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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPART MNT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
January 18, 2007
MEMORANDUM
TO: Secretary Lyndo Tippett
FROM: Kimberly D. Hinton
Senior Public Hearin Picer
Human Environment Unit
:'
T??k
LYNDO T *,,rr
SECRETARY r,4.
RE: Notice of a Combined Public Hearing for Access Improvements to Northwest
Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and Wilkinson Boulevard (US 29/74)
U-2704B, Mecklenburg County
The following Notice is furnished for your information:
U-2704B This project intends to improve the Northwest. Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway
and Wilkinson Boulevard.
KDH/cdh
Attachment
cc: Mr. Marion A. Cowell, Jr., Board "of Transportation Member - Division 10
Mr. Larry S. Helms, At-Large, Board of Transportation Member- Division 10
Mr. Steve Varnedoe, P.E.
Mr. J. B. Williamson, Jr.
Ms. Deborah M. Barbour, P.E.
Mr. C. W. Leggett, P.E.
Mr. Majed Al-Ghandour, P.E.
Mr. Bill Rosser
Mr. Greg Thorpe
Mr. Rob Hanson, P.E.
Ms. Teresa Hart, P.E.
Mr. Art McMillan, P.E.
Mr. Jay Bennett, P.E.
Mr. J. Victor Barbour, P.E.
Mr. Kevin Lacy, P.E.
Ms. Sharon Lipscomb
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] PARKER LINCOLN BLDG
OFFICE OF HUMAN ENVIRONMENT 2728 CAPITAL BLVD
1583 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1583
1?'y
NOTICE OF A COMBINED PUBLIC HEARING FOR ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS
NORTHWEST QUADRANT OF BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY (SR 5901)
AND WILKINSON BOULEVARD (US 29/74)
U-2704B
Mecklenburg County
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will hold an Open
House Public Hearing on February 26, 2006 between the hours of 4:30 p.m. and 7:00
p.m. on the Harris Campus (also called West Campus) of Central Piedmont
Community College in Room 1120, 3210 CPCC West Campus Drive, Charlotte,
28208.
Department of Transportation representatives will be available in an informal
setting to answer questions and receive comments relative to the project. The
opportunity to submit written comments or questions will also be provided. Interested
citizens may attend at any time during the above mentioned hours. Please note there
will be no formal presentation.
The purpose of this hearing is to present information, answer questions, and
receive comments regarding access improvements in the northwest quadrant of the
Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and Wilkinson Boulevard (US 29/74). The project
proposes to improve and extend Boyer Street northward to the I-85 Service Road
(SR 1818 Scott Futtrell Drive); add a southbound auxiliary lane to Billy Graham
Parkway from 1-85 to Boyer Street; and also improve and extend Withrow Road to
Billy Graham Parkway to provide access to Wilkinson Boulevard. This project
includes state and local funding. Additional right of way will be required to
accommodate the proposed improvements.
A map setting forth the proposed transportation improvements for the project
and a copy of the environmental document- Environmental Assessment (EA) - are
available for public review. They will be displayed at the Mecklenburg-Union
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MUMPO), 600 E. Fourth Street, 8th Floor,
Charlotte, 28202 and at the NCDOT Resident Engineer's Office located at 6810
Rozzelles Ferry Road, Charlotte, 28214. The map may also be viewed at
www.mumpo.org.
Anyone desiring additional information may contact Ms. Kimberly Hinton,
NCDOT-Human Environment Unit at 1583 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, 27699, by
phone [phone], by fax [phone], or by email khinto nCcb-dot.state. nc.us.
Additional material may be submitted for a period of 15 days from the date of the
hearing.
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with
Disabilities Act for disabled persons who wish to participate in this hearing. Anyone
requiring special services should contact Ms. Hinton as early as possible so that
arrangements can be made.
O\ NAT ?9QG
o ?
MEMORANDUM
To: Melba McGee
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
zoos
TiAn;n ANN)lSroRM? E1BR,,Ck
From: Polly Lespinasse, Division of Water Quality, Mooresville Regional Office
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
October 10, 2006
Subject: Comments on the Environmental Assessment Related to Proposed Access
Improvements in the Northwest Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and US 29-
74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) Grade Separation, Mecklenburg County, WBS Element
34844.1.1, TIP U-270413, DENR Project Number 07-0118
This.office has reviewed the referenced document dated May 31, 2006. The Division of Water Quality (DWQ)
is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities that impact Waters of
the U.S., including wetlands. It is our understanding that the project as presented will result in impacts to
jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and other surface waters. The DWQ offers the following comments based on
review of the aforementioned document:
General Comments:
A) The environmental document should provide a detailed and itemized presentation of the proposed
impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. If mitigation is necessary as required by
.15A NCAC 2H.0506(h), it is preferable to present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the
environmental documentation. Appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to issuance of a 401
Water Quality Certification.
B) Environmental assessment alternatives should consider design criteria that reduce the impacts to
streams and wetlands from storm water runoff. These alternatives should include road designs that
allow for treatment of the storm water runoff through best management practices as detailed in the
most recent version of NCDWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices, such as grassed swales,
buffer areas, preformed scour holes, retention basins, etc.
C) Prior to an issuance of the 401 Water Quality Certification, the NCDOT is respectfully reminded that
they will need to demonstrate the avoidance and minimization of impacts to wetlands (and streams) to
the maximum extent practical. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's
Rules {15A NCAC 2H.0506(h)}, mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 1 acre to
wetlands. In the event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace
appropriate lost functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for
use as wetland mitigation.
D) In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules {15A NCAC 2H.0506(h)},
mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In
the event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost
functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as stream
Carolina
mitigation. tenwrallh(
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 610 East Center Avenue, Suite 301
Internet: h2o.enr.state.nc.us Mooresville, NC 28115
Phone [phone]
Fax [phone]
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer- 50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper
E) Future documentation, including the 401 Water Quality Certification Application, should continue to
include an itemized listing of the proposed wetland and stream impacts with corresponding mapping.
F) DWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from this project. NCDOT
should address these concerns by describing the potential impacts that may occur to the aquatic
environments and any mitigating factors that would reduce the impacts.
G) An analysis of cumulative and secondary impacts anticipated as a result of this project is required. The
type and detail of analysis should conform to the NC Division of Water Quality Policy on the
assessment of secondary and cumulative impacts dated April 10, 2004.
H) NCDOT is respectfully reminded that all impacts, including but not limited to, bridging, fill, excavation
and clearing, to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and riparian buffers need to be included in the final
impact calculations. These impacts, in addition to any construction impacts, temporary or otherwise,
also need to be included as part of the 401 Water Quality Certification Application.
1) Where streams must be crossed, the DWQ prefers bridges be used in lieu of culverts. However, we
realize that economic considerations often require the use of culverts. Please be advised that culverts
should be countersunk to allow unimpeded passage by fish and other aquatic organisms. Moreover, in
areas where high quality wetlands or streams are impacted, a bridge may prove preferable. When
applicable, DOT should not install the bridge bents in the creek, to the maximum extent practicable.
J) Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. or streams.
K) Borrow/waste areas should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practical. Impacts to wetlands in
borrow/waste areas will need to be presented in the 401 Water Quality Certification and could
precipitate compensatory mitigation.
L) The 401 Water Quality Certification application will need to specifically address the proposed methods
for stormwater management. More specifically, stormwater should not be permitted to discharge
directly into streams or surface waters.
M) Based on the information presented in the document, the magnitude of impacts to wetlands and
streams may require an Individual Permit (IP) application to the Corps of Engineers and -
corresponding 401 Water Quality Certification. Please be advised that a 401 Water Quality Certification
requires satisfactory protection of water quality to ensure that water quality standards are met and no
wetland or stream uses are lost. Final permit authorization will require the submittal of a formal
application by the NCDOT and written concurrence from the NCDWQ. Please be aware that any
approval will be contingent on appropriate avoidance and minimization of wetland and stream impacts
to the maximum extent practical, the development of an acceptable stormwater management plan, and
the inclusion of appropriate mitigation plans where appropriate.
N) Bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream when possible.
O) Whenever possible, the DWQ prefers spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not require
work within the stream or grubbing of the streambanks and do not require stream channel realignment.
The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges allow for human and wildlife passage
beneath the structure, do not block fish passage and do not block navigation by canoeists and boaters.
P) Bridge deck drains should not discharge directly into the stream. Stormwater should be directed across
the bridge and pre-treated through site-appropriate means (grassed swales, pre-formed scour holes,
vegetated buffers, etc.) before entering the stream. Please refer to the most current version of
NCDWQ Stormwater Best Management Practices.
Q) If concrete is used during construction, a dry work area should be maintained to prevent direct contact
between curing concrete and stream water. Water that inadvertently contacts uncured concrete should
not be discharged to surface waters due to the potential for elevated pH and possible aquatic life and
fish kills.
R) If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction
contours and elevations. Disturbed areas should be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and
appropriate native woody species should be planted. When using temporary structures the area should
be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other
mechanized equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact allows the area to re-vegetate
naturally and minimizes soil disturbance.
S) Placement of culverts and other structures in waters, streams, and wetlands shall be placed below the
elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches, and 20
percent of the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than 48 inches, to allow low flow
passage of water and aquatic life. Design and placement of culverts and other structures including
temporary erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may result in dis-
equilibrium of wetlands or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and down stream of the above
structures. The applicant is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is being maintained if
requested in writing by DWQ. If this condition is unable to be met due to bedrock or other limiting
features encountered during construction, please contact the DWQ for guidance on how to proceed and
to determine whether or not a permit modification will be required.
T) If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they should be designed to mimic natural stream cross section
as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation and/or sills where appropriate.
Widening the stream channel should be avoided. Stream channel widening at the inlet or outlet end of
structures typically decreases water velocity causing sediment deposition that requires increased
maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage.
U) If foundation test borings are necessary; it should be noted in the document. Geotechnical work is
approved under General 401 Certification Number 3494/Nationwide Permit No. 6 for Survey Activities.
V) Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be implemented and
maintained in accordance with the most recent version of North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control
Planning and Design Manual and the most recent version of NCS000250. .
W) All work in or adjacent to stream waters should be conducted in a dry work area. Approved BMP
measures from the most current version of NCDOT Construction and Maintenance Activities manual
such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and other diversion structures should be used to prevent
excavation in flowing water.
X) While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps and soil survey maps are useful tools, their
inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineations prior to
permit approval.
Y) Heavy equipment should be operated from the bank rather than in stream channels in order to minimize
sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of introducing other pollutants into streams. This equipment
should be inspected daily and maintained to prevent contamination of surface waters from leaking
fuels, lubricants, hydraulic fluids, or other toxic materials.
Z) Riprap should not be placed in the active thalweg channel or placed in the streambed in a manner that
precludes aquatic life passage. Bioengineering boulders or structures should be properly designed,
sized and installed.
AA) Riparian vegetation (native trees and shrubs) should be preserved to the maximum extent possible.
Riparian vegetation must be reestablished within the construction limits of the project by the end of the
growing season following completion of construction.
The NCDWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on your project. Should you have any questions
or require any additional information, please contact Polly Lespinasse at [phone].
cc: Steve Lund, US Army Corps of Engineers, Asheville Field Office
Chris Militscher, Environmental Protection Agency
Marla Chambers, NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Marella Buncick, US Fish and Wildlife Service
Sonia Gregory, DWQ Central Regional Office
File Copy
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
Project Review Form
Project Number: 07-0118 County: Mecklenburg
Due Date: 10/30/2006
Date Received: 10/04/2006
Project Description: Proposed Access Improvements in Northwest Quadrant of US 521 (Billy Graham Pkwy.) and US
29/74 (Wilkinson Blvd.) and Extension of Boyer Street; TIP #U-2704B
This Project is being reviewed as indicated below:
Regional Office Regional Office Area In-House Review
Asheville Air Soil & Water Marine Fisheries
Fayetteville Water Coastal Management Water Resources
Mooresville Groundwater Wildlife Environmental Health
Raleigh
Land Quality Engineer Solid Waste Mgmt
? Wildlife -DOT
Washington Radiation Protection
TT Forest Resources
Wilmington Other
Winston-Salem Land Resources
T Parks & Recreation
Water Quality
T Water Quality - DOT
Air Quality
Manager Sign-Off/Region: Date: In-House Reviewer/Agency:
Response (check all applicable)
No objection to project as proposed.
Insufficient information to complete review
No Comment
Other (specify or attach comments)
Regional Office Only:
Please log into the IBEAM system and update your comments in the DSS (Decision Support System) application,
SEPA module. If you have any questions, please contact:
Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator at [e-mail]
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Charlotte
Access Improvements
in the Northwest Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and
US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) Grade Separation
Mecklenburg County
WBS Element 34844.1.1
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
In Compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act

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APPROVED:

Date Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.,
Environmental Management Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch

Charlotte
Access Improvements
in the Northwest Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and
US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) Grade Separation
Mecklenburg County
WBS Element 34844.1.1
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
MAY 2006
Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental
Analysis Branch by:
SIB /o6 S'r-voC- k Gam"
Date Scott A. Gentry, E.I. ?et?tre?t
Project Planning Engineer ?,i? r+m
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5111106 LPA
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Date Ja s A. McInnis, Jr., PA.
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Project Engineer ''em , 6?
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT COMMITMENTS ...

S ................................................................................................. i
UMMARY

. ........................
.............................................................................................
........iii
Type of Action ...............

2. .............................................................................................. iii
...
Description of Action ...........
3. ...............................................
Alternatives Considered

•
4. ...................................... •••
......................................................... iii
Coordination ..
5. Permits Required ............................................................................................. iii
......................

" 6. .................................................................................... IV
Summary of Environmental Effects .

7. ............................................................................ IV
Additional Information ..

I. ........................
DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION
......................................................................1
A. Project Purpose .................
............................................................................................ 1
B. General Description ..........
............................................................................................ 1
C. Cost Estimates
.

H. .............................
............................
NEED FOR PROPOSED PROJECT
........................................................ .............. 2
..........
A. Description of Existing Facilities
.................................................................................. 2
1. Route Classification
................................................ ................................... 3
............
2. Physical Description of Existing Facilities
............................................................... 4
a. Roadway Typical Section
............................................... ..... 4
..................................
b. Right of Way and Access Control
......................................................................... 4
c. Speed Limit ........
................................................................................................... 4
d. Intersections
.
...........................................
.............................. .............. 4
................
e. Railroad Crossings ............
..........................................................
f
Struct
.
ures ............................................................................................................... 5
g. Bicycle Accommodations/Pedestrian Facilities
.................................................... 5
h. Utilities
.................................................................................................................. 5
3. School Bus Data
............................................... ....... 6
4. Traffic Volumes
........................................................................................................ 6
5. Airports .............
........................................................................:............................... 6
6. Other Highway Projects in the Area ..............................................
6
...........................
B. Deficiencies of Existing Facilities
................................................................................ 7
1. Access
............................
2. Traffic Carryin
Ca
acit
g
p
y ......................................................................................... 7
3. Accident Record
.... ....................
.
................... 8
C
Benefit
f P
ed P
.
s o
ropos
roject ....................................................................
.
1
Access
.
.......................
2
Traff
C
i
/D
l
.
ic
ongest
on
e
ay .......................................................................................... 9
3. Safety ..............
.
.
.

III. .
......................................
......................................
... 9
.....................
PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
:
..
................................................................................. 10
A. Roadway Cross-section and Alignment
.
......................................
............................... 10
B. Right of Way and Access Control
............................................................................... 10
C
S
eed Li
it
.
p
m
.................................................................................................................. 10
D. Design Speed ..........................................................................
11
....................................
E
A
ti
i
t
d D
i
E
.
n
c
pa
e
es
gn
xceptions ................................................................................... 11
F. Intersections/Interchanges
........................................................................................... 11
G. Railroad Crossings ...................................................................................................... 11
H. Structures ..............
I: Pedestrian and Bicycle Accommodations ................................................................... 11
J. Utilities ................... .......................................... ........... 12
K. Landscaping ................................................................................................................ 12
L. Noise Barriers ......................... ..........................................12
IV. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION ....................................................... 12
A. Alternate Modes of Transportation,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 12
B. "No-Build" Alternative ....................... .........................................................
................................................................
V. PROBABLE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF PROPOSED ACTION ................... 13
A. Natural Resources ................................... .............................................................. 13
1. Biotic Resources ....................
.......................................................
a. Terrestrial Communities ...................................................................................... 13
b. Aquatic Communities ................................ ..................... 15
....................................
c. Summary of Anticipated Effects ...................................................
2. Water Resources ..................................................................................................... 16
a. Streams, Rivers, and Impoundments ....................................... ........................ 16
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects ......................................................................... 17
3. Waters of the US ..................................................................................................... 18
a. Wetlands .............................................. ................... 18
.............................................
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects .................... ................... 18
..................................
c. Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation .......................................................... 18
d. Anticipated Permit Requirements ....................................................................... 19
4. Rare and Protected Species ..................................................................................... 19
a. Federally-Protected Species ................................................................................ 19
b. Federal Species of Concern/State Protected Species .......................................... 20
B. Cultural Resources ....................................... ............................. 20
..................................
1. Historic Architectural Resources ............................................................................ 21
2. Archaeological Resources ....................................................................................... 21
C. Social Effects ...............
............................................................................
1. Neighborhoods/Communities ................................................................................. 21
2. Relocation of Residences and Businesses ............................................................... 22
3. Minority/Low-Income Populations ......................................................................... 22
4. Public Facilities ....................................................................................................... 22
D. Economic Effects ....................................................... 22
E. Land Use ..........................................................................
122
. Existing Land Use and Zoning ............................................
222
. Future Land Use ................................. ...........................................:......................... 23
3. Project Compatibility with Local Plans
F. Secondary/Cumulative Effects .................................................................................... 23
G. Prime and Important Farmland ................................................................................... 23
H. Traffic Noise Analysis ................................................................................................ 24
1. Ambient Noise Levels ................................................................................... .... 24
2. Analysis Results ...................................................................................................... 25
3. Noise Abatement Alternatives ................................................................................ 25

4. Construction Noise
...........................
...............................................................
. Summary .....................
............................................................................................
I
Air Qualit
A
l
i 26
.
y
na
ys
s ...................................................................................................
1. Background CO Concentrations 27
........................ ................................................
2. Air Quality Analysis Results 27
...................................................................................
3. Construction Air Quality Effects 27
. ........................................................
....................
4. Summary ....................

28
.............................................................................................
J. Hazardous Materials 2
8
...................................................................................................
VI
COMMENTS AND COORD 28
.
INATION ....................................................... 29
..................
A
Citizens Inf
ti
l W
.
orma
ona
orkshop ...............................................................................
B
Public Hearin 29
.
g ................................................... ............................................
C. Agency Coordination ... 29
....... ................................................................................... 29
MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS
FIGURE II-1 Existing Facilities in Project Area
FIGURE 1 Project Vicinity Map
FIGURE 2 Aerial Photograph of Project
FIGURE 3 Water Resources/Historic Properties in Project Area
FIGURE 4A 2009/2030 Average Daily Traffic Volumes (No-Build)
FIGURE 4B 2009 Average Daily Traffic Volumes (With Project)
FIGURE 4C 2030 Average Daily Traffic Volumes (With Project and Local Improvements)
FIGURE 5A Proposed Typical Sections
FIGURE 5B Proposed Typical Sections
FIGURE 5C Proposed Typical Sections
FIGURE 6 Portion of 2004 Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization
Thoroughfare Plan
FIGURE 7 Roadway Projects in the Vicinity of U-2704B
LIST OF TABLES

TABLE 1 - Functional Classification of Project Roads ............................................................ 3
TABLE 2 - Existing Bridge Structures within Project Area ..................................................... 5
TABLE 3 - Capacity Analysis for Boyer Street Without Project ............................................. 7
TABLE 4 - Accident Rate Comparison .................................................................................... 8
TABLE 5 - Capacity Analysis for Boyer Street With Project ................................................... 9
TABLE 6 - Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities ........................................................ 15
TABLE 7 - Water Resources in Project Area ......................................................................... 16
TABLE 8 - Anticipated Impacts to Streams ........................................................................... 17
TABLE 9 - Federally-Protected Species in Mecklenburg County ..................................... 19
TABLE 10 - Federal Species of Concern/Candidate Species Listed For
Mecklenburg County ........................................................................................... 20
APPENDICES
Appendix A - Comments Received
Appendix B - Relocation Reports
SUMMARY
State Environmental Assessment
Prepared by the
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
of the
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1. Tyne of Action
This is a North Carolina Department of Transportation, State Environmental
Assessment.
2. Description of Action
The project proposes to improve existing Boyer Street and extend Boyer Street
northward to I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). The project also involves improving existing
Withrow Road and extending Withrow Road to Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901). An
additional southbound lane will be added to Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) between
existing I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) and Boyer Street (SR 1656) (see Figure 2).
The extension of Withrow Road to Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) will provide
access between Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) in
the northwest quadrant of the crossing of these two roads.
3. Alternatives Considered
Alternate modes of transportation and the "no-build" alternative were considered as
alternatives to the proposed improvements (see Section IV). Alternate modes of
transportation or the "no-build" alternative would not effectively serve the project purpose
and need.
4. Coordination
This project was coordinated with the following federal, state and local agencies
during this study:
US Department of the Army - Corps of Engineers
NC Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse
NC Department of Cultural Resources - State Historic Preservation Office
NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Environmental Health
Division of Forest Resources
Division of Water Quality
NC Department of Public Instruction
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners
iii
Mecklenburg County Land Use and Environmental Services Agency
Department of Environmental Protection
Charlotte Department of Transportation
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Charlotte-Douglas International Airport
5. Permits Required
Based on anticipated impacts to jurisdictional surface waters, the project will likely
require a Nationwide 14 Permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers. Additionally, a
North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) General Water Quality Certification will
be required prior to issuance of the Nationwide 14 Permit.
6. Summary of Environmental Effects
It is anticipated the proposed project will require the relocation of three homes and
four businesses. It is anticipated highway traffic noise in the project area will result in
impacts to one residence and two businesses. Traffic noise abatement measures are not
recommended (see Section V-11-3).
There are two properties eligible for the National Register of Historic Places within
the project study area. No National Register listed and no known archaeological sites are
located within the project study area (see Section V-B).
Wetlands do -not occur within the project limits. However, impacts to jurisdictional
streams could total approximately 381 linear feet (see Section V-A-2-b).
7. Additional Information
The following person may be contacted for additional information concerning this
proposal and statement:
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph. D., Environmental Management Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NC Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1501
Telephone: [phone]
iv
Charlotte
Access Improvements
in the Northwest Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and
US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) Grade Separation
Mecklenburg County
WBS Element 34844. 1.1
TIP Project U-2704B
I. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION
A. Proiect Purpose
The purpose of this project is to improve access and connectivity between US 29-74
(Wilkinson Boulevard) and Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and reduce congestion on Billy
Graham Parkway.
B. General Description
The project involves improving existing Boyer Street and extending it northward to
I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). Existing Boyer Street currently ends approximately 1,000 feet
south of I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). The project also involves improving existing
Withrow Road and extending it to the Billy Graham Parkway. Existing Withrow Road
currently ends approximately 350 feet west of Billy Graham Parkway. In addition to the
work on Boyer Street and Withrow Road, a southbound auxiliary lane will be added to the
Billy Graham Parkway between existing I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) and the existing Boyer
Street (SR 1656) intersection.
Turn lanes will be added at the existing intersections of Boyer Street (SR 1656) and
Old Dowd Road and Boyer Street (SR 1656) and Wilkinson Boulevard. An additional
southbound auxiliary lane will be added to Boyer Street (SR 1656) between Wilkinson
Boulevard and Old Dowd Road.
The existing section of Boyer Street between Wilkinson Boulevard and Withrow
Road will be widened to a five-lane roadway (three southbound and two northbound lanes)
with curb and gutter and a 10-foot berm. The extension of Boyer Street north of Withrow
Road will be constructed as a three-lane roadway with curb and gutter (one through lane in
each direction with a continuous center turn lane).
Withrow Road will be constructed as a three-lane roadway with eight-foot shoulders
(two feet paved). Proposed typical sections for the project are shown on Figures 5A, 5B, and
5C.
The project is included in the approved 2006-2012 North Carolina Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP). The project is scheduled in the 2006-2012 TIP for right of way
acquisition and construction in state fiscal years 2008 and 2009, respectively. The entire
project is approximately 1.6 miles in length.
C. Cost Estimates
The cost=estimate included in the 2006-2012 TIP for the project is $5,950,000. This
total includes an estimated right of way acquisition cost of $1,000,000 and construction cost
of $4,950,000. Current cost estimates are as follows:
Construction $ 6,600,000
Right of Way Acquisition $ 3,616,235
TOTAL $10,216,235
II. NEED FOR PROPOSED PROJECT
A. Description of Existiniz Facilities
The project area is located west of downtown Charlotte. Figure II-1 below shows the
project area. The project area is also shown on Figures 2 and 3. Billy Graham Parkway
extends from I-77, south of the project area, to I-85 just north of the project area. Wilkinson
Boulevard extends from downtown Charlotte into Gaston County. Billy Graham Parkway
crosses over Wilkinson Boulevard approximately 0.5 mile south of I-85. No direct access is
provided between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard. Indirect. access is
provided by connecting roads in three of the quadrants of the grade separation.
Commencing at Wilkinson Boulevard just east of Billy Graham Parkway, Boyer
Street extends westward crossing Billy Graham Parkway at-grade. West of Billy Graham
Parkway, Boyer Street is state maintained (SR 1656) and continues north, crossing Wilkinson
Boulevard at-grade. North of Wilkinson Boulevard, Boyer Street is city maintained and
continues north, ending approximately 1,700 feet north of Wilkinson Boulevard (currently,
the only state maintained section of Boyer Street (SR 1656) is located between Billy Graham
Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard). Withrow Road is a 450-foot long local street located in
the northwest quadrant of the crossing of Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard.
Withrow Road extends from Boyer Street eastward, dead-ending just west of Billy Graham
Parkway.
I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) intersects with Billy Graham Parkway approximately
550 feet south of I-85. The service road runs parallel to I-85 through the project area.
2
8pwa?ro w /
i ,4,e
.DYER 6r -?-?
V
0 1000
FEET
Figure 11-1- Existing Facilities in Project Area
Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is located approximately one mile southwest
of the Billy Graham Parkway/Wilkinson Boulevard grade separation (see Figure 3). Billy
Graham Parkway, Wilkinson Boulevard, and Boyer Street all provide access to the airport via
other roads.
1. Route Classification
Table 1 below provides classifications for project area roads as given in the North
Carolina Functional Classification System.
TABLE 1
FUNCTIONAL C'.T.ACRTFTf ATlniv nri nnn rvnrr nn. Tc,
Road Name North Carolina Functional Classification
Boyer Street Urban Local
Bill Graham Parkwa Urban Minor Arterial
Wilkinson Boulevard Urban Principal Arterial - Other
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Thoroughfare Plan was approved by the NC Board of
Transportation on November 9, 1990. In this plan, Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson
Boulevard are classified as Major Thoroughfares. Boyer Street and Withrow Road are
classified as Local Streets.
The most recent thoroughfare plan for the project area was adopted by the
Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization on November 17, 2004, however
3
this plan has not been approved by the NC Board of Transportation (see Figure 6). Boyer
Street and Withrow Road remain classified as Local Streets. Billy Graham parkway is
classified as Class 11 (Major Thoroughfare, Limited Access Facility), and Wilkinson
Boulevard is classified as a Commercial Arterial.
2. Physical Description of Existing Facilities
a. Roadway Typical Section
North of Wilkinson Boulevard, Boyer Street and Withrow Road are both two-lane
facilities with grassed shoulders. This section of Boyer Street has two 9-foot lanes, and
Withrow Road has two 8-foot lanes. Boyer Street (SR 1656) south of Wilkinson Boulevard
is a three-lane roadway with 12-foot lanes and curb and gutter.
I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) is a three-lane facility with 12-foot lanes and curb and
gutter. Billy Graham Parkway is a median-divided facility with two 12-foot lanes in each
direction and 10-foot paved shoulders. The median along Billy Graham Parkway varies
between 25 feet and 200 feet in width. Wilkinson Boulevard has three 11-foot lanes in each
direction with curb and gutter and a 15-foot median.
b. Right of Way and Access Control
Existing right of way along Boyer Street is 30 feet wide north of Wilkinson
Boulevard. Boyer Street (SR 1656) has 60 feet of right of way. Wilkinson Boulevard has
100 feet of right of way in the vicinity of the intersection with Boyer Street. Existing right of
way along Billy Graham parkway varies between 300 feet and 400 feet.
There is no control of access on Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), or Withrow
Road. Wilkinson Boulevard has no control of access in the vicinity of the project. Billy
Graham Parkway has partial control of access.
C. Speed Limit
. The existing posted speed limit on Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), and
Withrow Road is 35 mph. Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway are signed
45 mph and 55 mph, respectively.
d. Intersections
Six intersections exist in the project area. The intersections of Billy Graham Parkway
with Boyer Street (SR 1656) and I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) and the intersection of
Wilkinson Boulevard with Boyer Street are all signalized. The intersections of northbound
Billy Graham Parkway with Mulberry Church Road, Boyer Street (SR 1656) with Old Dowd
Road, and Boyer Street with Withrow Road are stop sign-controlled:
4
e. Railroad Crossings
No railroads exist in the project area.
f. Structures
No major structures (greater than or equal to 72 inches in diameter) occur on the
existing sections of Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), or Withrow Road. A single-barrel
8-foot x 6-foot reinforced concrete box culvert carries a tributary to Taggart Creek under
Billy Graham Parkway and is located approximately 275 feet north of the proposed extension
of Withrow Road.
Bridge Numbers 460 and 459 carry Billy Graham Parkway over Wilkinson
Boulevard. Table 2 below presents information regarding these bridges.
TABLE 2
EXISTING BRIDGE. STR FJrTiTUFC wrTUnv UDn rsnm A TIT' A

Bridge - ---
Carries/ - -- ---- aa aaaa? i 1?VJ L't.l Artr, (•?

No.
Crosses
Clear Roadway Width Vertical Year Suff.
Clearance Length Built Rt .*
460 SB Billy Graham 40 feet 16 feet
Pkwy/Wilkinson Blvd 9 inches 187 feet 1981 96
459
L NB Billy Graham 40 feet 18 feet
Pkwy/Wilkinson Blvd 8 inches 193 feet 1981 96

SLAN. tcucy Raung out or a possible 100 points.
g. Bicycle Accommodations/Pedestrian Facilities
No special bicycle provisions exist along any of the roads within the project limits.
There are no existing sidewalks along Withrow Road or Boyer Street north of
Wilkinson Boulevard. Five-foot sidewalks exist along both sides of Boyer Street (SR 1656)
between Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway. No sidewalks exist along
Wilkinson Boulevard, Billy Graham Parkway, or I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) in the vicinity
of the project.
h. Utilities
Utilities along Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), Withrow Road, and Wilkinson
Boulevard include telephone, power, water, natural gas, and sewer. There are overhead
power lines along Billy Graham Parkway.
5
3. School Bus Data
No school buses utilize existing Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), or Withrow
Road. Buses traveling on Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham parkway are not
anticipated to be affected by the proposed project.
- °?"`4. Traffic Volumes
Without the proposed access improvements, construction year (2009) daily traffic
volumes along Billy Graham parkway will range between 55,550 and 69,500 vehicles per
day. By the design year (2030), traffic volumes along Billy Graham Parkway are expected to
range between 83,600 and 107,350. Traffic along Wilkinson Boulevard is projected to vary
between 29,276 and 32,776 in 2009 and between 61,900 and 68,100 in 2030 without the
proposed improvements. Boyer Street is projected to carry 1,926 vehicles in 2009 and 4,400
vehicles in 2030 without the project. Traffic along Boyer Street (SR 1656) is projected to
vary between 9,826 and 11,026 in 2009 and between 18,000 and 21,600 in 2030 without the
proposed improvements. Projected traffic volumes for the years 2009 and 2030 within the
project study area are shown in Figure 4A.
5. Airports
The project is located approximately one mile from Charlotte-Douglas International
Airport. The proposed project will not affect any aviation facilities.
6. Other Highway Projects in the Area
The City of Charlotte has several projects in the vicinity of the subject project.
Projects proposed by the City of Charlotte include the following:
• Median openings at the intersections of Billy Graham Parkway with I-85 Service
Road (SR 1818) and Billy Graham Parkway with Boyer Street (SR 1656) will be
closed. Traffic signals will be removed at each of these intersections. These
proposed improvements are scheduled to be completed before 2030.
• Improve connectivity between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard
through access improvements in the northeast quadrant (CDOT Project # 512-99-
010). Construction is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2007.
• Realign the intersection of Harlee Avenue and Stafford Drive at Wilkinson
Boulevard, and construct a directional cross-over at their common intersection
(CDOT Project # 512-00-105). Construction is scheduled to be completed by 2007.
• The West Rapid Transit Corridor is proposed to follow Wilkinson Boulevard in the
vicinity of the proposed project. Street-car, light rail and Bus Rapid Transit routes are
being considered. A Draft Environmental Impact Statement is currently being
prepared for the project. Right of way acquisition and construction schedules have
not been established for this project.
6
NCDOT TIP Project U-203 involves improvements to Little Rock Road (SR 1191) in
order to improve access to Charlotte-Douglas International Airport. Right of way acquisition
is scheduled for federal fiscal year 2010 and construction is scheduled to occur post-2012.
See Figure 7 for project locations identified above.
B. Deficiencies of Existing Facilities
1. Access
Billy Graham Parkway is carried over Wilkinson Boulevard on two bridges. No
direct access exists between the two facilities. Connecting roads in three quadrants of the
Billy Graham Parkway/Wilkinson Boulevard crossing currently provide access between the
two roadways.
2. Traffic Carrvina Capacity
The concept of level of service (LOS) is defined as a qualitative measure describing
the operational conditions within a traffic stream and how these conditions are perceived by
motorists. A level of service definition generally describes conditions in terms of such
factors as speed, travel time, freedom to maneuver, traffic interruptions, delay, comfort,
convenience, and safety. Six levels of service are defined for each type of facility for which
analysis procedures are available. They are given letter designations from A to F, with level
of service A representing the best operating conditions and level of service F representing the
worst.
Capacity analyses were performed for.existing intersections along Boyer Street within
the project limits for the years 2009 and 2030 (see Table 3).
TABLE 3
CAPACITY ANALYSIS FOR BOYER STREET WITHOUT PROJE

Intersection CT
Level of Service
2009 2030
Boyer Street at Wilkinson Blvd
West of Bill Graham Pkwy)

D

F
Boyer Street (SR 1656 at Old Dowd Road F F
Boyer Street SR 1656) at Bill Graham Pk F F
The results of the capacity analysis show that excessive delays will occur at each of
the intersections within the project vicinity in the build and design years for the project.
7
3. Accident Record
Over a three year period ending March 31, 2004, a total of 280 accidents were
reported along Billy Graham Parkway between Boyer Street (SR 1656) and I-85. A total of
40 crashes were reported on Wilkinson Boulevard between Newberry Street and Billy
Graham Parkway during the study period. Twenty-seven accidents were reported along
Boyer Street between Billy Graham Parkway and Withrow Road. No fatal accidents occurred
along any of these roads within the project area within the study time period. Table 4 below
compares accident rates along roadways in the project area with the statewide average for
similar facilities.
TABLE 4
ACCTflF.NT R A TT 1-nMD A nYgr%i?i

2001-2003 Statewide Average
Total Accident Rate Accident Rate For Similar
Facility ACC/100 Facilities
Bill Graham Parkwa 708.86 249.24*
Wilkinson Boulevard 650.56 424.41 **
Boyer Street 1050.53 407.28***

verage w ibur-lane divided urban us route with partial control of access.
**Average for four-lane divided urban US route with no control of access.
***Average for two-lane undivided urban secondary route.
As Table 4 shows, each of the roads have a total accident rate higher than the
statewide average for similar facilities.
The largest number of crashes along Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard
were rear-end type collisions due to vehicles slowing or stopping. Accidents of this type are
more likely to occur along roads with high volumes of traffic. The most frequent types of
accidents along Boyer Street were angle accident (26%), accidents involving vehicles making
left turns (26%), and rear-end collisions (15%). The majority of the accidents along Boyer
Street occurred in the vicinity of the intersection with Wilkinson Boulevard.
C. Benefits of Proposed Proiect
1. Access
Currently, the shortest route between southbound Billy Graham Parkway and
Wilkinson Boulevard requires traffic to travel to the intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656)
and Billy Graham Parkway and travel back to Wilkinson Boulevard via Boyer Street (SR
1656). The proposed project will provide a more direct connection between southbound
Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard by providing a connection via an extension
of Withrow Road to Billy Graham Parkway and Boyer Street.
8
2. Traffic Congestion/Delay
Capacity analyses were performed for the build year with the proposed project and for
the design year with the proposed project and future improvements in the vicinity of the
project proposed by the City of Charlotte (see Section H-A-6). Table 5 presents the
anticipated levels of service for existing intersections along Boyer Street within the project
limits.
TABLE 5
CAPACITY ANALYSTS FOR ROYFR CTRFFT wrru iDiDnTvn,r
- -'- - --- ? ?
Intersection ? 1111 1 1\VUl'Jtr 1
Level of Service
2009 2030
Bo er Street at Wilkinson Blvd E F
Boyer Street SR 1656 at Old Dowd Road F F
Boyer Street SR 1656 at Bill Graham Pkwy F F
As table 5 shows, intersections in the project area will continue to operate at
unacceptable levels of service, even with the proposed project. Even though intersection
levels of service will not improve with the project, delay for traffic-at these intersections will
be reduced.
The signalized intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656) with Billy Graham Parkway
will operate at level of service F in 2009. The overall delay for traffic at this intersection will
be reduced by 39 seconds in 2009 with construction of the project. The median at this
intersection will be closed and the signal removed by the City of Charlotte before the design
year 2030. Boyer Street (SR 1656) at Billy Graham Parkway will be stop sign controlled.
The signalized intersection of Boyer Street with Wilkinson Boulevard will operate at
level of service E in 2009 and level of service F in 2030. In the year 2009, the overall delay
for traffic at this intersection will increase by 17 seconds with construction of the project,
however, in the design year 2030, the overall delay for traffic at this intersection will be
reduced by 107 seconds with the project.
3. Safe
Additional turn lanes have been proposed at the intersection of Wilkinson Boulevard
and Boyer Street, and an auxiliary lane is proposed along Billy Graham Parkway from
Withrow Road to Boyer Street (SR 1656). These additional lanes should improve the
accident experience along Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard by shifting traffic
out of the through lanes and reducing stopping or slowing traffic along the main line. The
auxiliary lane along southbound Billy Graham Parkway will help create gaps for vehicles
entering from Withrow Road and I-85 Service Road (SR 1818).
9
M. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
A. Roadway Cross-section and Alignment
Existing Boyer Street between Wilkinson Boulevard and Withrow Road will be
widened to a five-lane roadway (three southbound and two northbound lanes) with curb and
gutter. Withrow Road will be a three-lane roadway (one eastbound and two westbound)
with a raised island and shoulder. The extension of Boyer Street will be constricted as a
three-lane roadway with curb and gutter (one through lane in each direction with a continuous
center turn lane). Boyer Street (SR 1656) south of Wilkinson Boulevard will be widened to a
four-lane roadway with two southbound lanes, one northbound lane and a continuous center
turn lane. This section of Boyer Street (SR 1656) will be curb and gutter.
Southbound Billy Graham parkway will be widened by adding an auxiliary lane from
the I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) to Boyer Street (SR 1656). In addition, existing bridge
number 460, which carries southbound Billy Graham Parkway over Wilkinson Boulevard,
will be widened eight feet as part of the project.
Figures 5A, 5B and 5C depict typical sections for the proposed improvements.
B. Right of Way and Access Control
A total right of way width of 145 feet is proposed for the section of Boyer Street
between Wilkinson Boulevard and Withrow Road. Withrow Road and the section of Boyer
Street north of Withrow Road are proposed to have 140 feet of right of way. A right of way
width of 150 feet is proposed for Wilkinson Boulevard and the section of Boyer Street (SR
1656) between Wilkinson Boulevard and Old Dowd Road. No additional right of way is
proposed along Billy Graham Parkway.
Full control of access will be obtained for Withrow Road. No control of access is
proposed along Boyer Street or Wilkinson Boulevard. The existing partial control of access
along Billy Graham Parkway will be maintained with the project.
C. Speed Limit
Upon completion of the proposed project, Boyer Street will remain 35 mph.
Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway will be signed 45 mph and 55 mph,
respectively.
10
D. Design Speed
The proposed design speed for Boyer Street and Withrow Road is 40 mph. Wilkinson
Boulevard and Billy Graham parkway have proposed design speeds of 50 mph and 60 mph,
respectively. Proposed design speeds are consistent with the existing speed limits.
E. Anticipated Design Exceptions
It is anticipated no design exceptions will be required for the project.
F. Intersections/Interchanges
The intersection of Boyer Street with Wilkinson Boulevard is currently signalized.
This signal will be upgraded to accommodate the proposed improvements. Boyer Street
intersections at Withrow Road, I-85 Service Road (SR 1818), and Old Dowd Road are
proposed to be stop sign controlled. Withrow Road will be stop sign controlled and restricted
to right in/right out movements at its intersection with southbound Billy Graham Parkway.
The intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656) and Billy Graham Parkway is currently
signalized. The City of Charlotte plans to remove this signal and close the median opening at
this location by the design year 2030.
G. Railroad Crossings
No railroad crossings are proposed within the project limits.
H. Structures
The existing bridge carrying southbound Billy Graham Parkway over Wilkinson
Boulevard will be widened by approximately eight feet as a part of the proposed project (see
Figure 5C). This structure widening is required in order to accommodate the additional
southbound lane proposed on Billy Graham Parkway between proposed Withrow Street
extension and the intersection of existing Boyer Street (SR 1656) with Billy Graham
Parkway.
The project is expected to require one new major drainage structure. A single barrel
8-foot x 6-foot reinforced concrete box culvert is recommended where the extension of Boyer
Street will cross a tributary to Taggart Creek (UT2).
11
I. Pedestrian and Bicycle Accommodations
project. special bicycle accommodations are proposed to be constructed as part of this
No new sidewalks are proposed to be constructed as a part of this project. Proposed
10-foot berms on curb and gutter portions of the project are wide enough to accommodate
sidewalks. NCDOT will replace any existing sidewalks disturbed by project construction.
In accordance with NCDOT pedestrian policy, sidewalks can be provided along this
project if the City requests them prior to the final field inspection, agrees to participate in the
cost of the sidewalks and agrees to assume liability and maintenance for the sidewalks.
J. Utilities
The project is expected to have a medium level of utility impacts. Utilities along the
project will be relocated prior to construction. Care will be taken to prevent damage to water
lines and fiber optic cables in the area.
K. Landscaping
No special landscaping is proposed as apart of the project. Disturbed areas along the
project will be reseeded with grass.
_ L. Noise Barriers
No noise barriers are proposed along the project (see Section V-11-3).
IV. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION
A. Alternate Modes of Transportation
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) has two routes in the vicinity of the project.
Route 34 (Freedom Drive) runs along the I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) to the north of the
proposed Boyer Street extension. Route 5 (Airport) follows Wilkinson Boulevard and runs
along Boyer Street (SR 1656) to the south of Wilkinson Boulevard within the project limits.
The Airport route has a bus stop at the intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656) and Billy
Graham Parkway.
Wilkinson Boulevard is a proposed route for the West Rapid Transit Corridor. A
Draft Environmental Impact Statement is being prepared for the proposed corridor. This
12
study is examining bus-rapid transit, light rail, and trolley as possible alternatives to
implement along the corridor.
This project was proposed with consideration for existing and proposed transit in the
vicinity of the project. Highway transportation is the dominant mode of transportation in the
project area. The purpose of the project is to improve access and connectivity between
Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway. Alternate modes of transportation would
not meet the purpose and need of the project. Bus Transit will benefit from the improved
connectivity provided by the project.
B. "No-Build" Alternative
The "no-build" alternative avoids impacts to the project area. However, this
alternative does not meet the purpose of the project to improve access and connectivity
between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard and reduce congestion on Billy
Graham Parkway.
V. PROBABLE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
OF PROPOSED ACTION
A. Natural Resources
1. Biotic Resources
Biotic resources include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Descriptions of the
terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications. Dominant
plants and animals likely to occur in each community are described and discussed. Animals
observed during field investigations are denoted with an asterisk (*).
a. Terrestrial Communities
Three terrestrial systems occur in the project area: Maintained/Disturbed Community,
Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest, and Alluvial Forest. Community boundaries are well defined
without a significant transition zone between them.
Maintained/Disturbed Community
The Maintained/Disturbed community is the most common community found within
the project boundaries. This community encompasses several types of habitats that have
recently been or are currently impacted by human disturbance, including road shoulders, a
disturbed field bordering an unnamed tributary to Taggart Creek (UT1), a disturbed ridge
along a portion of a second unnamed tributary to Taggart Creek (UT2), maintained residential
and commercial areas, and former home sites adjacent to Boyer Street.
13
Road shoulders act as buffers between the roadway and surrounding communities by
filtering stormwater runoff and reducing runoff velocities. The width of the road shoulder is
approximately five feet. Vegetation occurring along the maintained road shoulder includes
various grasses, clover, plantain, dandelion, giant ragweed, Queen Anne's lace, and poison
ivy.
The more successional areas and residential areas contain canopy and shrub species
such as black walnut, eastern red cedar, yellow poplar, Russian olive, American holly,
Chinese privet, mimosa, persimmon, Princess tree, box elder, elderberry, cherry, and
silverling. Herbs and vines in this area include pokeweed, smooth and winged sumac, Joe-
pye-weed, boxwoods, goldenrod, wild ginger, lespedeza, kudzu, ground ivy, grape,
blackberry, and Japanese honeysuckle.
Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest
The Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest community is interspersed within the project area.
Dominant canopy species include Virginia pine, white and willow oak, eastern red cedar,
white ash, sweetgum, hickory, and beech. The understory in this community is primarily
composed of persimmon, flowering dogwood, Russian olive, black cherry, redbud, mulberry,
strawberry bush, wild ginger, greenbrier, poison ivy, Virginia creeper, grape, and Japanese
honeysuckle.
Alluvial Forest
The Alluvial Forest community is located along UT1 and UT2. This community is
characterized by intermittent flooding during high flow periods. Periodic floods contribute
nutrients to the community by depositing sediment, but they may also be a destructive factor
during large storm events by undercutting banks and eroding soils. Dominant species in this
community include tag alder, elderberry, southern water plantain, arrowhead, cattail, and
rush.
Terrestrial Wildlife
The combination of terrestrial and aquatic communities offer high plant diversity and
water availability in the project study area. Many of the tree species provide an adequate
food supply for a variety of animal species. Animals likely to occur within the study area will
exploit all communities for shelter and foraging opportunities or as movement corridors.
Mammals associated with the communities present may include white-tailed deer and `
the eastern mole. The opossum, muskrat, eastern cottontail, and raccoon* frequently forage
nocturnally in these habitats. The gray squirrel, which prefers mature forest, may also be
found along the project where maintained/disturbed areas provide an adequate food supply.
Disturbed areas with an abundance of sunlight, such as roadsides, forest edges, and
old building sites provide adequate habitat for reptiles like the Carolina anole and the
14
southeastern five-lined skink. Snake species likely to be present within the study area include
the redbelly snake, brown snake, northern water snake, and the rat snake.
Avian species utilizing the project vicinity may include: northern cardinal, northern
mockingbird, goldfinch*, red-bellied woodpecker, tufted titmouse, American crow, mourning
dove, and house finch.
b. Aquatic Communities
Two jurisdictional streams are located within the study area (see Section V-A-2-a).
Both of these streams are unnamed tributaries to Taggart Creek, and are referred to as UT1
and UT2. A visual survey of the stream banks within the project study area was conducted to
document the aquatic community.
No submersed aquatic vegetation was observed in association with the Piedmont
Intermittent Stream (UTI) or the Piedmont Perennial Stream (UT2). Vegetation in the
Alluvial Forest community buffers UT1 from stormwater runoff from Boyer Street. UT2
flows through the Maintained/Disturbed and the Alluvial Forest Communities. The
streambank of UT2 is stabilized with cottonwood, black willow, sycamore, silky dogwood,
elderberry, kudzu, and clearweed.
Areas adjacent to the streams may be inhabited by a variety of reptiles and
amphibians, such as the spotted salamander and spring peeper. Turtle species likely to be
found within the study area include the snapping turtle and eastern box turtle.
c. Summary of Anticipated Effects
Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic
resources described. Any construction related activities in or near these resources have the
potential to impact biological functions.
Terrestrial Communities
Project construction will result in clearing and degradation of portions of the
communities described in the previous sections. Estimated impacts to the communities are
derived using the proposed study area width (Table 6).
TABLE 6
ANTICIPAWD IMPAr'TC Tn ninTrr r-nxm rTTivirrrr, JLlrI7
Community Area of Impacts acres
Maintained/Disturbed 17.5
Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest 19.8
Alluvial Forest 1.3
TOTAL 38.6
15
Plant communities found within the proposed project area serve as nesting and
sheltering habitat for various wildlife. Impacts to fauna are anticipated to be minimal due to
the size and scope of this project.
Areas modified during construction such as road shoulders will become early
successional habitat. Reduced habitat will displace some wildlife further from the roadway
while attracting other wildlife by the creation of more successional habitat. Animals
temporarily displaced by construction activities will repopulate areas suitable for the species.
Aquatic Community Impacts
Resident aquatic species may be temporarily displaced during construction activities;
however, anticipated impacts are expected to be minor and temporary. Sediment and erosion
control measures will be implemented during construction to protect water quality.
2. Water Resources
a. Streams, Rivers, and Impoundments
Two unnamed tributaries to Taggart Creek (UT1 and UT2) exist within the study area
for the proposed project (See Figure 2). The project is located within sub-basin 03-08-34 of
the Catawba River basin. This is the most heavily developed portion of the Catawba River
basin, with urban, residential and agricultural land use. Descriptions of the two tributaries
are provided in Table 7.
TABLE 7
WATER RT..Qn1rmrvQ TN UDn YVr1-r AnLV A
Water Classification Channel Channel Substrate Flow
Resource Width Depth
UT1 Intermittent 1.5 ft 1.0 ft Sand, clay Moderate to
Slow
UT2 Perennial 4.0 ft 4.0 ft Sand, clay Moderate to
Slow
UT1 is an intermittent stream flowing east beneath Boyer Street, approximately 1,100
feet north of Wilkinson Boulevard. UT2 is a first order perennial stream located
approximately 1,000 feet north of UT1. UT2 flows southeast from I-85 Service Road (SR
1818) behind the bus company and along the edge of the Sheraton Hotel property.
Streams have been assigned a Best Usage Classification by the NC Division of Water
Quality (DWQ). The classification of Taggart Creek [Index no. 11-137-2] and its unnamed
tributaries is C. A Best Usage Classification of C indicates fresh waters designated for
secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life propagation and survival, wildlife and agriculture.
16
No waters classified as High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-I or
WS-II) or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within one mile of the project study
area.
Water Quality
The DWQ has initiated a whole basin approach to water quality management for the
17 river basins within the state. Prior to implementation of the basinwide approach to water
quality management, the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) assessed
water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites
throughout the state. There are no BMAN stations located within one mile of the project.
"Point source" dischargers in North Carolina must apply for and obtain a permit
through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. There is
one permitted discharger (N00079758) located within one mile downstream of the project
area, discharging into Taggart Creek.
Non-point source discharge refers to runoff that enters surface waters through
stormwater or a non-defined point of discharge. In the project area, pesticides, chemical
fertilizers, and land application of animal wastes may potentially elevate concentrations of
toxic compounds and nutrients. Erosion from land disturbance can lead to sedimentation in
streams. Animal wastes can also be a source of bacterial contamination and can elevate
biochemical oxygen demand.
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects
Construction of the proposed project will likely impact water resources due to pipe
installation and/or the lengthening of existing pipes. Construction activities are likely to alter
and/or interrupt stream flows and water levels at each aquatic site. Anticipated impacts are
shown below in Table 8.
TABLE 8
ANTICIPATED IMPACTS TO STREAMS
Streams Classification R/W Impacts feet
UT1 to Taggart Creek Intermittent 181
UT2 to Taggart Creek Perennial 200
Total Stream Impacts: 381
Project construction may result in the following impacts to surface waters:
• Increased sedimentation and turbidity from construction and/or erosion.
• Changes in light incidence and water clarity due to increased sedimentation and
vegetation removal.
• Alteration of water levels and flows due to interruptions and/or additions to surface
and ground water flow from construction.
17
• Changes in water temperature due to removal of streamside vegetation.
+ Increased nutrient loading during construction via runoff from exposed areas.
• Increased concentration of toxic compounds from highway runoff, construction, toxic
spills, and increased vehicular use.
Precautions will be taken to minimize impacts to water resources in the study area.
NCDOT's Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters will be strictly
enforced during project construction.
3. Waters of the US
Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United
States," as defined in Section 33 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 328.3. Any
action that proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the US Army
Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
a. Wetlands
Potential wetland communities were investigated pursuant to the 1987 "Corps of
Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual." No wetlands were found to exist within the project
study area.
As discussed in Section V-A-2-a, two streams exist within the project area. UT1 and
UT2 are considered jurisdictional surface waters under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(33 USC 1344).
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects
The project will not affect any wetlands, but will affect approximately 381 linear feet
of jurisdictional surface waters (See 't'able 8).
c. Avoidance, Minimization, and Miti ation
. As mentioned in Section V-A-3-a, no wetlands were found to exist within the project
area. Stream impacts are unavoidable, UT1 crosses under existing Boyer Street. Proposed
improvements along existing Boyer Street will require extending the existing pipe carrying
the stream under the road. UT2 flows parallel to I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) between
Boyer Street and the service road. The proposed extension of Boyer Street to I-85 Service
Road (SR 1818) cannot avoid U72.
Best Management Practices will be used during construction in order to minimize the
project's effects on streams.
18
Due to the impacts associated with this project, compensatory mitigation may be
required. Final compensatory stream mitigation requirements will be determined by the US
Army Corps of Engineers.
d. Anticipated Permit Requirements
Impacts to jurisdictional surface waters are anticipated. Due to the scope of this
project, a Nationwide 14 Permit and a General Certification will be required. Final
permitting decision making will be determined by the regulatory agencies.
A North Carolina Division of Water QualitX.General Water Quality Certification is
required prior to the issuance of the Nationwide 14 Permit. Section 401 of the Clean Water
Act requires the state issue or deny water certification for any federally permitted or licensed
activity that may result in a discharge to waters of the US.
4. Rare and Protected Species
a. Federally-Protected Species
Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened,
Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of
Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of March 8,
2006, five federally-protected species are listed for Mecklenburg County (Table 9).
TABLE 9
FEDERALLY-PROTECTED SPECIES IN MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Common Name Scientific Name Status* Habitat Biological
Conclusion
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucoce halus T No No Effect .
Carolina heels litter Lasmi ona decorata E** No No Effect
Smooth coneflower Echinacea laevi ata E Yes No Effect
Schweinitz's sunflower Helianthus schweinitzii E Yes No Effect
Michaux's sumac Rhus michauxii E Yes No Effect
?h - Endangered, T - Threatened
** indicates a historical record: last observed in the county more than 50 years ago
Field surveys for the project were performed in July 2005. No habitat exists in the
project area for the Bald Eagle or the Carolina heelsplitter. Because no habitat was found, the
project is anticipated to have "no effect" on these federally-protected species.
Suitable habitat in the form of roadway shoulders exists within the project study area
for smooth coneflower, Schweinitz's sunflower, and Michaux's sumac. A plant by plant
survey was conducted in the project study area for each of these species on July 7, 2005. No
populations for these species were found during the survey, and the biological conclusion for
each of these species is "no effect." A review of the NC Natural Heritage Program database
19
of rare species and unique habitats on May 5, 2002 revealed no known occurrences of smooth
coneflower, Schweinitz's sunflower, or Michaux's sumac within the project vicinity.
b. Federal Species of Concern/State Protected Species
There are nine Federal Species of Concern (FSC) listed for Mecklenburg County.
Federal Species of Concern are not afforded federal protection under the Endangered Species
Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally
proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered.
Organisms which are listed as Endangered, Threatened, Significantly Rare or Special
Concern by the NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) list of rare plant and animal species are
afforded state protection under the State Endangered Species Act and the North Carolina
Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. However, the level of protection given to
state listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities.
TABLE 10
FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN/CANDIDATE SPECIES LISTED FOR
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
E - Endangered, T - Threatened, C - Candidate Species, SR-T - Significantly Rare - Throughout,
SC - Special Concern, NL - Not State Listed
* Historic record (Last observed in Mecklenburg County more than fifty years ago.)
** Shoals spiderlilly is federally listed as Probable/potential -Likely to occur in this area based on -the
proximity of known records in adjacent counties, the presence of potentially suitable habitat, or both.
*** Georgia aster is a federal candidate species..
Surveys for FSC listed in Table 10 were not conducted during the site visit. A review
of the Natural heritage Program database of Rare Species and unique habitats on
April 11, 2006 did not reveal the presence of these species or unique habitats in or near the
project study area.
B. Cultural Resources
The proposed project is subject to North Carolina General Statute 121-12(a).
Although no federal funds will be used for the construction of the proposed project, the
project will require a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Section 106 of the
Common Name Scientific Name State Status
American eel An illa rostrata NL
Carolina Darter Etheostoma collis collis SC
Carolina creekshell Villosa vau haniana E
Dwarf aster Eu bia mirabilis SR-T
Georgia aster* * * Aster eor ianus T
Prairie birdsfoot-trefoil Lotus uni oliolatus var. helleri SR-T
Shoals s iderlill H menocallis coronaria NL**
Tall larkspur Delphinium exaltatum E-SC*
Virginia uillwort Isoetes vir inica NL

20
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, applies to federal permit areas along
the project.
1. Historic Architectural Resources
NCDOT Architectural Historians surveyed the Area of Potential Effects (APE) of the
proposed project. Two individual properties eligible for the National Register of Historic
Places were identified within the APE. The McCoy Service Station and the Oakden Motel,
both located on Wilkinson Boulevard, have been determined to be eligible for the National
Register. The State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) concurred on the eligibility in letters
dated January 4, 2006 (for the McCoy Service Station) and April 21, 2006 (for the Oakden
Motel). See Appendix A for the HPO letters.
The boundaries for each of these properties follow tax parcels, except for frontage
along Wilkinson Boulevard where the boundaries follow the back of the curb line. No work
is proposed beyond the curb line along the boundary for the McCoy Service Station. The
proposed project will have no effect on this property.
The project will require acquisition of property within the Oakden Motel eligible
boundary, but the buildings will remain intact. Compensation will be provided to the
property owner in order to cover the expense of relocating the motel's sign outside of the
proposed right of way, if the owner should choose to do so.
Figure 2 shows the location of these properties, and Figure 3 shows where these
properties are located with respect to federal permit areas. No federal permits will be
required in the vicinity of either of these properties, therefore Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act does not apply.
2. Archaeological Resources
The State Historic Preservation Office has reviewed the project for archaeological
resources. In a letter dated June 15, 2001, the State Historic Preservation Office stated there
are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area and recommended that no
archaeological survey be performed.
C. Social Effects
1. Neighborhoods/Communities -
Land uses in the immediate project area are predominantly office and light industrial.
There are a few single-family residences on Boyer Street near Wilkinson Boulevard, but
much of the land is vacant and has been purchased by the City of Charlotte. The project
study area is in close vicinity to Charlotte-Douglas International Airport and receives a high
level of aircraft noise. The City of Charlotte has been purchasing land as part of the Federal
21
Aviation Regulation Part 150 Program in an effort to transition the neighborhood into
nonresidential uses.
'2. Relocation of Residences and Businesses
The proposed project will require the relocation of three residences and four
businesses. It is anticipated adequate replacement properties will be available. All
relocations will be carried out in accordance with Federal and State laws and regulations.
NCDOT's Relocation Assistance Program will be utilized to assist in finding replacement
housing for residents relocated by the project. Appendix B includes information on
NCDOT's Relocation Assistance Program, as well as the relocation reports.
I Minority/Low-Income Populations
The project will relocate three residences. It is believed none of the homes are owned
or occupied by minority or low-income families. It is estimated the project will relocate four
businesses. Two of these are considered to be minority businesses.
A citizens informational workshop was held for the project on December 13, 2001.
This workshop was advertised in local newspapers. Through the public involvement
program, citizens have been kept informed of the proposed project.
4. Public Facilities
There are no schools located within the study area. One church and a cemetery are
located on Old Dowd Road, south of Boyer Street (SR 1656).
The Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is located approximately one mile from
the study area.
D. Economic Effects
The improved access between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard will
reduce travel time and costs for roadway users. Light business development may occur along
the extension of Boyer Street to I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). The access road will offer
increased accessibility to businesses located within and beyond the project limits.
E. Land Use
1. Existing Land Use and Zoning
Land use in the immediate project study area is predominantly office and light
industrial, with a small number of residential properties. As mentioned previously, much of
22
the land along Boyer Street is vacant and has been purchased by the City of Charlotte as noise
mitigation for Charlotte-Douglas International Airport. Because of the proximity to the
airport and I-85, several office parks, industrial parks, and warehouse uses are spread
throughout the area. The majority of the project study area is zoned as light/general industrial
with an area of residential zoning located along Withrow Road and along Boyer Street near
it's intersection with Withrow Road.
2. Future Land Use
The Westside Strategic Plan, developed by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning
Commission in March 1999, encompasses the project study area. The principal objective of
this plan is to "encourage a compatible mix of land uses adjacent to the airport and to areas
most impacted by airport noise." The plan designates land between Little Rock Road (SR
1191) and Billy Graham Parkway for business and office park uses.
The Southwest District Plan also addresses land use in the project study area. Land
use recommendations under this plan include a buyout of the residences in the Withrow
Road/Boyer Street neighborhood because of the high level of aircraft noise. The City of
Charlotte has been purchasing land as part of the Federal Aviation Regulation Part 150
Program in an effort to transition the neighborhood into nonresidential uses.
3. Proiect Compatibility with Local Plans
The 1994 Mecklenburg-Union MPO Thoroughfare Plan designates an interchange at
the intersection of Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard. A series of smaller
projects have been coordinated in an effort between NCDOT and the City of Charlotte to
accomplish this interchange. TIP Project U-2704B will contribute to the overall success of
the plan by providing necessary connectivity between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson
Boulevard and between Wilkinson Boulevard and I-85 Service Road (SR 1818).
F. Secondary/Cumulative Effects
It is unlikely the project will result in large-scale, dense development. The proposed
roadway improvements will not provide access to large tracts of undeveloped land. As local land
use plans are utilized and time elapses, residential uses in the remaining portions of the study area
may be phased out and transitioned into office or industrial uses. Future development will
probably be nonresidential and concentrated on Boyer Street, just north of Withrow Road. The
shift in land use may impact the community economically through changes in land values.
G. Prime and Important Farmland
North Carolina Executive Order Number 96 requires all state agencies to consider the
impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime farmland soils,.as designated by the
23
US Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS). Land planned or zoned for urban
development is not afforded the same level of preservation as rural, agricultural areas.
No soils in the project study area are specified as prime farmland, and land in the
study area is either too fragmented or small in acreage for agricultural use. The project
meets the planned urbanization condition, as it is currently zoned for commercial and
residential development. Therefore, no further consideration of farmland impacts is required.
H. Traffic Noise Analysis
A traffic noise analysis was performed to determine the effect of the. project on noise
levels in the immediate project area. This investigation included an inventory of existing
noise sensitive land uses and a field survey of ambient (existing) noise levels in the study
area. These ambient noise levels were compared with the predicted future noise levels to
determine if traffic noise impacts can be expected to result from the proposed project. If
traffic noise impacts are predicted, examination and evaluation of alternative noise abatement
measures must be considered.
The traffic noise prediction model used to predict future noise levels in this study was
the TNM 2.5 model. Only a preliminary alignment was available for use in this noise
analysis. The "worst-case" topographical and traffie volume conditions were assumed.
In order to determine whether highway noise levels are compatible with various land
uses, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has developed Noise Abatement Criteria
(NAC) and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways. These abatement
criteria and procedures are set forth in Part 772 of Title 23 of the Code of Federal
Regulations. Noise abatement must be considered when a land use is exposed to noise levels
approaching or exceeding the FHWA noise abatement criteria and/or the predicted design
year noise levels substantially exceed existing noise levels as defined below:
Existing Lea(h) Substantial Increase if Receptor
Experiences Increase of
50 or less dBA 15 or more dBA
51 dBA 14 or more dBA
52 dBA 13 or more dBA
53 dBA 12 or more dBA
54 dBA 11 or more dBA
55 or more dBA 10 or more dBA
1. Ambient Noise Levels
Ambient noise measurements were taken in the vicinity of the project to determine
existing noise levels. The existing Leq noise levels in the project area, as measured at 50 feet
24
from the edge of pavement, ranged from 67.3 dBA to 73.9 dBA. A background noise level of
50 dBA was used for the project in areas where traffic noise was not the predominant source.
2. Analysis Results
Peak hour design and level of service C volumes were compared, and the volumes
resulting in the noisiest conditions were used with the proposed posted speed limits in the
TNM computer model to determine the number of land uses (by type) which would be
impacted during the peak hour of the design year 2030.
The maximum extent of the 72 dBA and 67 dBA noise level contours from the center
of the proposed roadway is less than 43 feet and 48.6 feet, respectively. The predicted noise
level increases for this project range up to 15 dBA.
Traffic noise from the project is expected to impact one residential receptor and two
business receptors.
3. Noise Abatement Alternatives
Measures for reducing or eliminating the traffic noise impacts of the project were
considered. Noise abatement alternatives investigated included: highway alignment changes,
traffic system management measures, and noise barriers.
Highway Alignment Changes
Highway alignment shifts for noise abatement involve moving the proposed highway
away from noise sensitive areas. The selection of alternative alignments for noise abatement
purposes must consider the balance between noise impacts and other engineering and
environmental parameters. Changing the highway alignment is not a viable alternative for
noise abatement.
Traffic System Management Measures
Traffic system management measures which limit vehicle type, speed, volume and
time of operations are not considered appropriate for noise abatement due to their effect on
the capacity and level of service of the proposed roadway.
Noise Barriers
Earth berms or artificial abatement walls can often be used to abate anticipated traffic
noise levels. These structures diffract, absorb, and reflect highway traffic noise emissions.
The project will maintain uncontrolled or limited control of access, meaning most
commercial establishments and residents will have direct access to the proposed roadway,
and all intersections along the project will be at grade.
25
For a noise barrier to provide sufficient noise reduction it must be high enough and
long enough to shield the receptor from significant sections of the highway. Access openings
in the barrier severely reduce the noise reduction provided by the barrier. It then becomes
economically unreasonable to construct a barrier for a small noise reduction. Safety at access
openings (driveways, crossing streets, etc.) due to restricted sight distance is also a concern.
Furthermore, to provide a sufficient reduction, a barrier's length would normally be eight
times the distance from the barrier to the receptor. For example, a receptor located 50 feet
from the barrier would normally require a barrier 400 feet long. An access opening of 40 feet
(ten percent of the area) would limit its noise reduction to approximately 4 dBA. For the
reasons explained above, noise barriers will not be provided as part of this project.
Other Mitization Measures Considered
The acquisition of property in order to provide buffer zones to minimize noise
impacts is not considered feasible due to cost. The cost to acquire impacted receptors to
establish buffer zones would exceed the abatement cost effectiveness threshold established
under NCDOT Noise Abatement Policy. The use of buffer zones to minimize impacts to
future development is not recommended because this could be accomplished through land
use controls.
The use of vegetation for noise mitigation is not considered reasonable due to the
amount of right of way required to make vegetative barriers effective. A vegetative barrier
would have to be approximately 100 feet wide to provide a 3 dBA reduction in noise levels.
A 5 dBA reduction would require an even wider vegetative barrier. The cost of the additional
right of way and the plantings for a vegetative barrier would likely exceed the abatement cost
effectiveness threshold.
Noise insulation was also considered, however no public or non-profit institutions
will be impacted by traffic noise due to this project.
4. Construction Noise
The major construction elements of this project are expected to be earth removal,
hauling, grading and paving. General construction noise impacts, such as temporary speech
interference for passers-by and those individuals living or working near the project can be
expected. However, considering the relatively short-term nature of construction noise and the
limitation of construction to daytime hours, these impacts are not expected to be substantial.
The transmission loss characteristics of nearby natural elements and man-made structures are
believed to be sufficient to moderate the effects of intrusive construction noise.
5. Summary
Based on these preliminary studies, traffic noise abatement is not recommended and
no noise abatement measures are proposed. This evaluation completes the highway traffic
26
noise requirements of Title 23 CFR Part 772, and unless a major project change occurs, no
additional noise reports will be submitted for this project.
In accordance with NCDOT Traffic Noise Abatement Policy, the Federal/State
governments are not responsible for providing noise abatement measures for new
development for which building permits are issued after the Date of Public Knowledge. The
Date of Public Knowledge is the approval date of the final environmental document (Finding
of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or Record of Decision (ROD)).
For development occurring after this public knowledge date, local governing bodies
and private landowners are responsible for insuring noise compatible designs are utilized
along the proposed facility.
I. Air Ouality Analysis
Automobiles are considered to be the major source of carbon monoxide (CO) in the
project area. For this reason, most of the analysis presented is concerned with determining .
expected CO levels in the vicinity of the project due to traffic flow.
A microscale air quality analysis was performed to determine future CO
concentrations resulting from the proposed roadway improvements. "CAL3QHC - A
Modeling Methodology for Predicting Pollutant Concentrations near Roadway Intersections"
was used to predict the CO concentration at the nearest sensitive receptor to the project.
.. Carbon monoxide vehicle emission factors were calculated for the years 2010, 2015
and 2030, using the EPA publication "Mobile Source Emission Factors," and the
MOBILE5B mobile source emissions computer model.
1. Background CO Concentrations
The background CO concentration used for the project was 4.0 parts per million
(ppm). Consultation with the Mecklenburg County Department of Environmental Protection
suggests this is an appropriate CO background concentration for use in the Mecklenburg
County area.
2. Air Quality Analysis Results
The worst-case air quality scenario was determined to be in the vicinity of the
intersection of US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and Boyer Street. Seventeen air quality
receptors were identified in the vicinity of the intersection. The predicted 1-hour average
concentration of CO for the evaluation build years of 2010, 2015, and 2030 are 6.4, 6.5 and
7.2 ppm, respectively. Comparison of the predicted CO concentrations with the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (maximum permitted for 1-hour averaging period + 35 ppm;
8-hour averaging period = 9 ppm) indicates no violation of these standards.
27
3. Construction Air Quality Effects
During construction of the proposed project, all materials resulting from clearing and
grubbing, demolition or other operations will be removed from the project, burned or
otherwise disposed of by the contractor. Any burning will be performed in accordance with
applicable local laws and ordinances and regulations of the North Carolina State
Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. Care will
be taken to insure burning will be performed at the greatest distance practical from dwellings
and not when atmospheric conditions are such as to create a hazard to the public. Burning
will be performed under constant surveillance. Also during construction, measures will be
taken to reduce the dust generated by construction when the control of dust is necessary for
the protection and comfort of motorists or area residents.
4. Summary
The project is located in Mecklenburg County, which is within the Charlotte-Gastonia
nonattainment area for ozone (03) and the Charlotte nonattainment area for CO as defined by
the Environmental Protection Agency. The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA)
designated this area as a "moderate" nonattainment area for 03 and CO. However, due to
improved monitoring data, these areas were redesignated as "maintenance" for 03 on
July 5, 1995 and "maintenance" for CO on September 18, 1995.
All appropriate transportation control measures included in the SIP for Mecklenburg
County have been completed. The Mecklenburg-Union MPO 2025 Long Range
Transportation Plan - LRTP) and the 2002-2008 Metropolitan Transportation Improvement
Program (MTIP) have been determined to conform to the intent of the SIP. The USDOT air
quality conformity approval of the LRTP was April 15, 2002 and the USDOT air quality
conformity approval of the MTIP was October 1, 2003. No significant changes have
occurred in the project's design concept or scope, as used in the conformity analyses. The
current conformity determination is consistent with the final conformity rule found in 40 CFR
Parts 51 and 93.
J. Hazardous Materials
Based on a field reconnaissance survey and database review of the project area, no
underground storage tanks (UST) or potential hazardous waste sites were found to exist in the
project limits. However, there is the possibility unregulated USTs may exist within the
proposed right of way limits. If a site with unregulated USTs or landfills is identified, a
preliminary site assessment will be performed prior to right of way acquisition.
No regulated or unregulated landfills, dumpsites, or RCRA or CERCLA sites were
identified within the project limits.
28
VI. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION
A. Citizens Informational Workshop
A citizens informational workshop was held on December 13, 2001, to obtain
comments and suggestions about the project from the public. Approximately 16 persons
attended this meeting, including NCDOT representatives. Several comments were received
concerning traffic problems along Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham. This meeting
was advertised through local newspapers and flyers were sent to property owners and citizens
in the project area.
B. Public Hearing
A public hearing for this project will be held following approval of this document and
prior to right of way acquisition. The public hearing will allow the public to view more
detailed information than previously available at the citizen informational workshop and will
provide a forum for public comments.
C. Agency Coordination
NCDOT has coordinated with appropriate federal, state, and local agencies
throughout the project development study. Comments regarding the proposed project were
requested from various federal, state and local agencies. Copies of the comments received
are included in Appendix A. An asterisk designates an agency from which comments were
received.
US Department of the Army - Corps of Engineers
*NC Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse
*NC Department of Cultural Resources - State Historic Preservation Office
NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources
*Division of Environmental Health
*Division of Forest Resources
*Division of Water Quality
*NC Department of Public Instruction
*NC Wildlife Resources Commission
*Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners
*Mecklenburg County Land Use and Environmental Services Agency
Department of Environmental Protection
*Charlotte Department of Transportation
*Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Charlotte-Douglas International Airport
29

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2700
20450 65063
27800 ?j 95250
24550 f
/f0 34700 -?
3388 65063
N r ^ o° 5900 95250 PM
825 N /cc 10 - 0 50
15 00 ~ (3,4)
\ ZR a 3 $ I-85 SERVICE ROAD (SR 1816)
5900
0
co 11Q0
w
N
2
o
m
15
WITH?Zp 1 5 1975
W ROAD 3 5s
co o° ?-
/ rn N 2 p 1= s?
>`8 ??0 00 2700
34p50
?O
61
?s
? h?
34050 60 'OM
r? 10 3'4638
p?0 09
ID
J
?O
MULBERRY CHURCH ROAD (SR 1658) 'Ak
BOYER ?/p US 29-74 (WILKINSON BOULEVARD)
R

STREET ?

0 4638
3p
S
(SR 1656)
55 ?N5 p
5 13
108
00 6963
9y
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`
? ? 12550
?9 55 10
L ?- (4,1)
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Q?ry?
6400 ArOj ?$ 965
? y00
o ` 6rk o ?0
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BOYER STREET
5513
10800
OLD DOWD ROAD a ??
0
to o°

7 to °
o
ch
cli
Cl) M
V)
l I
BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY (SR 5901)
0000 =ADT (vpd)
DHV Fac =Design Hourly Volume (%) at K30
K30 =30th highest hourly volume as (%) of ADT
D =Directional Flow (%)
-? =Direction of D
am/pm =am or pm peak
(0,0) Trucks (Dual, TTST)
PM
10 - 1 60
(4,3)
(D)
(DHV)
(Trucks)
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
2009/2030
AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC
NO-BUILD
NOT TO SCALE
Figure 4A
5S <! o
(S'18) 10 a
62g13 0 0? o°
1-85 SERVICE ROAD (SR 1818) 1 0
5
8j5 6251,3
2°? r 2p25
38?5 !, y

r
16400
y
15400
3g5 S 20d5 ?5p
T-115
38j5 N
r^

?

0
1?5p
1y N

?p
?1r
"'
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?6
W?TN ? D2
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O RoW
?? RD 3963
1
co 638
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?J

a

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6

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r co
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g63
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1-85 65063
65063
PM
3375 10 -> 50
4- (3,4)
--?
3375 1-85 SERVICE ROAD (SR 1816)
MULBERRY CHURCH ROAD (SR 1658)
ti
?a
31?? 30p0 6o
(4,3) 10
tiI
V91
1b
1
BOYER
STREET
(SR 1656)
4313 ,L163 1,100

2700 ?
0
0
)
' AD O°
4800
1s6?s
1 ?? US 29-74 (WILKINSON BOULEVARD)
S5?S
PM
3938 55 ( 10
?- (4,1)

3938
BOYER STREET
OLD DOWD ROAD
0 0
n
.l t
M
a?
ov
BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY (SR 5901)
0000 =ADT (vpd)
DHV Fac =Design Hourly Volume (%) at K30
K30 =30th highest hourly volume as (%) of ADT
D =Directional Flow (%)
-? =Direction of D
am/pm =am or pm peak
(0,0) Trucks (Dual, TTST)
PM
10 --0 60
(DHV) (4,3) (D)
(Trucks)
TIP PROJECT U-27048
2009
AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC
WITH PROJECT
NOT TO SCALE
FIGURE 413
0
n
SS ? A
(5,18) 10 4 r
91200 M To
1-85 SERVICE ROAD (SR 1818) y ,Ipo
k
1
26650
ti
32000
9j8p0 Z? 7100
1 00 1-85
1? 3y0 4i
0 0 o g3gp0
1 ?
ci 1200
o ?Llpp ?--
o 3450
4' ?ry ? o
W oo WITNR W ? ??o?
rr 11 O RD
43 :600 °p \ :500
1? Op 3? ?
g3 610y0 ' Zs?O -?
° ss ? ?j 2 2250
tp • o (6,3) 10 .NIP
0)
,?yo
ti o
95250
95650
PM 50
10 (3,4)
1-85 SERVICE ROAD (SR 1816)
oo . MULBERRY CHURCH ROAD (SR 1658)
X30 ? "?
R 106 (p 38 j 60 r4f
°O
BOYER
STREET
(SR 1656)
1400 ?p0
<1 00
7100
X20 6c3) 10
116, ?,0 US 29-74 (WILKINSON BOULEVARD)
1300
250
PM
55 E- 10
(4,1)
BOYER STREET
? OLD DOWD ROAD
aT? j t
o
BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY (SR 5901)
0000 =ADT (vpd)
DHV Fac =Design Hourly Volume (%) at K30
K30 =30th highest hourly volume as (%) of ADT
D =Directional Flow (%)
-0 =Direction of D
amtpm =am or pm peak
(0,0) Trucks (Dual, TTST)
PM
10 60
(4,3)
DH
( (D)
(Trucks)
TIP PROJECT U-27048
2030 AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC
WITH PROJECT AND
LOCAL IMPROVEMENTS
NOT TO SCALE
FIGURE 4C
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
PROPOSED TYPICAL SECTIONS

145' - -
/01
/z 2 4' z /2' 12

MONO.
ISLAND
10'
z

BOYER STREET FROM WILKINSON BOULEVARD TO WITHROW ROAD

rr,
I 140'
lo, 121 /0 ol lo.
BOYER STREET FROM WITHROW ROAD TO 1-85 SERVICE ROAD (SR 1818)
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT
/.? OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS IN THE NORTHWEST
QUADRANT OF BILLY GRAHAM PKWY (SR 5901)
AND US 29-74 (WILKINSON BOULEVARD)
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
TIP PROJECT U-2704B

FIGURE 5A
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
PROPOSED TYPICAL SECTIONS

T

IV G IG IG Id lC
VAR.18'TO 24' VAR.16'TO 24'
EXISTING EXISTING
S
5' SIDEWALK
XIS IN __
EXISTING 5' SIDEWALK
BOYER STREET (SR 1656) FROM OLD DOWD ROAD TO WILKINSON BOULEVARD

,45'
o Ic IG vwr. IG o
lY W/GR 4'-12' I P W/GR
2' FDPS 2' FDPS

MONO.
WITHROW ROAD
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT
?. OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS IN THE NORTHWEST
QUADRANT OF BILLY GRAHAM PKWY (SR 5901)
AND US 29-74 (WILKINSON BOULEVARD)
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
FIGURE 5B
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
PROPOSED TYPICAL SECTIONS
Ir
VAR, 300' TO 400' EXISTING
Iv 12' Zf EXISTING
E7CSTNG PAViR T
SB
SOUTHBOUND BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY
FROM 1-85 SERVICE ROAD (SR 1818) TO BOYER STREET (SR 1656)
_J
i
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT
o'{ OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
S PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS IN THE NORTHWEST
QUADRANT OF BILLY GRAHAM PKWY (SR 5901)
AND US 29-74 (WILKINSON BOULEVARD)
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
E1uSTNG STNIKTWE
SB NB
BRIDGES CARRYING BILLY GRAHAM PARKWAY
OVER WILKINSON BOULEVARD
I FIGURE 5C l
BRIDGE NO 460
BRIDGE NO 459

H ?, Cr1
? ? iy.

1? ?' L r cl

!y

0 ,?

0

ITIP PROJECT U-203
!
I
1
! CHARLOTTE DOT
PROJECT 512-00-I1

/<8>

/ i

SUBJECT PROJECT
TIP PROJECT U-27048

i
0
zol DOT PROJECT 512-99-010fi -T
-L/-
WEST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR
00
?JI 0
Oo
o0c
0
CHARLOTTE/DOUGLAS O 0
? 1TERNATIONAL AIRPORT O 0 -I-
c, OQO i
a
?D
0 / -
0

? I
a I
Y 1
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT
a I OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
\ ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
I
J
J
m ROADWAY PROJECTS IN THE VICINITY OF
` TIP PROJECT U-2704B
FEET
1000 2000
200 ? FIGURE 7
APPENDIX A
COMMENTS RECEIVED
t.•?_' 1. J C V\.
dr SbVta?
North Carolina
Department of Administration
Michael F. Easley, Governor
August 9, 2001
Mr. William Gilmore
N.C. Dept. of Transportation
Project Dev. & Env. Analysis Branch
Transportation Bldg. - 1548 MSC``' 3
Raleigh NC 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
EIV 0
AUG 13 2001
10
0 Mu" OF
Fc H?!3FMrAYS
DEV
A y
t/
Subject: Scoping - Proposed Access Improvements in Northwest Quadrant of US 521 (Billy
Graham Pkwy.) and US 29/74 (Wilkinson Blvd.) and Extension of Boyer Street; TIP
#U-2704B
The N. C. State Clearinghouse has received the above project for intergovernmental review. This
project has been assigned State Application Number 02-E-4220-0069. Please use this number with
all inquiries or correspondence with this office.
Review of this project should be completed on or before 09/09/2001 . Should you have any
questions, please call [phone].
Sincerely,

Ms. Chrys Baggett
Environmental Policy Act Coordinator
PLEASE NOTE NEW MAILING ADDRESS
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
N.C. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
1302 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NC 27699-1302
116 West Jones Street * Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003 * Telephone [phone]
State Courier 51-01-00
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
Gwynn T. Swinson, Secretary
1 r ,,,swE,,?.
North Carolina
t ' ,t
Department of Administration
Michael F. Easley, Governor Gwynn T. Swins6d -
September 12, 2001
Mr. William Gilmore
N.C. Dept. of Transportation SEP 3
Project Dev. & Env. Analysis Branch
Transportation Bldg. - 1548 MSC
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
Re: SCH File n u2-E-4220-0069; Scoping Proposed Access Improvements in Northwest Quadrant of
US 521 (Billy Graham Pkwy.) and US 29/74- (Wilkinson Blvd.) and Extension of Boyer Street;
TIP #U-2704B
The above referenced project has been reviewed through the State Clearinghouse Intergoverrunental
Review Process. Attached to this letter are comments made by agencies reviewing this document.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me at [phone].
Sincerely,
a? 6!P .5w-
Attachments
cc: Region F
Ms. Chrys Baggett
Environmental Policy Act Coordinator
116 West Jones Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003 Telephone 9 t 9-807-2425
An Equal opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer
lR St Q,
oc-
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Peter R. Sandbcck, Admintstcttor
Michael F. I:aclr_7•, (iovLmor Office of Archives and I listory
Irsbeth C. (-.vans, Secretary Division of Historical Resources
Jeffrey J. Crow, Depute Secretary David Brook, Director
April 21, 2006
MEMORANDUM
TO: Greg Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT Division of Highways
FROM: Peter Sandbeck
SUBJCT: Improvements to US 29 - 74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway),
Charlotte, U-2704B, Mecklenburg County, ER 01-9611
On January 31, 2006, our office and the NC Department of Transportation, Human Environment Unit, met
to review additional information that we requested regarding the November 22, 2005, Historic Architectural
survey report for the above project.
At the meeting we signed an eligibility concurrence form reiterating our National Register eligibility
concurrence for the McCoy Service Station. We also concurred that the Oakden Motel is eligible for the
National Register.
Therefore, for purposes of Section 106 compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur
that the following properties are eligible for the National Register under the criteria cited:
• The McCoy Service Station, State Study-listed and located at 5315 Wilkinson Boulevard, is eligible for
the National Register under Criterion A for commerce and C for architecture. The property retains
good integrity and is a fine and rare example of the gas station type, once common in Mecklenburg
County and nationwide. The gas station stands as one of the first roadside establishments along
Wilkinson Boulevard, the state's first four-lane highway.
We concur with the proposed National Register boundaries as described, defined, and delineated in
the report. The boundaries include a ca. 1950 auto repair/storage facility.
• The Oakden Motel, 5104 Wilkinson Boulevard, is eligible for the National Register under Criterion C,
as an intact example of the mid twentieth-century motel type in Charlotte. The motel's parallel
building plan, single-story blocks, central parking area, highway-oriented office, and rare surviving
highway sign, illustrate the distinctive characteristics of a parallel motel plan type.
Location Mailing Address Telephone/Pax
ADMINISTRATION 5117 N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service (:enter, Raleigh NC 27191461' [phone]/7338653
RESTORATION 515 N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Scrcice (:enter. Raleigh NC 276914617 () 19)733-6547/7154801
SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. lihwnt Street, Raleigh, N(: 4617 Mail Scnicc (enter, Raleigh N(: 2 7 699461 7 ()19)73}6545/71 5 4801
We concur with the proposed National Register boundaries as described, justified, and delineated in
the survey report.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR
Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. In all future
communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number.
cc: Mary Pope Furr
Richard Silverman
?Y AItF o
?I' e ???
Michael F. Hasler, Governor
I.isbcth C. Evans, 4-cretary
Jeffrey J. CnAv, i)epttty Secretary
January 4, 2006
MEMORANDUM
4 CJ
Office of Archives and history
Division of Historical Resources
David Brook, Director
TO: Greg Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT Division of Highways '
FROM: Peter Sandbeck oR t
SUBJECT: Improvements to US 29 - 74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway),
Charlotte, U-2704B, Mecklenburg County, ER 01-9611.
Thank you for your letter of November 22, 2005, transmitting the survey report by Richard Silverman for the
above project.
For purposes of compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur that the
following property is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under the criterion cited:
The McCoy Service station is eligible for the National Register under Criterion A for commerce and C for
architecture. The property retains good integrity and is a fine and rare example of the gas station type once
common in Mecklenburg County and nationwide. The gas station stands among the first roadside
establishments along Wilkinson Boulevard, the state's first four-lane highway.
We concur with the proposed National Register boundaries as described, defined, and delineated in the
report. The boundaries include a ca. 1950 auto repair/storage facility.
We are unable to concur that the Oakden Motel is eligible for the National Register from the information
provided in the report. Please provide a justification for the motel's eligibility under Criterion C. Instead of
citing Charlotte's 2001 "Post-war Architectural Survey Report," a full verbal explanation of the motel's
significance should be extrapolated from the source and discussed in the Oakden Motel summary of
significance.
We look forward to receiving this further information.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR
Part 800.
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Peter B. Sandbeck, Administrator
Location Mailing Addrea Telephone/Fax
ADMINISTRATION 5117 N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC 4017 Mad Service Center, Raleigh NC: 27699.4617 (919)7334763/733-8653
4617 Mad Service (:enter, Raleigh NC 27699.4Ci17 (91`?
RESTORATION 515 N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC 733.6547/715-4801
SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Ralegh NC 276994617 [phone]/715-4801
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. In all future
cotntnunication concerning this.project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number.
cc: Mary Pope Fun
Richard Silverman

Feel cru/ .,1 id #
STI -,.)(171 TIP4 U-270413
C.'ow?tr: Nieclclenbi
CONCURRENCE FORM FOR PROPERTIES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR
THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF 'PLACES
Project Description: US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) Area Improvements
On Nov. 14, 2005 representatives of the
® North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
? Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
® North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (HPO)
? Other
Reviewed the subject project at
? Scoping meeting
® Historic architectural resources photograph review session/consultation
? Other
All parties present agreed
?/ There are no properties over fifty years old within the project's area of potential effects.
L? There are no properties less than fifty years old which are considered to meet Criteria Consideration w' '
Project's area of potential effects. G tthtn the
El - ere are properties over fi
fly years old within the project's Area of Potential Effects (APE), but based on the
histo ical inforr?tat'ou available and the photographs of each property, the properties identified as
t-?- (o-II l -1 S,
and no further evaluation of them is necessary. are considered not eligible for the National Register
There are no National Register-listed or Study Listed properties within the project's area of potential effects.
? All properties greater than 50 years of age located in the APE have been considered at this consultation, and based
upon the above concurrence, all compliance for historic architecture with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act and GS 121-12(a) has been completed for this project.
? There are no historic properties affected by this project. (Attach any notes or documents as needed)
Signed:
Representative, NCDOT
by /AC
FHWA, for the Division Administrator, or other Federal Agency
!'Y js
Representative, HPO
State Historic Preservation Officer
Lt,
Date
Date
V-D)ate
t // / 41
If a survev report is prepared. a final copy of this form and the attached list will be included.
• : , Ci
. ?_ Oc
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic s Brook, Adminst?Of 'Ce Division. Archives and History
David J. Crow, Director
Jeffrey
Michael F. Easley, Governor
Lisbeth C. Evans, Secretary
June 15, 2001
MEMORANDUM Jtl,?t
4.1
Manager William D. Gore, P.E., Analysis Branch p e) v
To: Environmental Project Development and •yo,,"?rYS ` ?.
'fit: •;;1iALY ?"'
Froth: David Brooe Histo Preservation officer
Deputy State
14 Boulevard) oa8aG75001,
('Wilkinson
Re: Proposed improvements
Cfor US 29 harlotte, T P No. U-2704B, 1_8611
Graham Parkway), C County, ER 0
(Billy , Mecklenburg
Federal Project No. STp-29 17 project.
Thank you for your letter of May 10, 2001, concerning the above
exists in much
available to us, it appears p avement already
mapping
archeological survey of the proposed project'
Based upon our examination of of this area. Therefore, we recommend a
ears old within the project 's area of potential effect, w
ro erties more than fifty Y n architectural t rap historian evaluate their eligibility for
if there are any p P of Transportatio
recommend that a Department o
listing in the National Register of Historic Places. of the National Historic with Preservation
Section 106
comments are made pursuant to Section 106 o
The above comet Preservation s Regulations for Compliance
ry FR pat 80°0. Historic rile above
visc
and the Ad
codified at 3 -4763.
If you have questions concat 919/733
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration.
comment, contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, Environmental Review Coordinator,
DB:kgc
cc: Mars, pope Furr, NCDOT
FHwA
Mailing Address
4617 Mail Service Center. Raleigh 27699
Location 13
507 N. Blou nt St, Raleigh NC 4613 Mail Service Center. Raleigh
27699-4618
e?dministration e, v Rlount SL Raleig . NC 4618 Mail Service Ce. Raleigh
Telephone/Fax
[phone]
[phone]
[phone]
LVXW
NCDENR
State of North Carolina
Reviewing Office: _..h/ 1 J
Department of Environment and Natural Resources Project Number: - Z-0069Due Date:
INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS
After review of this project it has been determined that the DENR permit(s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in order for this project
to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of this form.
All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office. .
PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS Normal Process Time
(Statutory Time Limit)
Permit to construct & operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award of construction
facilities, sewer system extensions & sewer systems
not discharging into state surface waters. contracts. On-site inspection. Post-application technical conference usual. 30 days
(90 days)
NPDES-permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application 180 days before begin activity. On-site inspection preapplication
permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities
discharging into state surface w
t conference usual. Additionally, obtain permit to construct wastewater treatment 90 -120 days
a
ers. facility-granted after NPDES. Reply time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue (N/A)
of NPOES permit-whichever is later.
Water Use Permit Preapplication technical conference usually necessary 30 days
(N/A)
Well Construction Permit Complete application must be received and permit issued prior to the 7 days
installation of a well. (15 days)
Dredge and Fill Permit Application copy must be served on each adjacent riparian property owner.
On-site inspection. Preapplication conference usual. Filling may require Easement 55 days
to Fill from N.C. Department of Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. !90 days)
Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement
facilities and/or Emission Sources as per 15 A NCAC N/A 60 days
(20.0100, 20-0300,2H.0600)
J I Any oxen burning associated with subject proposal
must be in compliance with 15 A NCAC 2D.1900
Demolition or renovations of structures containing
asbestos material must be in compliance with
15 A NCAC 20.1110 (a) (1) which requires notification N/A 60 days
and removal prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos (90 days)
Control Group 919-733-0820.
Complex Source Fermit required under 15 A NCAC
,AD.0800
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion & sedimentation
control plan will be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality Section) at least 30 20 days
days before beginning activity. A fee of 540 for the first acre or any part of an acre. (30 days)
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respectto the referenced Local Ordinance. 30 days
Mining Permit On-site inspection usual. Surety bond filed with DENR. Bond amountvaries with
type mine and number of acres of affected land. Any are mined greater than 30 days
one acre must be permitted. The appropriate bond must be received before (60 days)
the permit can be issued.
North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division of Forest Resources if permit exceeds 4 days 1 day
(N/A)
Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit-22 counties
i On-site inspection by N.C.Division of Forest Resources required 'if more than rive 1 day
n coastal N.C_with organic soils. acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections should be requested (N/A)
at least ten days before actual bum is planned.'
Oil Refining Facilities 90 - 120 days
N/A
(N/A)
Dam Safety Permit I If permit required, application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant
must hire N.C.qualified engineer to: prepare plans, inspect construction, certify
construction is according to DENR approved plans. May also require permit under
mosquito control program, and a 404 permit from Corps of Engineers. 30 days
An inspection of she is necessary to verify Hazard Classification. A minimum (60 days)
fee of 5200.00 must accompanythe application. An additional processing fee
based on a percentage or the total project cost will be required upon completion.
PERMITS
I ? I Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well
Geophysical Exploration Permit
. n State Lakes Construction Permit
I 401 Water Quality Certification
131 CAMA Permit for MAJOR development
01 CAMA Permit for MINOR development
SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS
File surety bond of 55,000 with DENR running to State of N.C. conditional that any
well opened by drill operator shall, upon abandonment, be plugged according
to DENR rules and regulations.
Application filed with DENR at least 10 days priorto issue of permit Application
by letter. No standard application form.
Application fees based on structure size is charged. Must include descriptions
& drawings of structure & proof of ownership of riparian property.
N/A
5250.00 fee must accompany application
550.00 fee must accompany application
c3j Several geodetic monuments are located in or near the project area. If any monument needs to be moved or destroyed, please notify:
N.C. Geodetic Survey, Box 27687 Raleigh, N.C.27611
Ell Abandonment of any wells, if required must be in accordance with Title 15A Subchapter 2C.0100.
Norm-el Process Time
(Statutory Time Limit)
10 days
(N/A)
10 days _
(N/A)
15 - 20 days
(N/A)
55 days
(130 days)
60 days
(130 days)
22 days
(25 days)
Notification of the proper regional office is requested if "orphan' underground storage tanks (USTS) are discovered during any excavation operation.
I 45 days
Compliance with 15A NCAC 2H 1000 (Coastal Stormwater Rules) is required. (N/A)
* Other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority)
17- 01
UJ L)
REGIONAL OFFICES
Questions regarding these p ermits should be addressed to the Regional Office marked below.
? Asheville Regional Office KMooresville Regional Office
Street
i
h M ? Wilmington Regional Office
127 Cardinal Drive Extension
59 Woodfin Place
Asheville, N.C.28801 n
a
919 Nort
Mooresville, N.C.28115 Wilmington, N.C.28405
[phone]
[phone] [phone]
? Fayetteville Regional Office ? Raleigh Regional Office ? Winston-Salem Regional Office
Street
58
225 Green Street, Suite 714 3800 Barrett Drive, P.O. Box 27687
N.C.27611
Raleigh Winston-Salem, 107
5
Fayetteville, N.C.28301 ,
71-4700
(919) 5 00
[phone] .
? Washington Regional Office
943 Washington Square Mall
Washington, N.C.27889
f')c71 QAA-6481
North Carolina ,
0 ' Department of Environment and North Carolina
Natural Resources FOREST Division of Forest Resources
????•• SERVICE
NCDENR Michael F. Easley, Governor N C Stanford M. Adams, Director
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary 2411 Old US 70 West
Clayton, NC 27520
August 18, 2001
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Office of Legislative Affairs
FROM: Bill Pickens, NC Division Forest Resources
SUBJECT: DOT scoping for the proposed access road for Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson
Blvd.
PROJECT #: 02-0069 & TIP # U-2704B
The North Carolina Division of Forest Resources has reviewed the referenced scoping document
and offer the following comments that should be addressed in the EA concerning impacts to
woodlands.
I. Woodlands maybe impacted by the project. To evaluate the scope and significance of the
impacts to forest resources we need the total forest land acreage by timber type removed or taken
out of forest production as a result of the project. Age of the stands, height, diameters, and
stocking levels would be helpful. Efforts should be made to align corridors to minimize impacts
to woodlands in the following order of priority:
• Managed, high site index woodland
• Productive forested woodlands
• Managed, lower site index woodlands
• -Unique forest ecosystems
• , Unmanaged, fully stocked woodlands
• Unmanaged, cutover woodlands
• Urban woodlands
2. To evaluate the permanent loss of potential productivity, a listing of the forest's site quality
index based on the soil series should be provided. This information is provide in the Soil Survey
for Mecklenberg County or can be calculated by on-site measurement.
3. The provisions the contractor will take to utilize the merchantable timber removed during
construction. Emphasis should be on selling all wood products. However, if the wood products
cannot be sold then efforts should be made to haul off the material or turn it into mulch with a
tub grinder. This practice will minimize the need for debris burning, and the risk of escaped
fires and smoke management problems to residences, highways, schools, and towns.
Typically NCDOT leaves disposal of wood products up to the contractor. We feel this policy
results in needless waste of a valuable natural resource and that specific contract provision
requiring clearing contractors to utilize timber products should be adopted. '
1616 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601
Phone- 919 - 733-2162 \ FAX 919 - 733-0138 1 Internet- www dfr state nc us

4. If woodland burning is needed, the contractor must comply with the laws and regulations of
open burning as covered under G.S. 113-60.21 through G.S. 113-60.31. Meckfenberg County is
a non-high hazard county, and G.S. 113-60.24 requiring a regular burning permit-would apply.
5. The provisions that the contractor will take to prevent erosion and damage to f6restland outside
the right-of-way. Trees, particularly the root system, can be permanently damaged by heavy
- equipment. Efforts should be to avoid skinning of the tree trunk, compacting the soil, adding
layers of fill, exposing the root system, or spilling petroleum or other substances.
6. The impact upon any existing greenways in the proposed project area should be addressed.
We appreciate the opportunity to provide comment on the document and look forward to future
correspondence. We encourage efforts that avoid or minimize impacts to forest resources during the
final planning of this project.
cc: Warren Boyette

III
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND Project Number
NATURAL RESOURCES O -424C2
DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH County
Inter-Agency Project Review Response
Project Name 1d C ? e 7-- Type of Project ? '1""140rcu
e4? d%/l r,-?
? The applicant should be advised that plans and specifications or all wate syste
improvements must be approved by the Division of Environmental Health prior to the
award of a contract or the initiation of construction (as required by 15A NCAC 18C
.0300et. seq.). For information, contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919)
733-2321.
? This project will be classified as a non-community public water supply and must comply
with state and federal drinking water monitoring requirements. For more information the
applicant should contact the Public Water Supply Section, [phone].
? If this project is constructed as proposed, we will recommend closure of feet of
adjacent waters to the harvest of shellfish. For information regarding the shellfish
sanitation program, the applicant should contact the Shellfish Sanitation Section at (252)
7?6-6827.
? The soil disposal area(s) proposed for this project may produce a mosquito breeding
problem. For information concerning appropriate mosquito control measures, the
applicant should contact the Public Health Pest Management Section at [phone].
? The applicant should be advised that prior to the removal or demolition of dilapidated
structures, a extensive rodent control program may be necessary in order to prevent the
migration of the rodents to adjacent areas. For information concerning rodent control,
contact the local health department or the Public Health Pest Management Section at
[phone].
? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding their
requirements for septic tank installations (as required under 15A NCAC 18A. 1900 et.
sep.). For information concerning septic tank and other on-site waste disposal methods,
contact the On-Site Wastewater Section at [phone].
? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding the
sanitary facilities required for this project.
If existing water lines will be relocated during the construction, plans for the water line
relocation must be submitted to the Division of Environmental Health, Public Water
Supply Section, Technical Services Branch, 1634 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North
Carolina 27699-1634, [phone].
? For Regional and Central Office comments, see the reverse side of this form.
t/
WIlz4f, 4
eviewer C!!ction ranch
' Z% - U1
l/ Date
W ATFRO
? r
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Acting Director
Division of Water Quality
August 9, 2001
MEMORANDUM
TO: Beverly Robinson, Project Development Engineer
NCDOT, Project Development & Environmental Analysis
IL \
THROUGH: John R. Dorney, NC Division of Water Qua"
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator
8Graham Parkway),
TIP Project
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard d S) S and UProj c21 t No(Billy
Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, F.A. Project No. STP 29( ,
No. U-2704B
Its reply to your correspondence dated May 10, 2001 (received 20 May 2001) which you requested ss ennialstsmrents ofor r the
referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project reveals no potential for direct impacts
and streams d, h the come Pon of Water
jurisdictional wetlands in the project area. However, in the event that the projct scope
Quality y requests that NCDOT send notification of any proposed impacts to wetlands mapping.
W appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on your project. If you have any questions, please call
The NCD Q
Cynthia Van Der Wiele at 919.733.5715.
pc: Steve Lund, USACE Asheville Field Office
Marcella Buncick, USFWS
MaryEllen Haggard, NCWRC
Central -Files
File Copy
1617 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1617 [phone]
., r ni.aainn of water Quality
WDENR
C1 Sooom?17 8
rrut n L
North Carolina WdJxe Resources Commission
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
MIrMORAMW
TO: Melba McGee
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DENR
FROM: Maryellen Haggard, Highway Proj Coor 'nator
Habitat Conservation Program
0--
DATE: August 27, 2001
SUBJECT. Request for information from the N. C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
regarding fish and wildlife concerns for Boyer Street extensions, between Wilkinson Boulevard
to Billy Graham Parkway to Z-95, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. TIP No.U-2704B, State
Project No. 8.1675001, Federal Aid Project No. STP-29(17), 02E 0069
T"nis memorandum responds to a request from N k. William D. Gilmore of the NCDOT
for our concerns regarding impacts on fish and wildlife resources resulting from the subject
project. Biologists on the staff of the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCVVRC) have
reviewed the proposed improvements. Our comments are provided in accordance with certain
provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and
Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d).
At this time we have no specific concerns regarding this project. However, to help
facilitate document preparation and the review process, we request that the following
information be provided:
1. Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a
listing of federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concert
species. Potential borrow areas to be used for project construction should be
included in the inveatories. A listing of designated plant species can be
developed through consultation with the following programs:
The Natural Heritage Program
N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation
1615 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N. C. 27699-161.5
[phone]
Mailing Address: Division of Inland Fisheries • 1721 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-1721
Telenhnnw- 191 91 73 t_??3a - '791 a V- fol 01 71 a 94.11
! --.L j4o Mi W1LULlrc KLJ WMM
u0- L; i 4nui n3::;,,4 336-527-1548 NC WILDLIFE RES COMM PAGE 03
and,
NCDA Plant Conservation Program
P. d. Box 27647
Ueigh, N. C. 27611
[phone]
2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the project. If applicable, include
the linear feet of stream that will be channelized or relocated:
3. Cover type maps showing wetland acreage impacted by the project. Wetland
acreage should include all project-related areas that may undergo biydrologic
change as a result of ditching, other drainage, or filling for project construction.
Wetland identification may be accomplished through coordination with the U. S.
Army Corps of Engineers (COE). If the COE is not consulted, the person
delineating wetlands should be identified and criteria listed.
4. Cover type maps showing acreage of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the
prOYOsed project. Potential borrow sites should be included.
5Show the extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or
fragmentation of wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands).
6. Include the Mtigation plan for avoiding, minimizing or compensating for direct and
indirect degradation in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses.
7. Address the overall environmental effects of highway construction and quantify the
contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation-
k Provide a discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources, which will result
from secondary development, facilitated by the improved road access.
9. If constructiop of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, municipal-, or
private development projects, a description of these projects should be included in
the environmental document, and all project sponsors should be identified.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early planning stages for this
project. If we can further assist your office, please contact me at [phone].
cc. USFWS, Asheville
11

Public Schools of North Carolina
State Board of Education
Phillip J. Kirk, Jr., Chairman
www.ncpublicschools.org
September 25, 2001
MEMORANDUM
C E ! 1/2N
SEP 2b 2001
T,
? 'G'O IJi'r'?510iV Gp
"? is :!^I{ YS
atA?r t A1*4-k
TO: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
FROM: Gerald H. Knott, Section Chief, School Planning .2LA
SUBJECT: Access Improvement in northwest quadrant of US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) and
US 29/74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and extension of Boyer Street: Charlotte,
Mecklenburg County, Federal Aid. Project No. STP-29(17), State Project No.
8.167500 1, TIP Project No. U-2704B
Enclosed is the response from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to our impact inquiry.
/ed
Enclosure
s
Department of Public Instruction
Michael E. Ward, State Superintendent
301 N. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2825
Telephone [phone]
An Equal OpponunitylAffirmativcAction Empkyc?
_q

MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
July 30, 2001
Mr. William D. Gilmore, P.E.
Manager, Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of
Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Re: Access Improvement in northwest quadrant US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway)
and US 29174 Wilkinson Boulevard) and extension of Boyer Street, Charlotte,
Mecklenburg County, Federal Aid Project No. STP-29(17), State Project No.
8. 1675001, TIP Project No. U-2704B
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
Thank you for your letter advising of the proposed improvements to improve access in the northwest
quadrant of US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) and US 29/74 (Wilkinson Boulevard.) You have asked that
we provide any comments that could be used in preparation of the federally funded environmental
assessment.
As a lifelong resident of Mecklenburg County and as a citizen who has used the Wilkinson Boulevard
corridor over many years, I believe that this access, as described in your letter of July 31, 2001, would
allow a significant improvement in the flow of traffic in this corridor. Wilkinson Boulevard is a heavily
traveled road, and this project would enable citizens to use the roads in this area in a much more
efficient and effective way. I believe that this project would promote effective transportation and transit
in this County.
if 1 can provide additional information, piease let me know.
l
t
.'Parks Helms
Chairman
HPH:srsf
PEOPLE • PRIDE 0 PROGRESS
cq .?
T ?
h CA
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Land Use and Environmental Services Agency
Department of Environmental Protection
September 5, 2001
Ms. Cynthia Winfield
Centralina Council of Governments
Post Office Box 35008
Charlotte, North Carolina 28235-5008
Re: Project Number 02-0069

SEP 20,01
Inn
Access Improvement in northwest quadrant of US-521 (Billy Graham Parkway) and
US-29/74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and extension of Boyer Street; Charlotte.
Mecklenburg County, Federal Aid Project Number STP-29(17), State Project
Number 8.1675001, TIP Project Number U-2704B
Dear Ms. Winfield:
The Mecklenburg County Department of Environmental Protection ("MCDEP") has reviewed
the referenced EA scoping document. We wish to make the following comments:
Air Quality
The issues addressed in the Mecklenburg County Department of Environmental
Protections's EA/EIS Guidelines should be addressed.
Through a Transportation Facility Permit to Construct compliance demonstration
by the City of Charlotte Aviation Department ("Charlotte/Douglas International
Airport"), the intersection of Billy Graham Parkway and Boyer Street was found
to be a carbon monoxide ("CO") not-spot. Their Permit to Construct requires
establishment of a CO monitor at this intersection to demonstrate that the model's
forecast is accurate. Therefore, the CO compliance demonstration for the
referenced project may be difficult.
Water Quality
None
CHAKLorn
USA
PEOPLE • PRIDE • PROGRESS • PARTNERSHIPS .
700 N. Tryon Street • Suite 205 • Charlotte, NC 28202-2236 • [phone] • FAX [phone]
www.Co. Mecklenburg. NC. US/CoEnv
r
Solid Waste and Groundwater
The plans for solid waste disposal need to be addressed in the environmental
assessment document:
Facility development will generate land clearing and inert. debris (LCID)
and construction debris which must be managed in accordance with the
North Carolina Solid Waste Management Rules 15A NCAC 1313. Also,
any incidental municipal solid waste such as garbage, tires and household
wastes encountered during the project must be collected and properly
disposed of at facilities permitted to receive such waste.
Should you have any questions regarding these comments, please direct them to the members
of my staff who performed the technical review. Air Quality comments were made by S.
David Ross (RossSD@Co. Mecklenburg. NC. US), Water Quality comments were made by
Erica L. Shah ([e-mail]. NC.US), and Solid Waste and Groundwater
continents were made by Lisa B. Corbitt (CorbiLB@Co. Mecklenburg. NC. US).
Sincerely, /
J 2M. Barry, Ph.D., Director
SDR
cc: S. David Ross, Air Quality Systems Analyst - MCDEP Air Quality Section
Erica L. Shah, Environmental Hygienist I - MCDEP Water Quality Section
Lisa B. Corbitt, Program Manager - MCDEP Solid Waste & Groundwater Section
James G. Hunphrey, P.E., Dircctof - Charluue Department of Transportation
William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager - NC-DoT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Danny Rogers, P.E., Secretary - Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization
EPIC-AQ # 2001-00932
Transportation Department
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
5001 Airport Center Parkway
Charlotte, North Carolina 28208
Telephone [phone]
September 19, 2001
Mr. Gerald H. Knott, Section Chief
School Planning
Department of Public Instruction
301 N. Wilmington Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2825
RE: State Project No. 8.1675001
Dear Mr. Knott:
Eric J. Smith, Ed-D.
Superintendent
5 242001
At this time, there does not appear that Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Transportation Department would experience any impact from the proposed project
for constructing an access road from Wilkinson Blvd. to Billy Graham Parkway.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools does currently have a single bus stop at the
intersection of Wilkinson Blvd. and Boyer Street for a 12th grader, however, that
student should be a graduate by the time the project starts.
At this time, there are no school-aged students residing on this part of Boyer Street
or Withrow Street.
This is the best response I can provide at this time based on the information I
received. I contacted Beverly Robinson, Project Development Engineer on Monday
the 17th to ask if a map had been attached to the documents, there were no
attachments (as indicated) on the letter that was forwarded to me. I have not yet
received a response from Beverly and did not want to hold up this response any
longer.
Please contact me at 704-343-6715 if you have questions.
Si
W. -Harkey
and Scheduling Sp
Cc: Greg Clemmer
Carol Stamper
APPENDIX B
RELOCATION REPORTS
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS RELOCATION PROGRAMS
It is the policy of NCDOT to ensure comparable replacement housing will be
available prior to construction of state and federally-assisted projects. Furthermore, the
North Carolina Board of Transportation has the following three programs to minimize the
inconvenience of relocation:
• Relocation Assistance
• Relocation Moving Payments
• Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement
As part of the Relocation Assistance Program, experienced NCDOT staff will be
available to assist displacees with information such as availability and prices of homes,
apartments, or businesses for sale or rent and financing or other housing programs. The
Relocation Moving Payments Program, in general, provides for payment of actual moving
expenses encountered in relocation. Where displacement will force an owner or tenant to
purchase or rent property of higher cost or to lose a favorable financing arrangement (in
case of Ownership), the Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement
Program will compensate up to $22,500 to owners who are eligible and qualify and up to
$5,250 to tenants who are eligible and qualify.
The relocation program for the proposed action will be conducted in accordance
with the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies
Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646), and/or the North Carolina Relocation Assistance Act
(GS-133-5 through 133-18). The program is designed to provide assistance to displaced
persons in relocating to a replacement site in which to live or do business. At least one
relocation officer is assigned to each highway project for this purpose.
The relocation officer will determine the needs of displaced families, individuals,
businesses, non-profit organizations, and farm operations for relocation assistance
advisory services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The
NCDOT will schedule its work to allow ample time, prior to displacement, for
negotiations and possession of replacement housing which meets decent, safe, and
sanitary standards. The displacees are given at least a 90-day written notice after NCDOT
purchases the property. Relocation of displaced persons will be offered in areas not
generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial facilities. Rent and
sale prices of replacement property will be within the financial means of the families and
individuals displaced and will be reasonably accessible to their places of employment.
The relocation officer will also assist owners of displaced businesses, non-profit
organizations, and farm operations in searching for and moving to replacement property.
All tenant and owner residential occupants who may be displaced will receive an
explanation regarding all available options, such as (1) purchase of replacement housing,
(2) rental of replacement housing, either private or public, or (3) moving existing owner-
occupant housing to another site (if possible). The relocation officer will also supply
B-1
information concerning other state and federal programs offering assistance to displaced
persons and will provide other advisory services as needed in order to minimize hardships
to displaced persons in adjusting to a new location.
The Moving Expense Payments Program is designed to compensate the displacee
for the costs of moving personal property from homes, businesses, non-profit
organizations, and farm operations acquired for a highway project. Under the
Replacement Program for Owners, NCDOT will participate in reasonable incidental
purchase payments for replacement dwellings such as attorney's fees, surveys, appraisals,
and other closing costs and, if applicable, make a payment for any increased interest
expenses for replacement dwellings. Reimbursement to owner-occupants for replacement
housing payments, increased interest payments, and incidental purchase expenses may not
exceed $22,500 (combined total), except under the Last Resort Housing provision.
A displaced tenant may be eligible to receive a payment, not to exceed $5,250, to
rent a replacement dwelling or to make a down payment, including incidental expenses,
on the purchase of a replacement dwelling. The down payment is based upon what the
state determines is required when the rent supplement exceeds $5,250.
It is a policy of the state that no person will be displaced by the NCDOT's state of
federally-assisted construction projects unless and until comparable replacement housing
has been offered or provided for each displacee within a reasonable period of time prior
to displacement. No relocation payment received will be considered as income for the
purposes of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or for the purposes of determining
eligibility or the extent of eligibility of any person for assistance under the Social Security
Act or any other federal law.
Last Resort Housing is a program used when comparable replacement housing is
not available, or when it is unavailable within the displacee's financial means, and the
replacement payment exceeds the federal/state legal limitation. The purpose of the
program is to allow broad latitudes in methods of implementation by the state so that
decent, safe, and sanitary replacement housing can be provided. It is not felt that this
program will be necessary on the project, since there appear to be adequate opportunities
for relocation within the area.
B-2
RELOCATION REPORT 11

r

r
M E.I.S. CORRIDOR 1:3 DESIGN Alternate 1
North Carolina Department of Transportation
PROJECT: 6.1675001 COUNTY Mecklenburg
I.D. NO.: U-2704 B F.A. PROJECT STP-29 17
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: access improvement in northwest quadrant of US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) & US 21174 (Wilkinson Blvd. &
Extension of Boyer Street. Charlot te
ESTIMATED DISPLACEES ... INCOME LEVEL
Type of
Displacees
Owners
Tenants Total
Minorities
0-15M
15-25M
25-35M
35-SOM
50 UP
Residential 3 0 3 0 0 1 2 0 r
Businesses 2 2 4 2 VALUE OF DWELLING DSS DWELLING AVAILABLE
Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent
Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20M 1 $ 0-150 0 0.20M $ G-150
ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS 20.40M 2 150.250 0 20-40M 150-250
d 1

Yes
No
Explain all "YES" answers.
40-70m
0 250-400
0
40.70M
250-400
6O
1:
X I. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-loom 0 400-600 0 70-

loom 400-
600
V
X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 uP 0 600 up 0 100 up 5 600 UP
displacement? TOTAL 3 0 66 21
X 3. Will business services still be available after REMARKS (Respond by Number)
project?
X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so,
indicate size, type, estimated number of
employees, minorities, etc. 3) Business services will not be affected.
4) Yes.
X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? TYPE OF BUSINESS SIZE # EMPLOYEES # MINORITIES
X 6. Source for available housing (list). Hargett Ins. Business 2100 sq. ft. 5 2
X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? Locksmith 1000 sq. ft. 1 0
X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? Carolina Applicator 3000 sq. ft. 18 15
X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. Charlotte Bus. RV Parts &
families? Accessories 1500 sq. ft. 6 1
X 10. ' Will public housing be needed for project? 6) on line MLS, newspapers, realtors, real estate publications, onground
X 11. Is public housing available? searching
X 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing 8) Yes, will be administered according to State law.
housing available during relocation period? 11) Check Section 8-housing with DSS.
X 13. Will there be a problem of housing within 12) If current*trends continue, housing should be available.
financial means? 14) same as #6
X 14. Are suitable business sites available (list
source).
15. Number months estimated to complete
RELOCATION? 24

i
3 ,
2 - D
Right of Way Agent Date A roved b Date
r urm 10.4 lyevisea 1 Ulm
original & 1 copy: btate meiocauw, AV-
2 Copy Division Right of Way
Office

Charlotte
Access Improvements
in the Northwest Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and
US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) Grade Separation
Mecklenburg County
WBS Element 34844.1.1
TIP PROJECT U-27048
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
In Compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act
Of Kt'?Rl'? ?#

4
?
a
T
Of Ing
APPROVED:

Date Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.,
Environmental Management Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch

Charlotte
Access Improvements
in the Northwest Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and
US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) Grade Separation
Mecklenburg County
WBS Element 34844.1.1
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
MAY 2006
Documentation Prepared in Project Development and Environmental
Analysis Branch by:
S/-if /o6 Sc k C _
Date Scott A. Gentry, E.I.€l?terks
CARdt
Project Planning Engineer Lo
'55! "
ly.
531 p 2.0701
Date Ja s A. McInnis, Jr., P. H.
•l`
Project Engineer
sa'+•
5 X116 6

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT CO
MMITMENTS .................................................................................................... i
SUMMARY ................................ ...
I . Type of Action ...............
2. Description of Action .................. ............................................................................
3. Alternatives Considered ............... .................................................
4. Coordination ................................................................................................................ iii
5. Permits Required ...................................... ............................................................ iv
6. Summary of Environmental Effects ............................................................................. iv
7. Additional Information ..........................
...................................................................... lv
I. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION ...................................................................... 1
A. Project Purpose ............................................................................................................. 1
B. General Description ................................................. ......... 1
C. Cost Estimates ......................................... 2
.........................................................
R. NEED FOR PROPOSED PROJECT ......................................................... 2
..........
Description of Existing Facilities .................................................. ................ 2
................
1. Route Classification ................................. 3
..............................................
2. Physical Description of Existing Facilities ............................................................... 4
a. Roadway Typical Section ...............................................
b. Right of Way and Access Control ........................................................................ 4
..............................
c. Speed Limit ...................................................... ........................... 4
..........................
d. Intersections .......................................................................................................... 4
e. Railroad Crossings ................................................................................................. 5
f. Structures ..............................................
............................................
g. Bicycle Accommodations/Pedestrian Facilities .................................................... 5
h. Utilities ........................................ 5
......................................................
3. School Bus Data ........................................:. ......................................................... 6
4. Traffic Volumes ........................................................................................................ 6
5. Airports ........................................................... .................................... 6
......................
6. Other Highway Projects in the Area . 6
B. Deficiencies of Existing Facilities ..............................................
1. Access ...............................................................
2. Traffic Carrying Capacity ......................................................................................... 7
3. Accident Record ........................................................................................................ 8
C. Benefits of Proposed Project ......................................................................................... 8
1. Access ..................................................................... ....................................... 8
...........
2. Traffic Congestion/Delay .................................................................
3. Safety ..................................................................................
III. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS .................................................................................... 10 '
A. Roadway Cross-section and Alignment ...................................................................... 10
B. Right of Way and Access Control ............................................................................... 10
C. Speed Limit ................................................................................................................. 10
D. Design Speed .............................................................................................................. 11
E. Anticipated Design Exceptions ....................................................
F. Intersections/Interchanges ........................................................................................... 11
G. Railroad Crossings .........................................................................
H. Structures ......................... 11
I: Pedestrian and Bicycle Accommodations ............................ ............ 12
...........................
J. Utilities ......................................................
...............................................
K. Landscaping ......................................... .................. 12
L. Noise Barriers ............... ................................................:...................... 12
• IV. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION .......................................................12
A. Alternate Modes of Transportation ...........................
B. "No-Build" Alternative .....................
................................
V. PROBABLE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF PROPOSED ACTION ................... 113
3
A. Natural Resources .............................. ...................................................... 13
...........
1. Biotic Resources .......................................... .......................................... 13
.................
a. Terrestrial Communities.......----
b. Aquatic Communities ......................................................................................... 13
............................................
........................
c. Summary of Anticipated Effects .............. ..................... 115
......................................
5
...........................:............................
2. Water Resources ............. ................................ 16
a. Streams, Rivers, and Impoundments .................... ........................ 16
.......................
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects ......................................................................... 17
3. Waters of the US ..................................................................................................... 18
a. Wetlands ............................ ................ 18
..................................................................
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects ..................... ................... 18
.................................
c. Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation .......................................................... 18
d. Anticipated Permit Requirements ....................................................................... 19
4. Rare and Protected Species ..................................................................................... 19
a. Federally-Protected Species ................................................................................ 19
b. Federal Species of Concern/State Protected Species .......... ..........:..................... 20
B. Cultural Resources .................... ..................................... 20
.............................................
1. Historic Architectural Resources ................................ ..................................... 21
2. Archaeological Resources ............................... ......... 21
C. Social Effects....
..................................................... 21
1. Neighborhoods/Communities
2. Relocation of Residences and Businesses ............................................................... 22
3. Minority/Low-Income Populations ............................................................
4. Public Facilities ....................................................................................................... 22
D. Economic Effects .......................... ........ 22
............................
E. Land Use ..................................................................................................................... 22
• 1. Existing Land Use and Zoning
2. Future Land Use .............................. .............. 23
................................................
3. Project Compatibility with Local Plans .................................................................. 23
F. Secondary/Cumulative Effects ................................................................................... 23
G. Prime and Important Farmland ....... ......................................................................
H. Traffic Noise Analysis ... ...... 23
............................................................................................. 24
1. Ambient Noise Levels ............................................................................................. 24
2. Analysis Results ...................................................................................................... 25
3. Noise Abatement Alternatives ................................................................................ 25
4. Construction Noise
..................................................................................................
5. Summary ..................... 26
............................................................................................
I
Air Qualit
l
A
i 26
.
y
na
ys
s ......................................................................................
1. Background CO Concentrations
.......................: .................................................
2. Air Quality Analysis Results 27
.......................................... ........
3. Construction Air Quality Effects 27
............................................................................
4
Summar 28
.
y .................................................................................................................
J. Hazardous Materials 28
................................................................................
.............
VI
COMMENTS AND COORD
.
INATION ..................................................... 29
....................
A
Citizens Info
ti
l W
.
rma
ona
orkshop .......................................... ................................
.....
B
Public Hearin 29
.
g ..................................................: ....
.....................................................
C. Agency Coordination .. 29
................................................................................................ 29
MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS
FIGURE H-1 Existing Facilities in Project Area
FIGURE 1 Project Vicinity Map
FIGURE 2 Aerial Photograph of Project
FIGURE 3 Water Resources/Historic Properties in Project Area
FIGURE 4A 2009/2030 Average Daily Traffic Volumes (No-Build)
FIGURE 4B 2009 Average Daily Traffic Volumes (With Project)
FIGURE 4C 2030 Average Daily Traffic Volumes (With Project and Local Improvements)
FIGURE 5A Proposed Typical Sections
FIGURE 5B Proposed Typical Sections
FIGURE 5C Proposed Typical Sections
FIGURE 6 Portion of 2004 Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization
Thoroughfare Plan
FIGURE 7 Roadway Projects in the Vicinity of U-2704B
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 1 - Functional Classification of Project Roads ............................................................ 3 TABLE 2 - Existing Bridge Structures within Project Area ..................................................... 5
TABLE 3 - Capacity Analysis for Boyer Street Without Project ............................................. 7
TABLE 4 - Accident Rate Comparison .................................................................................... 8
TABLE 5 - Capacity Analysis for Boyer Street With Project ................................................... 9
TABLE 6 - Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities ........................................................ 15
TABLE 7 - Water Resources in Project Area ................................................: ... 16
.....................
TABLE 8 - Anticipated Impacts to Streams ........................................................................... 17
TABLE 9 - Federally-Protected Species in Mecklenburg County .......................................... 19
TABLE 10 - Federal Species of Concern/Candidate Species Listed For
Mecklenburg County ........................................... .................. 20
..............................
R

APPENDICES
Appendix A - Comments Received
Appendix B - Relocation Reports
SUMMARY
State Environmental Assessment
Prepared by the
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
of the
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1• Type of Action
This is a North Carolina Department of Transportation, State Environmental
Assessment.
2. Description of Action
The project proposes to improve existing Boyer Street and extend Boyer Street
northward to I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). The project also involves improving existing
Withrow Road and extending Withrow Road to Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901). An
additional southbound lane will be added to Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) between
existing I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) and Boyer Street (SR 1656) (see Figure 2).
The extension of Withrow Road to Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) will provide
access between Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) in
the northwest quadrant of the crossing of these two roads.
3. Alternatives Considered
Alternate modes of transportation and the "no-build" alternative were considered as
alternatives to the proposed improvements (see Section IV). Alternate modes of
transportation or the "no-build" alternative would not effectively serve the project purpose
and need.
4. Coordination
This project was coordinated with the following federal, state and local agencies
during this study:
US Department of the Army - Corps of Engineers
NC Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse
NC Department of Cultural Resources - State Historic Preservation Office
NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Division of Environmental Health
Division of Forest Resources
Division of Water Quality
NC Department of Public Instruction
NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners
iii
Mecklenburg County Land Use and Environmental Services Agency
Department of Environmental Protection
Charlotte Department of Transportation
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Charlotte-Douglas International Airport
5. Permits Required
Based on anticipated impacts to jurisdictional surface waters, the project will likely
require a Nationwide 14 Permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers. Additionally, a
North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) General Water Quality Certification will
be required prior to issuance of the Nationwide 14 Permit.
6. Summary of Environmental Effects
It is anticipated the proposed project will require the relocation of three homes and
four businesses. It is anticipated highway traffic noise in the project area will result in
impacts to one residence and two businesses. Traffic noise abatement measures are not
recommended (see Section V-H-3).
There are two properties eligible for the National Register of Historic Places within
the project study area. No National Register listed and no known archaeological sites are
located within the project study area (see Section V-B).
Wetlands do-not occur within the project limits. However, impacts to jurisdictional
streams could total approximately 381 linear feet (see Section V-A-2-b).
7. Additional Information
The following person may be contacted for additional information concerning this
proposal and statement:
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph. D., Environmental Management Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NC Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1501
Telephone: [phone]
iv
Charlotte
Access Improvements
in the Northwest Quadrant of Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and
US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) Grade Separation
Mecklenburg County
WBS Element 34844.1.1
TIP Project U-2704B
I. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION
A. Proiect Purpose
The purpose of this project is to improve access and connectivity between US 29-74
(Wilkinson Boulevard) and Billy Graham Parkway (SR 5901) and reduce congestion on Billy
Graham Parkway.
B. General Description
The project involves improving existing Boyer Street and extending it northward to
I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). Existing Boyer Street currently ends approximately 1,000 feet
south of I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). The project also involves improving existing
Withrow Road and extending it to the Billy Graham Parkway. Existing Withrow Road
currently ends approximately 350 feet west of Billy Graham Parkway. In addition to the
work on Boyer Street and Withrow Road, a southbound auxiliary lane will be added to the
Billy Graham Parkway between existing I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) and the existing Boyer
Street (SR 1656) intersection.
Turn lanes will be added at the existing intersections of Boyer Street (SR 1656) and
Old Dowd Road and Boyer Street (SR 1656) and Wilkinson Boulevard. An additional
southbound auxiliary lane will be added to Boyer Street (SR 1656) between Wilkinson
Boulevard and Old Dowd Road.
The existing section of Boyer Street between Wilkinson Boulevard and Withrow
Road will be widened to a five-lane roadway (three southbound and two northbound lanes)
with curb and gutter and a 10-foot berm. The extension of Boyer Street north of Withrow
Road will be constructed as a three-lane roadway with curb and gutter (one through lane in
each direction with a continuous center turn lane).
Withrow Road will be constructed as a three-lane roadway with eight-foot shoulders
(two feet paved). Proposed typical sections for the project are shown on Figures 5A, 5B, and
5C.
The project is included in the approved 2006-2012 North Carolina Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP). The project is scheduled in the 2006-2012 TIP for right of way
acquisition and construction in state fiscal years 2008 and 2009, respectively. The entire
project is approximately 1.6 miles in length.
C. Cost Estimates
The costYestimate included in the 2006-2012 TIP for the project is $5,950,000. This
total includes an estimated right of way acquisition cost of $1,000,000 and construction cost
of $4,950,000. Current cost estimates are as follows:
Construction $ 6,600,000
Right of Way Acquisition $ 3,616,235
TOTAL $10,216,235
H. NEED FOR PROPOSED PROJECT
A. Description of Existing Facilities
The project area is located west of downtown Charlotte. Figure II-1 below shows the
project area. The project area is also shown on Figures 2 and 3. Billy Graham Parkway
extends from I-77, south of the project area, to I-85 just north of the project area. Wilkinson
Boulevard extends from downtown Charlotte into Gaston County. Billy Graham Parkway
crosses over Wilkinson Boulevard approximately 0.5 mile south of I-85. No direct access is
provided between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard. Indirect access is
provided by connecting roads in three of the quadrants of the grade separation.
Commencing at Wilkinson Boulevard just east of Billy Graham Parkway, Boyer
Street extends westward crossing Billy Graham Parkway at-grade. West of Billy Graham
Parkway, Boyer Street is state maintained (SR 1656) and continues north, crossing Wilkinson
Boulevard at-grade. North of Wilkinson Boulevard, Boyer Street is city maintained and
continues north, ending approximately 1,700 feet north of Wilkinson Boulevard (currently,
the only state maintained section of Boyer Street (SR 1656) is located between Billy Graham
Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard). Withrow Road is a 450-foot long local street located in
the northwest quadrant of the crossing of Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard.
Withrow Road extends from Boyer Street eastward, dead-ending just west of Billy Graham
Parkway.
I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) intersects with Billy Graham Parkway approximately
550 feet south of 1-85. The service road runs parallel to I-85 through the project area.
2
i
na?mY,?&w "owRD
i { °&+VERAVE
'rr
V
0 100 0,
FEET
Figure II-1- Existing Facilities in Project Area
Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is located approximately one mile southwest
of the Billy Graham Parkway/Wilkinson Boulevard grade separation (see Figure 3). Billy
Graham Parkway, Wilkinson Boulevard, and Boyer Street all provide access to the airport via
other roads.
1. Route Classification
Table 1 below provides classifications for project area roads as given in the North
Carolina Functional Classification System.
TABLE 1
FTTNf Ti(1NA7 t"'7 A cerVrr4 . mtr%,.T .x,m TTA tryrm .. ..
Road Name North Carolina Functional Classification
Boyer Street Urban Local
Bill Graham Parkwa Urban Minor Arterial
Wilkinson Boulevard Urban Principal Arterial - Other
f
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Thoroughfare Plan was approved by the NC Board of
Transportation on November 9, 1990. In this plan, Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson
Boulevard are classified as Major Thoroughfares. Boyer Street and Withrow Road are
classified as Local Streets.
The most recent thoroughfare plan for the project area was adopted by the
Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization on November 17, 2004, however
3
this plan has not been approved by the NC Board of Transportation (see Figure 6). Boyer
Street and Withrow Road remain classified as Local Streets. Billy Graham Parkway is
classified as Class II (Major Thoroughfare, Limited Access Facility), and Wilkinson
Boulevard is classified as a Commercial Arterial.
2. Physical Description of Existina Facilities
a. Roadway Typical Section
North of Wilkinson Boulevard, Boyer Street and Withrow Road are both two-lane
facilities with grassed shoulders. This section of Boyer Street has two 9-foot lanes, and
Withrow Road has two 8-foot lanes. Boyer Street (SR 1656) south of Wilkinson Boulevard
is a three-lane roadway with 12-foot lanes and curb and gutter.
I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) is a three-lane facility with 12-foot lanes and curb and
gutter. Billy Graham Parkway is a median-divided facility with two 12-foot lanes in each
direction and 10-foot paved shoulders. The median along Billy Graham Parkway varies
between 25 feet and 200 feet in width. Wilkinson Boulevard has three 11-foot lanes in each
direction with curb and gutter and a 15-foot median.
b. Right of Wav and Access Control
Existing right of way along Boyer Street is 30 feet wide north of Wilkinson
Boulevard. Boyer Street (SR 1656) has 60 feet of right of way. Wilkinson Boulevard has
100 feet of right of way in the vicinity of the intersection with Boyer Street. Existing right of
way along Billy Graham Parkway varies between 300 feet and 400 feet.
There is no control of access on Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), or Withrow
Road. Wilkinson Boulevard has no control of access in the vicinity of the project. Billy
Graham Parkway has partial control of access.
c. Speed Limit
. The existing posted speed limit on Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), and
Withrow Road is 35 mph. Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway are signed
45 mph and 55 mph, respectively.
d. Intersections
Six intersections exist in the project area. The intersections of Billy Graham Parkway
with Boyer Street (SR 1656) and I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) and the intersection of
Wilkinson Boulevard with Boyer Street are all signalized. The intersections of northbound
Billy Graham Parkway with Mulberry Church Road, Boyer Street (SR 1656) with Old Dowd
Road, and Boyer Street with Withrow Road are stop sign-controlled:
4
e. Railroad Crossings
No railroads exist in the project area.
L Structures
No major structures (greater than or equal to 72 inches in diameter) occur on the
existing sections of Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), or Withrow Road. A single-barrel
8-foot x 6-foot reinforced concrete box culvert carries a tributary to Taggart Creek under
Billy Graham Parkway and is located approximately 275 feet north of the proposed extension
of Withrow Road.
Bridge Numbers 460 and 459 carry Billy Graham Parkway over Wilkinson
Boulevard. Table 2 below presents information regarding these bridges.
TABLE 2
EXISTING RRI11 F CTR1rJVTYMVC WTrzzyw Dnnrr. o r ,r.,
.

Bridge --
Carries/ - -- ----- --_ _ __.... •.11 1111\ 11\VJj 2Jt.l H mm llL

No.
Crosses
Clear Roadway Width . Vertical Year Suff.
Clearance Length Built Rt .*
460 SB Billy Graham 40 feet 16 feet
Pkwy/Wilkinson Blvd 9 inches 187 feet 1981 96
459 NB Billy Graham 40 feet 18 feet
Pkwy/Wilkinson Blvd 8 inches 193 feet 1981 96

vu.t.Vicu?y PLUM% VUL 01 a possible 100 points.
g. Bicycle Accommodations/Pedestrian Facilities
No special bicycle provisions exist along any of the roads within the project limits.
There are no existing sidewalks along Withrow Road or Boyer Street north of
Wilkinson Boulevard. Five-foot sidewalks exist along both sides of Boyer Street (SR 1656)
between Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway. No sidewalks exist along
Wilkinson Boulevard, Billy Graham Parkway, or I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) in the vicinity
of the project.
h. Utilities
Utilities along Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), Withrow Road, and Wilkinson
Boulevard include telephone, power, water, natural gas, and sewer. There are overhead
power lines along Billy Graham Parkway.
5
3. School Bus Data
No school buses utilize existing Boyer Street, Boyer Street (SR 1656), or Withrow
Road. Buses traveling on Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham parkway are not
anticipated to be affected by the proposed project.
-4. Traffic Volumes
Without the proposed access improvements, construction year (2009) daily traffic
volumes along Billy Graham Parkway will range between 55,550 and 69,500 vehicles per
day. By the design year (2030), traffic volumes along Billy Graham Parkway are expected to
range between 83,600 and 107,350. -Traffic along Wilkinson Boulevard is projected to vary
between 29,276 and 32,776 in 2009 and between 61,900 and 68,100 in 2030 without the
proposed improvements. Boyer Street is projected to carry 1,926 vehicles in 2009 and 4,400
vehicles in 2030 without the project. Traffic along Boyer Street (SR 1656) is projected to
vary between 9,826 and 11,026 in 2009 and between 18,000 and 21,600 in 2030 without the
proposed improvements. Projected traffic volumes for the years 2009 and 2030 within the
project study area are shown in Figure 4A.
5. Airports
The project is located approximately one mile from Charlotte-Douglas International
Airport. The proposed project will not affect any aviation facilities.
6. Other Hijihway Proiects in the Area
The City of Charlotte has several projects in the vicinity of the subject project.
Projects proposed by the City of Charlotte include the following:
• Median openings at the intersections of Billy Graham Parkway with I-85 Service
Road (SR 1818) and Billy Graham Parkway with Boyer Street (SR 1656) will be
closed. Traffic signals will be removed at each of these intersections. These
proposed improvements are scheduled to be completed before 2030.
• Improve connectivity between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard
through access improvements in the northeast quadrant (CDOT Project # 512-99-
010). Construction is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2007.
• Realign the intersection of Harlee Avenue and Stafford Drive at Wilkinson
Boulevard, and construct a directional cross-over at their common intersection
(CDOT Project # 512-00-105). Construction is scheduled to be completed by 2007.
• The West Rapid Transit Corridor is proposed to follow Wilkinson Boulevard in the
vicinity of the proposed project. Street-car, light rail and Bus Rapid Transit routes are
being considered. A Draft Environmental Impact Statement is currently being
prepared for the project. Right of way acquisition and construction schedules have
not been established for this project.
6
NCDOT TIP Project U-203 involves improvements to Little Rock Road (SR 1191) in
order to improve access to Charlotte-Douglas International Airport. Right of way acquisition
is scheduled for federal fiscal year 2010 and construction is scheduled to occur post-2012.
See Figure 7 for project locations identified above.
B. Deficiencies of Existing Facilities =
1. Access
Billy Graham Parkway is carried over Wilkinson Boulevard on two bridges. No
direct access exists between the two facilities. Connecting roads in three quadrants of the
Billy Graham Parkway/Wilkinson Boulevard crossing currently provide access between the
two roadways.
2. Traffic Carrying Capacity
The concept of level of service (LOS) is defined as a qualitative measure describing
the operational conditions within a traffic, stream and how these conditions are perceived by
motorists. A level of service definition generally describes conditions in terms of such
factors as speed, travel time, freedom to maneuver, traffic interruptions, delay, comfort,
convenience, and safety. Six levels of service are defined for each type of facility for which
analysis procedures are available. They are given letter designations from A to F, with level
of service A representing the best operating conditions and level of service F representing the
worst.
Capacity analyses were performed for existing intersections along Boyer Street within
the project limits for the years 2009 and 2030 (see Table 3).
TABLE 3
CAPACITY ANALYSIS FOR ROVER RTRFFT WIMUnTTT VDnYVrl•r
Intersection Level of Service
2009 2030
Boyer Street at Wilkinson Blvd
West of Bill Graham Pkwy) D F
-Boyer Street SR 1656 at Old Dowd Road F F
Boyer Street SR 1656 at Bill Graham Pk F F
The results of the capacity analysis show that excessive delays will occur at each of
the intersections within the project vicinity in the build and design years for the project.
7
3. Accident Record
Over a three year period ending March 31, 2004, a total of 280 accidents were
reported along Billy Graham Parkway between Boyer Street (SR 1656) and I-85. A total of
40 crashes were reported on Wilkinson Boulevard between Newberry Street and Billy
Graham Parkway during the study period. Twenty-seven accidents were reported along
Boyer Street between Billy Graham Parkway and Withrow Road. No fatal accidents occurred
along any of these roads within the project area within the study time period. Table 4 below
compares accident rates along roadways in the project area with the statewide average for
similar facilities.
. TABLE 4
ACCIDENT RATE COMPARISON

2001-2003 Statewide Average
Total Accident Rate Accident Rate For Similar
Facility (ACC/100MVM) Facilities
Bill Graham Parkwa 708.86 249.24*
Wilkinson Boulevard 650.56- 424.41**
Bo er Street 1050.53 407.28***
*A
verage for four-lane divided urban US route with partial control of access.
**Average for four-lane divided urban US route with no control of access.
* * *Average for two-lane undivided urban secondary route.
As Table 4 shows, each of the roads have a total accident rate higher than the
statewide average for similar facilities.
The largest number of crashes along Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard
were rear-end type collisions due to vehicles slowing or stopping. Accidents of this type are
more likely to occur along roads with high volumes of traffic. The most frequent types of
accidents along Boyer Street were angle accident (26%), accidents involving vehicles making
left turns (26%), and rear-end collisions (15%). The majority of the accidents along Boyer
Street occurred in the vicinity of the intersection with Wilkinson Boulevard.
C. Benefits of Proposed Proiect
1. Access
Currently, the shortest route between southbound Billy Graham Parkway and
Wilkinson Boulevard requires traffic to travel to the intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656)
and Billy Graham Parkway and travel back to Wilkinson Boulevard via Boyer Street (SR
1656). The proposed project will provide a more direct connection between southbound
Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard by providing a connection via an extension
of Withrow Road to Billy Graham Parkway and Boyer Street.
8
2. Traffic Coneestion/Delav
Capacity analyses were performed for the build year with the proposed project and for
the design year with the proposed project and future improvements in the vicinity of the
project proposed by the City of Charlotte (see Section H-A-6). Table 5 presents the
anticipated levels of service for existing intersections along Boyer Street within the project
limits.
TABLE 5
CAPACITY ANAINRIV. FOR ftn'" D CTD??•r ?x?rr+u n„?.T,,,.,.,,
-- --- - - -
Intersection - vaalUa?Li ?Vilil rAVJL' 1.1
Level of Service

Boyer Street at Wilkinson Blvd 2009
E 2030
F
Boyer Street SR 1656 at Old Dowd Road F F
Boyer Street SR 1656 at Bill Graham Pkwy F F
As table 5 shows, intersections in the project area will continue to operate at
unacceptable levels of service, even with the proposed project. Even though intersection
levels of service will not improve with the project, delay for traffic at these intersections will
be reduced.
The signalized intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656) with Billy Graham Parkway
will operate at level of service F in 2009. The overall delay for traffic at this intersection will
be reduced by 39 seconds in 2009 with construction of the project. The median at this
intersection will be closed and the signal removed by the City of Charlotte before the design
year 2030. Boyer Street (SR 1656) at Billy Graham Parkway will be stop sign controlled.
The signalized intersection of Boyer Street with Wilkinson Boulevard will operate at
level of service E in 2009 and level of service F in 2030. In the year 2009, the overall delay
for traffic at this intersection will increase by 17 seconds with construction of the project,
however, in the design year 2030, the overall delay for traffic at this intersection will be
reduced by 107 seconds with the project.
3. Safe
Additional turn lanes have been proposed at the intersection of Wilkinson Boulevard
and Boyer Street, and an auxiliary lane is proposed along Billy Graham Parkway from
Withrow Road to Boyer Street (SR 1656). These additional lanes should improve the
accident experience along Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard by shifting traffic
out of the through lanes and reducing stopping or slowing traffic along the main line. The
auxiliary lane along southbound Billy Graham Parkway will help create gaps for vehicles
entering from Withrow Road and I-85 Service Road (SR 1818).
9
.III. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS
A. Roadway Cross-section and Alignment
Existing Boyer Street between Wilkinson Boulevard and Withrow Road will be
widened to a five-lane roadway (three southbound and two northbound lanes) with curb and
gutter. Withrow Road will be a three-lane roadway (one eastbound and two westbound)
with a raised island and shoulder. The extension of Boyer Street will be constructed as a
three-lane roadway with curb and gutter (one through lane in each direction with a continuous
center turn lane). Boyer Street (SR 1656) south of Wilkinson Boulevard will be widened to a
four-lane roadway with two southbound lanes, one northbound lane and a continuous center
turn lane. This section of Boyer Street (SR 1656) will be curb and gutter.
Southbound Billy Graham Parkway will be widened by adding an auxiliary lane from
the I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) to Boyer Street (SR 1656). In addition, existing bridge
number 460, which carries southbound Billy Graham Parkway over Wilkinson Boulevard,
will be widened eight feet as part of the project.
Figures 5A, 5B and 5C depict typical sections for the proposed improvements.
B. Rieht of Way and Access Control
A total right of way width of 145 feet is proposed for the section of Boyer Street
between Wilkinson Boulevard and Withrow Road. Withrow Road and the section of Boyer
Street north of Withrow Road are proposed to have 140 feet of right of way. A right of way
width of 150 feet is proposed for Wilkinson Boulevard and the section of Boyer Street (SR
1656) between Wilkinson Boulevard and Old Dowd Road. No additional right of way is
proposed along Billy Graham Parkway.
Full control of access will be obtained for Withrow Road. No control of access is
proposed along Boyer Street or Wilkinson Boulevard. The existing partial control of access
along Billy Graham Parkway will be maintained with the project.
C. Speed Limit
Upon completion of the proposed project, Boyer Street will remain 35 mph.
Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway will be signed 45 mph and 55 mph,
respectively.
10
D. Design Sneed
The proposed design speed for Boyer Street and Withrow Road is 40 mph. Wilkinson
Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway have proposed design speeds of 50 mph and 60 mph,
respectively. Proposed design speeds are consistent with the existing speed limits.
E. Anticipated Design Ezcentions
It is anticipated no design exceptions will be required for the project.
F. Intersections/Interchanges
The intersection of Boyer Street with Wilkinson Boulevard is currently signalized.
This signal will be upgraded to accommodate the proposed improvements. Boyer Street
intersections at Withrow Road, I-85 Service Road (SR 1818), and Old Dowd Road are
proposed to be stop sign controlled. Withrow Road will be stop sign controlled and restricted
to right in/right out movements at its intersection with southbound Billy Graham Parkway.
The intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656) and Billy Graham Parkway is currently
signalized. The City of Charlotte plans to remove this signal and close the median opening at
this location by the design year 2030.
G. Railroad Crossings
No railroad crossings are proposed within the project limits.
H. Structures
The existing bridge carrying southbound Billy Graham Parkway over Wilkinson
Boulevard will be widened by approximately eight feet as a part of the proposed project (see
Figure 5C). This structure widening is required in order to accommodate the additional
southbound lane proposed on Billy Graham Parkway between proposed Withrow Street
extension and the intersection of existing Boyer Street (SR 1656) with Billy Graham
Parkway.
The project is expected to require one new major drainage structure. A single barrel
8-foot x 6-foot reinforced concrete box culvert is recommended where the extension of Boyer
Street will cross a tributary to Taggart Creek (UT2).
11
I. Pedestrian and Bicycle Accommodations
No special bicycle accommodations are proposed to be constructed as part of this
project.
No new sidewalks are proposed to be constructed as a part of this project. Proposed
10-foot berms on curb and gutter portions of the project are wide enough to accommodate
sidewalks. NCDOT will replace any existing sidewalks disturbed by project construction.
In accordance with NCDOT pedestrian policy, sidewalks can be provided along this
project if the City requests them prior to the final field inspection, agrees to participate in the
cost of the sidewalks and agrees to assume liability and maintenance for the sidewalks.
J. Utilities
The project is expected to have a medium level of utility impacts. Utilities along the
project will be relocated prior to construction. Care will be taken to prevent damage to water
lines and fiber optic cables in the area.
K. Landscaping
No special landscaping is proposed as a part of the project. Disturbed areas along the
project will be reseeded with grass.
L. Noise Barriers
No noise barriers are proposed along the project (see Section V-H-3).
IV. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION
A. Alternate Modes of Transportation
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) has two routes in the vicinity of the project.
Route 34 (Freedom Drive) runs along the I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) to the north of the
proposed Boyer Street extension. Route 5 (Airport) follows Wilkinson Boulevard and runs
along Boyer Street (SR 1656) to the south of Wilkinson Boulevard within the project limits.
The Airport route has a bus stop at the intersection of Boyer Street (SR 1656) and Billy
Graham Parkway.
Wilkinson Boulevard is a proposed route for the West Rapid Transit Corridor. A
Draft Environmental Impact Statement is being prepared for the proposed corridor. This
12
study is examining bus-rapid transit, light rail, and trolley as possible alternatives to
implement along the corridor.
This project was proposed with consideration for existing and proposed transit in the
vicinity of the project. Highway transportation is the dominant mode of transportation in the
project area. The purpose of the project is to improve access and connectivity between
Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham Parkway. Alternate modes of transportation would
not meet the purpose and need of the project. Bus Transit will benefit from the improved
connectivity provided by the project.
B. "No-Build" Alternative
The "no-build" alternative avoids impacts to the project area. However, this
alternative does not meet the purpose of the project to improve access and connectivity
between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard and reduce congestion on Billy
Graham Parkway.
V. PROBABLE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
OF PROPOSED ACTION
A. Natural Resources
1. Biotic Resources
Biotic resources include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Descriptions of the
terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications. Dominant
plants and animals likely to occur in each community are described and discussed. Animals
observed during field investigations are denoted with an asterisk (*).
a. Terrestrial Communities
Three terrestrial systems occur in the project area: Maintained/Disturbed Community,
Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest, and Alluvial Forest. Community boundaries are well defined
without a significant transition zone between them.
Maintained/Disturbed Community
The Maintained/Disturbed community is the most common community found within
the project boundaries. This community encompasses several types of habitats that have
recently been or are currently impacted by human disturbance, including road shoulders, a
disturbed field bordering an unnamed tributary to Taggart Creek (UT1), a disturbed ridge
along a portion of a second unnamed tributary to Taggart Creek (UT2), maintained residential
and commercial areas, and former home sites adjacent to Boyer Street.
13
Road shoulders act as buffers between the roadway and surrounding communities by
filtering stormwater runoff and reducing runoff velocities. The width of the road shoulder is
approximately five feet. Vegetation occurring along the maintained road shoulder includes
various grasses, clover, plantain, dandelion, giant ragweed, Queen Anne's lace, and poison
ivy.
The more successional areas and residential areas contain canopy and shrub species
such as black walnut, eastern red cedar, yellow poplar, Russian olive, American holly,
Chinese privet, mimosa, persimmon, Princess tree, box elder, elderberry, cherry, and
silverling. Herbs and vines. in this area include pokeweed, smooth and winged sumac, Joe-
pye-weed, boxwoods, goldenrod, wild ginger, lespedeza, kudzu, ground ivy, grape,
blackberry, and Japanese honeysuckle.
Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest
The Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest community is interspersed within the project area.
Dominant canopy species include Virginia pine, white and willow oak, eastern red cedar,
white ash, sweetgum, hickory, and beech. The understory in this community is primarily
composed of persimmon, flowering dogwood, Russian olive, black cherry, redbud, mulberry,
strawberry bush, wild ginger, greenbrier, poison ivy, Virginia creeper, grape, and Japanese
honeysuckle.
Alluvial Forest
. The Alluvial Forest community is located along UT 1 and UT2. This community is
characterized by intermittent flooding during high flow periods. Periodic floods contribute
nutrients to the community by depositing sediment, but they may also be a destructive factor
during large storm events by undercutting banks and eroding soils. Dominant species in this
community include tag alder, elderberry, southern water plantain, arrowhead, cattail, and
rush.
Terrestrial Wildlife
The combination of terrestrial and aquatic communities offer high plant diversity and
water availability in the project study area. Many of the tree species provide an adequate
food supply for a variety of animal species. Animals likely to occur within the study area will
exploit all communities for shelter and foraging opportunities or as movement corridors.
Mammals associated with the communities present may include white-tailed deer and
the eastern mole. The opossum, muskrat, eastern cottontail, and raccoon* frequently forage
nocturnally in these habitats. The gray squirrel, which prefers mature forest, may also be
found along the project where maintained/disturbed areas provide an adequate food supply.
Disturbed areas with an abundance of sunlight, such as roadsides, forest edges, and
old building sites provide adequate habitat for reptiles like the Carolina anole and the
14
southeastern five-lined skink. Snake species likely to be present within the study area include
the redbelly snake, brown snake, northern water snake, and the rat snake.
Avian species utilizing the project vicinity may include: northern cardinal, norther
mockingbird, goldfinch*, red-bellied woodpecker, tufted titmouse, American crow, mourning
dove, and house finch.
b. Aquatic Communities
Two jurisdictional streams are located within the study area (see Section V-A-2-a).
Both of these streams are unnamed tributaries to Taggart Creek, and are referred to as UTl
and UT2. A visual survey of the stream banks within the project study area was conducted to
document the aquatic community.
No submersed aquatic vegetation was observed in association with the Piedmont
Intermittent Stream (UT1) or the Piedmont Perennial Stream (UT2). Vegetation in the
Alluvial Forest community buffers UT1 from stormwater runoff from Boyer Street. UT2
flows through the Maintained/Disturbed and the Alluvial Forest Communities. The
streambarik of UT2 is stabilized with cottonwood, black willow, sycamore, silky dogwood,
elderberry, kudzu, and clearweed.
Areas adjacent to the streams may be inhabited by a variety of reptiles and
amphibians, such as the spotted salamander and spring peeper. Turtle species likely to be
found within the study area include the snapping turtle and eastern box turtle.
c. Summary of Anticipated Effects
Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic
resources described. Any construction related activities in or near these resources have the
potential to impact biological functions.
Terrestrial Communities
Project construction will result in clearing and degradation of portions of the
communities described in the previous sections. Estimated impacts to the communities are
derived using the proposed study area width (Table 6).
TABLE 6
ANTICIPATED IMPACTS TO BIOTIC COMMUNITIES
Community Area of Impacts acres
Maintained/Disturbed 17.5
Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest 19.8
Alluvial Forest 1.3
TOTAL 38.6
15
Plant communities found within the proposed project area serve as nesting and
sheltering habitat for various wildlife. Impacts to fauna are anticipated to be minimal due to
the size and scope of this project.
Areas modified during construction such as road shoulders will become early
successional habitat. Reduced habitat will displace some wildlife further from the roadway
while attracting other wildlife by the creation of more successional habitat. Animals
temporarily displaced by construction activities will repopulate areas suitable for the species.
Aquatic Community Impacts
Resident aquatic species may be temporarily displaced during construction activities;
however, anticipated impacts are expected to be minor and temporary. Sediment and erosion
control measures will be implemented during construction to protect water quality.
2. Water Resources
a. Streams. Rivers, and Impoundments
Two unnamed tributaries to Taggart Creek (UT1 and UT2) exist within the study area
for the proposed project (See Figure 2). The project is located within sub-basin 03-08-34 of
the Catawba River basin. This is the most heavily developed portion of the Catawba River
basin, with urban, residential and agricultural land use. Descriptions of the two tributaries
are provided in Table 7.
TABLE 7
WATER RF.gOTTRVFC TN vDnrrrm ADL' A

Water
Classification
Channel A
Channel Ai\L:j(y
Substrate
Flow
Resource Width Depth
UT1 Intermittent 1.5 ft 1.0 ft Sand, clay Moderate to
Slow
UT2 Perennial 4.0 ft 4.0 ft Sand, clay Moderate to
Slow
UT1 is an intermittent stream flowing east beneath Boyer Street, approximately 1,100
feet north of Wilkinson Boulevard. UT2 is a first order perennial stream located
approximately 1,000 feet north of UT1. UT2 flows southeast from I-85 Service Road (SR
1818) behind the bus company and along the edge of the Sheraton Hotel property.
Streams have been assigned a Best Usage Classification by the NC Division of Water
Quality (DWQ). The classification of Taggart Creek [Index no. 11-137-2] and its unnamed
tributaries is C. A Best Usage Classification of C indicates fresh waters designated for
secondary recreation, fishing, aquatic life propagation and survival, wildlife and agriculture.
16
No waters classified as High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-I or
WS-II) or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) occur within one mile of the project study
area.
Water Quality
The DWQ has initiated a whole basin approach to water quality management for the
17 river basins within'the state. Prior to implementation of the basinwide approach to water
quality management, the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) assessed
water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites
throughout the state. There are no BMAN stations located within one mile of the project.
"Point source" dischargers in North Carolina must apply for and obtain a permit
through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. There is
one permitted discharger (NC0079758) located within one mile downstream of the project
area, discharging into Taggart Creek.
Non-point source discharge refers to runoff that enters surface waters through
stormwater or a non-defined point of discharge. In the project area, pesticides, chemical
fertilizers, and land application of animal wastes may potentially elevate concentrations of
toxic compounds and nutrients. Erosion from land disturbance can lead to sedimentation in
streams. Animal wastes can also be a source of bacterial contamination and can elevate
biochemical oxygen demand.
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects
Construction of the proposed project will likely impact water resources due to pipe
installation and/or the lengthening of existing pipes. Construction activities are likely to alter
and/or interrupt stream flows and water levels at each aquatic site. Anticipated impacts are
shown below in Table 8.
TABLE 8
ANTICIPATED IMPAC'Tfi TO RTRV Aivrc
Streams Classification R/W Impacts feet
UT1 to Taggart Creek Intermittent 181
UT2 to Taggart Creek Perennial 200
Total Stream Impacts: 381
Project construction may result in the following impacts to surface waters:
• Increased sedimentation and turbidity from construction and/or erosion.
• Changes in light incidence and water clarity due to increased sedimentation and
vegetation removal.
• Alteration of water levels and flows due to interruptions and/or additions to surface
and ground water flow from construction.
17
• Changes in water temperature due to removal of streamside vegetation.
• Increased nutrient loading during construction via runoff from exposed areas.
• Increased concentration of toxic compounds from highway runoff, construction, toxic
spills, and increased vehicular use.
Precautions will be taken to minimize impacts to water resources in the study area.
NCDOT's Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters will be strictly
enforced during project construction.
3. Waters of the US
Surface waters and wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United
States," as defined in Section 33 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 328.3. Any
action that proposes to place fill into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the US Army
Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
a. Wetlands
Potential wetland communities were investigated pursuant to the 1987 "Corps of
Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual." No wetlands were found to exist within the project
study area.
As discussed in Section V-A-2-a, two streams exist within the project area. UT1 and
UT2 are considered jurisdictional surface waters under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(33 USC 1344).
b. Summary of Anticipated Effects
The project will not affect any wetlands, but will affect approximately 381 linear feet
of jurisdictional surface waters (See Table 8).
c. Avoidance. Minimization, and Mitigation
As mentioned in Section V-A-3-a, no wetlands were found to exist within the project
area. Stream impacts are unavoidable, UT1 crosses under existing Boyer Street. Proposed
improvements along existing Boyer Street will require extending the existing pipe carrying
the stream under the road. UT2 flows parallel to I-85 Service Road (SR 1818) between
Boyer Street and the service road. The proposed extension of Boyer Street to 1-85 Service
Road (SR 1818) cannot avoid UT2.
Best Management Practices will be used during construction in order to minimize the
project's effects on streams.
18
Due to the impacts associated with this project, compensatory mitigation may be
required. Final compensatory stream mitigation requirements will be determined by the US
Army Corps of Engineers.
d. Anticipated Permit Requirements
Impacts to jurisdictional surface waters are anticipated. Due to the scope of this
project, a Nationwide 14 Permit and a General Certification will be required. Final
permitting decision making will be determined by the regulatory agencies.
A North Carolina Division of Water Quality General Water Quality Certification is
required prior to the issuance of the Nationwide 14 Permit. Section 401 of the Clean Water
Act requires the state issue or deny water certification for any federally permitted or licensed
activity that may result in a discharge to waters of the US.
4. Rare and Protected Species
a. Federally-Protected Species
Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened,
Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of
Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of March 8,
2006, five federally-protected species are listed for Mecklenburg County (Table 9).
TABLE 9
FEDERALLY-PROTErTF.n CPRVTFC TN 1V?Ti !`itT VW1DTror n!\TT1kTT%1
Common Name Scientific Name Status* Habitat Biological
Conclusion
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucoce halus T No No Effect .
Carolina heels litter Lasmi ona decorata E** No No Effect
Smooth coneflower Echinacea laevi ata E Yes No Effect
Schweinitz's sunflower Helianthus schweinitzii E Yes No Effect
Michaux's sumac Rhus michauxii E Yes No Effect
- h, - hnaangerea, i - t nreatened
** indicates a historical record: last observed in the county more than 50 years ago
Field surveys for the project were performed in July 2005. No habitat exists in the
project area for the Bald Eagle or the Carolina heelsplitter. Because no habitat was found, the
project is anticipated to have "no effect" on these federally-protected species.
Suitable habitat in the form of roadway shoulders exists within the project study area
for smooth coneflower, Schweinitz's sunflower, and Michaux's sumac. A plant by plant
survey was conducted in the project study area for each of these species on July 7, 2005. No
populations for these species were found during the survey, and the biological conclusion for
each of these species is "no effect." A review of the NC Natural Heritage Program database
19
of rare species and unique habitats on May 5, 2002 revealed no known occurrences of smooth
coneflower, Schweinitz's sunflower, or Michaux's sumac within the project vicinity.
b. Federal Species of Concern/State Protected Species
There are nine Federal Species of Concern (FSC) listed for Mecklenburg County.
Federal Species of Concern are not afforded federal protection under the Endangered Species
Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally
proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered.
Organisms which are listed as Endangered, Threatened, Significantly Rare or Special
Concern by the NC Natural Heritage Program (NHP) list of rare plant and animal species are
afforded state protection under the State Endangered Species Act and the North Carolina
Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. However, the level of protection given to
state listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities.
TABLE 10
FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN/CANDIDATE SPECIES LISTED FOR
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
E - Endangered, T - Threatened, C - Candidate Species, SR-T - Significantly Rare - Throughout,
SC - Special Concern, NL - Not State Listed
* Historic record (Last observed in Mecklenburg County more than fifty years ago.)
** Shoals spiderlilly is federally listed as Probable/potential - Likely to occur in this area based on the
proximity of known records in adjacent counties, the presence of potentially suitable habitat, or both.
*** Georgia aster is a federal candidate species..
Surveys for FSC listed in Table 10 were not conducted during the site visit. A review
of the Natural heritage Program database of Rare Species and unique habitats on
April 11, 2006 did not reveal the presence of these species or unique habitats in or near the
project study area.
B. Cultural Resources
The proposed project is subject to North Carolina General Statute 121-12(a).
Although no federal funds will be used for the construction of the proposed project, the
project will require a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Section 106 of the
Common Name Scientific Name State Status
American eel Anguilla rostrata NL
Carolina Darter Etheostoma collis collis Sc
Carolina creekshell Villosa vau haniana E
Dwarf aster Eu bia mirabilis SR-T
Geor is aster* * * Aster eor ianus T
Prairie birdsfoot-trefoil Lotus uni oliolatus var. helleri SR-T
Shoals s iderlill H enocallis coronaria NL**
Tall larkspur Delphinium exaltatum E-SC*
Vir inin uillwort Isoetes vir inica NL
20
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, applies to federal permit areas along
the project.
1. Historic Architectural Resources
NCDOT Architectural Historians surveyed the Area of Potential Effects (APE) of the
proposed project. Two individual properties eligible for the National Register of Historic
Places were identified within the APE. The McCoy Service Station and the Oakden Motel,
both located on Wilkinson Boulevard, have been determined to be eligible for the National
Register. The State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) concurred on the eligibility in letters
dated January 4, 2006 (for the McCoy Service Station) and April'21, 2006 (for the Oakden
Motel). See Appendix A for the HPO letters.
The boundaries for each of these properties follow tax parcels, except for frontage
along Wilkinson Boulevard where the boundaries follow the back of the curb line. No work
is proposed beyond the curb line along the boundary for the McCoy Service Station. The
proposed project will have no effect on this property.
The project will require acquisition of property within the Oakden Motel eligible
boundary, but the buildings will remain intact. Compensation will be provided to the
property owner in order to cover the expense of relocating the motel's sign outside of the
proposed right of way, if the owner should choose to do so.
Figure 2 shows the location of these properties, and Figure 3 shows where these
properties are located with respect to federal permit areas. No federal permits will be
required in the vicinity of either of these properties, therefore Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act does not apply.
2. Archaeological Resources
The State Historic Preservation Office has reviewed the project for archaeological
resources. In a letter dated June 15, 2001, the State Historic Preservation Office stated there
are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area and recommended that no
archaeological survey be performed.
C. Social Effects
1. Neighborhoods/Communities
Land uses in the immediate project area are predominantly office and light industrial.
There area few single-family residences on Boyer Street near Wilkinson Boulevard, but
much of the land is vacant and has been purchased by the City of Charlotte. The project
study area is in close vicinity to Charlotte-Douglas International Airport and receives a high
level of aircraft noise. The City of Charlotte has been purchasing land as part of the Federal
21
Aviation Regulation Part 150 Program in an effort to transition the neighborhood into
nonresidential uses.
2. Relocation of Residences and Businesses
The proposed project will require the relocation of three residences and four
businesses. It is anticipated adequate replacement properties will be available. All
relocations will be carried out in accordance with Federal and State laws and regulations.
NCDOT's Relocation Assistance Program will be utilized to assist in finding replacement
housing for residents relocated by the project. Appendix B includes information on
NCDOT's Relocation Assistance Program, as well as the relocation reports.
3. Minority/Low-Income Populations
The project will relocate three residences. It is believed none of the homes are owned
or occupied by minority or low-income families. It is estimated the project will relocate four
businesses. Two of these are considered to be minority businesses.
A citizens informational workshop was held for the project on December 13, 2001.
This workshop was advertised in local newspapers. Through the public involvement
program, citizens have been kept informed of the proposed project.
4. Public Facilities
There are no schools located within the study area. One church and a cemetery are
located on Old Dowd Road, south of Boyer Street (SR 1656).
The Charlotte-Douglas International Airport is located approximately one mile from
the study area.
D. Economic Effects
The improved access between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard will
reduce travel time and costs for roadway users. Light business development may occur along
the extension of Boyer Street to I-85 Service Road (SR 1818). The access road will offer
increased accessibility to businesses located within and beyond the project limits.
E. Land Use
1. Existing Land Use and Zoning
Land use in the immediate project study area is predominantly office and light
industrial, with a small number of residential properties. As mentioned previously, much of
22
the land along Boyer Street is vacant and has been purchased by the City of Charlotte as noise
mitigation for Charlotte-Douglas International Airport. Because of the proximity to the
airport and I-85, several office parks, industrial parks, and warehouse uses are spread
throughout the area. The majority of the project study area is zoned as light/general industrial
with an area of residential zoning located along Withrow Road and along Boyer Street near
it's intersection with Withrow Road.
2. Future Land Use
The Westside Strategic Plan, developed by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning
Commission in March 1999, encompasses the project study area. The principal objective of
this plan is to "encourage a compatible mix of land uses adjacent to the airport and to areas
most impacted by airport noise." The plan designates land between Little Rock Road (SR
1191) and Billy Graham Parkway for business and office park uses.
The Southwest District Plan also addresses land use in the project study area. Land
use recommendations under this plan include a buyout of the residences in the Withrow
Road/Boyer Street neighborhood because of the high level of aircraft noise. The City of
Charlotte has been purchasing land as part of the Federal Aviation Regulation Part 150
Program in an effort to transition the neighborhood into nonresidential uses.
3. Proiect Compatibility with Local Plans
The 1994 Mecklenburg-Union MPO Thoroughfare Plan designates an interchange at
the intersection of Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard. A series of smaller
projects have been coordinated in an effort between NCDOT and the City of Charlotte to
accomplish this interchange. TIP Project U-2704B will contribute to the overall success of
the plan by providing necessary connectivity between Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson
Boulevard and between Wilkinson Boulevard and I-85 Service Road (SR 1818).
F. Secondary/Cumulative Effects
. It is unlikely the project will result in large-scale, dense development. The proposed
roadway improvements will not provide access to large tracts of undeveloped land. As local land
use plans are utilized and time elapses, residential uses in the remaining portions of the study area
may be phased out and transitioned into office or industrial uses. Future development will
probably be nonresidential and concentrated on Boyer Street, just north of Withrow Road. The
shift in land use may impact the community economically through changes in land values.
G. Prime and Important Farmland
North Carolina Executive Order Number 96 requires all state agencies to consider the
impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime farmland soils, as designated by the
23
US Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS). Land planned or zoned for urban
development is not afforded the same level of preservation as rural, agricultural areas.
No soils in the project study area are specified as prime farmland, and land in the
study area is either too fragmented or small in acreage for agricultural use. The project
meets the planned urbanization condition, as it is currently zoned for commercial and
residential development. Therefore, no further consideration of farmland impacts is required.
H. Traffic Noise Analysis
A traffic noise analysis was performed to determine the effect of the project on noise
levels in the immediate project area. This investigation included an inventory of existing
noise sensitive land uses and a field survey of ambient (existing) noise levels in the study
area. These ambient noise levels were compared with the predicted future noise levels to
determine if traffic noise impacts can be expected to result from the proposed project. If
traffic noise impacts are predicted, examination and evaluation of alternative noise abatement
measures must be considered.
The traffic noise prediction model used to predict future noise levels in this study was
the TNM 2.5 model. Only a preliminary alignment was available for use in this noise
analysis. The "worst-case" topographical and traffie volume conditions were assumed.
In order to determine whether highway noise levels are compatible with various land
uses, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has developed Noise Abatement Criteria
(NAC) and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways. These abatement
criteria and procedures are set forth in Part 772 of Title 23 of the Code of Federal
Regulations. Noise abatement must be considered when a land use is exposed to noise levels
approaching or exceeding the FHWA noise abatement criteria and/or the predicted design
year noise levels substantially exceed existing noise levels as defined below:
Existing Lea(h)
50 or less dBA
51 dBA
52 dBA
53 dBA
54 dBA
55 or more dBA
Substantial Increase if Receptor
Experiences Increase of
15 or more dBA
14 or more dBA
13 or more dBA
12 or more dBA
11 or more dBA
10 or more dBA
1. Ambient Noise Levels
Ambient noise measurements were taken in the vicinity of the project to determine
existing noise levels. The existing Leq noise levels in the project area, as measured at 50 feet
24
from the edge of pavement, ranged from 67.3 dBA to 73.9 dBA. A background noise level of
50 dBA was used for the project in areas where traffic noise was not the predominant source.
2. Analysis Results
Peak hour design and level of service C volumes were compared, and the volumes
resulting in the noisiest conditions were used with the proposed posted speed limits in the
TNM computer model to determine the number of land uses (by type) which would be
impacted during the peak hour of the design year 2030.
The maximum extent of the 72 dBA and 67 dBA noise level contours from the center
of the proposed roadway is less than 43 feet and 48.6 feet, respectively. The predicted noise
level increases for this project range up to 15 dBA.
Traffic noise from the project is expected to impact one residential receptor and two
business receptors.
3. Noise Abatement Alternatives
Measures for reducing or eliminating the traffic noise impacts of the project were
considered. Noise abatement alternatives investigated included: highway alignment changes,
traffic system management measures, and noise barriers.
Hiebway Alignment Changes
Highway alignment shifts for noise abatement involve moving the proposed highway
away from noise sensitive areas. The selection of alternative alignments for noise abatement
purposes must consider the balance between noise impacts and other engineering and
environmental parameters. Changing the highway alignment is not a viable alternative for
noise abatement.
Traffic System Management Measures
Traffic system management measures which limit vehicle type, speed, volume and
time of operations are not considered appropriate for noise abatement due to their effect on
the capacity and level of service of the proposed roadway.
Noise Barriers
Earth berms or artificial abatement walls can often be used to abate anticipated traffic
noise levels. These structures diffract, absorb, and reflect highway traffic noise emissions.
The project will maintain uncontrolled or limited control of access, meaning most
commercial establishments and residents will have direct access to the proposed roadway,
and all intersections along the project will be at grade.
25
For a noise barrier to provide sufficient noise reduction it must be high enough and
long enough to shield the receptor from significant sections of the highway. Access openings
in the barrier severely reduce the noise reduction provided by the barrier. It then becomes
economically unreasonable to construct a barrier for a small noise reduction. Safety at access
openings (driveways, crossing streets, etc.) due to restricted sight distance is also a concern.
Furthermore, to provide a sufficient reduction, a barrier's length would normally be eight
times the distance from the barrier to the receptor. For example, a receptor located 50 feet
from the barrier would normally require a barrier 400 feet long. An access opening of 40 feet
(ten percent of the area) would limit its noise reduction to approximately 4 dBA. For the
reasons explained above, noise barriers will not be provided as part of this project.
Other Mitigation Measures Considered
The acquisition of property in order to provide buffer zones to minimize noise
impacts is not considered feasible due to cost. The cost to acquire impacted receptors to
establish buffer zones would exceed the abatement cost effectiveness threshold established
under NCDOT Noise Abatement Policy. The use of buffer zones to minimize impacts to
future development is not recommended because this could be accomplished through land
use controls.
The use of vegetation for noise mitigation is not considered reasonable due to the
amount of right of way required to make vegetative barriers effective. A vegetative barrier
would have to be approximately 100 feet wide to provide a 3 dBA reduction in noise levels.
A 5 dBA reduction would require an even wider vegetative barrier. The cost of the additional
right of way and the plantings for a vegetative barrier would likely exceed the abatement cost
effectiveness threshold.
Noise insulation was also considered, however no public or non-profit institutions
will be impacted by traffic noise due to this project.
4. Construction Noise
The major construction elements of this project are expected to be earth removal,
hauling, grading and paving. General construction noise impacts, such as temporary speech
interference for passers-by and those individuals living or working near the project can be
expected. However, considering the relatively short-term nature of construction noise and the
limitation of construction to daytime hours, these impacts are not expected to be substantial.
The transmission loss characteristics of nearby natural elements and man-made structures are
believed to be sufficient to moderate the effects of intrusive construction noise.
5. Summary
Based on these preliminary studies, traffic noise abatement is not recommended and
no noise abatement measures are proposed. This evaluation completes the highway traffic
26
noise requirements of Title 23 CFR Part 772, and unless a major project change occurs, no
additional noise reports will be submitted for this project. ,
In accordance with NCDOT Traffic Noise Abatement Policy, the Federal/State
governments are not responsible for providing noise abatement measures for new
development for which building permits are issued after the Date of Public Knowledge. The
Date of Public Knowledge is the approval date of the final environmental document (Finding
of No Significant Impact (FONSI) or Record of Decision (ROD)).
For development occurring after this public knowledge date, local governing bodies
and private landowners are responsible for insuring noise compatible designs are utilized
along the proposed facility.
1. Air Quality Analysis
Automobiles are considered to be the major source of carbon monoxide (CO) in the
project area. For this reason, most of the analysis presented is concerned with determining
expected CO levels in the vicinity of the project due to traffic flow.
A microscale air quality analysis was performed to determine future CO
concentrations resulting from the proposed roadway improvements. "CAL3QHC - A
Modeling Methodology for Predicting Pollutant Concentrations near Roadway Intersections"
was used to predict the CO concentration at the nearest sensitive receptor to the project.
Carbon monoxide vehicle emission factors were calculated for the years 2010, 2015
and 2030, using the EPA publication "Mobile Source Emission Factors," and the
MOBILE5B mobile source emissions computer model.
1. Baclmround CO Concentrations
The background CO concentration used for the project was 4.0 parts per million
(ppm). Consultation with the Mecklenburg County Department of Environmental Protection
suggests this is an appropriate CO background concentration for use in the Mecklenburg
County area.
2. Air Ouality Analysis Results
The worst-case air quality scenario was determined to be in the vicinity of the
intersection of US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and Boyer Street. Seventeen air quality
receptors were identified in the vicinity of the intersection. The predicted 1-hour average
concentration of CO for the evaluation build years of 2010, 2015, and 2030 are 6.4, 6.5 and
7.2 ppm, respectively. Comparison of the predicted CO concentrations with the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (maximum permitted for 1-hour averaging period + 35 ppm;
8-hour averaging period = 9 ppm) indicates no violation of these standards.
27
3. Construction Air Ouality Effects
During construction of the proposed project, all materials resulting from clearing and
grubbing, demolition or other operations will be removed from the project, burned or
otherwise disposed of by the contractor. Any burning will be performed in accordance with
applicable local laws and ordinances and regulations of the North Carolina State
Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. Care will
be taken to insure burning will be performed at the greatest distance practical from dwellings
and not when atmospheric conditions are such as to create a hazard to the public. Burning
will be performed under constant surveillance. Also during construction, measures will be
taken to reduce the dust generated by construction when the control of dust is necessary for
the protection and comfort of motorists or area residents.
4. Summary
The project is located in Mecklenburg County, which is within the Charlotte-Gastonia
nonattainment area for ozone (03) and the Charlotte nonattainment area for CO as defined by
the Environmental Protection Agency. The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA)
designated this area as a "moderate" nonattainment area for 03 and CO. However, due to
improved monitoring data, these areas were redesignated as "maintenance" for 03 on
July 5, 1995 and "maintenance" for CO on September 18, 1995.
All appropriate transportation control measures included in the SIP for Mecklenburg
County have been completed. The Mecklenburg-Union MPO 2025 Long Range
Transportation Plan -(LRTP) and the 2002-2008 Metropolitan Transportation Improvement
Program (MTIP) have been determined to conform to the intent of the SIP. The USDOT air
quality conformity approval of the LRTP was April 15, 2002 and the USDOT air quality
conformity approval of the MTIP was October 1, 2003. No significant changes have
occurred in the project's design concept or scope, as used in the conformity analyses. The
current conformity determination is consistent with the final conformity rule found in 40 CFR
Parts 51 and 93.
J. Hazardous Materials
Based on a field reconnaissance survey and database review of the project area, no
underground storage tanks (UST) or potential hazardous waste sites were found to exist in the
project limits. However, there is the possibility unregulated USTs may exist within the
proposed right of way limits. If a site with unregulated USTs or landfills is identified, a
preliminary site assessment will be performed prior to right of way acquisition.
No regulated or unregulated landfills, dumpsites, or RCRA or CERCLA sites were
identified within the project limits.
28
VI. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION
A. Citizens Informational Workshop
A citizens informational workshop was held on December 13, 2001, to obtain
comments and suggestions about the project from the public. Approximately 16 persons
attended this meeting, including NCDOT representatives. Several comments were received
concerning traffic problems along Wilkinson Boulevard and Billy Graham. This meeting
was advertised through local newspapers and flyers were sent to property owners and citizens
in the project area.
B. Public Hearing
A public hearing for this project will be held following approval of this document and
prior to right of way acquisition. The public hearing will allow the public to view more
detailed information than previously available at the citizen informational workshop and will
provide a forum for public comments.
C. Aaencv Coordination
NCDOT has coordinated with appropriate federal, state, and local agencies
throughout the project development study. Comments regarding the proposed project were
requested from various federal, state and local agencies. Copies of the comments received
are included in Appendix A. An asterisk designates an agency from which comments were
received.
US Department of the Army - Corps of Engineers
*NC Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse
*NC Department of Cultural Resources - State Historic Preservation Office
NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources
*Division of Environmental Health
*Division of Forest Resources
*Division of Water Quality
*NC Department of Public Instruction
*NC Wildlife Resources Commission
*Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners
*Mecklenburg County Land Use and Environmental Services Agency
Department of Environmental Protection
*Charlotte Department of Transportation
*Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Charlotte-Douglas International Airport
29
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II
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SUBJECT PROJECT
TIP PROJECT U-2704B
TIP PROJECT U-203
!
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27
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CHARLOTTE DOT PROJECT 512-99-010
WEST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR
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CL NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT
1 OF TRANSPORTATION
I DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
/ ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
m ROADWAY PROJECTS IN THE VICINITY OF
?. TIP PROJECT U-2704B
FEET
0 1000 2000
6 200 40'0 600 FIGURE 7

APPENDIX A
COMMENTS RECEIVED
ley
North Carolina
Department of Administration
Michael F. Easley, Governor
Mr. William Gilmore
N.C. Dept. of Transportation
Project Dev. & Env. Analysis Branch
Transportation Bldg. - 1548 MSC
Raleigh NC 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
August 9, 2001
AU v 13 ?tiCE1VF\

AUG 13 2001
mucim a:
CT ^- --.mod' aQ`/
Subject: Scoping - Proposed Access Improvements in Northwest Quadrant of US 521 (Billy
Graham Pkwy.) and US 29/74 (Wilkinson Blvd.) and Extension of Boyer Street; TIP
#U-2704B
The N. C. State Clearinghouse has received the above project for intergovernmental review. This
project has been assigned State Application Number 02-E-4220-0069. Please use this number with
all inquiries or correspondence with this office.
Review of this project should be completed on or before 09/09/2001 . Should you have any
questions, please call [phone].
Sincerely,

Ms. Chrys Baggett
Environmental Policy Act Coordinator
PLEASE NOTE NEW MAILING ADDRESS
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY
N.C. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION
1302 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH, NC 27699-1302
116 West Jones Street * Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003 * Telephone [phone]
State Courier 51-01-00
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer
Gwynn T. Swinson, Secretary
( a fSWF
w+
North Carolina
r?
Department of Administration ?12 r.
Michael F. Easley, Governor Gwynn T. Swinsoff;-Saiv
12, 2001
Mr. William Gilmore
N.C. Dept. of Transportation SAP 3
Project Dev. & Env. Analysis Branch
Transportation Bldg. - 1548 MSC
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
Re: SC-i File >r t;2-E-4220-0069; Scoping Proposed Access Improvements in Northwest Quadrant of
US 521 (Billy Graham Pkwy.) and US 29/74 (Wilkinson Blvd.) and Extension of Boyer Street;
TIP 9U-2704B
The above referenced project has been reviewed through the State Clearinghouse Intergovernmental
Review Process. Attached to this letter are comments made by agencies reviewing this document.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call me at [phone].
6?? Sin6V
Attachments
cc: Region F
Ms. Chrys Baggett
Environmental Policy Act Coordinator
116 West Jones Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-8003 Telephone [phone]
An Equal Opportunity ( Affirmative Action Employer
??YY as STAT>• o
Michael F. Easley, Governor
I.isbeth C. Fvans, Secretary
Jeffrey J. Cnt\v, Deputy Secretary
April 21, 2006
MEMORANDUM
%.a 9-7 J
?
a

Office of Archives and I Iistory
Di-.icion of I Iistorical Resources
David Brook, Director
TO: Greg Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT Division of Highways
FROM: Peter Sandbeck
SUBJCT: Improvements to US 29 - 74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway),
Charlotte, U-2704B, Mecklenburg County, ER 01-9611
On January 31, 2006, our office and the NC Department of Transportation, Human Environment Unit, met
to review additional information that we requested regarding the November 22, 2005, Historic Architectural
survey report for the above project.
At the meeting we signed an eligibility concurrence form reiterating our National Register eligibility
concurrence for the McCoy Service Station. We also concurred that the Oakden Motel is eligible for the
National Register.
Therefore, for purposes of Section 106 compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur
that the following properties are eligible for the National Register under the criteria cited:
• The McCoy Service Station, State Study-listed and located at 5315 Wilkinson Boulevard, is eligible for
the National Register under Criterion A for commerce and C for architecture. The property retains
good integrity and is a fine and rare example of the gas station type, once common in Mecklenburg
County and nationwide. The gas station stands as one of the first roadside establishments along
Wilkinson Boulevard, the state's first four-lane highway.
We concur with the proposed National Register boundaries as described, defined, and delineated in
the report. The boundaries include a ca. 1950 auto repair/storage facility.
• The Oakden Motel, 5104 Wilkinson Boulevard, is eligible for the National Register under Criterion C,
as an intact example of the mid twentieth-century motel type in Charlotte. The motel's parallel
building plan, single-story blocks, central parking area, highway-oriented office, and rare surviving
highway sign, illustrate the distinctive characteristics of a parallel motel plan type.
Location Mailing Address Telephone/Fax
ADMINISTRATION 5117 N. Rbunt Street. Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service (:enter, Raleigh N(: 276944617 [phone]/7338653
RESTORATION 515 N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC 4617 Mai Service Center. Raleigh NC 276944617 [phone]/715-4801
SURVEY do PLANNING 515 N. 116unt Street, Raleigh, NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 276944617 [phone]/7154801
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Peter li. Sandbcck, Adminwator
We concur with the proposed National Register boundaries as described, justified, and delineated in
the survey report.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR
Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. In all future
communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number.
cc: Mary Pope Furr
Richard Silverman

Michael F. Easley, Governor
1,isbcth C. Evans, ' Secretary
Jeffrey J. Crow, Deputy Secretary
January 4, 2006
MEMORANDUM
..Owl
t?
01
Office of Archives and History
Division of Historical Resources
David Brook, Director
TO: Greg Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT Division of Highways
FROM Peter Sandbeck OImprovements to US 29 - 74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway),
Charlotte, U-2704B, Mecklenburg County, ER 01-9611
Thank you for your letter of November 22, 2005, transmitting the survey report by Richard Silverman for the
above project.
For purposes of compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur that the
following property is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places under the criterion cited:
The McCoy Service station is eligible for the National Register under Criterion A for commerce and C for
architecture. The property retains good integrity and is a fine and rare example of the gas station type once
common iq Mecklenburg County and nationwide. The gas station stands among the first roadside
establishments along Wilkinson Boulevard, the state's first four-lane highway.
We concur with the proposed National Register boundaries as described, defined, and delineated in the
report. The boundaries include a ca. 1950 auto repair/storage facility.
We are unable to concur that the Oakden Motel is eligible for the National Register from the information
provided in the report. Please provide a justification for the motel's eligibility under Criterion C. Instead of
citing Charlotte's 2001 "Post-war Architectural Survey Report," a full verbal explanation of the motel's
significance should be extrapolated from the source and discussed in the Oakden Motel summary of
significance.
We look forward to receiving this further information.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR
Part 800.
Location Mailing Address
ADMINISTRATION Sol N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC. 4(,17 Mad Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-41117
RESTORATION 51 S N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC. 4617 Mai Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617
SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. Blount Stwc4 Raleigh, NC 4617 Mai Service Center, Raleigh NC 276994617
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation Office
Peter B. sandbeck, Administrator
/715-4M1
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment,
please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. In all future
communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number.
cc: Mary Pope Fun
Richard Silverman
Federal : t id # STI'-29 17 = ro 2- _ Lam:' C6
TV14 [t-2704B
County. Mecklenburg
CONCURRENCE FORM FOR PROPERTIES NOT ELIGIBLE FOR
THE NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES
Project Description: US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) Area Improvements
On Nov. 14, 2005 representatives of the
® North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) -
? Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
® North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (HPO)
? Other
Reviewed the subject project at
? Scoping meeting
® Historic architectural resources photograph review session/consultation
? Other
All parties present agreed
? There are -no properties over fifty years old within the project's area of potential effects.
There are no properties less than fifty years old which are considered to meet Criteria Consideration G
project's area of potential effects. within the
There are properties over f
fty years old within the project's Area of Potential Effects (APE), but based on the
histo 'cal info at'o"vailable and the photographs of each property, the properties identified as
i?'-? S
and no further evaluation of them is necessary. are considered not eligible for the National Register
There are no National Register-listed or Study Listed propert ies within the project's area of potential effects.
? All properties greater than 50 years of age located in the APE have been considered at this consultation, and based
upon the above concurrence, all compliance for historic architecture with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act and GS 121-12(a) has been completed for this project.
? There are no historic properties affected by this project. (Attach any notes or documents as needed)
Signed:
Representative, NCDOT
, "Zero S'
A , ^ Date
FHWA, for the Division Administrator, or other Federal Agency
11 Date
Representative, HPO
a-.
y)Z
Date
State Historic Preservation Officer
If a survev report is prepared. a final copy of this form and the attached list will be included.

.?a SrA7E s?

North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
State Historic Preservation k, Administrator
David L. S• Division J Cow Direct and History
Jeffrey
Michael F. F,asley, Governor
Lisbeth C. Evans, Secretary
June 15, 2001 `
MEMORANDUM
To-
From:
Re-
D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
William ental Analysis Branch
Project Development and Environ(
David Brook reservation officer

r? Y
j r•r...+N+ys?`a ?Ee
Deputy State Histo
inson Boulevard) and US 52,
,proposed Improvement C for US 29 - 74 (W& 0
Charlotte, TIP No. U-2704B, State No. 81 G75001,
(Billy Graham Parkway29 1 , Mecklenburg County, ER
Federal Project No. STP- above project. much
Thank you for your letter of May 10, 2001, concerning the
a available to us, it appears pavement already exists in
project.
Based upon our examination of m pp g
"erefore, we recommend no archeological survey of the proposed effect, we
of this area. •'ti t's area of potential ??, for
if more than fifty years old within the Pro)ec
there are any properties ansportation architectural historian evaluate then eligibility
recommend that a Department of Tr
n Act
listing in the National Register of Historic Places.
to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservatio on
i
, mments are made pursuant t lations for Compliance with Sect
The above co 106
and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation s Rego
codified at 36 CFR Part 800' the above
If you have questions concerning
919/733-4763-
Coordinator,
Thank you for your coopand consideration. y
,ration _$arley, Environmental Review
comment, contact Renee Gledhill
DB:kgc
cc: Mary Pope Furr, NCDOT
FHwA
Administration
Location
507 N. Blount St, Raleigh NC
515 N. Blount St. Raleigh NC
Mailing Address ter Raleigh 27699A611
4617 Mail Service Cc' "
Service Center. Raleigh 27699-4613
4613 Mai Raleigh 27699-4618
4618 Mail Service Center.
Telephone/Fax
[phone]
[phone]
[phone]
AGRW
NCDENR
State of North Carolina
Reviewing Office:
Department of Environment and Natural Resources ProjectNumber:?-1 - 10 eDueDate:
INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS
After review of this project it has been determined that the DENR permit(s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in order for this project
to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of this form.
All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office.

PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS Normal Process Time
(Statutory Time Limit)
Permit to construct & operate wastewater treatment
facilities, sewer system extensions & s Application 90 days before begin construction or award of construction
30 da
s
ewer systems
not discharging into state surface waters. _ contracts. On-site inspection. Post-application technical conference usual. y
(90 days)
NPDES-permit to discharge into surface water and/or
i Application 180 days before begin activity. On-site inspection preapplication
perm
t to operate and construct wastewater facilities
discharging into state surface w
t conference usual. Additionally, obtain permit to construct wastewater treatment 90 -120 days
a
ers. facility-granted after NPDES. Reply time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue (N/A)
of NPDES permit-whichever is later.
El l Water Use Permit Preapplication technical conference usually necessary 30 days
(N/A)
Well Construction Permit Complete application must be received and permit issued prior to the 7 days
installation of a well. (15 days)
Dredge and Fill Permit
Application copy must be served on each adjacent riparian
property owner.
On-site inspection. Preapplication conference usual. Filling may require Easement 55 days
to Fill from N.C. Department of Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. (990 0 days)
Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement
facilities and/or Emission Sources as per 15 A NCAC N/A

(2Q.0100. 20.0300.2 H.0600) 60 days
I Any open burning associated with subject proposal
must be in compliance with 15 A NCAC 2D.1900
Demolition or renovations of structures containing
asbestos material must be in compliance with
15 A NCAC 2D.1110 (a) (1) which requires notification N/A 60 days
and removal prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos (40 days)
Control Group 919-733-0820.
Complex Source Fermit required under 15 A NCAC
/20.0800
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion & sedimentation
control plan will be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality5ection) at least 30 20 days
days before beginning activity. A fee of $40 for the first acre or any part of an acre. (30 days)
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respectto the referenced Local Ordinance. 30 days
Mining Permit On-site inspection usual. Surety bond filed with DENR. Bond amount varies with
type mine and number of acres of affected land. Any are mined greater than 30 days
one acre must be permitted. The appropriate bond must be received before (60 days)
the permit can be issued.
North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division of Forest Resources if permit exceeds 4 days 1 day
(N/A)
Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit-22 counties On-site inspection by N.C. Division of Forest Resources required 'if more than rive

in coastal N.C-with organic soik
acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections should be requested 1 day
(N/A)
at least ten days before actual bum is planned.'
Oil Refining Facilities

N/A g0 - 120 days
(N/A)
Dam Safety Permit I If permit required. application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant
must hire N.C.qualified engineerto: prepare plans, inspect construction. certify
construction is according to DENR approved plans. May also require permit under
mosquito control program,and a 404 permit from Corps of Engineers. 30 days
An inspection of site is necessary to verify Hazard Classification. A minimum (60 days)
fee of $200.00 must accompany the application. An additional processing fee
based on a percentage or the total project cost will be required upon completion.
SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS Normal Process Time
PERMITS (Statutory Time unit)
Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well I File surety bond of $5,000 with DENR running to State of N.C. conditional that any 10 days
well opened by drill operator shall, upon abandonment, be plugged according (N/A)
to DENR rules and regulations.
10 days
Geophysical Exploration Permit 7Application filed with DENR at least 10 days prior to issue of permiL Application (N/A)
by letter. No standard application form.
? I State Lakes Construction Permit
I ? 1 401 Water Quality Certification
i 1131 CAMA Permit for MAJOR development
[31 CAMA Permit for MINOR development
Application fees based on structure size is charged. Must include descriptions
& drawings of structure & proof of ownership of riparian property.
N/A
$250.00 fee must accompany application
$50.00 fee must accompany application
15 - 20 days
(N/A)
55 days
(130 days)
60 days
(130 days)
22 days
(25 days)
Ell Several geodetic monuments are located in or near the project area. If any monument needs to be moved or destroyed, please notify:
N.C. Geodetic Survey, Box 27687 Raleigh,N.C.27611
Abandonment of any wells, if required must be in accordance with Title 15A. Subchapter 2C.0100.
Notification of the proper regional office is requested if 'orphan' underground storage tanks (USTS) are discovered during any excavation operation.
I 45 days
Compliance with 15A NCAC 2H 1000 (Coastal Stormwater Rules) is required. (N/A)
* Other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority)
-t7-0)
REGIONAL OFFICES
' Questions regarding these p ermits should be addressed to the Regional office marked below.
? Asheville Regional Office kMooresville Regional Office
Street
i
h M ? Wilmington Regional Office
127 Cardinal Drive Extension
59 Woodfin Place
Asheville, N.C.28801 n
a
919 Nort
Mooresville, N.C.28115 Wilmington, N.C.28405
[phone]
[phone] [phone]
? Fayetteville Regional Office ? Raleigh Regional Office ? Winston-Salem Regional office
Street
5
225 Green Street, Suite 714 3800 Barrett Drive, P.O. Box 27687
N.C.27611
Raleigh N.C. 27107
nWon Salem,
Fayetteville, N.C.28301 ,
[phone] [phone]
[phone]
? Washington Regional Office
943 Washington Square Mall
Washington, N.C.27889
r1c'71 oar,-AAR1
YONAA
A&I
AMWWWAMM?
NCDENR
North Carolina
Department of Environment and
Natural Resources
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
' North Carolina
FOREST Division of Forest Resources
SERVICE
N C Stanford M. Adams, Director
2411 Old US 70 West
Clayton, NC 27520
August 18, 2001
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Office of Legislative Affairs
FROM: Bill Pickens, NC Division Forest Resources
SUBJECT: DOT scoping for the proposed access road for Billy Graham Parkway and Wilkinson
Blvd.
PROJECT #: 02-0069 & TIP # U-2704B
The North Carolina Division of Forest Resources has reviewed the referenced scoping document
and offer the following comments that should be addressed in the EA concerning impacts to
woodlands.
Woodlands may be impacted by the project. To evaluate the scope and significance of the
impacts to forest resources we need the total forest land acreage by timber type removed or taken
out of forest production as a result of the project. Age of the stands, height, diameters, and
stocking levels would be helpful. Efforts should be made to align corridors to minimize impacts
to woodlands in the following order of priority:
• Managed, high site index woodland
• Productive forested woodlands
• Managed, lower site index woodlands
• -Unique forest ecosystems
• Unmanaged, fully stocked woodlands
• Unmanaged, cutover woodlands
• Urban woodlands
2. To evaluate the permanent loss of potential producti :pity, a listing of the forest's site quality
index based on the soil series should be provided. This information is provide in the Soil Survey
for Mecklenberg County or can be calculated by on-site measurement.
3. The provisions the contractor will take to utilize the merchantable timber removed during
construction. Emphasis should be on selling all wood products. However, if the wood products
cannot be sold then efforts should be made to haul off the material or turn it into mulch with a
tub grinder. This practice will minimize the need for debris burning, and the risk of escaped
fires and smoke management problems to residences, highways, schools, and towns.
Typically NCDOT leaves disposal of wood products up to the contractor. We feel this policy
results in needless waste of a valuable natural resource and that specific contract provision
requiring clearing contractors to utilize timber products should be adopted.
1616 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601
Phone- 919 - 733-2162 \ FAX 919 - 7.33-0118 \ Tnterner www dfr state nc us
4. If woodland burning is needed, the contractor must comply with the laws and regulations of
open burning as covered under G.S. 113-60.21 through G.S. 113-60.31. Mecklenberg County is
anon-high hazard county, and G.S:_113-60.24 requiring a regular burning permit- would apply.
5. The provisions that the contractor will take to prevent erosion and damage to forestland outside
the right-of-way. Trees, particularly the root system, can be permanently damaged by heavy
equipment. Efforts should be to avoid skinning of the tree trunk, compacting the soil, adding
layers of fill, exposing the root system, or spilling petroleum or other substances.
6. The impact upon any existing greenways in the proposed project area should be addressed.
We appreciate the opportunity to provide comment on the document and look forward to future
correspondence. We encourage efforts that avoid or minimize impacts to forest resources during the
final planning of this project.
cc: Warren Boyette

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND Project Number
NATURAL RESOURCES 0'? -Dd6
DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Counnt?y?
Inter-Agency Project Review Response
Project Name ?d C d 7-- Type of Project ?? ???i ?+cxSl
,d%A r.?? ?lf
? The applicant should be advised that plans and specifications or all wate syste7
improvements must be approved by the Division of Environmental Health prior to the
award of a contract or the initiation of construction (as required by 15A NCAC 18C
.0300et. seq.). For information, contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919)
733-2321.
? This project will be classified as a non-community public water supply and must comply
with state and federal drinking water monitoring requirements. For more information the
applicant should contact the Public Water Supply Section, [phone].
If this project is constructed as proposed, we will recommend closure of feet of
adjacent waters to the harvest of shellfish. For information regarding the shellfish
sanitation program, the applicant should contact the Shellfish Sanitation Section at (252)
726-6827.
? The soil disposal area(s) proposed for this project may produce a mosquito breeding -
problem. For information concerning appropriate mosquito control measures, the
applicant should contact the Public Health Pest Management Section at [phone].
? The applicant should be advised that prior to the removal or demolition of dilapidated
structures, a extensive rodent control program may be necessary in order to prevent the
migration of the rodents to adjacent areas. For information concerning rodent control,
contact the local health department or the Public Health Pest Management Section at
[phone].
? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding their
requirements for septic tank installations (as required under 15A NCAC 18A. 1900 et.
sep.). For information concerning septic tank and other on-site waste disposal methods,
contact the On-Site Wastewater Section at [phone].
? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding the
sanitary facilities required for this project.
If existing water lines will be relocated during the construction, plans for the water line
relocation must be submitted to the Division of Environmental Health, Public Water
Supply Section, Technical Services Branch, 1634 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North
Carolina 27699-1634, [phone].
? For Regional and Central Office comments, see the reverse side of this form.
eviewer C!!S!ioOranch
. 'e'21-01
Date
OF WATF,T
O G
?LUJ >_ -I
O ?
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Acting Director
Division of Water Quality
August 9, 2001
MEMORANDUM lop TO: NCDOTRP oject nDe Development e& Environmental Analysis
THROUGH: John R. Domey, NC Division of Water Quali
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele,NCDOT Coordinator
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for US 29-74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) St to Project (Billy sham TParkway) IP Project
Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, F.A. Project No. STP ( ) No. 8.001,
No. U-2704B
In reply to your correspondence dated May 10, 2001 (received 20 May 2001) in which you requested comments for the nnial
reveals no otential for direct the aenthat the p oject scope scarce p ere, the Diresion of Water
anis Or referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project
jurisdictional wetlands in the project area. However, in
Quality requests that NCDOT send notification of any proposed impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding
mapping.
The NCDWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on your project. If you have any questions, please call
Cynthia Van Der Wiele at 919.733.5715.
pc: Steve Lund, USACE Asheville Field Office
Marcella Buncick, USFWS
MaryEllen Haggard, NCWRC
Central Files
File Copy
,a,-Y rwaaservice Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1617 [phone]
_ ..... _ _ .._._,...
COMA
Customer semi
1 800 623-77'
VAUt 10 .4
E' North Carolina W cffife Resources Commission
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
MMORANJJW
TO: Melba McGee
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DENR
FROM: Maryellen Haggard, Highway Pro' Coor pator
Habitat Conservation Program
DATE: August 27, 2001
SUBJECT: Request for information from the N_ C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
regarding fish and wildlife concerns for Boyer Street extensions, between Willcinson Boulevard
to Billy Graham Parkway to Z-95, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. TIP No.U-2704B, State
Project No. 8.1675001, Federal Aid Project No. STP-29(17), 02E 0069
T'rlis memorandum responds to a request from Mr. William D. Gilmore of the NCDOT
for our concerns regarding impacts on fish and wildlife resources resulting from the subject
project. Biologists on the staff of the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (N.CWRC) have
reviewed the proposed improvements. Our comments are provided in accordance with certain
provisions of the National Environmental ftlicy Act (42 IJ.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and
Wildlife Cpordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d).
At this time we have no specific concerns regarding this project. However, to help
facilitate document preparation and the review process, we request that the following
information be provided:
1. Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a
listing of federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concern
species. Potential borrow areas to be used for project construction should be
included in the inventories. .A, listing of designated plant species can be
developed through consultation with the following programs:
The Natural Heritage Program
N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation
1615 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N. C. 27699-1615
[phone]
Mailing Address: Division of Inland Fisheries - 1721 Mail Service Center - Raleigh, NC 27699-1721
Telenhone: [phone] #-Yr IR1 • F7aY• !0101 714_?AA%
" ' IVI, W1LULlrr- Ktb UUMM
NC WILDLIFE RES COMM PAGE 03
and,
NCDA Plant Conservation Program,
P. d. Box 27647
Raleigh, N. C. 27611
[phone]
2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the ptoj?. If applicable, include
the linear feet of stream that will be channelized or relocated.
3. Cover type maps showing wetland acreage impacted by the project. Wetland
acreage should include all project-related areas that may undergo bydrologic
chap & as a result of ditching, other drainage, or filling for project construction,
Wetland identification may be accomplished through coordination with the U. S.
Army Corps ofEngineers (COE). If the COE is not consulted, the person
delineating wetlands should be identified and criteria listed.
4. Cover type maps showing acreage of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the
proposed project. Potential borrow sites should be included.
5. Show the extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or
fragmentation of wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands).
6. Include the Mtigation plan for avoiding, minimizing or compensating for direct and
indirect degradation in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses.
7. Address the overall environmental effects of highway construction and quantify the
contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation.
8. Provide a discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources, which will result
froze secondary development, facilitated by the improved road access.
9. If constructioo of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, mutticipal-, or
private development projects, a description of these projects should be included in
the environmental document, and all project sponsors should be identified.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early planning stages for this
project. If we can further assist your office, please contact me at [phone].
cc: USFWS, Asheville

Public Schools of North Carolina
State Board of Education
Phillip J. Kirk, Jr., Chairman
www.ncpublicschools.org
September 25, 2001
MEMORANDUM
Department of Public Instruction
Michael E. Ward, State Superintendent

ElL/ O
SEP 26 200f
L O D;'.'?.SIOlV Gc
?:O ?c tii?fN?YS ??
NQU A
TO: William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
FROM: . Gerald H. Knott, Section Chief, School Planning
SUBJECT: Access Improvement in northwest quadrant of US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) and
US 29/74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and extension of Boyer Street: Charlotte;
Mecklenburg County, Federal Aid Project No. STP-29(17), State Project No.
8.167500 1, TIP Project No. U-2704B
Enclosed is the response from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to our impact inquiry.
/ed
Enclosure

R
a
301 N. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2825
Telephone [phone]
An Egnal opponunity/Afftnnative Action Employer
_ -g
C q
vcl
t v' t `I, .
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Board of County Commissioners
July 30, 2001
Mr. William D. Gilmore, P.E.
Manager, Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of
Transportation
154E !'flail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Re: Access Improvement in northwest quadrant US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway)
and US 29174 Wilkinson Boulevard) and extension of Boyer Street; Charlotte,
Mecklenburg County, Federal Aid Project No. STP-29(17), State Project No.
8. 1675001, TIP Project No. U-2704B
Dear Mr. Gilmore:
Thank you for your letter advising of the proposed improvements to improve access in the northwest
quadrant of US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) and US 29/74 (Wilkinson Boulevard.) You have asked that
we provide any comments that could be used in preparation of the federally, funded environmental
assessment.
As a lifelong resident of Mecklenburg County and as a citizen who has used the Wilkinson Boulevard
corridor over many years, I believe that this access, as described in your letter of July 31, 2001, would
allow a significant improvement in the flow of traffic in this corridor. Wilkinson Boulevard is a heavily
traveled road, and this project would enable citizens to use the roads in this area in a much more
efficient and effective way. I believe that this project would promote effective transportation and transit
in this County.
if 1 can provide additional information, piease let me know.
Yours' ry truly,
Sf 4
'H. arks Helms
Chairman
HPH:srsf
PEOPLE • PRIDE • PROGRESS

MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Land Use and Environmental Services Agency
Department of Environmental Protection
Ms. Cynthia Winfield
Centralina Council of Governments
Post Office Box 35008
Charlotte, North Carolina 28235-5008
Re: Project Number 02-0069
?CE1?.?
September 5, 2001 .,
SEr- pool
?.
fi, SS
Access Improvement in northwest quadrant of US-521 (Billy Graham Parkway) and
US-29/74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) and extension of Boyer Street; Charlotte,
Mecklenburg County, Federal Aid Project Number STP-29(17), State Project
Number 8.1675001, TIP Project Number U-2704B
Dear Ms. Winfield:
The Mecklenburg County Department of Environmental Protection ("MCDEP") has reviewed
the referenced EA scoping document. We wish to make the following comments:
Air Quality
The issues addressed in the Mecklenburg County Department of Environmental
Protections's EA/EIS Guidelines should be addressed.
Through a Transportation Facility Permit to Construct compliance demonstration
by the City of Charlotte Aviation Department ("Charlotte/Douglas International
Airport"), the intersection of Billy Graham Parkway and Boyer Street was found
to be a carbon monoxide ("CO") not-spot. Their Permit to Construct requires
establishment of a CO monitor at this intersection to demonstrate that the model's
forecast is accurate. Therefore, the CO compliance demonstration for the
referenced project may be difficult.
Water Quality
None
CH UAOTrt
PEOPLE • PRIDE • PROGRESS • PARTNERSHIPS
700 N. Tryon Street • Suite 205 • Charlotte, NC 28202-2236 • [phone] • FAX [phone]
www.Co.Mcck1cnburg.NC.U`S/CoEnv
Solid Waste and Groundwater
The plans for solid waste disposal need to be addressed in the environmental
assessment document:
Facility development will generate land clearing and inert debris (LCID)
and construction debris which must be managed in accordance with the
North Carolina Solid Waste Management Rules 15A NCAC 1313. Also,
any incidental municipal solid waste such as garbage, tires and household
wastes encountered during the project must be collected and properly
disposed of at facilities permitted to receive such waste.
Should you have any questions regarding these comments, please direct them to the members
of my staff who performed the technical review. Air Quality comments were made by S.
David Ross (RossSD@Co. Mecklenburg. NC.US), Water Quality comments were made by
Erica L. Shah ([e-mail]. NC.US), and Solid Waste and Groundwater
comments were made by Lisa B. Corbitt (CorbiLB@Co. Mecklenburg. NC. US).
Sincerely, /
J M. Barry, Ph.D., Director
SDR
cc: S. David Ross, Air Quality Systems Analyst - MCDEP Air Quality Section
Erica L. Shah, Environmental Hygienist I - MCDEP Water Quality Section
Lisa B. Corbia, Program Manager - MCDEP Solid Waste & Groundwater Section
James G. Humphfev, P.E., Dirccwf - Charluue Department of Transportation
William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager - NC-DoT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Danny Rogers, P.E., Secretary - Mecklenburg-Union Metropolitan Planning Organization
EPIC-AQ # 200 1-0093 2
Transportation Department
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
5001 Airport Center Parkway
Charlotte, North Carolina 28208
Telephone [phone]
September 19, 2001
Mr. Gerald H. Knott, Section Chief
School Planning
Department of Public Instruction
301 N. Wilmington Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2825
RE: State Project No. 8.1675001
Dear Mr. Knott:
Eric J. Smith, Ed.D.
Superintendent
1 a r
SEP 2 4 2001
I
1
At this time, there does not appear that Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Transportation Department would experience any impact from the proposed project
for constructing an access road from Wilkinson Blvd. to Billy Graham Parkway.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools does currently have a single bus stop at the
intersection of Wilkinson Blvd. and Boyer Street for a 12th grader, however, that
student should be a graduate by the time the project starts.
At this time, there are no school-aged students residing on this part of Boyer Street
or Withrow Street.
This is the best response I can provide at this time based on the information I
received. I contacted Beverly Robinson, Project Development Engineer on Monday
the 17th to ask if a map had been attached to the documents, there were no
attachments (as indicated) on the letter that was forwarded to me. I have not yet
received a response from Beverly and did not want to hold up this response any
longer.
Please contact me at 704-343-6715 if you have questions.
ly,
W. Harkey
and Scheduling Speci
Cc: Greg Clemmer
Carol Stamper

APPENDIX B
RELOCATION REPORTS

DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS RELOCATION PROGRAMS
It is the policy of NCDOT to ensure comparable replacement housing will be
available prior to construction of state and federally-assisted projects. Furthermore, the
North Carolina Board of Transportation has the following three programs to minimize the
inconvenience of relocation:
• Relocation Assistance
Relocation Moving Payments
Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement
As part of the Relocation Assistance Program, experienced NCDOT staff will be
available to assist displacees with information such as availability and prices of homes,
apartments, or businesses for sale or rent and financing or other housing programs. The
Relocation Moving Payments Program, in general, provides for payment of actual moving
expenses encountered in relocation. Where displacement will force an owner or tenant to
purchase or rent property of higher cost or to lose a favorable financing arrangement (in
case of ownership), the Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement
Program will compensate up to $22,500 to owners who are eligible and qualify and up to
$5,250 to tenants who are eligible and qualify.
The relocation program for the proposed action will be conducted in accordance
with the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies
Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646), and/or the North Carolina Relocation Assistance Act
(GS-133-5 through 133-18). The program is designed to provide assistance to displaced
persons in relocating to a replacement site in which to live or do business. At least one
relocation officer is assigned to each highway project for this purpose.
The relocation officer will determine the needs of displaced families, individuals,
businesses, non-profit organizations, and farm operations for relocation assistance
advisory services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The
NCDOT will schedule its work to allow ample time, prior to displacement, for
negotiations and possession of replacement housing which meets decent, safe, and
sanitary standards. The displacees are given at least a 90-day written notice after NCDOT
purchases the property. Relocation of displaced persons will be offered in areas not
generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial facilities. Rent and
sale prices of replacement property will be within the financial means of the families and
individuals displaced and will be reasonably accessible to their places of employment.
The relocation officer will also assist owners of displaced businesses, non-profit
organizations, and farm operations in searching for and moving to replacement property.
All tenant and owner residential occupants who may be displaced will receive an
explanation regarding all available options, such as (1) purchase of replacement housing,
(2) rental of replacement housing, either private or public, or (3) moving existing owner-
occupant housing to another site (if possible). The relocation officer will also supply
B-1
information concerning other state and federal programs offering assistance to displaced
persons and will provide other advisory services as needed in order to minimize hardships
to displaced persons in adjusting to a new location.
The Moving Expense Payments Program is designed to compensate the displacee
for the costs of moving personal property from homes, businesses, non-profit
organizations, and farm operations acquired for a highway project. Under the
Replacement Program for Owners, NCDOT will participate in reasonable incidental
purchase payments for replacement dwellings such as attorney's fees, surveys, appraisals,
and other closing costs and, if applicable, make a payment for any increased interest
expenses for replacement dwellings. Reimbursement to owner-occupants for replacement
housing payments, increased interest payments, and incidental purchase expenses may not
exceed $22,500 (combined total), except under the Last Resort Housing provision.
A displaced tenant may be eligible to receive a payment, not to exceed $5,250, to
rent a replacement dwelling or to make a down payment, including incidental expenses,
on the purchase of a replacement dwelling. The down payment is based upon what the
state determines is required when the rent supplement exceeds $5,250.
It is a policy of the state that no person will be displaced by the NCDOT's state of
federally-assisted construction projects unless and until comparable replacement housing
has been offered or provided for each displacee within a reasonable period of time prior
to displacement. No relocation payment received will be considered as income for the
purposes of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or for the purposes of determining
eligibility or the extent of eligibility of any person for assistance under the Social Security
Act or any other federal law.
Last Resort Housing is a program used when comparable replacement housing is
not available, or when it is unavailable within the displacee's financial means, and the
replacement payment exceeds the federal/state legal limitation. The purpose of the
program is to allow broad latitudes in methods of implementation by the state so that
decent, safe, and sanitary replacement housing can be provided. It is not felt that this
program will be necessary on the project, since there appear to be adequate opportunities
for relocation within the area.
B-2
RREPORT
111 E.I.S. Q CORRIDOR 1:3 DESIGN Alternate 1
North Carolina Department of Transportatibn
PROJECT: 8.1675001 COUNTY Mecklenbur
I.D. NO.: U-2704 B F.A. PROJECT STP- 17
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: access improvement in northwest quadrant of US 521 (Billy Graham Parkway) & US 21174 (Wilkinson Blvd. &
Extension of Bo er Street, Charlotte
ESTIMATED DISPLACEES INCOME LEVEL,
Type of
Displacees Owners Tenants Total Minorities 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 11 UP
Residential 3 0 3 0 0 1 2 0
Businesses 2 2 4 2 VALUE OF DWELLING DSS DWELLING AVAILABLE
Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent .
Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20M 1 $0-150 0 0-20M .0 $0-160
[
ANSWER ALL OUESTIONS 20-40M 2 150-250 0 20.40M 0 150-250 C
Yes No Ex lain all `YES" answers. 40-70M 0 250-400 0 40.70M 60 250-400 1:
X I. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100M 0 400fi00 0 70- 1 400-600 1(
loom
X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 up 0 600 UP 0 100 UP 5 600 up
displacement? TOTAL 3 0 66 21i
X 3. Will business services still be available after REMARKS (Respond by Number)
project?
X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so,
indicate size, type, estimated number of 3) Business services will not be affected.
employees, minorities, etc. 4) Yes.
X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? TYPE OF BUSINESS SIZE # EMPLOYEES # MINORITIES
X 6. Source for available housing (list). Hargett Ins. Business 2100 sq. I ft. 5 2
X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? Locksmith 1000 sq. ft. 1 0
X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? Carolina Applicator 3000 sq. It. 18 15
X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. Charlotte Bus. RV Parts &
families? Accessories 1500 sq. ft. 6 1
X 10. ' Will public housing be needed for project? 6) on line MLS, newspapers, realtors, real estate publications, onground
X 11. Is public housing available? searching
X 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing 8) Yes, will be administered according to State law.
housing available during relocation period? 11) Check Section 8-housing with DSS.
X 13. Will there be a problem of housing within 12) If current trends continue, housing should be available.
financial means? 14) same as #6
X 14. Are suitable business sites available (list
source).
15. Number months estimated to complete
RELOCATION? 24 T
GL's r
3&
9- ;Y,
- ?Y? ?••. ?- /
,
.. 2L, I
Right of Way Agent Date A roved b Date
Form 15.4 Revised 10/00 Original & 1 Copy: State Relocation Agent
2 Copy Division Right of Way
office