20100362 Ver 1_Complete File_20100726

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
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SANpST ? F B
DEPARTIVMNT OF TRANSPORTATION R,q C8
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
MEMORANDUM:
TO: Dave Timpy, USACE
Ron Lucas, PE, FHWA
Gary Jordan, USFWS
Chris Militscher, USEPA
Brian Wrenn, NCDWQ
Travis Wilson, NCWRC
Steve Sollod, NCDCM
Wally Hansen, Jacksonville MPO
Sarah McBride, NCDCR-SHPO
Fritz Rhode, NCDMF
Ron Sechler, NOAA-NMF
FROM: S. Wade Kirby, PE, PG W 4
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis
DATE: August 23, 2006
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
SUBJECT: US 17 (Marine Boulevard) Improvements, Jacksonville, Onslow County, WBS
No. 35008.1.1, TIP Project NumbefJU4001
Attached for your files is a copy of the Concurrence Point 2A Agreement and the Meeting
Minutes from the May 15, 2006 Pre-Concurrence Point 2A field meeting. Since concurrence was
achieved during the field meeting, the Concurrence Point 2A meeting was cancelled; hence, there
are no CP 2A meeting minutes.
If you have any questions please give me a call at 733-7844 ext. 223.
Attachments
CC: File
Louis Sewell, Division 3 At Large NCDOT Board Member
Allen Pope, PE, NCDOT Division 3 Engineer
Robert Vause, NCDOT District Engineer
Doug Taylor, PE, NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Earlene Thomas, PE, NCDOT, Transportation Branch
Carl Goode, Human Environment Unit
Phil Harris, PE, Natural Environment Unit
Greg Perfetti, PE, Structural Design
Brian Yamamoto, PE, NCDOT-PDEA Unit Head
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone]
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone]
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
NEPA / 404 Merger Project Team Meeting Agreement
Concurrence Point No. 2A: Bridging and Alignment Review
Project Name/Description: US Highway 17 (Marine Boulevard) Corridor Improvements, Onslow County
TIP Project No.: U-4007 FA Project No.: STP-NHF-17 (31)
State Project No.: 8.1261901 WBS Element: % 3.5008.1.1.3
TO Description: The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to improve US 17 (N.
Marine Boulevard) in Jacksonville, Onslow County, NC, from the Jacksonville Bypass (TIP Project No. U-2107)
to northeast of Drummer Kellum Road, a distance of approximately 2.65 miles.
Bridging Decisions: Several Merger Team Members met in Jacksonville on May 15, 2006 to visit proposed
stream crossings and discuss preliminary hydraulics design. Five new stream crossings are proposed and three
existing crossings are proposed to be modified by extending the existing structure. Based on current project
development information, Team Members concur with the proposed structures presented in the table below.

Stream Existing Structure
to be extended
Alternative(s) Stream Crossing Number
Proposed Structure
1- 10'W x 6'H RCBC
US 17 Expressway UT to Northeast Creek SB 7 1- 10'W x 6'H RCBC
n/a
Commerce Drive UT to Northeast Creek SB 7 1 - 10'W x 6'H RCBC
n/a
Commerce Drive UT to Northeast Creek SB 6 1 - 8W x 6'H RCBC
2 - 8'W x 6'H RCBC
US 17 Expressway Sandy Run Branch 2 - 8'W x 6'H RCBC
2 - 8'W x 6'H RCBC
US 17 Expressway Scales Creek SA 30 2 - 8'W x 6'H RCBC
n/a
White Street* Scales Creek SA 30 72" RCP
n/a
White Street* UT to Scales Creek SA 12 g4" RCP
n/a
White Street* Scales Creek SA 30 2 - 8'W x 6'H RCBC
*both alignments
yh AAV
Dave Ti py,
Unite States Army Corp of Engineers
Ron Lucas,
wa dministration
Feder 1 ;HV4
ig-4h/
{
Gary Jorda ,
United States Fish and Wildlife Service
Wade Kirby; PE,
North Carolina Department of Transportation
III
Sarah McBride,
NC Historjc Preservation Office
rian Wrenn, ///
NC Division of Water Quality
Chris Militscher,
Environmental Protection Agency
Wa H nsen,
Jacksonville Metro olitan Planning Organization
Fritz Rhode,
NC Divisi of Marine Fisheries
Travis Wilson,
NC Wildlife Resource Commission
NC Divjidn of,0oastal Management
Ron 5ecnier,
National Marine Fisheries

US 17 (Marine Boulevard) Improvements
Onslow County, NC
NCDOT TIP Project No. U-4007'
Final Meeting Minutes for Pre-Concurrence Point 2A Field Meeting
NCDOT District Office, Jacksonville, NC.
Distribution: Meeting Attendees Joe Blair, NCDOT
Dan Duffield, NCDOT
Wally Hansen, Jacksonville MPO
Mason Herndon, NCDOT
Len Hill, ARCADIS
Gary Jordon, USFWS
Wade Kirby, NCDOT
Chris Manley, NCDOT
John Merritt, NCDOT
Chris Militscher, USEPA
Lindsey Riddick, ARCADIS
Martha Register, ARCADIS
Dave Timpy, USACE
Travis Wilson, NCWRC
Brian Wrenn, NCDWQ
CC: Robin Pugh, ARCADIS
A pre-concurrence point 2A field meeting for TIP project U-4007, Improvements to US
17 in Onslow County, North Carolina was held on May 15, 2006. The following meeting
minutes summarize the discussion and conclusions from the meeting.
Office Discussion
Wade Kirby with the NCDOT began the meeting and stated that NCDOT would prefer as
many culverts as possible.
Dave Timpy summarized the current position of the project in the NEPA/404 merger
process. The project team has concurred on purpose and need and the alternatives to be
carried forward. The LEDPA has not been selected. Jurisdictional delineations have been
verified by the USAGE. The purpose of today's meeting is to reach consensus on
Concurrence Point 2A.
Mr. Kirby asked if there were any questions about the 2A concurrence package. No
specific questions or comments were made by any of the attendees at this time.
Mr. Wrenn asked about a bridge for Scales Creek since it is classified as HWQ and
designated as a Primary Nursery Area. The site was examined in the field and it was
determined that a bridge would not be required.
Mr. Hill pointed out that the NCDOT was interested in eliminating the Memorial Drive
alternative as soon as possible.
U-4007: US 17 (Marine Boulevard) Improvements
Pre-CP2A Field Meeting
Page 2 of 4
Mr. Timpy stated that the team should not drop an alternative from further study at this
time because the study alternatives that had been agreed upon and would need to be
carried forward in the EA. The rational for eliminating any alternative considered,
including the Memorial Drive alternative, should be included in the EA. Selection of the
LEDPA must comply with NEPA and the 404(b)(1) guidelines.
Mr. Wilson asked if there was a structure recommendation for the UT to Mill Creek
In response to Mr. Wilson's question, Mr. Hill noted that minimum structure
requirements were only provided for streams that would need at least a 72-inch opening.
From a pure hydrologic opening standpoint, the crossing would not require a 72-inch
opening. Therefore, there is no recommended structure at this time. The team agreed to
visit this site; however, later agreed a site visit was not necessary. The project team
concurred that bridging the stream and riparian wetlands at this site is not required.
Field Review
Site 1: Western ParkwUnWhite Street Extension - Ramp C
The first site reviewed in the field was Ramp C near the recently relocated portion of
Scales Creek. Wetland WA42 along with streams SA12 and SA13 (Scales Creek) are
adjacent to and may be impacted by the project.
It was noted that the ramp would likely necessitate the extension of the existing 2 barrel
RCBC that was installed during construction of the Jacksonville bypass. The extension
may be as long as 200 feet on the upstream end and approximately 15 feet on the
downstream end.
It was noted that the current proposal minimized encroachment into an adjacent wetland
by avoiding the recently completed stream relocation of Scales Creek for U-2107 and by
changing the interchange design from a full diamond to a half diamond. The full
diamond interchange would have two on-ramps too close to the off-ramps proposed for
the terminus of the US 17 Bypass at Marine Boulevard and would have impacted the
existing stream relocation. The proposed interchange was originally proposed at
Country Club Road and then shifted south to the White Street location to avoid
encroachment into a minority community and avoid a potential Environmental Justice
conflict. Mr. Timpy noted that all alternatives considered in association with the shift
from Country Club Road to White Street should be thoroughly discussed in the EA. This
discussion should provide the rational used for all decisions.
Mr. Wrenn asked about the potential to restore Stream SA12 adjacent to the project area.
After thorough discussion of the site, the project team concurred that on-site stream
restoration at this site is not warranted.
U-4007: US 17 (Marine Boulevard) Improvements
Pre-CP2A Field Meeting
Page 3 of 4
Site 2• Western Parkway/White Street Extension - Ramp B
The second field review site was Ramp B on the downstream side of the Jacksonville
bypass (currently under construction). Wetlands WTLT, WTLV along with stream
SA 13 (Scales Creek).
ARCADIS representatives agreed to talk with NCDOT about the possibility of changing
the radius of the loop to maximize the potential for on-site stream relocation.
Mr. Timpy pointed out that that often on-site stream relocation is restricted by a narrow
ROW and NCDOT should ensure that adequate ROW is considered to allow for an onsite
successful stream relocation that is easily constructed.
Mr. Wrenn stated that the HQW classification may require additional stormwater
treatments and/or hazardous spill basins and that the project must comply with coastal
stormwater rules.
Mr. Wilson stated that the line of demarcation for Primary Nursery Area designation
should'be downstream of the project limits, however this was a NCDMF designated PNA
not a NCWRC designated PNA.
Mr. Timpy stated that due to the wetland and stream impacts of the proposed interchange,
the NCODT should provide the rationale for the design and selected location for the
interchange. This rationale should include all the factors considered including wetland
and stream impacts, relocations, safety, etc. The EA should thoroughly address these
impacts.
Site 3: Commerce Drive Extension
The third field review site was streams SB06 & SB07, unnamed tributaries to Northeast
Creek near the Commerce Drive Extension alternative.
USEPA expressed strong concerns about the treatment of the proposed interchange of US
17 and Piney Green Road. Current plans show one of the loops in the southwest corner
of the interchange. This alignment would impact existing businesses and a church.
However, the parcel in the southeast corner is vacant. NCDOT responded that the current
layout facilitates traffic flow based on traffic analysis. Projected traffic for design year
2030 indicates almost twice as many vehicles would travel south on Piney Green Road as
opposed to the north.
USEPA also questioned the use of Commerce Drive for local traffic after Marine
Boulevard has been improved. NCDOT responded that several businesses entrances
would be closed as part of the Marine Boulevard improvements limiting access. USEPA
requested proof that the Commerce Street extension will alleviate traffic on Marine
Boulevard.
? k
U4-4007: US 17 (Marine Boulevard) Improvements
Pre-CP2A Field Meeting
Page 4 of 4
The NCDOT proposal is to place the two existing streams that merge at this site into one
RCBC culvert. The team concurred with NCDOT's proposal for culverts at this site. The
team also concurred that a bridge at this site was not necessary but that a two culvert
design was preferred over a single culvert. The NCDOT will investigate using two
culverts versus a single culvert.
The idea of shifting the crossing downstream well below the confluence of SB06 & SB07
in order to eliminate the need for two culverts was discussed. It was determined that the
shift would be too difficult to achieve due to the location of existing roads and the
proximity of nearby houses. Such a shift would require the taking of multiple homes.
The meeting concluded with the decision that none of the proposed crossings warranted
bridging and the team concurred with all the NCDOT proposals at each site considered.
I
1 1
1''` 1 PUBLIC NOTICE
US Army Corps
Of Engineers
Wilmington District
Issue Date: February 2, 2007
Comment Deadline: March 5, 2007
Corps Action ID #: 200100919
TIP Project No. U-4007
The Wilmington District, Corps of Engineers (Corps) has received an application from the North
Carolina Department of Transportation seeking Department of the Army authorization to
discharge dredged or fill material into waters and wetlands adjacent to Deep Gully Creek, Scales
Creek, and its unnamed tributaries, and unnamed tributaries to Mill Creek, Sandy Run Branch,
and Northeast Creek to improve US Highway 17 (N. Marine Blvd.) from the northern terminus
of the Jacksonville Bypass to northeast of Drummer-Kellum Road, a distance of approximately
2.9 miles. Other improvements to the transportation network are also being proposed. The
proposed project is located north of Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina.
Specific information regarding the project is provided below and shown on the attached plans.
This Public Notice and all attached plans are also available on the Wilmington District Web Site
at www.saw.usace.anny.mil/wetlands
Applicant: Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Environmental Management Director, PDEA
NC Department of Transportation s. r
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Authority
In order to more fully integrate Section 404 permit requirements with the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and to give careful consideration to our required public
interest review and 404 (b)(1) compliance determination, the Corps is soliciting public comment
on the merits of this proposal and on the alternatives evaluated in the Federal Highway
Environmental Assessment (EA) that was completed on October 30, 2006. At the close of this
comment period, the District Commander will evaluate and consider the comments received as
well as the expected adverse and beneficial effects of the proposed road alternatives to select the
least environmentally damaging practicable alternative (LEDPA). The District Commander is
not authorizing construction of the proposed roadway at this time. A final Department of the
Army permit could be issued, it at all, only after our review process is complete, impacts to the
aquatic environment have been minimized to the maximum extent practicable and a
compensatory mitigation plan for unavoidable impacts has been approved.
it
i
Location
The proposed project involves improvements to NC Highway 17 (N. Marine Blvd.) from the
northern terminus of the recently completed Jacksonville Bypass (U-2107) north of Jacksonville
to Drummer-Kellum Road for a distance of approximately 2.9 miles. Depending on the
alternative selected, the project may result in the construction of a roadway (Western Parkway)
on a new location extending from the intersection of NC Highway 17 and the Jacksonville
Bypass to the north-west terminating at Western Blvd. Extension. Some improvements to Bell
Fork Road, White Street and Piney Green Road may also be conducted as part of this project.
The project is located on the White Oak River Basin, Hydrologic Unit 03030001.
Background
A Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Environmental Assessment (EA) describing the
proposed project, various alternatives to the proposed action, and its expected impacts was
signed on October 6, 2006. US 17 is the major north-south corridor for eastern North Carolina
and has been identified by the NCDOT as a Strategic Highway Corridor. The project is included
in the 2006-2012 TIP with Right-of-Way acquisition scheduled for FY 2009 and construction in
FY 2011. Various alternatives to the proposed project have been examined including an
extension from the present terminus of the Jacksonville Bypass (U-2107) to the north-west tying
to Western Blvd. However, due to concerns over limited use if the project was built at this
location, the Jacksonville Thoroughfare plan was amended to show improvements along the
existing US 17 with interchanges at Country Club Road, the Jacksonville Bypass at US 17, and
US 17 at Piney Green Road. The interchange at Country Club Road was subsequently removed
from consideration due to objections from the public. Also included in the Thoroughfare Plan
and in the project under consideration is a proposed Western Parkway that parallels the existing
Western Blvd. eventually intersecting with Western Blvd. in the vicinity of Gateway North
Drive.
Applicant's Stated Purpose
The applicants stated purpose of the project is to reduce congestion, provide route continuity, and
improve safety on US 17 from the Jacksonville Bypass to Drummer-Kellum Road.
Project Description
The proposed project involves improvements to NC Highway 17 (N. Marine Blvd.) from the
northern terminus of the recently completed Jacksonville Bypass to Drummer-Kellum Road for
a distance of approximately 2.9 miles. The preliminary alternatives considered are comprised of
an expressway option for US 17 combined with an option to extend the Jacksonville Bypass
northwest of its terminus at US 17 (Western Parkway Extension) and an option to add an
interchange along the Jacksonville Bypass (White Street Extension and Interchange). The US 17
Expressway is proposed to begin at the Jacksonville Bypass and end north-east of Drummer-
Kellum Road at the bridge over Wolf Swamp. The Expressway includes partial control of
access, with three grade separated interchanges on US 17 at the Jacksonville Bypass, Western
I
Blvd. And Piney Green/Drummer-Kellum roads. The expressway is being considered with and
without the extension of Commerce Drive to Piney Green Road.
To meet the project purpose and need, the US 17 Expressway would be combined with one or
both of the following:
Western Parkway Option. This option would provide a continuation of the Jacksonville
Bypass north of US 17. Western Parkway would extend parallel to and provide connections to
Western Boulevard Extension. Two variations for the northern terminus of the roadway are
being considered: intersecting with Western Boulevard Extension at Gateway North Drive or
intersecting with Western Boulevard Extension northwest of Lowe's. The northernmost
variations at Gateway North Drive would also include a connection northwest of Lowe's. Both
variations would include a new location roadway to connect Western Parkway to Western
Boulevard Extension at the existing Wal-Mart driveway.
White Street Extension and Interchange Option. This option would include some new
location roadway and an interchange with the Jacksonville Bypass. This option, which would
assist with traffic congestion relief on Western Boulevard, was added because of potential
impacts to minority and low-income residents and strong opposition to the previously proposed
interchange at Country Club Road. White Street would be extended west to Bell Fork Road.
There are two variations for the easternmost portion of White Street. One variation is to realign
White Street with Huff Drive on the east side of Western Boulevard. (The existing western
terminus of Huff Drive would be shifted slightly to the north.) Another variation is to connect
White Street with Memorial Drive, which intersects Western Boulevard across from the main
entrance to the Jacksonville Mall.
Western Parkway and the White Street Extension and Interchange are referred to as options and
the combination of these options with the US 17 Expressway are the study alternatives. The
alternatives, combining the options and variations include:
Alternative A: US 17 Expressway/Western Parkway/White Street Extension and
interchange. This alternative combines the US 17 Expressway with the new location option of
Western Parkway and White Street Extension and Interchange. This alternative ranges from
approximately 14.8 miles to approximately 15.6 miles, including both.existing and new location
roadway. The eight combinations of this alternative include:
Alternative Al: US 17 Expressway (with Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
(Gateway North Drive)/White Street (Huff Drive).
Alternative A2: US 17 Expressway (with Commerce Drive Extension)/Westem Parkway
(Gateway North Drive)/White Street (Memorial Drive).
Alternative A3: US 17 Expressway (with Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
(northwest of Lowe's)/White Street (Huff Drive).
Alternative A4: US 17 Expressway (with Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
(northwest of Lowe's)/White Street (Memorial Drive).
Alternative A5: US 17 Expressway (no Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
(Gateway North Drive)/White Street (Huff Drive).
Alternative A6: US 17 Expressway (no Commerce Drive Extension)/Westem
Parkway (Gateway North Drive)/White Street (Memorial Drive).
Alternative A7: US 17 Expressway (no Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
(northwest of Lowe's)/White Street (Huff Drive).
Alternative A8: US 17 Expressway (no Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
(northwest of Lowe's)/White Street (Memorial Drive)
Alternative B - US 17 Expressway/Western Parkway: This alternative combines the US
17 Expressway with the new location build option of Western Parkway without any
improvements to White Street. The length of Alternative B ranges from approximately 12.7
miles to approximately 13.5 miles. The four combinations of this alternative include:
Alternative B1: US 17 Expressway (with
(Gateway North Drive)
Alternative B2: US 17 Expressway (with
(northwest of Lowe's)
Alternative B3: US 17 Expressway (no
(Gateway North Drive)
Alternative B4: US 17 Expressway (no
(northwest of Lowe's)
Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
Commerce Drive Extension)/Western Parkway
Alternative C - US 17 Expressway/White Street Extension and Interchange This
alternative combines the US 17 Expressway with the option to build the White Street
improvements. Alternative C would not include constructing Western Parkway. The length of
Alternative C ranges from approximately12.8 miles to 13.2 miles. The four combinations of this
alternative include:
Alternative C l: US 17 Expressway (with Commerce Drive Extension)/White Street (Huff
Drive)
Alternative C2: US 17 Expressway (with Commerce Drive Extension)/White Street (Memorial
Drive)
Alternative C3: US 17 Expressway (no Commerce Drive Extension)/White Street (Huff Drive)
Alternative C4: US 17 Expressway (no Commerce Drive Extension)/White
Street (Memorial Drive)
Alternative C4: US 17 Expressway (no Commerce Drive Extension)/White Street (Memorial
Drive).
The applicant has stated that in accordance with Federal Highway Administration
(FHWA) requirements, that the project has logical termini, and that the project will be a usable
and reasonable expenditure of funds even if no additional transportation improvements are made,
and the project will not restrict the consideration of other transportation projects in the
foreseeable future.
****A map showing the overall location of the proposed Alternatives for this project is included
with this public notice. Detailed plan sheets for individual alternatives also available on the
Wilmington District Web Site at www.saw.usace.anny.mil/wetlands
The total wetland and jurisdictional stream impacts for the alternatives under consideration, as
described above, are provided in the Table (1) below.
Table 1. Wetland and Stream Impacts.
Alternative Wetlands Streams
(acres) (feet)
Alternative Al 8.26 3118
Alternative A2 6.57 3290
Alternative A3 7.38 2801
Alternative A4 5.69 2973
Alternative A5 7.96 2765
Alternative A6 6.27 2937
Alternative A7 7.08 2448
Alternative A8 5.39 2620
Alternative B 1 4.43 1803
Alternative B2 3.55 1486
Alternative B3 4.13 1450
Alternative B4 3.25 1133
Alternative C1 5.21 2439
Alternative C2 3.52 2611
Alternative C3 4.91 2086
Alternative C4 3.22 2258
Existing Conditions
Land Use: The project area is located north of the greater Jacksonville urban area, in
central Onslow County. Camp LeJeune, the largest Marine Corps Base on the East Coast is in
Onslow County, just south of the project study area. The project area is located within the
extraterritorial planning jurisdiction of the City of Jacksonville and has experienced tremendous
commercial growth over the last 15 years. The development is comprised primarily of big-box
retailers, strip development, and restaurants. North of Piney Green Road, development
transitions rapidly towards sparsely settled residential areas. Due to the developed nature of the
study area and that the project will mostly follow existing roadway alignments, the bulk of the
expected impacts are to terrestrial resources.
Water Resources: Major streams in the study area are Mill Creek and Sandy Run Branch
and their tributaries; both are classified as class SC NSW from source to the New River and to
Chainey Creek, respectively. Class SC denotes tidal saltwater that are protected for aquatic life
propagation and maintenance of biological integrity, secondary recreation, wildlife, and any
other usage, other than primary recreation or shell fishing for marketing purposes. Class NSW
(Nutrient Sensitive Waters) classification is intended to protect waters needing additional
nutrient management. Wetlands in the project area fall into two broad categories; either
associated with streams and adjacent floodplains and sometimes located on Muirville soils or on
broad interstream flats underlain with Rains fine sandy loam or Pantego mucky loam. Wetland
communities that may be adversely impacted from the proposed project include Wet Pine
Flatwoods containing loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), inkberry (Ilex glabra), gallberry (Ilex
coriacea), and fetterbush (Lyonia lucida). Bottomland Hardwood Forest plant communities may
contain water oak (Quercus nigra), willow oak (Q. phellos), titi (Cyrilla racemiflora), green ash
(Fraxinus pennsylvanicus), and various species of greenbrier (Smilax spp.). Due to the extensive
development in the central portion of the study area, wetlands outside stream corridors have been
dissected by encroaching development and existing road networks. Four of the major stream
crossings associated with the project would encroach on floodplains and floodways. The US 17
Expressway would involve extending an existing box culvert across the 100-year floodplain of
Sandy Run Branch. The US 17 Expressway would also add two culverts across the 100 - year
floodplain and floodway of an unnamed tributary to Northeast Creek. The project is located on
the White Oak river basin, Hydrologic Unit 03030001. However, all streams in the study area
eventually drain to the New River.
Other Required Authorizations
This notice and all applicable application materials are being forwarded to the appropriate State
agencies for review. The Corps will generally not make a final permit decision until the North
Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) issues, denies, or waives State certification.
required by Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (PL 92-500). The application for A Section 401
certification will be submitted to the NCDWQ after the LEDPA has been chosen and the final
design plans are available. Additional information regarding the Clean Water Act certification
process may be obtained from the NCDWQ Central Office, Transportation Permitting Unit, 2321
Crabtree Boulevard, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-2260, Attn: Mr. John Hennessy.
The applicant has not provided to the Corps, a certification statement that his/her proposed
activity complies with and will be conducted in a manner that is consistent with the approved
North Carolina Coastal Zone Management Program. Pursuant to 33 CFR 325.2(b)(2), the Corps
can not issue a permit for the proposed work until the applicant submits such a certification to
the Corps and the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (NCDCM), and the NCDCM
notifies the Corps that it concurs with the applicant's consistency certification.
Essential Fish Habitat
This notice initiates the Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) consultation requirements of the
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The Corps' initial determination
is that the proposed project will not adversely impact EFH or associated fisheries managed by
the South Atlantic or Mid Atlantic Fishery Management Councils or the National Marine
Fisheries Service.
f
Cultural Resources
According to the EA and application, no Section 4 (f) properties will be affected by the proposed
project and there are no known historic resources in the projects Area of Potential Effect. The
State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and NCDOT have concurred that the project will have
no effect on any known historic or archeological resources and do not recommend further
architectural or archeological surveys.
Endangered Species
Suitable habitat for three Federally protected species, Pondberry (Lindera melissifolia), Rough
leaved loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulifolia), and Coolley's meadowrue (Thalictrum cooleyi) is
present within the project study corridors. Field surveys have been conducted and no individual
listed species have been found within the suitable habitat. Although suitable foraging habitat for
the Red Cockaded Woodpecker does exist in the project area, no cavity trees have been noted.
No permit will be issued until the provisions of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act have
been satisfied.
Environmental Justice
In accordance with EO 12898, which directs each Federal agency to address, as appropriate,
"disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental effects of it programs,
policies, and activities on minority populations and low income populations." According to the
FHWA EA, adverse impacts to some minority and low income residents are expected. However,
these impacts are not considered to be disproportionately high.
Evaluation
The decision whether to issue a permit will be based on an evaluation of the probable impacts,
including cumulative impacts, of the proposed activity on the public interest. That decision will
reflect the national concern for both protection and utilization of important resources. The
benefit which reasonably may be expected to accrue from the proposal must be balanced against
its reasonably foreseeable detriments. All factors which may be relevant to the proposal will be
considered including the cumulative effects thereof; among those are conservation, economics,
aesthetics, general environmental concerns, wetlands, historic properties, fish and wildlife
values, flood hazards, flood plain values (in accordance with Executive Order 11988), land use,
navigation, shoreline erosion and accretion, recreation, water supply and conservation, water
quality, energy needs, safety, food and fiber production, mineral needs, considerations of
property ownership, and, in general, the needs and welfare of the people. For activities involving
the discharge of dredged or fill materials in waters of the United States, the evaluation of the
impact of the activity on the public interest will include application of the Environmental
Protection Agency's 404(b)(1) guidelines.
4
Commenting Information
The Corps is soliciting comments from the public; Federal, State and local agencies and officials;
Indian Tribes and other interested parties in order to consider and evaluate the impacts of this
proposed activity. Any comments received will be considered by the Corps to determine
whether to issue, modify, condition or deny a permit for this proposal. To make this decision,
comments are used to assess impacts on endangered species, historic properties, water quality,
general environmental effects and the other public interest factors listed above. Comments are
used in the preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) and/or an Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS) pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Comments are also
used to determine the need for a public hearing and to determine the overall public interest of the
proposed activity.
Any person may request, in writing, within the comment period specified in this notice, that a
public hearing be held to consider the application. Requests for public hearings shall state, with
particularity, the reasons for holding a public hearing. Requests for a public hearing shall be
granted, unless the District Engineer determines that the issues raised are insubstantial or there is
otherwise no valid interest to be served by a hearing.
Written comments pertinent to the proposed work, as outlined above, will be received by the
Corps of Engineers, Wilmington District, until 5pm, March 5, 2007. Comments should be
submitted to Ms. Jennifer Frye, US Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington Regulatory Field
Office, Post Office Box 1890, Wilmington 28402.
.I!
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTIV-NT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
April 17, 2007
LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
MEMO TO: Post Hearing Meeting Attendees
FROM: Jay A. Bennett, PE Q+ A?
SUBJECT. State Project: 35008. 1.1 (U-4007) Onslow County
F. A. Project: STPNHF-17 (31)
US 17 from the Jacksonville Bypass (U-2107D) to Drummer Kellum Road
Officials Post Hearing Meeting Minutes
A Corridor/Design Public Hearing, for the subject project, was held on December 7, 2006 at
Northside High School, in Jacksonville. Although only fourteen people signed the attendance sheet,
we estimate that forty to fifty people attended the hearing. Ten verbal comments, seventeen written
comments, and one petition from the Hawkside Road residents (75 signatures) were received. The
following people met on February 9, 2007, in the Structure Design Conference Room, to discuss
these comments and the resulting decisions are summarized below:
Art McMillan, PE NCDOT - Highway Design Branch
Scott Blevins, PE NCDOT - Roadway Design
Doug Taylor, PE NCDOT - Roadway Design
K. Zak Hamidi, PE NCDOT - Roadway Design
Todd Murray NCDOT - Roadway Design
Rob Hanson, PE NCDOT - Project Development
Brian Yamamoto, PE NCDOT - Project Development
Carl Goode, PE NCDOT - Human Environment
Ed Lewis NCDOT - Human Environment
David Bailey NCDOT - Natural Environment
Veronica Barnes NCDOT - Natural Environment
H. Allen Pope, PE NCDOT - Highway Division 3
Hugh Thompson, Jr. NCDOT - Division 3 Right Of Way
Donna Finders NCDOT - Division 3 Right Of Way
Neal Strickland NCDOT - Right Of Way
Betsy Cox, PE NCDOT - Structure Design Unit
Theo Beach, PE NCDOT - Structure Design Unit
Benjetta Johnson, PE NCDOT - Congestion Management
Murray Howell NCDOT - Utilities Coordination Unit
W.M. Petit NCDOT - TIP Development Unit
Tom Stoddard NCDOT - TIP Development Unit
Tammye Fontenot NCDOT - Transportation Planning Branch
David Wasserman, PE NCDOT - Transportation Planning Branch
Tim Williams, PE NCDOT - Signals and Geometries
Jay Stancil NCDOT - Roadway Design - Lighting
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] CENTURY CENTER COMPLEX
NCDOT - ROADWAY DESIGN UNIT SUMOING A
1582 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US 1000 BIRCH RIDGE DRIVE
RALEIGH NC 27699-1582 RALEIGH NC
Don Moore, LG
Rhonda Parker
David Wainwright
Len Hill, PE
Robin Pugh
Executive Summary
NCDOT - Geotechnical Engineering
City of Jacksonville
DENR - Division of Water Quality
ARCADIS G&M of NC
ARCADIS G&M of NC
The White Street leg, of the White Street Extension, is NCDOT's recommended alternative. Huff Drive
will be realigned to tie to the White Street Extension at Western Boulevard. NCDOT feels the White
Street Extension project will improve access to the hospital and reduce the time needed to get to and
from the hospital in an emergency.
The access issue, currently experienced by the Hawkside Road residents, will be assessed by the
District Engineer. The funeral plot needing relocation, in this neighborhood, will be addressed under
General Statute 65.
The longer version of the Western Parkway, that ends opposite Gateway North Drive, is NCDOT's
recommended alternative. Emergency access, from the Western Parkway to the Branchwood
subdivision, will be provided in project U-40076. The specific comments concerning drainage and
the noisewall, adjacent to the Western Parkway, will be addressed during the final design.
Commerce Drive Extension is recommended as part of the U-4007D project.
Allan Barker (Eve Care Center. 110 Western Boulevard
Comments:
Mr. Barker's business is located just north of Smithfield BBQ. He would like to remain in business in
this location, provided his patients would still have reasonable access. He says "we certainly would be
willing to work with the DOT to achieve this goal." He prefers the Memorial Drive leg (blue on map), of
the White Street Alternate, over the leg that lines up opposite Huff Drive.
Mr. Barker specifically asks why Huff Drive needs to be shifted to the north to line up with White Street.
Why can't White Street be extended to line up with Huff Drive at its present location.
Response:
A) Memorial Drive option will not be implemented because this option was not chosen as the
recommended alternate.
B) NCDOT will implement the proposed alignment as shown on the Hearing Map since it will produce
less impact to the human environment and to the hospital.
Troy Pugh (110 Country Club Drive)
Comments:
Mr. Pugh is opposed to the extension of Commerce Drive. He says his neighborhood is currently "very
quiet" where "folks like to take walks up and down the street". "That's going to come to an end." He
feels the non-residential traffic poses safety concerns for children and would "drive down" his property
value. "This would dramatically reduce my ability to get a fair price should I attempt to sell my home".
He says, even though the project (U-4007C) is currently unfunded "the impact to my property value is
immediate as soon as this is approved. Its not when the road goes in, my property value goes down. I
have to tell potential buyers that they're going to put a road through my back yard. There's no
compensation for me." "As a home owner who's going to loose property and property value and have a
safety issue with my kids, it's very minimal improvement or significant detriment both to myself and my
community." "I understand that we all need to stay focused on the big picture. Traffic in Jacksonville is
absolutely a nightmare. I want it to get better. I don't want it to be at the cost of the homeowners and
the citizens that five in Jacksonville, for their quality of life, so that those who are passing through can
have a faster transit through Jacksonville."
Response:
Mr. Pugh's comments are noted.
Marv Hutto (498 Waters Road)
Comments:
Ms. Hutto asks "what improvements will be done on Commerce Drive." She says she concurs with
the. hospital representative and sees Huff Drive as the safer alternative. She feels the leg of
Western Parkway that ties into Western Boulevard, northeast of Lowes, "will dump into an already
poorly designed intersection. Will that intersection be redesigned and has there been a study as to
the viability of the increase in traffic flow?"
Response:
Ms. Hutto's comments are noted.
Henry O. Brooks. Sr. & Janice M. (108 Country Club Drive)
Comments:
Mr. Brooks says "I do not agree with the D.O.T. plan for the new J-ville "By-pass" if this is done I do
plan to relocate." He says, his sentiment is the same as his neighbor at 110 Country Club Drive
(shown above).
Response:
Mr. and Mrs. Brooks' comments are noted.
Barbara Morton (104 Country Club Drivel
Comments:
"I own a home and property'that is going to be affected directly by this extension of Commerce
Road." Ms. Morton is concerned with her grandchildren's safety playing in her front yard within close
proximity of the new road.
She is concerned with increased traffic "you've got a throughway because when you turn on that
road, it's going to get you to Western Boulevard. That will be a straight cut-through. My property is
affected immediately when this is approved." "When I leave home, I've got to back out directly onto
that road."
She is also concerned about her property value "no way would I buy that house or have purchased
that house with half of a front yard. So my value has been depleted."
"So please reconsider and look at the Impact in the residential areas. I'm for improvement. I'm for
change. I've lived here all my life. We need that. We need some change. Consider the residential
neighborhoods and the safety of the people there"
Response:
Ms. Morton's comments are noted.
Unidentified Male
Comments:
"On Commerce where it connects to Piney Green, it looks like when you're coming off of one of
those ramps you're going to be almost at the intersection. Wouldn't that be kind of close? Are you
going to have lights and all there?". Mr. Len Hill told him the intersection would be 300 to 400 feet
from the ramps and that there would "most likely be some type of control like a left over". Mr. Carl
Goode told him there would be "some kind of access control there where all movements probably
won't be allowed in and out of there. It will be limited so it won't be a full intersection"
Response:
The unidentified male's comments were addressed and answered during the same meeting, by Mr.
Len Hill.
Leadonne /Ann Myers (410 Sitton Place)
Comments:
Ms. Myers says "two years ago we went to the Planning Board and was told this project was NOT
going to happen. Well here it is going to take place in five ? years. We are very upset that we
have payed our house 0 and had planned on staying here the rest of our lives. If you do put this
Western Parkway please put up a good sound barrier."
Response:
The sound barrier study will be addressed during the final plan preparation stage.
R. Wyatt -Wyatt Investments. LLC (Parcel no. 33, off Western Boulevard Ext.)
Comments:
Mr. or Ms. Wyatt is concerned that the proposed access is "farther south" than their current access.
This property owner asks that the new access be located in the same place as the current access
(closer to Western Boulevard).
Response:
The access issue for this parcel will be investigated during the final design phase.
Lettice Graham (2311 5th Avenue. New York. New York)
Comments:
Ms. Graham says she grew up in Jacksonville, 85 years ago. She says her house and land have "a
lot of sentimental value. There is no amount of money that can replace my feelings. I was hoping
that I would be able to come home again, but I see that is impossible."
Response:
Ms. Graham's comments are noted.
Sue J. Brownina (305 Phelps Road, Hillsborouah)
Comments:
Ms. Browning is an heir to the R. M. Tallman property. She feels this tract will be "drastically affected
by the Western Parkway". She has already requested Early Acquisition of the property because of
the declining health of the family. Currently, only two of the original five heirs are living. About the
Early Acquisition she says "This indecision about our land & the proposed road has been going on
for years & years. We need resolution." She says "our land is a large tract and is being included in
a large way in the project." She feels her request for early acquisition has been "put aside all these
past months until decisions were made about the road. Well, after decisions have finally been made
& the hearing has been held, we are asking for immediate attention to our request for you to take
care of our case. All these years, it has been impossible to sell any or all of the land because of not
knowing what you all were going to do".
Response:
Ms. Browning's comments are noted.
Gloria Vellucci (Realtor with Coldwell Banker Fountain
Comments:
Ms. Vellucci is the listing agent for the Tallman Heirs property. She says this property is approx. 100
acres and was listed, for a 6 month period, for $7,000,000. She says when it was initially listed, it
generated much interest, but when word got out that a future road may cut through the property "the
consensus was there would be too much liability to purchase and develop this land." She says it
has "quickly turned into a property that was not marketable at the listed price."
Response:
Ms. Vellucci's comments are noted.
Ms. Perkins (Hawkside Road)
Comments:
Ms. Perkins is concerned where her family funeral plot will be relocated. Mr. Carl Goode told her
this is handled under General Statute 65 and offered to give her a copy. He said' it's a long,
involved process and the family will certainly have a lot of say-so in what happens".
She is concerned, as Ms. Bonnie Perkins is below, with the amount of traffic on US 17 coming out of
Hawkside Road. "it used to take 30 seconds to take a right on 17 south, shoot across the median
and" "you're on Highway 17 north. There's no relief there" She is also concerned for their children
that ride the bus. "It's dangerous out here at 6:30 in the morning. You guys aren't giving us any type
of relief. What are you supposed to do as far as the safety of our children out there at that time in the
morning? Pray?" Mr. Robert Vause (Division 3) said the Division Office will make contact with these
residents "and we will see what we can do," An unidentified man asked for an increase in law
enforcement to slow the traffic down in front of Hawkside Road.
Response:
Ms. Perkins' question concerning the grave yard was answered at the meeting by Mr. Carl Goode.
Ms. Perkins' question concerning Hawkside Road intersection with Highway 17 was addressed by
Mr. Robert Vause (Division 3). He offered to contact the residents in that area and get their input on
the matter.
Bonnie Perkins 131 Hawkside Road
Comments:
Ms. Perkins' is concerned with the amount of traffic congestion coming out of Hawkside Road onto
US17. "It takes 20 minutes to come out of our street and forget it if there's an accident". "I believe
in change and I don't mind moving if it's necessary to accommodate but couldn't the DOT have an
emergency turn off there for the fire truck and for the ambulance?"
Response:
Ms. Perkins' comments are noted. Her request for an emergency turn off will be investigated during
the final design stage.
Winston W. Perkins (140 Erdman Place, Bronx. New York)
Comments:
"Gentlemen please try and bypass my land. That's all I have from my grandparents. I grew up in
Jacksonville and was looking to return to my land in the near future. My history is in that land. If
that is taken I have nothing to remember my family tree". "It's everything I have worked for years
here in the city to preserve." "I hope you can see in your heart a way to help us preserve our history
our home a place a place sacred to us."
Response:
Mr. Perkins' comment is noted.
Nettie Perkins (129 Hawkside Road)
Comments:
Ms. Perkins is opposed to the interchange, at Hawkside Road, and Western Parkway. She says "it
doesn't stand to reason to put us off our property when next to us is much more property that wants
to be sold. Why not deal with that owner? This property is a land mark and has been in this family
for over 80 yrs. I feel there is another reason why you want this particular land when there is
available of empty land wanted to be sold & used near by. I wonder if all of you would be this eager
to take land that belonged to your families. I think this move should be rethinked, please
reconsider."
Response:
Ms. Perkins' comments are noted.
Vanesa Perkins (129 Hawkside Road)
Comments:
Ms. Perkins also asks why the Tallman property was not used for the interchange, at Hawkside
Road, and Western Parkway. She says "there may be family members who could be interested in
selling but our land is important to us, even more so, the homes on our property. We don't want to
be relocated. I was getting ready to use my portion of the land. Now what? You mention other
options, please revisit these ideas. We are reasonable please be reasonable with us."
Response:
Ms. Perkins' comments are noted.
The Humphrev's
Comments:
'This about the clover leaf at Piny Green and connection with Drummer Kellum. All the lane beside
of Piny Green at the end of 17 North. Why don't the DOT go and make a road way before the light
that would go 17 North or go to the bridge on 17 North and on Drummer Kellum. You could make a
road right after Foss junk yard that would run right thru to the common. I understand all that land on
the back nothing is not on it no houses. People on 17 North has lived there all there life. Please I
asked as a citizens would you please look at other option for these people. And by the way they are
Onslow County biggest Christmas people come from every where to see the light those people put
out for Christmas."
"We have been hearing about some road coming on the Humphrey & Morton land on 17 North. We
are worried about these people are older where can they go at this age. They have lived here some
70 & longer year. This was my grand father land. Please find it in your heart don't take these
people land."
Response:
Mr. Humphrey's comments are noted.
Daniel Waller (Senior Vice President, in Support Services, for Onslow Memorial Hosoi
Comments:
Mr. Waller is in charge of planning for the hospital. He says "the Onslow County Hospital Authority
does not support the proposed bypass connector utilizing White Street for three reasons; safety,
traffic flow to and from the hospital and impact on hospital growth." He says "With this proposed exit
ramp, we anticipate safety issues relating to getting on and off the hospital campus" and "we are
concerned about emergency vehicles being able to enter and exit the hospital emergency
department in the most expeditious manner."
According to Mr. Waller, since the hospital was built in 1974, the city's population has increased
from 16,000 to 70,000 residents. "Given Onslow County's beautiful coastline, desirable climate and
proximity to Camp LeJeune, there's every reason to believe that the community's pattern of growth
will continue into the foreseeable future. As this community grows it will be imperative for the
county's sole community hospital to grow as well in order to meet the healthcare needs of our local
citizens."
Mr. Waller cites the following hospital expansion, either underway, or on the drawing board: A
93,000 square foot hospital wing, consisting of a new emergency services and surgical pavilion,
which will open in the summer of 2008. A new radiation therapy center, expected to open in 2009,
and a rehabilitation center. "Although it is hard to predict how much further expansion will be on the
horizon beyond those plans, it is very safe to say that growth and expansion will be the norm for
OMH for many years to come."
"Bisecting the hospital property and thus limiting the future expansion of healthcare services to
serve our growing population would not be in the community's best long-term interest. Although we
generally support the idea of bringing a connector close to the hospital for the convenience of
patients in outlying areas, wisdom would suggest that we, as community leaders should explore
other options that would preserve the hospital campus for the long term growth".
Response:
Mr. Waller's comments are noted. It is NCOOT's opinion that the connector will improve access to
the hospital.
Jim Townsend (Jacksonville
Comments:
The project does not directly affect Mr. Townsend. His concern is for the hospital "too often the
Jacksonville citizens have to leave Jacksonville to go to New Bern, Wilmington or Raleigh to get
medical care. Our hospital is getting better and getting bigger, I hate to see it restricted in it's growth.
It bothers me when our hospital leaders are telling us that this will adversely affect hospital growth. I
would hope there would be some other way to have that connector between the bypass and Western
so it doesn't come too close to the hospital. Was there a reason it comes so close to the hospital"
"Having a first-rate hospital is a vital interest to the community. I think it should be further from the
hospital."
Response:
Mr. Townsend's comments are noted.
Thomas E. Donohue (1026 Massev Road. oarcel no. 70. in the Branchwood subdivision)
Comments:
Mr. Donohue would like to know how close he will be to the Western Parkway. He is also concerned
about increased noise. "I can't see 18-wheelers driving by my house at 3:00 in the morning to drop
'their goods off."
He is also concerned about stormwater runoff "Target and Lowe's and all those stores up there have
been terrible neighbors as far as storm run-off water is concerned. I hope the state can do a little bit
better job."
Response:
The noise effect on Mr. Donohue's residence will be investigated at the final design stage.
The Hydraulics Unit will address the runoff concern at the final design phase.
Mr. & Mg Dave Terry (406 Sharon Way, in the Branchwood subdivision)
Comments:
Mr. & Ms. Terry are opposed to the Western Parkway alternate that intersects Western Boulevard at
Gateway North Drive (yellow on map). They live off of Branchwood Drive and are concerned that the
Western Parkway will connect to Branchwood Drive. They have requested a copy of the Post Hearing
Meeting minutes.
Response:
Mr. & Ms. Terry's comments are noted. A copy of these minutes will be sent to Mr. & Ms. Dave
Terry.
Kristoff Bauer (Jacksonville City Manager)
Comments:
On December 6, 2006 the City Council passed a resolution supporting this project. He says the
Council did this mainly over `their concern over the traffic at Western and 1 T'.
On behalf of the City Council, Mr. Bauer asks that the emergency access (partially a dirt road), from
the Western Parkway, to Branchwood Drive be preserved to allow future access.
Response:
NCDOT will maintain the access to the emergency access road.
Richard Kellum (1036 Massey Road, in the Branchwood subdivision)
Comments:
Mr. Kellum's comments are in reference to the Western Parkway alternate that extends to Gateway
North Drive (yellow on map). He would like NCDOT "to consider the extra relief that you may gain
by continuing all the way out to the Commons North versus ending it at the Lowe's. The extra relief
that you would gain versus the additional environmental damage to the area of Branchwood
subdivision. Currently you have your noise barrier ending halfway through the Branchwood
subdivision. I'm all the way at the end of Massey Road. The noise barrier would actually end before
my house. The road is about 100-150 ft. from my back yard. I see the noise as quite a problem." In
closing, Mr. Carl Goode told Mr. Kellum that the noise analysis that has been done is preliminary
and that final noise analysis will be done as the project progresses.
Response:
A noise analysis will be done at the final design phase.
Marc Eustis (330 Nottingham Road, 2arcel no. 90 on marl
Comments:
Mr. Eustis asks how many lanes each of the connectors from the Western Parkway to Western
Boulevard will have. He was told one would be two lanes and the other three lanes.
Response:
Mr. Eustis' question was answered during the meeting.
David Williams (109 Shadowbrook Drivel
Comments:
Mr. Williams asks if the connector from the White Street interchange to Western Boulevard can just
be off ramps. "You're still accomplishing what you want to do is get there fast."
Mr. Williams recommends connecting Ellis Boulevard (looks to be a city street) to Bell Fork Road.
Ellis Boulevard was severed during the construction of the Jacksonville Bypass (U-2107D). He says.
there was recently a fatality on Ellis Boulevard, since "it took forever for an ambulance to get there. In
the future when you're building the big roads, I hope you'd think of the small access roads for the
people that have bought there with the idea there was a rescue squad two minutes away instead of
ten minutes away."
Response:
Mr. Williams' request to eliminate the entrance ramp at the White Street interchange will not be
incorporated.
Mr. Williams' request to connect Ellis Boulevard to Bell Fork Road is outside the scope of work of
this project.
W.C. Blaha (103 Columbia Drivel
Comments:
Mr. Blaha asks if the White Street interchange (U-4007A) and the Western Parkway (U-4007B)
sufficiently reduce the traffic at the US 17 / Western Boulevard intersection will the other projects (U-
4007C & D) still be needed? Mr. Blaha is opposed to the SPUI interchange, at US17 / Western
Boulevard, as well as the interchange at US17 / Piney Green Road. He asks how do these projects
"alleviate the traffic on Western Boulevard? They certainly expedite the traffic going from 17 north
to 17 south". Mr. Carl Goode explained how these alternate routes help to pull traffic away from the
US17 / Western Boulevard intersection. Mr. Blaha feels it's the traffic, going to and from Camp
Lejeune, that puts the highest demand on this intersection. He also thinks this traffic will continue to
use Western Boulevard, not the Western Parkway and Jacksonville Bypass. Mr. Carl Goode
reminded Mr. Blaha that all these projects will work together to reduce the congestion.
When the Piney Green interchange was mentioned, Mr. Blaha responded "the only reason someone
would take the Piney Green route is because they live out off of Piney Green."
Mr. Blaha asks for NCDOT to consider a new project that would connect the Western Parkway, at
Gateway North over to "Drummer Kellum Road and/or Ramsey Road, coming back to 17, maybe
north of Wolf Swamp at that bridge?". Mr. Goode told him that this project isn't currently in the City's
plan. An unidentified man (Mr. Pope?) stated that NCDOT is currently "doing a feasibility study for
the northwestern corridor and it does consider an extension of Henderson Drive over to Ramsey and
Drummer Kellum." Another unidentified man (Mr. Hill?) offered "about ten years ago DOT did a
study of running the 17 bypass and the completion of that study was that it did not attract enough
traffic." It was mentioned that this was looked at years ago, but it would "disrupt the schools" and
this area is mostly wetlands. Another individual suggested the city is doing "a feasibility study that
goes across the river, comes up Henderson to about Carolina Forest then ties into Ramsey Road"
In closing, Mr. Blaha says "I would hope that you're able to very seriously consider those interchanges.
If the traffic pattern allows for those not to take place I think the community, I don't know about the flow
through, but the community will be greatly served."
Response:
Mr. Blaha's comments are noted. Mr. Blaha's proposal to build a connector between Western
Parkway and Drummer Kellum Road is outside of the scope of this project.
JAB/TEM
cc: Attendees