK TO SR 1116, ROADWAY
UPGRADES WILL CONSIST OF WIDENING AND REALIGNMENT (WHERE POSS18LE) .
Type of environmental document to be prepared: ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Environmental Study Schedule: EA - OCT 96 FONSI - JUN 97
Will there be special funding participation by municipality, developers, or other?
Yes No _ _X_
If yes, by whom and amount: ($) , or W
How and when will this be paid?
PROJECT SCOPiNG SHEET
Type of Access Control: Full
Partial None _-X -
Number of Interchanges 0 Grade Separations 0
Stream Crossings 2
Typical Section: Existing VARIES FROM 18 - 22 FEET; TWO-LANE SHOULDER SECTION.
"
Proposed TWO-LANE 24-FOOT TRAVELWAY WITH SHOULDERS
p
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Traffic (ADT): Current ?fl© Design Year 310 0 % TTST
c Duals
Design Standards Applicable: AASHTO 3R
Design Speed:
Current Cost Estimate:
Construction Cost (including engineering and contingencies)....... $ 12.700.000
Right of Way (including relocation, utilities, and acquisition) ........ $ 700,000
Force Account Items ........................................................................... $
Preliminary Engineering ...................................................................... $
TOTAL PLANNING COST ESTIMATE ........................................... $ 1A.AQn,0no
TIP Cost Estimate :
Construction ........................................................................................ $ 12,204,000
Right of Way ........................................................................................ $ 700,000
TOTAL TIP COST ESTIMATE ........................................................ $ 12,900,000
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PROJECT SLOPING SHEET
List any special features, such as railroad involvement, which could affect cost or
schedule of project: INVOLVEMENT WITH CITIZENS IN THE PROJECT AREA, TERRAIN
ITEMS REQUIRED (X) COMMENTS COST
Estimated Costs of Improvements:
--X-2avement
f
S nno
A93
$ I
ace ...............................................................................
ur .
.
Base .................................................................................... $ ,.
Milling & Recycling ........................................................... $
..........
...
Turnouts $
.
................................................................
Shoulders
v
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P $
.................................................................................
e
a
a $
rthen ...............................................................................
-E
. 4t,
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C100
.................
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,
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s .................................................................... ...
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on ........................................................
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.................................................
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..........
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.
.............................................................
Mi
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sc .........................................................................
er
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er ...........................................................
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...............
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Fencing
W.W .................................................................................... $
.
................
C.L ..... ............................................................
RV
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?X- Erosion Control ......................................................................•..... j?
--
i
ng .................. ........................................................
Landscap
a
Lighting .............. .....................................................................
.
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..........................................
..................................
ro
on
--
-
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Signing
N $
ew ....... ............................... ................................... ,
d
d $
.................................................................... .
Upgra
e
Traffic Signals
N $
ew ..................................................................................
i
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R $
............................ ..............................................
ev
se
?
RR Signals
.
........
New ........................................................... ..........
i
d
R $
.............................................................................
ev
se
With/without Arms ...........................................................
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
ITEMS REQUIRED (X) COMMENTS COST
If 31?
-Drainage Safety Enhancement ..................................................... $
Roadside Safety Enhancement ..................................................... $
-Realignment for Safety Upgrade ..................................................
_ X Pavement Markinas
?Paint .................................................................................................
_ X Jhermoplastic ................................................................................. It 71 nnn_
-Raised Pavement Markers ............................................................ $ ..
Delineators ................................................................................................
--X-Other (clearing, grubbing, misc., and mob.) ....................................... $9.13A.000-
-X- 1 INP 11& 114
CONTRACT COST Subtotal ..................................... :........ $ i,n5n nnn
Engineering & Contingencies .......................................... :................................ no
PE Costs ...............................................................................................................
Force Account .......... ...................................................................................... $--
Subtotal ............................................... 3 19,700QQQ
Right-of-Way
Will contain within existing R/W7 Yes No
Existing Width
New R/W needed Estimated Cost ..........................
Easements: Type - Width
Estimated Cost .......................... $
Utilities ........................................................................................................ $
Right-of-Way Subtotal ...................................................................
Total Estimated Cost .......................... $
Prepared by: gate
The above scoping has been reviewed and approved by:
Highway Design
Roadway
Structure
Design Services
Geotechnical
Hydraulics
Loc. & Surveys
Photogrammetry
Prel. Est. Engr.
Ping & Environ.
Init. Date t its Date
B.O.T. Member
Mgr Program & Policy
Chief Engineer- Precon
Chief Engineer- Op
Sec Roads Officer
Construction Branch
Roadside Environ.
Maintenance Branch
-,ak- -•4-i-4 ?5 Bridge Maintenance
Statewide Planning
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
Init. Date
Init. Date
Right of Way Division Engineer
R/W Utilities Biciycle Coordinator
Traffic Engr. Program Development
Project Management FHWA
County Manager Dept. of Cult. Res.
City/ Municipality DEHNR
(Scoping Sheet for local officials will be sent to Division Engineering.)
*If you are not in agreement with proposed project or scoping, note your proposed
omments here:
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