R-4434 (2)

INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ANALYSIS
TIP R - 4434
(WBS # 35600.1.1)
NC 122 (MCNAIR ROAD EXTENSION) FROM NC 111 (WILSON STREET) TO US 258
EDGECOM13E COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Prepared for the North Carolina Department of Transportation
Office of Human Environment
FINAL
July 2006
THE LOUIS BERGER GROUP, INC.
1513 Walnut Street, Suite 250, Cary, North Carolina 27511
Tel [phone] Fax [phone] www.louisberger.com

'
Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary .............................................................................................................................1
' 2. Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ ..4
2.1. Project Description and Background ......................................................................................... ..4
2.2. Purpose and Need ......................................................................................................................... .. 9
' 3. ICE Study Area Boundary and Time Horizon .............................................................................. ..9
3.1. Study Area Boundary .................................................................................................................... ..9

' 3.2.
4. Time Horizons ...............................................................................................................................
ICE Study Area Characteristics ........................................................................................................ .. 9
10
4.1. Population Trends ......................................................................................................................... 10
4.2. Employment Characteristics ........................................................................................................ 11
' 4.3. Local Plans and Regulations ........................................................................................................ 13
4.3.1. Existing Land Use and Infrastructure .................................................................................... 13
4.3.2. Local Plans and Regulations .................................................................................................... 15
' 4.4. Regional Location Influences and Implications ........................................................................ 19
4.5. Identification of Current and Proposed Transportation Plans ............................................... 19
5. Notable Features ................................................................................................................................ 20
' 5.1. Endangered Species ....................................................................................................................... 21
5.2. Surface Water Resources .............................................................................................................. 22
5.3. Floodplains ..................................................................................................................................... 22
' 5.4. Section 4(f) and Historical Properties Impacts ......................................................................... 22
5.5. Section 6(? ...................................................................................................................................... 22
5.6. Section 303(d) Streams ................................................................................................................. 25
6. Impact-Causing Activities ................................................................................................................. 25
6.1. Project-Related Activities ............................................................................................................. 25
6.2. Recent/Proposed Development Activity .................................................................................. 26
' 7. Potential Impacts and Cumulative Effects ...........................................................
8. Analysis of Indirect and Cumulative Effects ................................................................................. 27
9. Evaluation of Analysis Results ......................................................................................................... 29
' 10. Photographs ........................................................................................................................................ 31
11. Sources ................................................................................................................................................. 33
12. Appendix ............................................................................................................................................. 35

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' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 01
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R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 ii
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis

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1. Executive Summary
' This report is an assessment of the potential indirect and cumulative effects that may occur as a
result of TIP R-4434 (the extension of NC 122 from NC 111 to US 258) located southwest of
Tarboro in Edgecombe County, and other past, present, and future development activities in the
' geographic region surrounding the project. The purpose of this project is to provide system linkage
between existing NC 122/NC 111 and US 258. The focus of this analysis is on growth effects, land
use change, and any associated water quality impacts related to the 1.9- mile-long project.
' An Indirect and Cumulative Effects (ICE) study area was developed to serve as a basis from which
to gather and analyze specific demographic, land use, and environmental data to further identify
' areas that may experience induced development. The proposed project will consist of a two-lane
shoulder section with 12-foot travel lanes and eight-foot shoulders (two-foot paved) in each
direction. The project will be approximately 1.4 miles on new location and the tie in to existing SR
' 1344 (Sara Lee Road) and continue for approximately 0.5 miles to an at-grade intersection with US
258. The ICE study area falls completely within the Tar-Pamlico sub-basin (number 03-03-03).
' Existing Conditions
¦ Population Growth: Population growth in Edgecombe County and the Town of Tarboro
has lagged behind the State of North Carolina as a whole. Edgecombe County had negative
' population growth in the 1990's, and is expected to continue to decline through 2030.
Tarboro's population grew only slightly in the 1990's. Much of the slow population growth
can be attributed to the disappearance of jobs in the manufacturing industry, which has
' traditionally been Edgecombe County's employment backbone, and to a general population
shift from rural to urban areas of the State.
¦ Employment Characteristics: Sara Lee Bakery and Keihin Carolina System Technology,
' two of the top ten employers in Edgecombe County, are located within the project study
area. Each company has approximately 850 and 500 employees, respectively. The largest
employment sector in Edgecombe County is manufacturing, but this sector has seen a
' continued loss of jobs since 1995. Other major sectors in Edgecombe County include the
wholesale trade sector and public sector jobs such as public administration and educational
services. Overall, Edgecombe County has lost 1,629 jobs since 1995. Since 1990, the
unemployment rate in Edgecombe County has varied from a low of 5.1 percent in 1990 to a
high of 12.6 in 2002. This has not compared favorably to the State as a whole, which has
seen a low of 3.3 (1999) and a high of 6.7 (2002) percent during the same time period.
' Existing Land Use and Infrastructure: The land along the proposed McNair Road
Extension is largely farmland with industrial uses at both the northwestern and southeastern
termini. The project is partially within the Town of Tarboro jurisdiction and partially in
' Edgecombe County jurisdiction. Existing development in the study area includes: Keihin
Carolina System Technology Factory, Spencer's Woods residential development,
Edgecombe Community College, Sara Lee Factory, Americold Distributors, The Links at
' Cotton Valley (a golf course), and Tarboro Memorial Park. Northeast of the project at the
intersection of US 64 and US 258 is River Oaks Landing, which is a strip commercial center
with a Wal-Mart, fast food restaurants, and a gas station. Major roads in the area include:
' Wilson Street (NC 111), McNair Road (NC 122), US 64, and US 258. Town of Tarboro
Public Works Department water and sewer service extends along Wilson Street to the
McNair Road intersection. There are also water and sewer connections into the Spencer's
' Woods neighborhood, and into Edgecombe Community College. Edgecombe County,
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 1
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis i
which has jurisdiction on the southern side of the project, does not provide water and sewer
service at this time. The study area is in Edgecombe County's proposed Water and Sewer
District Number 2, which is to the west and south of Tarboro and is currently in the
planning phase.
Local Plans and Regulations: The following plans guide future growth and development
in the project study area: Edgecombe County Land Development Plan (1997), Edgecombe
County Unified Development Ordinance (1999), Tarboro Land Development Plan (1990),
Town of Tarboro Zoning Map (2004), Town of Tarboro Strategic Economic Development
Plan (2005), and the Tarboro Commerce Center Master Plan (2005). The proposed project is
consistent with the plans for the study area.
Regional Influences: Some of the potential regional influences on the study area include
the Carolinas Gateway Partnership and full build-out of the Spencer's Woods residential
development. These regional influences will be tempered by the slow economy and
population decline in the area.
Current and Proposed Transportation Plans: Transportation plans for the study area are
as follows: Edgecombe County Thoroughfare Plan Study and Technical Report (1997),
NCDOT State Transportation Improvements Projects (2006 - 2012), and the Tarboro
Comprehensive Bicycle Plan (2006). Other nearby proposed transportation projects include:
U -3826, Daniel St. extension; E-4751, the extension of a bicycle route along NC 33 (Daniel
St) to US 258; R - 3308, US 258, Crescent Road in Kinston to US 64 in Tarboro, multi-
lanes, new location; R - 3407, US 264 in Greenville to US 64 in Tarboro, widen roadway to
multi-lane facility; and, U - 4424, NC 111 (Wilson Street), US 64 Alternative (Western
Boulevard) to NC 122 (McNair Road), upgrade roadway. The Tarboro Comprehensive
Bicycle Plan also identifies McNair Road and its extension as part of an "outer loop" bicycle
route for the Town.
Notable Features: There are no Section 303(d) Streams, Section 6(f) lands, or Section 4(f)
features in the project study area. There is one potential historic property located east of the
intersection of Sara Lee Road and US 258. Tax parcel data indicate the structure, which is a
residence, was built in 1818. There are three federally protected species and seven federal
species of concern found in Edgecombe County. The northwestern corner of the ICE study
area is located within the Tarboro water supply watershed (a Class IV watershed), but the
physical limits of the project are not located within it. Development in water supply
watersheds is restricted by controls for density and impervious surfaces. There are 34.39
acres of wetlands within the study area. Wetlands impacts have been reviewed in the field
with Army Corps of Engineers representatives and concurrence of impacts has been
received'. Total wetland impacts for the project will be 11.38 acres and mitigation, such as
hand clearing, will be performed to minimize impacts.
Potential for Indirect and Cumulative Effects
The extension of McNair Road is intended to improve safety and level of service on McNair Road,
Wilson Street, US 258, and other nearby roads in the study area. The extension of McNair Road will
provide a new access corridor from the western portions of Tarboro and Edgecombe County to US
258 and from the southern portions of Tarboro and Edgecombe County to US 64. In addition to
access to roadways, the project will also provide additional accesses to the proposed Tarboro
t Source: NCDOT Preliminary Assessment Document for McNair Road Extension Project (R - 4434). '
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 2 ,
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 01 t

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Commerce Center and industrial sites along US 258 to US 64. This access will be used by both
residents and commercial or industrial truck traffic.
The potential for land use change in the study area is mixed, as shown in Table 1. The change in
accessibility, available infrastructure, and strong policy support for land use change is likely to have
an encouraging effect on development in the study area. However, small changes in property values,
low annual growth in the area, and a weak-to-moderate market for development is likely to
counteract their effects. Should the area see any new development, it will probably be slow to occur,
and at relatively low density, especially since the maximum zoning density in the study area is eight
dwelling units per acre. Other impacts from the project include small changes in travel time, better
connectivity, and improved accessibility to existing commercial and residential properties.
Table 1. Potential for Land Use Change, 2006 - 2030.
Relationship
Chan;;cin betive n
Chanoc in Propcct Forecasted supply & Infrastructure _ larkctfor
IZatina Acces,ihilin Values Cron to Demand Ava lability Development
Travel Time > > 50%
Very Strong
10 Minutes Increase
5 to 1?_) 21) Ct, 5(t, .
htrnu.
?IYlinlitcs '
lncr?a,c
Weak to 0 to 20%
2 to 5 Minutes
Moderate Increase
<10 Year
> 3% Supply of
Annual Land plus
Growth Issues in the
Area
? r<? 3"t =-IU S c.tr
Annual Supply c,f
C;rr?:; th Lan,_I
1 to 2% 10 to 20 Year
Annual
Growth Supply
Water/Sewer I Very Strong I No Public
Available Now Market Policy, Weak
Enforcement
V" l11 I
A\ Ljll

La??ly Pr?nld?rl Stro, ? M,irkct
;~,nforcement

Moderate
Not Available Weak to Policy,
Can be Moderate Occasional
Provided Market
Enforcement

1"'0 .t \vznlahlr ?tru?
N,)nc t(> I cs than '2 clr,?n?c ?nnu_il 30 c.n an,1 t)ift7? "21t to AVcuk M trk?t titvollg
l cn R'?.il? Rlinutes ,n,"::th S111 I 11l% Pf,nI C 1 l[forC U1Lcnl
Source. NCDOT ICI Guidance Document, the Oregon Guidebook, NC State Data Center, Towns of Tarboro and
Princeville, and Edgecombe County.
Cumulative Effects
The cumulative effects of the McNair Road extension combined with other proposed development
and planned transportation projects in the area may be to slightly increase the potential for
development in the area and boost the economic value of developable properties in the study area.
Already planned residential and industrial developments, in the form of a full build-out of Spencer's
Woods and the Tarboro Commerce Center, may result in the potential for some water quality
impacts due to an increase in impervious surfaces. However, this increase in impervious surfaces can
be mitigated with the use of best management practices. Overall, the cumulative effects of the
project should be mild and positive, resulting in improved accessibility, a decrease in travel time, and
better safety.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 3 A',
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 01
2. Introduction
The purpose of this analysis is to assess the potential indirect and cumulative effects that may result
from the proposed extension of McNair Road (NC 122) from its current terminus at Wilson Street
(NC 111) to US 258; and other past, present, and future development and transportation activities in
the geographic region surrounding the project. This report provides information which will
ultimately be used to provide input for future water quality studies and permits.
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) defines indirect effects as "impacts on the
environment, which are caused by the action and are later in time or farther removed in distance, but
are still reasonably foreseeable." Examples of indirect effects include induced commercial and
residential development which in turn leads to increases in population and changing travel patterns.
These effects can in turn result in changes in air quality, water quality, or other important
characteristics of the community. Cumulative effects are those that result from the incremental
impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions
regardless of what agency (public or private sector) or person undertakes such actions. For example,
the development of a single office park or residential subdivision may be small; however, when
several projects are built within close proximity, the once small impact to the environment can
become large as there will be increases in the amount of impervious surfaces, storm water runoff,
and land use changes.
2.1. Project Description and Background
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), Division of Highways proposes to
extend McNair Road (NC 122) in Edgecombe County from Wilson Street (NC 111) to US 258 in
Tarboro. The proposed project will be approximately 1.4 miles on new location, and tie-in to
existing SR 1344 (Sara Lee Road) where it will continue approximately 0.5 miles to the intersection
with US 258. The entire facility will consist of a two-lane shoulder section with 12-foot travel lanes
and eight-foot shoulders (two-foot paved) in each direction.
The current traffic volume on NC 111 is estimated at approximately 7,000 vehicles per day.
Proposed growth in the area combined with the current growth trend in traffic is expected to
generate an estimated traffic volume of 13,000 vehicles per day by 2025. Truck traffic will make up
approximately seven percent of this total.
This project was proposed in order to alleviate existing and future traffic congestion, as well as to
improve safety and access. In addition, this transportation corridor will help boost the potential for
future economic development in Tarboro by providing more direct access for employees and
deliveries to several existing factories adjacent to its alignment, as well as a future nearby industrial
park. The project will also improve travel times for those outside of the Town's limits into town and
to nearby commercial and retail stores.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 4
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
2. Introduction
The purpose of this analysis is to assess the potential indirect and cumulative effects that may result
from the proposed extension of McNair Road (NC 122) from its current terminus at Wilson Street
(NC 111) to US 258; and other past, present, and future development and transportation activities in
the geographic region surrounding the project. This report provides information which will
ultimately be used to provide input for future water quality studies and permits.
The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) defines indirect effects as "impacts on the
environment, which are caused by the action and are later in time or farther removed in distance, but
are still reasonably foreseeable." Examples of indirect effects include induced commercial and
residential development which in turn leads to increases in population and changing travel patterns.
These effects can in turn result in changes in air quality, water quality, or other important
characteristics of the community. Cumulative effects are those that result from the incremental
impact of the action when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions
regardless of what agency (public or private sector) or person undertakes such actions. For example,
the development of a single office park or residential subdivision may be small; however, when
several projects are built within close proximity, the once small impact to the environment can
become large as there will be increases in the amount of impervious surfaces, storm water runoff,
and land use changes.
2.1. Project Description and Background
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), Division of Highways proposes to
extend McNair Road (NC 122) in Edgecombe County from Wilson Street (NC 111) to US 258 in
Tarboro. The proposed project will be approximately 1.4 miles on new location, and tie-in to
existing SR 1344 (Sara Lee Road) where it will continue approximately 0.5 miles to the intersection
with US 258. The entire facility will consist of a two-lane shoulder section with 12-foot travel lanes
and eight-foot shoulders (two-foot paved) in each direction.
The current traffic volume on NC 111 is estimated at approximately 7,000 vehicles per day.
Proposed growth in the area combined with the current growth trend in traffic is expected to
generate an estimated traffic volume of 13,000 vehicles per day by 2025. Truck traffic will make up
approximately seven percent of this total.
This project was proposed in order to alleviate existing and future traffic congestion, as well as to
improve safety and access. In addition, this transportation corridor will help boost the potential for
future economic development in Tarboro by providing more direct access for employees and
deliveries to several existing factories adjacent to its alignment, as well as a future nearby industrial
park. The project will also improve travel times for those outside of the Town's limits into town and
to nearby commercial and retail stores.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 4
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
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Commerce Center and industrial sites along US 258 to US 64. This access will be used by both
residents and commercial or industrial truck traffic.
The potential for land use change in the study area is mixed, as shown in Table 1. The change in
accessibility, available infrastructure, and strong policy support for land use change is likely to have
an encouraging effect on development in the study area. However, small changes in property values,
low annual growth in the area, and a weak-to-moderate market for development is likely to
counteract their effects. Should the area see any new development, it will probably be slow to occur,
and at relatively low density, especially since the maximum zoning density in the study area is eight
dwelling units per acre. Other impacts from the project include small changes in travel time, better
connectivity, and improved accessibility to existing commercial and residential properties.
Table 1. Potential for Land Use Change, 2006 - 2030.
RcLitionship
(.hatlti e in bcoveell
Changem Property- Eoreci.rcd sirpphl' & Inrmstnlcnlre Jhl ketfor
Rating Accessihilitt- T`.ilucs Gro«rh Dernarid vvdLihilirv Dei-clopnwnr Public Adic {
<10 Year

Travel Time > °
> 50% > 3% Supply of
Water/Sewer
Very Strong No Public
Very Strong Annual Land plus Policy, Weak
10 Minutes Increase Available Now Market
Growth Issues in the Enforcement
Area

to ]
r., ?II'
20 tu 'I"
Nrir _1c;ailahl?
%X (alc
5tirn,? .,- ? Annu,] auppl?° of Sttuna :Al.nl r

Moderate
Weak to 0 to 20% 1 to 2% 10 to 20 Year Not Available Weak to Policy,
2 to 5 Minutes
Moderate Increase Annual Supply Can be Moderate Occasional
Growth Provided Market
Enforcement
\onc to l ?s; tb an ? _'J Yc.u
\cl cL.ui?,c
j ery Weak ?4nu? ? ?nuua
??phlF sm?i llifFi?ulr ??? -?? ?.tk "?f3?Lu ?tion?
i ?rowdl Pur:id? ] nturceoien?

Source. NCDOT ICI Guidance Document, the Oregon Guidebook, NC State Data Center, Tomns of Tarboro
and
Princeville, and Edgecombe County.
Cumulative Effects
The cumulative effects of the McNair Road extension combined with other proposed development
and planned transportation projects in the area may be to slightly increase the potential for
development in the area and boost the economic value of developable properties in the study area.
Already planned residential and industrial developments, in the form of a full build-out of Spencer's
Woods and the Tarboro Commerce Center, may result in the potential for some water quality
impacts due to an increase in impervious surfaces. However, this increase in impervious surfaces can
be mitigated with the use of best management practices. Overall, the cumulative effects of the
project should be mild and positive, resulting in improved accessibility, a decrease in travel time, and
better safety.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 3
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis " .?

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2.2. Purpose and Need
The purpose of the project is to provide system linkage between existing NC 122/NC 111 and US
258, alleviate existing and future traffic congestion, and improve safety. This link has been identified
as a portion of the proposed "southern loop" in the adopted "Thoroughfare Plan Study and
Technical Report" (April 1997)2. Due to increased development along other routes into downtown
Tarboro, future traffic growth will create longer travel times and an increase in accidents. Therefore,
improvements are warranted to accommodate traffic growth and to ensure safety. Even with a
proposed widening project (U - 4424) along NC 111 from McNair Road to US 64A (Western
Boulevard), the traffic through this section will only operate at LOS D in the future. If no
improvements are made, this roadway will reach LOS F by the design year. However, with
completion of the proposed project and based on forecasted traffic volumes, the expected LOS
should improve to C or B.
3. ICE Study Area Boundary and Time Horizon
3.1. Study Area Boundary
According to the NCDOT ICI Guidance document, a study area is defined as the broad geographic
limits within which the proposed project would likely have an influence. When estimating the direct
effects of proposed transportation projects, study areas are often delineated using a set distance,
such as from the centerline or right-of-way limits. However, as indirect and cumulative effects can
occur at some distance in time or space removed from the project, wider limits must be set.
The ICE study area for the R-4434 project was developed to incorporate any notable features, major
' land uses, and potential locations of future development that may result from the project. The ICE
study area is bounded to the east by US 258 and the Tar River, to the north by portions of US 64
and Howard Avenue, and to the west by McNair Road (NC 122) and Wilson St (NC 111). To the
' south of the project, the study area extends along Woodland Road to US 258. The ICE study area is
designed to incorporate all of the major nearby roads on which development may occur, and to
include any nearby wetlands or watersheds which may be impacted.
' The methods used to identify the study area included a review of county, municipal and census tract
boundaries; Tar-Pamlico river sub-basin boundaries; commuting and travel patterns; and
I Edgecombe County parcel data. In addition, discussions were held with local planning officials and
NCDOT Human Environment Unit staff to validate the proposed ICE study area boundary.
' The Demographic Study Area was developed based on the ICE Study Area and includes three
Census 2000 block groups that are totally or partially included in the ICE Study Area: Census Tract
212, Block Group 1, and Census Tract 213, Block Groups 2 and 3.
' 3.2. Time Horizons
As both Tarboro's and Edgecombe County's Land Development Plans are being rewritten, the time
horizon for this report is 2030 to match the 25-year likely life cycle of the project (i.e. the time
' period during which it might remain in its current design).
1
' 2 Source: NCDOT Preliminary Assessment Document for McNair Road Extension Project (R - 4434).
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 9
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
4. ICE Study Area Characteristics
4.1. Population Trends
The Town of Tarboro and Edgecombe County have not seen the type of rapid growth that the rest
of North Carolina has experienced in recent decades. As shown in Table 1, Edgecombe County had
a population decrease in the 1990's. The Town of Tarboro only had a slight increase of 101 people.
Of this growth in Tarboro, the majority was urban growth, as opposed to growth via annexation.
During the 1990's the Town of Tarboro grew by just slightly more than one acre. However, the
table also shows that the population of the Demographic Study Area increased by 22.7 percent
between 1990 and 2000. Table 2 shows population changes in specific block groups of the
Demographic Study Area. In particular, the population of Block Group 3, Tract 213 increased over
67 percent from 848 to 1,423 persons (change of 565 persons). This may be a result of the recent
development of the Spencer's Woods neighborhood located to the south east of the project site on
Wilson St. (NC 111). Population increases in the other block groups may also be due to new housing
construction in the area. Additional new development in the area includes a few new, single-family
homes along US 258 as well as a new private golf course.
Table 2. Population Growth: 1990 - 2000.
Percent
_
Geoaphy ? y
y.
1990

r
2000- Population

,
;; t
?
' Change in

rPoptilation
r .
.
..
Ch An e , >
Demographic Study
Area 3,892 4,777 22.7% 885
L,d cco tube Cuunn 56,558 551006 1 -1.7"„ () 521
T„\\ n () tTarb?,ro> 11,037 1 1,13s 1).9" 1U1
`forth Carolina 6,628,637 8,(49,313 -)1.4(),, 1,4-'(),(G
Source. United States Census Bureau, 1990 and 2000
Table 3. Demographic Stud Area Po ulation Growth.
o?ra

y,
q 1990,-

990,
'
2000'
PercehtPopulatton.

Chancre`
Cliae ink

?Populatio& ;
BG 1, Tract 212 1,3-4 1,436 4.02
BG 2, Tract 213 1,670 1,91 ti 14.()'),, 245
BG 3, Tract 213 848 1,423 67.8% 575
Source. United States Census Bureau, 1990 and 2000
As shown in Table 3, Edgecombe County is expected to lose a significant portion of its population
over the next 25 years. The population decline is projected to be the second highest in the State
behind Washington County, and is one of only four counties projected to have negative population
growth over that time period. Additionally, the population of Edgecombe County is estimated to
decrease by more than 13% by 2030, a trend counter to that of the State as a whole.
Some of the declining population estimates can be attributed to the fall out from the floods of 1999
and subsequent relocations of many residents outside of Tarboro; however there are likely other
contributing factors. Recent trends both nationally and in the State have shown a general
urbanization of the population and a shrinking of the population in rural areas. This may explain, in
part, why a predominantly rural county like Edgecombe County might project a shrinking
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 10
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis i '

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population. In addition, there is not a significant amount of employment activity in Edgecombe
County to draw workers to it. At the same time, the presence of industrial sites such as Keihin
Carolina Systems Technology and Sara Lee suggests the economic viability of the area, while the
new Spencer's Woods subdivision shows some potential for residential development. A brief tax
parcel analysis finds that there is a total of approximately 1690 acres within a half-mile radius of the
project - 51 percent of which is developed (has a valued property on it) and 49 percent is
undeveloped. While there is room for growth near the project, any new development in the study
area will be affected by the same forces as growth in the county and town and it will therefore be
tempered by the slow growth of the region.
Table 4. Edgecombe County Population and Density Projections.

Geography 2000 2015 2030 Percent Population
j Change 2000-2015 ' Percent Population
Change 2000-2030
:d rc<mlhc 57 ??)6 51,798 4', l ti I
C)ensiQ (110.11) (102.57) (95.40)
North Carolina 8,046,807 10,194,993 12,467,232 26.700,"0 54.93%
(Density) (165.20) (209.30) (255,94)
Source. North Carolina State Data Center
' 4.2. Employment Characteristics
To fully comprehend the characteristics of the ICE study area it is important to have an
understanding of the major employers, employment by sector, unemployment rates, and commuting
' patterns. Table 4 shows the top ten employers in Edgecombe County, of which two are located
within the ICE Study Area: Sara Lee Bakery and Keihin Carolina System Technology.

i

Table 5. EdLrecombe County Maior Emulovers.
Company Product/ Service Emplo -ees
Edgecombe County ?cli ))ols Education 1,100
Sara Lee Bakery Bakery products 850
QrC, Inc. Distribution 850
Edgecombe County Local government 650
Sprint Telecommunications 600
Tyco Plastics Polyethylene film, trash bags 550
Keflmi Carolina 7\>iQ-m cchn??l?? Electronic systems for auto industry 500
Air System Componeni, Industrial venting equipment 450
Barcalounger Company Motion furniture 400
MBM Corporation Food service distribution 400
Source: Carolinas Gateway Partnersh p, October 2005. ha: l / www. econdev. org/ maorembloyerr. html.
Employment by Sector: According to the Employment Security Commission the manufacturing,
public administration, health care and social assistance and educational services sectors are the
largest insured employment sectors in Edgecombe County (see Table 6). The largest sector is the
manufacturing sector, which had an average annual employment of 4,681 workers in 2003. This
figure was down from 7,092 in 1995 (a loss of 2,411 workers), and constitutes the largest
employment loss in the County. This has been a statewide trend and is common to all counties
throughout North Carolina and the nation. Other private sectors have combined to lose a total of
1,897 jobs in the County since 1995. Job growth has been seen in the wholesale trade sector, which
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 11
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
added 1,043 jobs during the same time period. Public sector jobs such as public administration and
educational services have also seen some job growth. Overall, Edgecombe County has lost 1,629
jobs since 1995.
Table 6. Edgecombe County Emulovment by Section 1995 - 2003.
x ; << v,7
?;; - ?i

Sector ti
9 Annual:'-
19
?:
Average

Eriap16ymen -e', s
'' 2003` E in
u?al

Average'

Employmept

Chari?e >li'
y
Employment

19,95=20'03" 3Pc scent Change,

In

Em loVwent

195-2003
Agriculture Forestry Fishing
& Hunting 454 332 (122) -26.9%
Mining ' I U 1 n/a
Utilities 6<k 141 ?.? 1 i I-.4%
Construction 1;93 1,945 8 0.4%
Manufacturing _,092 4,651 1 2,41 1) - 34.11'
Wholesale Trade 505 1, 548 1,043 206.5",
Retail Trade i1D3 22-) -10.11"
'Transportation and
Warehousing
7-1

8-

i6
Information 1,670 994 0-0)
Finance aad_Insurance 319 363 44 t3.8"a
Real Estate and Rental and
Leasing 154 165 11 7.1%
Professional and Technical i
Services 0- 246 41 ! 19.81,
Management of Companies
and Enterprises 86 152 66 76.7%
Administni rive and Waste'
Sen ices l ,.i36 -75 blil j -42.0" ,
I:ducari<mal Scn iccs 1,-41 2,1116 2_5 1 ti"
Health Care and Social
assistance 1,091 2,143 452 26._"
Arts Entertainment and
Recreation 63 60 (3) -4.8%
Accommodation and Food
Services 815 1 1113 28? 35.3",,
()thcr Serv iccs I'A. Public
Admin 478 39ti tit I -16.?0'0
Public Administration <
Unclassified
Total 4 2 , 38
-
23,906 2 283
32
22,277 45
32
1( 629) 2.11" o j
U.U ?o
-6.8%
Source: Employment Security Commission, Labor Market Information
Unemployment Rate: An important determinant of the overall economic well-being of an area is
the unemployment rate. Since 1990, the unemployment rate in Edgecombe County has varied from
a low of 5.1 in 1990 to a high of 12.6 in 2002. This has not compared favorably to the State of
North Carolina as a whole, which has seen a low of 3.3 (1999) and a high of 6.7 (2002) during the
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 12 9
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis

same time period. Edgecombe County has experienced unemployment rates two and three times
that of the State. Much of this can be attributed to disappearing manufacturing jobs.
Commuting: According to the 2000 Census, just over 56% of all workers living in Edgecombe
County work within their home county (See Table 7). Of the 9,750 workers who left the County to
work, the majority (69%) went to Nash County for their jobs. Likewise, the majority of in-
commuters into Edgecombe County came from Nash County (51%). The mean travel time to work
for workers living in Edgecombe County is 21 minutes, less than the statewide average of 24
minutes.
fable 1. Ectge
combe
Uounty Uommuting - LUUU.
_
_ Numbers Percent
Employed County Rc-idents 22,192
Out Commuters 9,750 43.9%.
-'ol1-Colimalliga Vorker,i L7riq %r1 IN County 12,442 56.
Persons Working in the County 19,760
In-Comllluters 7,31S 37%
Net Commuting (2,432)
Commutin Ratio 0.89
Out Commuters: The total number of workers residing in the County who leave the County to work.
In Commuters: The total number of workers who work in the county but reside outside of the county.
Net Commuting.• The difference between persons working in the county and employed residents of
the county as well as the difference between in commuters and out commuters.
Commuting Ratio: The ratio of persons working in the county to employed residents of the county. A
value of one implies zero net commuting; a value of greater than one corresponds to net in
commuting; and a value of less than one, to net out commuting.
Source: North Carolina State Data Center, North Carolina Commuting to Work, 2000 Census.
4.3. Local Plans and Regulations
4.3.1. Existing Land Use and Infrastructure
Land Use
The land along the proposed McNair Road Extension is largely farmland with industrial uses at both
the northwestern and southeastern termini. The project travels along the southern edge of the Town
of Tarboro town limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) boundary. As a result, portions of the
project are within town limits, other portions are within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction, and
yet other portions are under Edgecombe County jurisdiction.
Existing Development
Development in the study area is predominately residential and industrial. The following list
describes development within the study area (also see Figure 3):
¦ At the northwest terminus of the project along Wilson/NC-111:
o Keihin Carolina System Technology Factory on the northeastern side of McNair
Road/Wilson-NC111 intersection
o Low-density residential development (sparse one-story houses, low income) on the
northwest side of McNair Road/Wilson-NC111 intersection across from Keihin
Factory
o Farmland directly south of the intersection
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 13
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
¦ Spencer's Woods development located east of the McNair Road/Wilson-NC 111
intersection. This is a new subdivision of single family homes.
¦ A mile further east on Wilson-NC 111 is Edgecombe Community College.
¦ At the southeast terminus of the project on Western/US 258:
o Sara Lee Factory and Americold Distributors north of the intersection of Sara Lee
Road with US 258
o Farmland south of the intersection of Sara Lee Road with US 258
o Further south of the intersection on the east side of US 258 is the Links at Cotton
Valley, a golf course, and Tarboro Memorial Park, a cemetery
Surrounding the majority of development is undeveloped land, some of which is currently used as
farmland. Further north of the southeastern terminus at the intersection of US 64 and US 258 is
River Oaks Landing - a strip commercial center with a Wal-Mart, several fast food restaurants, and a
gas station. To the north and east of the study area is the Town of Tarboro. Development in
Tarboro closest to the study area is primarily residential and agricultural. South and west of the study
area is primarily farmland and low-density residential development.
Major Roads
Major roads in the area include:
¦ Wilson Street (NC 111), runs east-west into the Town of Tarboro,
¦ McNair Road (NC 122), runs north-south and parallels Western Boulevard, a major
commercial road to the east nearer to downtown Tarboro. McNair Road has a connection
to US 64 and serves as an access for industrial development in the area.
¦ US 64, runs east-west from Raleigh to Manteo. US 64 is a major connector for the county
to both the North Carolina coast and Outer Banks Region and the central piedmont area.
¦ US 258, provides access south of Tarboro to Pinetops, Farmville, Kinston, and eventually
Jackson on the coast. North of the Town, US 258 provides access to Scotland Neck,
Murfreesboro, and the Virginia State line.
In addition to the roads in the area the project study area has an abandoned railroad right-of-way
which passes northeast to southwest, paralleling US 258.
Water/Sewer Availability
Water and sewer is provided for the Town of Tarboro residents by its Public Works Department.
Currently, water and sewer service extends along Wilson Street to the McNair Road intersection.
There are also water and sewer connections into the Spencer's Woods neighborhood, and into
Edgecombe Community College. Edgecombe County, which has jurisdiction on the southern side
of the project, does not provide water and sewer service at this time. There are currently two water
and sewer districts planned in Edgecombe County. Water and Sewer District Number 1 is in the
eastern part of Edgecombe County and includes Sharpsburg, Mercer, and Temperance Hall. The
study area is in Water and Sewer District Number 2, which is to the west and south of Tarboro and
is in the planning phase. Currently Edgecombe County residents are served by shallow wells and
septic systems.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 14
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis r ,
' 4.3.2. Local Plans and Regulations
' The following lists current local plans and regulations which govern the ICE study area. These plans
and regulations guide future growth and development, as well as make predictions for future needs.
¦ Land Development Plan Edgecombe County, North Carolina (1997): Edgecombe County is
' currently in the process of updating its Land Development Plan, which was last updated in 1997.
The objective of the Land Development Plan is to provide to the Planning Board and Board of
County Commissioners some guidance in making decisions about growth and development in the
' County. The main points of the 1997 Plan included:
o Focus development along main thoroughfares described in the Thoroughfare Plan.
o The development of six recommended growth areas: two water and sewer districts;
' Pinetops-Macclesfield Area; US-258 Tarboro-Princeville Extension; Leggett Extensions of
NC 33 and NC 97; Traditional Communities and Crossroads; and Industrial Sites. This
section also included a recommendation for the development of a zoning ordinance.
' o Other considerations include developing a water and sewer extension program, facility
prioritization, and the adoption of a land use classification policy.
In addition, the Plan identifies "aquatic ecosystems", including wetlands, as an area of
' environmental concern to the County. These are important for fish and wildlife propagation, water
quality, and the visual appearance of the County.
The 1997 Plan also classifies the following roads within the project study area: NC 122
' (Wilson Road) as a major collector, US 258 as a minor arterial, and US 64 as a principal arterial. In
a section titled "Proposed Land Use Plan Elements," the Plan calls for several projects within the
project study area. These are:
' o US 258: Proposed improvement to US 258 includes widening to a multi-lane facility from
Tarboro to Kinston in conjunction with the development of the Global TransPark in
Kinston.
' o NC 122 (Pinetops - Tarboro Road): The Plan recommends to widen NC 122 to a four-
lane divided cross-section from the Tarboro Planning Boundary to the NC 111/122 split,
with left-turn lanes at major intersections, including SR 1003 (Davistown-Mercer Road)
' and SR 1006 (McKendree Church Road). These improvements will relieve increasing
traffic congestion and improve safety on the major thoroughfare between Pinetops and
Tarboro. It is estimated that five residences will need to be relocated to accommodate this
' improvement. The Plan lists this project as a second priority (2005 - 2015) and estimates
it to cost $10.8 million.
o NC 111, NC 122 - The Plan lists both of these roads as needing minor widening
' improvements to two standard, 12-foot lanes in order to improve safety, capacity, and
driver comfort.
' ¦ Edgecombe County Unified Development Ordinance (1999): This document established the
zoning ordinance for the County. Its general purpose was to "promote the health, safety, and
general welfare of the residents of Edgecombe County" through its regulations (page 1-1). For
' project purposes, the zoning ordinance governs development to the south of the project
alignment, beyond Tarboro's town and ETJ boundaries.
¦ Tarboro Land Development Plan Update (1990): The purpose of the 1990 Land Development
' Plan is to reevaluate and update key elements of the 1983 Plan such as land development goals
and objectives, existing land use patterns, natural and man-made factors affecting land use, and
land use trends. The following General Land Use Goals are pertinent to this project:
1
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 15
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
o Promote the development of housing in varying types and costs to meet the demands of
all income levels and age groups;
o Encourage industrial development that will stimulate the economy and which is located in
areas where the necessary urban services are available;
o Preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas from intensive development;
o Provide a safe, efficient, and well-maintained street system consistent with the town's
adopted thoroughfare plan; and,
o Encourage development to locate in areas currently served by water and sewer or where
these services can readily be made available.
Two of the Plan's agriculture and rural development goals also pertain to this project. They are:
o Discourage intensive urban development in rural areas that lack the necessary support
utilities and public services; and,
o Promote the continued low-density residential and agricultural character of areas on the
fringes of the town's extraterritorial planning jurisdiction.
Related to this last goal, the Plan identifies both the area around the McNair Road/Wilson Street
intersection and the area adjacent to Wilson Road between the US 64 bypass and Tarboro
corporate limits as part of the town's "rural fringe". The Plan also lists wetlands as an area of
environmental concern and indicates that they are a restriction to development.
¦ Town of Tarboro Zoning (2004): A map of the most current zoning in Tarboro (dated
November 1, 2004) shows the following zoning in the study area: general industrial district (I - 2),
single family residential district (RA - 12), office and institutional district (O & 1). The Town of
Tarboro Land Development Ordinance defines these zoning codes as follows:
o The I-2 district is established to allow general manufacturing, wholesale sales, and
accessory land uses incidental to and in support of industrial uses.
o The RA-12 district is established to allow primarily single-family residences on individual
lots at a density of three and six-tenths (3.6) dwelling units per acre.
o The OI district is established as a district in which to allow primarily office and
institutional land uses. In addition, single-family residential uses are permitted within the
OI district. The major objectives of this district are to encourage land uses which serve as
an adequate buffer between intensive nonresidential uses and residential uses; and provide
aesthetic controls and dimensional requirements to ensure compatible office and service
development with surrounding residential uses.
¦ Town of Tarboro Strategic Economic Development Plan (2005): The Economic
Development Plan was prepared by the Sanford Holshouser Business Development Group, LLC
and their partner, Whittaker Associates, as part of a contract with ElectriCities of NC, Inc. to
provide economic development planning assistance for member cities, including Tarboro. The
Plan contains four key elements: an economic and demographic profile, an economic development
preparedness assessment, a target industry analysis, and a marketing plan. As part of the Economic
Development Preparedness Assessment, the Plan identifies Tarboro's utility system, proximity to
the Raleigh region, well-managed town with a pro-business attitude, available workforce, and
Commerce Center as some of the Town's strengths. The Plan also identifies Tarboro industrial
sites and buildings as key opportunities to growth. Transportation Improvements in Tarboro are
given a rating of good to excellent with good access to Raleigh and interstates I-95 and I-40, but
better access south to the Greenville area is identified as a need.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 16 1 1?
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 01 t
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¦ Tarboro Commerce Center Master Plan, Carolinas Gateway Partnership (2005): This
' summary of a 125-acre property located within the triangle created by US 64 Bypass, McNair
Road, and NC 111 (Wilson St. Extension) describes the utilities, access, tax rates, and existing
industries already in the Tarboro area. At its southern-most corner is the already existing Keihin
' Carolina System Technology factory. The seven tracts making up the property are zoned for
manufacturing and distribution. The Plan also proposes a new road (Commerce Center Drive)
through the site to connect McNair Road to Wilson Street (NC 111).
' 4.4. Regional Location Influences and Implications
The Carolinas Gateway Partnership provides regional economic development guidance for
' Edgecombe and Nash Counties. Among their strategies for economic development is a strategy to
market Tarboro to businesses and develop additional support for existing businesses in Tarboro.
The planned Tarboro Commerce Center, located on US 64 between McNair Road (NC 122) and
' Wilson Street (NC 111) is one such industrial site intended to promote economic development in
Tarboro and Edgecombe County.
' In addition to industrial development in the study area, the Spencer's Woods neighborhood
development is slated for full build-out within the next ten years, depending on industry and
development trends. Currently, the neighborhood has 15 built houses, but at full build-out it is
' proposed to have over 100 units. The site for this neighborhood would extend across the right-of-
way for the McNair Road extension project. One of the unique things about the Spencer's Woods
development is that all construction is done without the practice of clear-cutting.'
' 4.5. Identification of Current and Proposed Transportation Plans
The following is a discussion of the current and proposed transportation plans that may affect the
ICE study area. In addition to the projects proposed in these plans, the Tarboro Commerce Center
' Master Plan proposes another project for a road to connect McNair Road (NC 122) to Wilson Street
(NC 111) through the Commerce Center site.
' ¦ Edgecombe County Thoroughfare Plan Study and Technical Report (1997): The
Thoroughfare Plan was developed to identify existing and future deficiencies in the roadway
system and propose recommendations to satisfy anticipated traffic demands in Edgecombe
' County. Each road in the thoroughfare plan was evaluated based on the following considerations:
alignment, capacity, width, number of lanes, traffic volume, land use patterns, and pavement
structure. Concerns such as environmental issues, economic growth, and local input were also
' considered in the development of the Plan. Similar to the Land Development Plan, the
Thoroughfare Plan also cites wetlands as an area of environmental concern. The Thoroughfare
Plan makes the following recommendations for projects within the project study area:
' o US 64: Widen to four-lane freeway. Already underway, and completed in the study area as
of 2004.
o US 258: Widen as to multi-lane facility as the Global TransPark in Kinston develops
' further.
o NC 111/122 (Pinetops - Tarboro Road): The Plan mirrors the Edgecombe County 1997
Land Development Plan's call for widening the road to alleviate increasing congestion and
' improve safety.
' 3 Al Hull, Spencer's Woods realtor, personal interview, June 23, 2006.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 19
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis I1
o In addition to these roadway improvements, the Plan also identifies high accident
intersection locations. NC 111 at NC 122 is included in this list, having had six accidents
between October 1992 and September 1995.
Also of note are the Thoroughfare Plan's appendices. Appendix A lists a typical cross-section for a
thoroughfare with bicycle accommodations and Appendix F shows the 1972 Thoroughfare Plan
with a precursor of the current alignment for McNair Road Extension as part of a proposed
Southern Loop around Tarboro.
NCDOT State Transportation Improvements Projects, 2006 - 2012. Nearby projects in the
State Transportation Improvement Program:
o U - 3826: Extend SR 1537 (Daniel Street) from SR 1518 (Baker Street) to US 258.
o E - 4751: Extend existing bicycle route NC 33 along SR 1518 (East Northern Blvd) to
abandoned CSX transportation rail bed. Follow rail bed, crossing Tar River over railroad
bridge (to be rehabilitated) to US 258.
o R - 3308: US 258, Crescent Road in Kinston to US 64 at Tarboro, multi-lanes, new
location.
o R - 3407: US 264 in Greenville to US 64 southeast of Tarboro. Widen roadway to multi-
lane facility.
o U - 4424: NC 111 (Wilson Street), US 64 Alternate (Western Boulevard) to NC 122
(McNair Road). Upgrade roadway. Currently, unfunded project. Right-of-Way and
Construction are listed as $4,700,000 and $5,200,000, respectively. Schedule for all is listed
as "post year," meaning that all implementation is currently unfunded and scheduled after
2012.
Tarboro Comprehensive Bicycle Plan (2006): The Tarboro Comprehensive Bicycle Plan is
intended to improve and encourage bicycle transportation in the Town. The Plan focuses on
creating a safe biking environment and providing more convenient cycling opportunities for more
people in Tarboro, commuters and recreational riders alike. The Plan provides programs, policies,
and project recommendations that will help Tarboro to become a more bicycle-friendly
community. One of the proposed projects is the Tarboro Outer Loop, which proposes a bicycle
route around the Town, including on the future McNair Road Extension.
5. Notable Features
The project lies within the Coastal Plan physiographic province. The topography in this section of
Edgecombe County is characterized as nearly level to sloping near the Tar River. Soils within this
portion of Edgecombe County are suitable for development, characterized by primarily loamy sands
(see Table 8). Figure 4 shows an inventory of notable features.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 20
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis ,
ft.t 1

1

Table 8. Soil by Type and Percent in ICE Study Area.
Soil Type Percent of ICE Study Area
Aurii % ills Luam? Sand, U to 6 pcicciit slupcs 19,E
Bibb Soils 4.25
Foreston Loamy Sand, 0 to 3 percent slopes 11.78
Goldsboro Fine Sandy Loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes 9.28
Grantham Very fine sandy loam 1.67
Johnston Soils' 1.58
Lynchburg Fine Sandti Loam 2.97
Norfolk Loamy Sands, 0 to 2 percent slopes 3.83
Norfolk Loamy Sands, 2 to 6 percent slopes 12.08
Pactolus Loamy Sand 4.49
Rains Fine Sandy Loam 15.93
Roanoke Loam 1.01
Wagram Loamy Sand, 0 to 6 percent slopes 4.77
Wagraln Loamy Sand, 10 to 15 percent slopes 1.64
Other 5.38
5.1. Endangered Species
Table 9 and Table 10 show the various endangered species identified in Edgecombe County4.
Threatened and Endangered Species in Edgecombe County:
Table 9. Federally Protected Species for Edgecombe County.
Scic11617(- n:mrc Common A_ uime Srrtrjs
Elliptio steinstansama Tar Spinymussel Endangered
Picoides borealis Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Endangered
Endangered - a species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
Threatened - a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout
all or a significant portion of its range.
Table 10. Federal_Species of Concern for Edgecombe County.
S,-icnd6C nrtmic Conum,n X.,m?e AC Status Habitat
11.1[ l -1< I'i,, nr
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I'll ,wouJ <h,n I SR -, Ili
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Noturus fmiosus population 2 Carolina Madtom SR Present
' "T"--A Threatened species is one which is likely to become endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout
all or a significant portion of its range.
"SR"-A Significantly Rare species is one which is very rare in North Carolina, generally with 1-20 populations in the state,
generally substantially reduced in numbers by habitat destruction, direct exploitation or disease. The species is generally
more common elsewhere in its range, occurring peripherally in North Carolina.
4 Source: US Fish and Wildlife Service lists for Federally Threatened and Endangered Species and Federal Species of Concern. 29
' January, 2003.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 21 1 ')
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 0
5.2. Surface Water Resources
The project and ICE Study Area are located in the Tar-Pamlico River Basin and sub-basin 03-03-03.
The northwestern corner of the ICE Study Area is located within the Tarboro water supply
watershed (a Class IV watershed) and Tar-Pamlico River sub-basin 03-03-02, but the physical limits
of the project are not located within it. Development in water supply watersheds is restricted by
controls for density and impervious surfaces.
There are 34.39 acres of wetlands within the study area. Wetlands impacts have been reviewed in the
field with Army Corp of Engineers representatives and concurrence of impacts has been received.
Total wetland impacts for the project will be 11.38 acres. Hand clearing will be performed on 0.436
acres.
5.3. Floodplains
According to the 2004 Zoning Map for the Town of Tarboro, which also shows floodplain
mapping, there are some floodways and floodplains (Zone AE and Zone X) within the project area.
The limits of the project will not directly impact these floodplains (see Figure 4).
5.4. Section 4(f) and Historical Properties Impacts
Section 4(f) features are defined as the following:
¦ Public Parks and Recreational Lands
¦ Wildlife and Waterfowl Refuges
¦ Historic Sites
¦ Historic or Archaeological Districts
¦ Archaeological Sites
¦ Historic Structures
There are no known Section 4(f) features in the study area. There is one potential historic property
located east of the intersection of the Sara Lee Factory Road and US 258. Tax parcel data indicate
the structure, which is a residence, was built in 1818.
5.5. Section 6(f)
The Land and Water Conservation Fund Act (LWCFA) was passed by Congress in 1965. The act
established the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a matching assistance program that provides
grants which pay half the acquisition and development cost of outdoor recreation sites and facilities.
Section 6(f) of the act prohibits the conversion of property acquired or developed with these grants
to a non-recreational purpose without the approval of the Department of Interior's (DOI's)
National Park Service. The DOI must ensure that replacement lands of equal value, location and
usefulness are provided as a condition of such conversions. Consequently, where conversions of
Section 6(f) lands are proposed for highway projects, replacement lands are required.
There are no Section 6(? lands within the project study area.
5 A Class IV watershed is waters used as sources of potable water where a WS-I, II or III classification is not feasible. These waters
are also protected for Class C uses. WS-IV waters are generally in moderately to highly developed watersheds or Protected Areas, and
involve no categorical restrictions on discharges. Source. NC Division of WaterQuality, http.Ilh2o.enr.state.nc.mslcrulswe.html.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 22 7'
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis'

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' Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act (CWA) requires states to develop a list of waters not meeting
water quality standards or which have impaired uses. Listed waters must be prioritized, and a
management strategy or total maximum daily load (TMDL) must subsequently be developed for all
' listed waters.
There are no Section 303(d) Streams in the project study area.
' 6. Impact-Causing Activities
Impact-causing activities in the ICE Study Area may result from the extension project itself or from
other past, present, and future planned projects that may be unrelated to the proposed project.
' These projects may include other transportation projects; private development projects (residential,
commercial, or industrial); as well as changes in local development regulations.
' 6.1. Project-Related Activities
Improved Access - The extension of McNair Road will provide a new access corridor from the
western portions of Tarboro and Edgecombe County to US 258 and from the southern portions of
Tarboro and Edgecombe County to US 64. In addition to access to roadways, the project will also
provide additional accesses to the proposed Tarboro Commerce Center and industrial sites along US
258 to US 64. This access will be used by both residents and commercial or industrial truck traffic.
t Improved Traffic Safe tv - The project will alleviate increasing traffic congestion and improve safety
along McNair Road (NC 122), Wilson St (NC 111), and US 258 to US 64. Currently, a significant
' portion of the truck traffic in the area is generated by Sara Lee, Americold, and Keihin, and many of
these trucks now use US 258 to access US 64. According to an NCDOT preliminary assessment:
' "The proposed project is needed to achieve acceptable Levels of Service. The extension of
McNair Road will increase the traffic carrying capacity and improve the level of service of
the networked area. The extra capacity obtained by this construction will decrease vehicle
' density and increase the average headway. As previously discussed, the proposed design will
allow for safe traffic operations." 6
' With the completion of the project, the local traffic and truck traffic will have more routes to US 64
and the factories, and thereby the amount of traffic on the roads will be reduced.
' Induced Growth and New Development - The completion of the McNair Road extension project
will provide new access to previously undeveloped land may result in new growth in the area. There
are also some other, unrelated growth factors in the area, such as the proposed Tarboro Commerce
' Center and proposed full build-out of the Spencer's Woods neighborhood. However, given the
slow-growth nature of the entire region, the new access, even combined with these latent growth
factors, is unlikely to have an effect on inducing growth and land development in the study area. At
' the same time, should any limited growth occur in the area, it will be in keeping with the Town's
expected plans for the study area.
1
' G Source: NCDOT Preliminary Assessment Document for McNair Road Extension Project (R - 4434).
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 25
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
6.2. Recent/Proposed Development Activity
According to a visual assessment and conversations with Troy Lewis, Tarboro Planning Director,
the Spencer's Woods neighborhood is a recent development near to the project site. Spencer's
Woods is made up of all single-family homes on low-density lots'. At this time, the development is
still partially completed. Full build-out will extend the neighborhood south and across the McNair
Road Extension Project. Although the McNair Road Extension will interfere with full build-out, it
will be beneficial to the development by providing a second access into the neighborhood and
additional access to potential employment at the existing factories along the route.
The other proposed development in the ICE Study Area in addition to the future build out of the
Spencer's Woods neighborhood is the Tarboro Commerce Center. As discussed previously, this is
intended as a new industrial site in Tarboro to attract new businesses. Its accessibility to US 258, US
64, and the workforce in and around Tarboro makes it a prime site. Currently, the site is
undeveloped excepting for the Keihin Factory in the southernmost corner.
7. Potential Impacts and Cumulative Effects
Impacts of the McNair Road Extension project are expected to be mild in general, and positive. In
addition to improving safety and level of service, the project should improve access to US 64, US
258, and the Keihin Factory and Sara Lee Factory. This will create more convenient travel paths for
residents, employees, and service and delivery trucks, as well as better access to existing businesses
and retail stores in the area. The effects of this project are expected to be helpful for economic
development in the area as it relates to existing industrial sites and the proposed Tarboro Commerce
Center. As an additional benefit, the project should provide more connectivity to the existing road
network for the future build-out of the Spencer's Woods residential development.
The NCDOT ICI Guidance provides a process for assessing potential indirect and cumulative effects
of transportation projects to determine if more detailed analysis is warranted. The following is an
evaluation of the factors that may indicate a need for additional analysis of the extension of the
project.
¦ Is there an explicit economic development purpose? (NO) A preliminary NCDOT
assessment indicated that the purpose of the project is "to provide system linkage between NC
122/NC 111 and US 258.i' Along with other improvements to the local transportation network,
the project may have additional benefits of supporting proposed development of the Spencer's
Woods neighborhood and the Tarboro Commerce Center.
¦ Does the proposed project conflict with local plans? (NO) The project is consistent with
local land use plans detailed in section 4.3.2 and 4.5 of this document. It is endorsed by the Town
of Tarboro and Edgecombe County as well as the Tarboro-Edgecombe Chamber of Commerce.
¦ Is the proposed project planned to serve a specific land development? (NO) TIP R-4434 is
not meant to serve a specific development within the ICE study area.
¦ Is the proposed project likely to stimulate land development having complementary
functions? (MAYBE) Although there are currently public water and sewer services in the area of
the project, there is already nearby commercial development just south of the project at the
' Troy Lewis, Planning Director, personal interview, June 2, 2006.
8 Source: NCDOT Preliminary Assessment Document for McNair Road Extension Project (R - 4434).
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 26
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis i

intersection of US 258 and US 64 with which any new complementary development would have to
compete. It is more likely that this existing commercial development would attract any new
development having complementary functions (such as gas stations and convenience stores).
¦ Is the proposed project likely to influence intraregional land development location
decisions? (MAYBE) The decreased travel times that will result from the project will likely be
appealing to both new and existing industries along McNair Road and US 258. However, these
travel time improvements will be relatively low (less than ten minutes), and economic growth in
the County remains very slow.
¦ Are notable features present within the ICE study area? (YES) There are two federally
threatened species and seven federal species of concern within Edgecombe County. As previously
mentioned, there are also wetlands within the ICE Study Area. The project will impact up to 1.138
acres of wetlands and hand clearing will need to be performed on 0.436 acres of wetlands. A
review of existing documentation indicated that there are no Section 4(f) notable features within
the ICE Study Area and no Section 6(f) resources. There are also no 303(d) streams within the
ICE Study Area.
¦ Will notable features be impacted as a result of this project? (YES) There will be some direct
impacts from the project on wetlands. These impacts have been reviewed in the field with Army
Corp of Engineers representatives and concurrence of impacts has been received.' Given the lack
of notable features in the project area, there should be limited indirect and cumulative effects on
any notable features in the area.
8. Analysis of Indirect and Cumulative Effects
The NCDOT ICI Guidance document contains methodologies for assessing indirect and cumulative
impacts. While the NCDOT ICI Guidance provides various analytic tools as well as the overall
framework for assessing whether a project has a high, moderate, or low "potential" for indirect and
cumulative impacts, the Oregon Guidebook10 includes additional techniques and quantitative
methodologies for assessing factors such as time savings, forecasted growth, available land supply,
and property value changes and their role in the potential effects from a transportation project. The
following table combines tools from both documents in an analysis of the potential for land use
change during the time horizon of this project (2006 to 2030) as a result of the McNair Road
Extension. The bolded boxes indicate the most likely level of impact for this project.
9 Source: NCDOT Preliminary Assessment Document for McNair Road Extension Project (R - 4434).
no Source: A Guidebook for Evaluating the Indirect Land Use and Growth Impacts of Highway Improvements (Final Dort). Prepared by
ECONorthwest and Portland State University for the Oregon Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway
Administration. FHWA-OR-RD-01-16 and SPR Project 327. April 2001.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 27
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis

Table 11. Potential for Land Use Change, 2006 - 2030.
Re&tdo?tship
Clrerlgc rn benrcen
Change in propegl' Forecasted Suppy cf
Radq, Acce.sibiUo- Values Growd7 Demand
_

Infrdstntcttire
Alallabll/ty

1jrketfor
DevelOfJmerit

ublic Policy '
<10 Year
o
Travel Time > > 50% > 3% Supply of
Water/Sewer
Very Strong No Public
Very Strong 10 Minutes Increase Annual Land plus Available Now Market Policy, Weak '
Growth Issues in the Enforcement
Area
Car
r`5 to 10 > 2u to 50
S
l
?
l
f 'N?
ti
Af
]
Tton
C > ?r?`.Ahnutcs JnCSCLL nna
z.
Csrxwth uhp
y ?,
- Land`
Ei?iI ltotidcd
?1 y,
:? , r
s m ,
u
?nioiccmctrt,
rv
5 ;
'
Moderate

Weak to
0 to 20% o
1 to 2%
10 to 20 Year Not Available Weak to
Policy,
2 to 5 Minutes
Moderate Increase Annual supply Can be Moderate Occasional
Growth Provided Market Enforcement '

Noi2 t 1,C- than 2
Iv cban c
Z erg i\ ca
finute .' h 1

?nnu ?l
?H;
2U cu

S ] N ,r ?? ail tbl?

and Difficult to
r ?

ZL c 4h ?'\I try
-. Sy ?t7 >n?r?i he

ti u
?
_
w;?
C r?w?h ''
A
Pr?widc ?
9 ntoie"menC-

Source. NCDOT ICI Guidance Document, the Oregon Guidebook, NC State Data Center, Towns of Tarboro and
Princeville, and Edgecombe County. ,
As noted in Table 11 above, the potential for land use change based on the various factors is mixed.
Factors such as changes in accessibility; available infrastructure; and, weak growth management
policies and enforcement; are likely to have an encouraging effect on development in the study area.
However, factors such as small changes in property values, low annual growth, and a weak-to-
moderate market for development are likely to counteract the pro-growth factor effects. Future land
use changes will depend largely on how well Tarboro markets itself to potential new residents and
employers - especially industrial and manufacturing employers. Should the area see any new
development, it will probably initially be slow to occur, and relatively low density, especially since the
maximum zoned density in the study area is 8 dwelling units per acre.
Impacts from the project include small changes in travel time, better connectivity, and potential
water impacts from possible land use changes. Changes in travel time and better connectivity will be
improvements for roadway users by saving time and money. Water quality impacts which may result
from any new development can be mitigated with best management practices like retaining ponds
and filtration systems, although there are limited regulations in Tarboro or Edgecombe County to
require the use of these with new development. Other impacts include potential economic benefits
to the area by boosting the potential for economic development along this corridor and providing
better access to existing business and retail stores.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 28
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis i
i

9. Evaluation of Analysis Results
' Indirect Effects
The extension of McNair Road from Wilson Street (NC 111) to US 258 will improve safety and
level of service on all three roads, and provide additional access to US 258, US 64, and nearby
t existing industrial and residential development. Indirectly, the project may boost the economic
potential of the area and promote some industrial and residential development. This new
development, however, will be tempered by a slow local economy and low housing demand. Should
' new development also occur, it may result in some water quality impacts, but those impacts should
be low given the zoned density in the area and the use of best management practices (BMP's).
' Cumulative Effects
The cumulative effects of the McNair Road Extension with other proposed development and
planned transportation projects in the area may be to slightly increase the potential for development
' in the area and boost the economic value of the study area. Already planned residential and
industrial development, such as the full build-out of Spencer's Woods and the Tarboro Commerce
Center, may result in some water quality impacts as a result of an increase in impervious surfaces.
t These impacts can be mitigated with the use of best management practices. Overall, the cumulative
effects of the project should be mild and positive, resulting in improved accessibility, a decrease in
travel time, and better safety.

1

R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 29
1 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis
01
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R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 30 tl
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis; ,
10. Photographs
Image 1. Entrance to the Links at Cotton
Valley on US 258 south of the project site.
Image 4. Single family home in Spencer's
Woods off of Wilson Street.
AW-A
F?_'? M1 k .
rts - _
Image 5. Keihin Factory from McNair
Road looking northeast.

iiuag 6. Intersection
and Wilson Street.
R - 4414, WBS 13*5600,1.1 31
Indirect and Onnulative Effects Analysis •0,
of McNair Road
sa e
Image 12. Sign for the Americold
distributors behind the Sara Lee factory
on Sara Lee Road.
R - 4434, WBS 435600. 1.1 32 ?
Indirect and Caimulative Effects Analysis 01
x?
w
Image 10. Intersection of Sara Lee Road
with US 258.
Image 9. Sara Lee Road facing south
towards intersection with US 258.
Image 11. Entrance to Spencer's Woods
off of Wilson Street.

1
1

The level of service (LOS) of a roadway is a measure of its traffic carrying ability. Level
Of Service ranges from LOS A to F. At signalized intersections, the ability of the intersection to
handle traffic can also be described by Levels of Service A through F. Level of service A,
represents unrestricted maneuverability and operating speeds. Level of service B represents
reduced maneuverability and normal operating speeds. Level of service C represents restricted
maneuvering and operating speeds close to the speed limit. Level of service D represents
severely restricted maneuvering and unstable, low operating speeds. Level of service E
represents operating conditions at or near the capacity level. Breakdown conditions are
characterized by stop and go travel, this occurs at level of service F.
' The proposed project is needed to achieve acceptable Levels of Service. The extension
of McNair Rd. will increase the traffic carrying capacity and improve the level of service of the
networked area. The extra capacity obtained by this construction will decrease vehicle density
and increase the average headway. As previously discussed, the proposed design will allow for
safe traffic operations.
' The proposed extension of McNair Rd. will improve traffic movement, reduce accidents,
and reduce travel times. This will in turn benefit the state, region, and community by increasing
' the convenience and ease of travel as well as savings in user costs.
III. Other Benefits
' Edgecombe County has the "Tier One" designation, which means it is one of the state's
most economically distressed counties. The unemployment rate and median family income for
' the Tarboro/Edgecombe County area is below the state average. This transportation corridor is
needed to boost the potential for future economic development. It is also expected to have a
positive impact on existing businesses and improving the convenience of retail stores in the area.
' Some new growth is occurring as retail stores such as Walmart have begun to locate along the
US 258 corridor.
' Additionally, Edgecombe County has limited public transportation and is dependent on
the local roads to meet all transportation requirements.
IV. Environmental Effects
Wetlands impacts have been reviewed in the field with ACOE representatives and concurrence
of impacts has been received. Total impacts for the project add up to 1.138 acres. Additionally,
hand clearing will need to be performed on 0.436 acres.

R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 37 <1
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 0
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Raleigh Field Office
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
October 20, 2005
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Dear Dr. Thorpe:
o?
41, tios9NOS gTFR ,BOOS
'cy
This letter is in response to your request for comments from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(Service) on the potential environmental effects of the proposed extension of Independence
Boulevard from Randall Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in New Hanover County,
North Carolina (TIP No. U-4434).

The Service previously provided general scoping comments for this project via a letter dated
November 30, 2004. Those comments are still valid, and we have nothing to add at this time.
The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. Please continue to advise us
during the progression of the planning process, including your official determination of the
impacts of this project. If you have any questions regarding our response, please contact Mr.
Gary Jordan at [phone], ext. 32.
Sincerely,
"d'
Pete Benjamin
? tA
Ecological Services Supervisor
cc: Dave Timpy, USACE, Wilmington, NC
Brian Wrenn, NCDWQ, Raleigh, NC
Travis Wilson, NCWRC, Creedmoor, NC
Chris Militscher, USEPA, Raleigh, NC
.I
October 12, 2005
MEMORANDUM TO: Ms. Christina Breen
Division of Water Quality/Wetlands
FROM: Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental
SUBJECT: Wilmington, Independence Boulevard Extension Join Randall
Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway, New Hanover County,
WBS 37764.1.1, TIP No. U-4434
The Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch is starting the project
development, environmental and engineering studies for the Independence Boulevard Extension. The
project is included in the 2006-2012 North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program and is
scheduled for right of way and let in post years. The project is programmed for Planning and
Environmental Studies only in the 2006-2012 TIP.
Attached for your review and comments are the scoping information sheets for the proposed
project. We would appreciate any information you might have that would be helpful in evaluating
potential environmental impacts of the project. If applicable, please identify any permits or approvals
that may be required by your agency. A scoping meeting will be scheduled with NCDOT staff to discuss
the proposed project in more detail. In order to include your comments in our materials for this meeting,
we would appreciate your response by November 7, 2005. If you would like to attend the scoping
meeting, please notify the project engineer.
It is anticipated that a state funded Environmental Impact Statement will be prepared for this
project. This document will be prepared in accordance with the State Environmental Policy Act.
If you have any questions concerning the project, please contact Colista Freeman, Project
Development Engineer, of this Branch at [phone], Ext. 227. Please include the TIP Project
Number in all correspondence and comments.
GJT/plr
Attachment
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDO TII
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
Y?
PDEA Scoping Procedures Rev 4/4/05
TIP Project: U4434
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Scoping Information Sheet
TIP No.: U-4434
WBS No.: 37764. 1.1
Federal Aid No: N/A -?
Division: 3
Sent Date: 10/12/05
Revision Date:
Meeting Date 11/14/05
County: New Hanover
INDEPENDENCE BOULEVARD EXTENSION, RANDALL PARKWAY TO MARTIN
LUTHER KING, JR. PARKWAY. MULTI-LANES ON NEW LOCATION.
N
Provide additional North-South mobility through Wilmington.
Metronolitan / Rural Planning Organization Area:
NEPA/404 Merger Candidate?: Yes
Feasibility Study Completed?: Yes
Wilmington MPO
No Not sure
No 7/25/02 Date
Type of Environmental Documents to be Prepared / Project Schedule:
T e:
Environmental Document: Draft EIS
Final EIS
Record of Decision
Right of Way:
Let:
Dates:
March 2008
April 2009
December 2009
Post Years
Post Years I
Air Quality Status: Non-attainment Maintenance Attainment
SHEET 1 OF 4
PDEA Scoping Procedures
TIP Project: U-4434
Design Criteria:
Length of Project Limits:
Type of Access Control:
(Existing / Proposed)
Structure Inventory:
Rev 4/4/05 k I
1.7 miles
Boulevard (partial Control) - Minimum
Greater Control of Access possible
No Existing Structures
Functional Classification: Existin : N/A (New Location)
Strategic Corridor Information: Corridor 06.1 - Independence Boulevard
Boulevard Classification
CTP/Thorou are Plan Minor Arterial
Designation (Facili Tyne):
Roadway Typical Section:
(Existing / Proposed)
Existing: 2 lane undivided (southern portion)
Proposed: 6-lane w/ median
Typical Section in Compliance with Conformity Determination:
Yes No
Right of Way:
(Existing / Proposed)
Existing: N/A (New Location)
Proposed: 120-150 ft
Existing Posted Speed: N/A (New Proposed Design Speed: 50 mph
Location)
Traffic AADT): % TTST: 4%
Current Year: (2003) 16,800 (Covil Ave) % Dual: 1%
Design Year: 2030) 33,200 (No-Build) % DHV: 9%
Design Standards Applicable: 0 AASHTO 3R
Railroad Involvement:
Two crossing of CSX Railroad - One existing crossing and One new crossing
Cost Estimate:
TIP Estimate:
Current Estimate
Construction: Right of Way: Total Cost:
$20,000,0000 $17,180,000 $37,180,000
$25,500,000 $17,200,000 $42,700,000
SHEET 2 OF 4
PDEA Scoping Procedures
LIP pruject: U-4434
USGS QAUDS --CASTLE HAYNF. & W1LNLLNGTON
SHEET 3 OF 4
Rev 4/4,ltJ
Ims
URS CORPORATION - NOPTH CAROLINA
Figure 1 Acinity Map
Independence Pivd New Hanover County
NCDOT U-4434
USGS 7.6 Castle Hayne and Wilmington
Project Vicinity
?%,*Alignment Evaluated in Feasibility Study
025
_.nvlcin Ay L
- .?; Hanover
71 7 .1 Ca ro lira Soin':e?
V IC I IN ITY MAP
PI_)EA Lupin Procerl?lr;; Re% 4:1:115
TIP Project ?-
7 4
%
v
H t `'? rF y 3?rArt r._} aFO1C a 12Fd
CJ,
< r li s
PFoir,
.7 rr
F FF01 c PSS112F ``tit :ice f
r? '} 1A f???a.t ?-1 ?RQ ciT 5 1 ? \ (3r '? - _ 'tea' ?
7k
?i
Ims
I E,
"5't C a,i r J751,'0RFOR12,T!(-+., - NCjR T--'
s. 1 Figure 3 'l+etlarids and Threatened &
Endangered Species Map
Independence Blvd. New Hanover County
NCDOT rJ-4434
USGS 7.5' Castle Hayne and Ibilmington
?.? N,rixf" I-w 3, 1 PF A Project Vicinity
Alignment Evaluated in Feasibility Study
t? ??,I o- J v Iural Heritage Program
Ti eatened & Endangered Occurrences fl
Q ,,;iicnal Wetlands inventory Oa`.a
<E _ ??' ' Ir 1~ Depar,.ment ofAyrcuiture aydnc Soil Fate
t _ o_ ?/" -;r.^sl of Coastal Management Wetlands Data
alt drackisf Marsh
v
> _?F ? ME Freshwater Marsh
Estuarine Shrub/Scrub
., Fad z 4_ ?_ r - Pocosin
y? j < 1 Doitomland Hardwoed Forest
Brine Swamp Forest
Hr dwater F'at
• ne Flat
G aged Pine »
,irine Forest
vs ride Forest
OwatorSwanlp
., 4.?
J 25
it I n d ---
J11
SHEET 4 OF 4
0? SAT ?9QG
> -1
Gfl 'C'
MEMORANDUM
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
November 9, 2005
To: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator, Office of Legislative and
Intergovernmental Affairs
From: Brian L. Wrenn, NCDWQ, Transportation Permitting Unit so" ?
Subject: Request for Comments for the Proposed Independence Boulevard Extension from
Randall Parkway to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in New Hanover County, WBS
Element 37764.1.1, TIP Projects U-4434.
This office has reviewed the referenced document. 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. After a preliminary review, DWQ has identified the following named streams
located within the project study area:
Stream Name River Basin Stream Classification Stream Index Number
Spring Branch Cape Fear C; Sw 18-74-63-1
Burnt Mill Creek Cape Fear C; Sw 18-74-63-2
DWQ has the following comments:
Project Specific Comments:
1. Burnt Mill Creek is listed on the 2004 North Carolina 303(d) Impaired Waters List for impaired
biological integrity. The potential stressors for this impairment are urban runoff, storm sewers, and
dredging. Impacts to Burnt Mill Creek should be avoided if at all possible to reduce the risk of
exacerbating the impairment. Because New Hanover. County is a coastal county, a storm water
management permit is required for this project. Storm water management should be designed and
constructed to meet the requirements for the high density option in 15A NCAC 02H .1005(3)(b). The
sedimentation and erosion control plan should include the most stringent control measures to reduce
the risk of further impacts to Burnt Mill Creek.
General Comments:
1. DOT is respectfully reminded that they will need to demonstrate the avoidance and minimization of
impacts to wetlands (and streams) to the maximum extent practical.
2. The 401 Water Quality Certification application will need to specifically address the proposed
methods for storm water management.
3. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules 115A NCAC
2H.0506(b)(6) 1, mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150 linear feet to any single
perennial stream and for impacts of greater than one acre to wetlands. In the event that mitigation is
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. In
Noo?thCarolina
Transportation Permitting.Unit atura???
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604
Phone: [phone] / FAX [phone] Internet: http://h2o.enr.state.ne.us/ncwetlands
An FnnAI nnnnr iinihdAffirmativa Arfinn Fmnlniar _ rno/ Parvrlar?/1 no/ Pnd r:nnenmar Panar
November 9, 2005
Page 2
accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3)1,
the NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as stream mitigation.
4. Sedimentation and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be
implemented prior to any ground disturbing activities. Structures should be maintained regularly,
especially following rainfall events.
5. Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands.
6. Bare soil should be stabilized through vegetation or other means as quickly as feasible to prevent
sedimentation of water resources.
7. All work in or adjacent to stream waters should be conducted in a dry work area. Sandbags, rock
berms, cofferdams, or other diversion structures should be used where possible to prevent excavation
in flowing water.
8. 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.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water Quality
Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality standards are
met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require additional
information, please contact Brian Wrenn 919-733-5715.
pc: Dave Timpy, Army Corps of Engineers Wilmington Regulatory Field Office
Chris Militscher, US EPA
Travis Wilson, NC WRC
Gary Jordan, US FWS
Ken Averitte, Fayetteville Regional Office, DWQ
File Copy
us project is being reviewed as indicated below:
itcgional Office Regional Office Arcs
? Asheville )(Air
ll
• Water
e
? Fayettevi
? Mooresville VGroundwater
h
i
l Land Quality Engineer
e
g
? Ra
? Washington ? Recreational Consultant
XWWTiington
? Winston-Salem
Manger Sign-O$7Region:
Response (check all applicable)
? No objection to project as proposed.
o No Comment
? b sufficient information to complete review
o Other (specify or attach comments)

in House Review
? Soil & Water b Marine Fisheries
(,Coastal Management
Wildlife ? Water Resources
)(Environmental Health
? Solid Waste Mgmt
orest Resources
? Land Resources
,'parks & Recreation
Water Quality
? Groundwater
? Radiation Protection
? Other
tn-House Reviewer/AgcneY:
? Air Quality
Dale: r,-, '1 0
D R16,fl:_27, IN 0 IJ L?
OrT 2 1 2(115
DENR - WATER 4i ALl'SY
WETLA14DS AM STOWN,ATER. EIRa1 D
RETURN TO:
Melba McGee
Environmental Coordinator
Office of Legislative & Intergovernmental Affalrs
Department of Environment ana P1atu[ ill JL%wv..• ?w
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
project Review Form
CT 200
Z?Ep
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINAS
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION'
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
October 12, 2005
MEMORANDUM TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Ms. Chrys Baggett, Director
State Clearinghouse
Department of Administration
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental
LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
Wilmington, Independence Boulevard Extension frodf Randall
Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway, New Hanover County,
WBS 37764.1.1, TIP No. U-4434
The Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch is starting the project
development, environmental and engineering studies for the Independence Boulevard Extension. The
project is included in the 2006-2012 North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program and is
scheduled for right of way and let in post years. The project is programmed for Planning and
Environmental Studies only in the 2006-2012 TIP.
Attached for your review and comments are the scoping information sheets for the proposed
project. We would appreciate any information you might have that would be helpful in evaluating
potential environmental impacts of the project. If applicable, please identify any permits or approvals
that may be required by your agency. A scoping meeting will be scheduled with NCDOT staff to discuss
the proposed project in more detail. In order to include your comments in our materials for this meeting,
we would appreciate your response by November 7, 2005. If you would like to attend the scoping
meeting, please notify the project engineer.
It is anticipated that a state funded Environmental Impact Statement will be prepared for this
project. This document will be prepared in accordance with the State Environmental Policy Act.
If you have any questions concerning the project, please contact Colista Freeman, Project
Development Engineer, of this Branch at [phone], Ext. 227. Please include the TIP Project
Number in all correspondence and comments.
GJT/pIr
Attachment C- ?-
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SO;TH WILMINGTON STREET
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
PDEA Scoping Procedures
TIP Project: U-4434
Rev 4/4/05
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Scoping Information Sheet
TIP No.: U-4434
WBS No.: 37764.1.1
Federal Aid No: N/A
DiN ision: 13
_ -?
Sent Date: 10/12/05 -1
Revision Date:
Meeting Date: 11/14/05
County: New Hanover
INDEPENDENCE BOULEVARD EXTENSION, RANDALL PARKWAY TO MARTIN
LUTHER Kr. G. JR. PARKWAY. MULTI-LANES ON NEW LOCATION.
General
Provide additional North-South mobility through Wilmington.
Metronolitan ' Rural Planning Oreanization Area:
NEPA/404 Mercer Candidate?: Yes
Feasibilitv Studv Completed?: Yes
Wilmington MPO
No Not sure
No 7/25/02 Date
Tvne of Environmental Documents to be Prepared / Project Schedule:
Type:
Environmental Document: Draft EIS
Final EIS
Record of Decision
Right of Way:
Let:
Air Qualitv Status:
a IL
??? 2005
r
Dates:
March 2008
April 2009
December 2009
Post Years
Post Years J
Non-attainment Maintenance Attainment
SHEET 1 OF 4
PDEA Scoping Procedures
TIP Project: U-4434
Design Criteria:
Length of Project Limits:
Type of Access Control:
(Existing / Proposed)
Structure Inventory:
Rev 4/4/05
r1.7 miles
Boulevard (partial Control) - Minimum
Greater Control of Access possible
No Existing Structures
Functional Classification: Existing: N/A (New Location)
Strategic Corridor Information: Corridor 06.1 - Independence Boulevard
Boulevard Classification
CTP/Thoroughfare Plan Minor Arterial
Designation (Facility Type):
Roadwav Typical Section:
(Existing / Proposed)
Existing: 2 lane undivided (southern portion)
Proposed: 6-lane w/ median
Typical Section in Compliance with Conformity Determination:
Yes No
Right of Wav:
(Existing / Proposed)
Existing: N/A (New Location)
Proposed: 120-150 ft
Existing Posted Speed: N/A (New Pronosed Design Speed: 50 mph
Location)
Traffic (AADT): % TTST: 4%
Current Year: (2003) +33,200 ,800 (Covil Ave) % Dual: 1%
Design Year: (2030) (No-Build) % DHV: 9%
Design Standards Applicable: C? AASHTO C] 3R
Railroad Involvement:
Two crossing of CSX Railroad - One existing crossing and One new crossing
Cost Estimate:
TIP Estimate:
Current Estimate
C:ongtrnction: Right of Way: Total Cost:
$20,000,0000 $17,180,000 - $37,180,000
$25,500,000 $17,200,000 $42,700,000
SHEET 2 OF 4
PDEA Scoping Procedures
TIP Project: U-4434
Rev 4/4/05

Martin Luther Kina Jr. Par
A RMCC F.

%fs Princess Placel
J ?
Market - _ Street
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Apim
Y^ ! Randall Parkway
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Figure !: Mcinity Map
Independence Blvd., New Hanover County
NCDOT U-4434
USGS 7.6 Castle Hayne and Wilmington
+G ?I; Project Vicinity
{% ??• .y? ?' /V'AlignmentEvaluated in Feasibility Study
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=New Hanover 4 $
• •`' t North Carolina Counties
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VICIHNITY MAP
SHEET 3 OF 4
f PDEA Scoping Procedures
TIP Project: _ U-4434
i"N
p 4. N /y L e H FO
PFO1C
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Princess Place
1-1 Market Street!
e 4;;A

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URS CORPORATION -NORTH :,AROLINA
Figure 3: Wetlands and Threatened &
Y 's pedw E? •-r•• Endangered Species Map
R? Independence Blvd., New Hanauer County
NCDOT U-4434
l J rp S ` z USGS 7.5' Castle Heyne and JYdmington
F + h " ( F ' .. r A < Project Vicinity
Alignment Evaluated in Feaz of .ty Study
.Sze?/+ J ?,"< t Natural Heritage Program
r r-x Threatened & Endangered c u ends f
': l t? / tr. P•r
National Wetlands lnventcr,,-,:'27a
i t 14^ ^ ` lw'.r US Department of Agncultu"e -;:cnc Soil Data j
t .`ands Data
r ' tp / u 1 ?, Division of Coastal Managemen -"
ME Salt/Brackish Marsh
Freshwater Marsh
!jZ Estuarine Shrub/Scrub
Pocosin
Bottomland Hardwood Fores:
Riverine Swamp Forest
-- y?j- W Headwater Flat
Pine Flat
Managed Pine
f ' -- 1! ' " r Estuarine Forest
Maritime Forest
' Headwater Swamp
Randall Parkwa Human Impacted Area
, }'-' % +?.•_ ut i,? 0.25 0 0.<- Ai,ieS
• ',-? ?\ k, ? ONewHanover
0 North Carolina Counties ;,?€:
ii
ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION
SHEET 4 OF 4
REPLY TO
ATTENTION OF:
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
P.O. BOX 1890
WTI,MTNGTON_ NORTH CAROT.TNA 29d112_1990
February 10, 2005
Regulatory Division
SUBJECT: Action ID200500168; TIP Project No. U-4434
Dr. Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Environmental Management Director, PDEA
N.C. Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
ti
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Dear Dr. Thorpe:
Reference your October 27, 2004 letter requesting our scoping comments on the
proposed Independence Boulevard Extension from Randall Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr.
Parkway, New Hanover County, North Carolina.
Based on a recent field inspection by this office, information provided in the referenced
letter and a review of the soil survey for New Hanover County by the Natural Resources
Conservation Service, the proposed project may impact jurisdictional wetlands. In addition, the
information you have provided indicates that the proposed project may impact wetlands
associated with the Smith Creek. More information is needed on the extent and location and
community type of all the impacted wetlands and streams before an environmental assessment
can be made. In addition, this information is needed to decide whether or not coordination
pursuant to the integrated Section 404/NEPA Merger Process is warranted.
Department of the Army (DA) permit authorization, pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean
Water Act of 1977, as amended, will be required for the discharge of dredged or fill material in
waters of the United States or any adjacent wetlands in conjunction with this project, including
disposal of construction debris. Pursuant to our mitigation policy, impacts to wetlands should
first be avoided or minimized. We will then consider compensatory mitigation for unavoidable
impacts. When final plans are completed, including the extent and location of any work in
wetlands, our regulatory division would appreciate the opportunity to review these plans for
project-specific determinations of DA permit requirements.

Should you have any questions please contact Mr. David L. Timpy in the Wilmington
Field Office at [phone].
Sincerely,
Copies Furnished:
Mr. John Dorney
NCDENR-DWQ
Wetlands Section
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1650
Mr. Pete Benjamin
United States Fish & Wildlife Service
Fish and Wildlife Enhancement
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
Christopher Militcher
USEPA Raleigh Office
Office of Environmental Assessment
310 New Bern Avenue, Room 206
Raleigh, NC 27601
E. David Franklin
Chief, NCDOT Team
Mr. Travis Wilson
Highway Coordinator
North Carolina Wildlife Resources
Commission
1142 I-85 Service Road
QL§gdmoor, North Carolina 27522
Mr. Doug Huggett
NC Division of Coastal Management
Division of Coastal Management
151-B, NC Hwy 24
Morehead City, NC 28557
Mr. Allen Pope, PE
Division Engineer
North Carolina Department of
Transportation
Division 3
124 Division Drive
Wilmington, North Carolina 28401

Ii

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February 9, 2005
MEMORANDUM
To: Melba McGee
Through: John Hennessy
From: Nicole Thomson
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
Subject: Comments on the Engineering and Environmental Studies related to the Extension of
Independence Boulevard from Randall Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in New
Hanover County, WBS Element No. 37764.1.1, TIP U-4434, DENR Project Number 05-0133.
This office has reviewed the referenced document. 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 and.
streams. The DWQ offers the following comments based on review of the aforementioned document:
A) The document does not present any mapping that shows the location of wetlands and streams. In addition,
the document does not give any specified amount of anticipated impacts to wetlands and streams. Until the
DWQ has a map that clearly displays all the wetlands, streams, and other surface waters located in the
project, with the proposed project superimposed onto those resources, we cannot agree that appropriate
avoidance and minimization has occurred for this project. As such, issuance of the 401 Water Quality
Certification for this project could be delayed until the information is provided to the DWQ for review, and
we are convinced that all appropriate avoidance and minimization has occurred for this project.
B) After the selection of the preferred alternative and prior to an issuance of the 401 Water Quality
Certification, the NCDOT is respectfully reminded that they will need to demonstrate the avoidance and
minimization of impacts to wetlands (and streams) to the maximum extent practical. Based on the impacts
described in the document, wetland mitigation may be required for this project. Should the impacts to
jurisdictional wetlands exceed 1.0 acres, mitigation may be required in accordance with NCDWQ Wetland
Rules 115A NCAC 211.0506(h)(2) 1.
C) In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules (15A NCAC 211.0506(b)(6) 1,
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. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules 115A
NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3) 1, the NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as stream
mitigation.
D) As part of the 401 Water Quality Certification Application process, NC DOT is respectfully reminded to
include specifics for both onsite and offsite mitigation plans. If mitigation is required, it is preferable to
present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental documentation. While
NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be practical, it should be noted that for projects requiring
mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans will be required in conjunction with the issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification. We understand that NC DOT will request compensatory mitigation through the NC
Ecosystem Enhancement Program for offsite mitigation.
Nose Carolina
Transportation Permitting Unit Nutur illff
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604
Phone: [phone]/ FAX [phone]/ Internet: http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetiands
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer - 50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper
1=.
E) Future documentation, including the 401 Water Quality Certification Application, should include an
itemized listing of the proposed wetland and stream impacts with corresponding mapping.
F) 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. We understand that you have agreed to make this
study a part of your 401 Water Quality Certification Application.
G) NC DOT is respectfully reminded that all impacts, including but not limited to, bridging, fill, excavation
and clearing, to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and riparian buffers need to be included in the final impact
calculations. These impacts, in addition to any construction impacts, temporary or otherwise, also need to
be included as part of the 401 Water Quality Certification Application.
H) 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.
I) Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in_wetlands.
J) Borrow/waste areas should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practicable. Impacts to wetlands in
borrow/waste areas could precipitate compensatory mitigation.
K) 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.
L) Based on the information presented in the document, the magnitude of impacts to wetlands and streams
may require an Individual Permit 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.
The NCDWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on your project. Should you have any questions or
require any additional information, please contact Nicole Thomson at [phone].
cc: Mr. Dave Timpy, US Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington Field Office
Mr. Gary Jordan, USFWS
Mr. Travis Wilson, NCWRC
Mr. Ken Averitte, NCDWQ Wilmington Regional Office
Central Files
File Copy
CA2004 DOT ProjectAU-4434Tuvirontmental Study Feb 05
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
Project Review Form
Project Number: County- Date Received: Date Response Due (firm d?d line):
r / 3 3 ?,? ?hP,? l 9-
f, To
This project is being reviewed as indicated below:
Regional Office Regional Office Area In-House Review
? Asheville f ? Soil & Water ? Marine Fisheries
? Fayetteville Water ? Coastal Management
? Mooresville ?-Qroundwater wildlife ? Water Resources
V
9 h1
? Raleigh and Quality Engineer r
environmental Health
? Washington ? Recreational Consultant Forest Resources ? Solid Waste Mgmt
?(Wihnington ? Land Resources ? Radiation Protection
? Winston-Salem arks & Recreation ? Other
?te Vitality' Tut 0--op
? Groundwater
? Air Quality
Manager Sign-OTRegion: Date: In-House Reviewer/Agcncy:
Response (check all applicable)
? No objection to project as proposed.
? No Comment
? Insufficient information to complete review
Other (specify or attach comments)
o ?c??adc? p
Q
NOV 1 2 2004
yy?Dg AND S16 NA
Melba McGee
Environmental Coordinator
Office of Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
October 27, 2004
MEMORANDUM TO: Ms. Chrys Baggett, Director
State Clearinghouse
Department of Administration
FROM: Gail Grimes, P. E., Assistant Mana er
NCDOT - PD&EA Branch
SUBJECT: Request for Comments for Environmental and Engineering Studies
Related to the Extension of Independence Boulevard from Randall
Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in New Hanover County,
North Carolina, WBS Element No. 37764.1.1, TIP Project No. U-4434
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has retained the firm of URS Corporation -
North Carolina (URS) to prepare environmental documentation and engineering studies for the proposed
approximate 2-mile-long extension of Independence Boulevard in Wilmington, North Carolina. This
letter constitutes solicitation for scoping comments related to the described project.
Study Area Characteristics
The project is located in the northern section of the City of Wilmington near the airport in New Hanover
County, North Carolina. The study area is shown on Figure 1. The project study area falls within the
municipal planning limits of the City of Wilmington. The majority of the study area is zoned as
commercial services, office and institutional, light manufacturing, multi-family-medium density, and
community business, with the area north of Princess Place zoned as residential (5,000 and 10,000 square
feet minimum lot sizes).
Land use was assessed along Covil Avenue between Randall Parkway and Market Street, and along
Montgomery Avenue and Evans Street between Market Street and Princess Place is predominately
Single-family residential developments and apartment complexes, with commercial development located
near the major intersections (i.e., Randall Parkway, Market Street, and Princess Place). One (1) church,
Charity Baptist Church; one (1) park, Maides Park; and two (2) CSX Railroad crossings are located
within this area. Vacant undeveloped land is located north of Princess Place. The Wilmington Housing
Authority (WHA) plans to submit a development plan for the construction of affordable homes and rental
units on this undeveloped land. The NCDOT will work closely with WHA to ensure that the plans for
their proposed development and the proposed roadway extension project are mutually beneficial to the
community and the City of Wilmington.
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOLORG RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
2
Project Description
The proposed action is the extension of Independence Boulevard located in the City of Wilmington. The
project is designated in the 2004-2010 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as TIP No.
U4434 and described as "Independence Boulevard Extension, Randall Parkway to Smith Creek
Parkway. Multi-Lanes on New Location" Smith Creek Parkway was subsequently renamed to Martin
Luther King Jr. Parkway.
The goal of this project is to provide improved north-south access in Wilmington by extending
Independence Boulevard to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway while limiting impacts to the human and
natural environments. This extension is expected to improve the intermodal access between various
facilities in and around Wilmington, such as the Wilmington International Airport, Port of Wilmington,
Central Business District, and I-40 also.
Need for the Proposed Action
The primary needs identified by the City of Wilmington for the proposed action are:
Deficiencies in traffic operations and levels of service (LOS) - According to the feasibility
study, the 2002 Average Daily Traffic (ADT) along the proposed Independence Boulevard
within the project limits ranges from 18,700 vehicles per day (vpd) to 26,700 vpd. For the design
year 2025, the estimated traffic volumes on the proposed Independence Boulevard would range
from 31,000 vpd to 39,000 vpd. Truck traffic is estimated to make up approximately eight
percent of the daily traffic. With the proposed extension of Independence Boulevard, the
intersections along this corridor would operate at a Level of Service (LOS) "D" or better in both
2002 and design year 2025.
Inadequate accessibility and efficiency of the study area roadway network - The
Independence Boulevard Extension Project would complete a major north-south corridor in the
heart of the urban area from River Road in the south to Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway in the
north. Model projections suggest that Independence Boulevard would draw approximately 35 to
40 percent of the traffic from College Road when the roadway is completely upgraded with this
last remaining link. College Road is currently Wilmington's main north-south corridor. In
addition, the recommended project would take traffic pressures off of residential streets that are
being used as cut through routes. This extension is also expected to improve the intermodal
access between various facilities in and around Wilmington, such as the Wilmington
International Airport, Port of Wilmington, Central Business District, and I40.
Safety - Given the transportation demand estimates, although heavily based upon socioeconomic
information (e.g., housing, employment data), future year projections may actually draw a larger
percentage when the project is completed because the intersection and driveway conflicts on
Independence Boulevard are less than those present on College Road. Fewer conflicts mean safer
and more efficient traffic flow as well as better travel times and travel speeds for motorists.
Upgrading to partially controlled access and divided roadways would present an even safer
corridor.
Increased projected population growth for the City of Wilmington - The Greater
Wilmington Urban Area has grown rapidly in recent years. It is estimated that the urban area
population will increase from approximately 150,000 people in 1997 to over 210,000 people in
2025. This growth will likely increase the 660,000 daily trips carried by the transportation
3
network in 1999 to over 1,000,000 daily trips in 2025. The Independence Boulevard Extension
project is needed to accommodate this future traffic by completing a major north-south corridor
in the heart of the urban area from River Road in the south to Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway in
the north.
Human Environment
Local citizenry and their respective environs situated within the project area are well established and
cohesive in nature. Low income and/or minority residents also dominate the northern portion of the
project area. This project will be developed in accordance with the Civil Rights Act of 1968 and
Executive Order 12898 - Environmental Justice.
Cultural Resources
Historical Architectural Resources
There are no structures or properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places within or near the
project study area, and files located at the Historic Preservation Office (HPO) documenting previous
surveys do not show any unlisted historic architectural resources.
Archaeological Sites
According to files at the Office of State Archaeology, three archaeological sites (i.e., Sites 31NH732,
31NH733, and 31NH734) were identified within the project area, and one site (i.e., Site 31NH401) was
located just outside of the project area.
Archaeologists from Wake Forest University recorded Sites 31NH732, 31NH733, and 31NH734 in
August 2003. However, site forms detailing these three sites were not submitted to the Office of State
Archaeology, and no detailed information about the sites is available at this time. Therefore, the National
Register of Historic Places eligibility of these three sites will be unknown.
Site 31NH401 is located just outside of the project vicinity just south of Smith Creek. This site was
identified in 1978 as having been occupied in the Archaic and Woodland periods of prehistory, and also
during historic times. The site is not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places due to
disturbances the site had suffered from borrow-pit activities associated with the construction of the New
Hanover County Regional Airport.
Natural Features
The project study area is located within the Cape Fear River Basin, and a large portion of the study area
is developed. US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Natural Heritage Program
(NCNHP) databases were searched. for threatened and endangered species known to occur within the
project area. The data search did not indicate any occurrences of state or federally listed threatened or
endangered species within the project area boundaries. Natural features within the project area include
several tributaries and wetland features associated with Burnt Mill Creek and Smith Creek. The Smith
Creek system drains the study area, eventually reaching the Cape Fear River. Riparian buffer rules are
not in effect for this basin; however, they are expected to be implemented before the end of the current
study and will be followed accordingly.
4
Questions and Comments
This letter constitutes solicitation for scoping comments related to the described project. Please respond
concerning any beneficial or adverse impacts of the proposed project relating to the interest of your
agency to allow the impacts to be fully studied. If applicable, please identify any permits or approvals
that may be required by your agency.
If you have questions or comments concerning this project, please address those to:
Ms. Gail Grimes, P.E., Assistant Manager
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Thank you for your cooperation.
KAW/pk
Attachments
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Figure 1: Vicinity Map
n 6-V'Kfb s?•? ,? 3 Independence Blvd., New Hanover County
' I NCDOT U-4434
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USGS 7.5' Castle Hayne and Wilmington
•, - - N
-Y - Project Vicinity
f = I 0.25 0 0.25
14
1. I ` i . I I Miles
t .}' - Project Vicinity -
New Hanover .
North Carolina Counties
a5T17Eo
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
YdE7t?,.u
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION v'NCH
MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDO TIPPETT
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
October 27, 2004
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. John Hennessy
Division of Water Quality/Wetlands
FROM: Gail Grimes, P. E., Assistant M age
NCDOT - PD&EA Branch
SUBJECT: Request . for Comments for Environmental and Engineering Studies
Related to the Extension of Independence Boulevard from Randall
Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in New Hanover County,
North Carolina, WBS Element No. 37764.1.1, TIP Project No. U-4434
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has retained the firm of URS Corporation -
North Carolina (URS) to prepare environmental documentation and engineering studies for the proposed
approximate 2-mile-long extension of Independence Boulevard in Wilmington, North Carolina. This
letter constitutes solicitation for scoping comments related to the described project.
Study Area Characteristics
The project is located in the northern section of the City of Wilmington near the airport in New Hanover
County, North Carolina. The study area is shown on Figure 1. The project study area falls within the
municipal planning limits of the City of Wilmington. The majority of the study area is zoned as
commercial services, office and institutional, light manufacturing, multi-family-medium density, and
community business, with the area north of Princess Place zoned as residential (5,000 and 10,000 square
feet minimum lot sizes).
Land use was assessed along Covil Avenue between Randall Parkway and Market Street, and along
Montgomery Avenue and Evans Street between Market Street and Princess Place is predominately
Single-family residential developments and apartment complexes, with commercial development located
near the major intersections (i.e., Randall Parkway, Market Street, and Princess Place). One (1) church,
Charity Baptist Church; one (1) park, Maides Park; and two (2) CSX Railroad crossings are located
within this area. Vacant undeveloped land is located north of Princess Place. The Wilmington Housing
Authority (WHA) plans to submit a development plan for the construction of affordable homes and rental
units on this undeveloped land. The NCDOT will work closely with WHA to ensure that the plans for
their proposed development and the proposed roadway extension project are mutually beneficial to the
community and the City of Wilmington.
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
2
Project Description
The proposed action is the extension of Independence Boulevard located in the City of Wilmington. The
project is designated in the 2004-2010 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as TIP No.
U-4434 and described as "Independence Boulevard Extension, Randall Parkway to Smith Creek
Parkway. Multi-Lanes on New Location." Smith Creek Parkway was subsequently renamed to Martin
Luther King Jr. Parkway.
The goal of this project is to provide improved north-south access in Wilmington by extending
Independence Boulevard to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway while limiting impacts to the human and
natural environments. This extension is expected to improve the intermodal access between various
facilities in and around Wilmington, such as the Wilmington International Airport, Port of Wilmington,
Central Business District, and I-40 also.
Need for the Proposed Action
The primary needs identified by the City of Wilmington for the proposed action are:
Deficiencies in traffic operations and levels of service (LOS) - According to the feasibility
study, the 2002 Average Daily Traffic (ADT) along the proposed Independence Boulevard
within the project limits ranges from 18,700 vehicles per day (vpd) to 26,700 vpd. For the design
year 2025, the estimated traffic volumes on the proposed Independence Boulevard would range
from 31,000 vpd to 39,000 vpd. Truck traffic is estimated to make up approximately eight
percent of the daily traffic. With the proposed extension of Independence Boulevard, the
intersections along this corridor would operate at a Level of Service (LOS) "D" or better in both
2002 and design year 2025.
Inadequate accessibility and efficiency of the study area roadway network - The
Independence Boulevard Extension Project would complete a major north-south corridor in the
heart of the urban area from River Road in the south to Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway in the
north. Model projections suggest that Independence Boulevard would draw approximately 35 to
40 percent of the traffic from College Road when the roadway is completely upgraded with this
last remaining link. College Road is currently Wilmington's main north-south corridor. In
addition, the recommended project would take traffic pressures off of residential streets that are
being used as cut through routes. This extension is also expected to improve the intermodal
access between various facilities in and around Wilmington, such as the Wilmington
International Airport, Port of Wilmington, Central Business District, and I-40.
• Safety - Given the transportation demand estimates, although heavily based upon socioeconomic
information (e.g., housing, employment data), future year projections may actually draw a larger
percentage when the project is completed because the intersection and driveway conflicts on
Independence Boulevard are less than those present on College Road. Fewer conflicts mean safer
and more efficient traffic flow as well as better travel times and travel speeds for motorists.
Upgrading to partially controlled access and divided roadways would present an even safer
corridor.
• Increased projected population growth for the City of Wilmington - The Greater
Wilmington Urban Area has grown rapidly in recent years. It is estimated that the urban area
population will increase from approximately 150,000 people in 1997 to over 210,000 people in
2025. This growth will likely increase the 660,000 daily trips carried by the transportation
network in 1999 to over 1,000,000 daily trips in 2025. The Independence Boulevard Extension
project is needed to accommodate this future traffic by completing a major north-south corridor
in the heart of the urban area from River Road in the south to Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway in
the north.
Human Environment
Local citizenry and their respective environs situated within the project area are well established and
cohesive in nature. Low income and/or minority residents also dominate the northern portion of the
project area. This project will be developed in accordance with the Civil Rights Act of 1968 and
Executive Order 12898 - Environmental Justice.
Cultural Resources
Historical Architectural Resources
There are no structures or properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places within or near the
project study area, and files located at the Historic Preservation Office (HPO) documenting previous
surveys do not show any unlisted historic architectural resources.
Archaeological Sites
According to files at the Office of State Archaeology, three archaeological sites (i.e., Sites 31NH732,
31NH733, and 31NH734) were identified within the project area, and one site (i.e., Site 31NH401) was
located just outside of the project area.
Archaeologists from Wake Forest University recorded Sites 31NH732, 31NH733, and 31NH734 in
August 2003. However, site forms detailing these three sites were not submitted to the Office of State
Archaeology, and no detailed information about the sites is available at this time. Therefore, the National
Register of Historic Places eligibility of these three sites will be unknown.
Site 31NH401 is located just outside of the project vicinity just south of Smith Creek. This site was
identified in 1978 as having been occupied in the Archaic and Woodland periods of prehistory, and also
during historic times. The site is not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places due to
disturbances the site had suffered from borrow-pit activities associated with the construction of the New
Hanover County Regional Airport.
Natural Features
The project study area is located within the Cape Fear River Basin, and a large portion of the study area
is developed. US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and North Carolina Natural Heritage Program
(NCNHP) databases were searched for threatened and endangered species known to occur within the
project area. The data search did not indicate any occurrences of state or federally listed threatened or
endangered species within the project area boundaries. Natural features within the project area include
several tributaries and wetland features associated with Burnt Mill Creek and Smith Creek. The Smith
Creek system drains the study area, eventually reaching the Cape Fear River. Riparian buffer rules are
not in effect for this basin; however, they are expected to be implemented before the end of the current
study and will be followed accordingly.
4
Questions and Comments
This letter constitutes solicitation for scoping comments related to the described project. Please respond
concerning any beneficial or adverse impacts of the proposed project relating to the interest of your
agency to allow the impacts to be fully studied. If applicable, please identify any permits or approvals
that may be required by your agency.
If you have questions or comments concerning this project, please address those to:
Ms. Gail Grimes, P.E., Assistant Manager
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Thank you for your cooperation.
KAW/plr
Attachments

United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Raleigh Field Office
Post Office Box 33726
Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726
November- 30, 2004
Ms. Gail Grimes
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
Dear Ms. Grimes:
This letter is in response to your request for comments from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
(Service) on the potential environmental effects of the proposed extension of Independence
Boulevard from Randall Parkway to Martin Luther King, Jr. Parkway in New Hanover County,
North Carolina (TIP No. U-4434). These comments provide scoping information in accordance
with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16 U.S.C. 661-667d) and section 7 of
the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543).
Recent aerial photography shows that almost all of the project area has been previously
developed, with only small fragments of forested areas remaining among residential and
commercial areas. The Service does not have any specific concerns for this project at this time,
but we offer the following general conservation measures to avoid or minimize environmental
impacts to fish and wildlife resources:
Wetland and forest impacts should be avoided and minimized to the maximal extent
practical. Areas exhibiting high biodiversity or ecological value important to the
watershed or region should be avoided. Proposed highway projects should be aligned
along or adjacent to existing roadways, utility corridors or other previously disturbed
areas in order to minimize habitat loss and fragmentation. Highway shoulder and median
widths should be reduced through wetland areas;
2. Crossings of streams and associated wetland systems should use existing crossings and/or
occur on a bridge structure wherever feasible. Bridges should be long enough to allow
for sufficient wildlife passage along stream corridors. Where bridging is not feasible,
culvert structures that maintain natural water flow and hydraulic regimes without
scouring or impeding fish and wildlife passage should be employed;
3. Bridges and approaches should be designed to avoid any fill that will result in damming
or constriction of the channel or flood plain. To the extent possible; piers and bents
should be placed outside the bank-full width of the stream. If spanning the flood plain is
not feasible, culverts should be installed in the flood plain portion of the approach to
r
restore some of the hydrological functions of the flood plain and reduce high velocities of
flood waters within the affected area;
4. Bridge designs should include provisions for roadbed and deck drainage to flow through
a vegetated buffer prior to reaching the affected stream. This buffer should be large
enough to alleviate any potential effects from run-off of storm water and pollutants;
Off-site detours should be used rather than construction of temporary, on-site bridges.
For projects requiring an on-site detour in wetlands or open water, such detours should be
aligned along the side of the existing structure which has the least and/or least quality of
fish and wildlife habitat. At the completion of construction, the detour area should be
entirely removed and the impacted areas be planted with appropriate vegetation,
including trees if necessary;
6. If unavoidable wetland or stream impacts are proposed, a plan for compensatory
mitigation to offset unavoidable impacts should be provided early in the planning
process. Opportunities to protect mitigation areas in perpetuity via conservation
easements, land trusts or by other means should be explored at the outset;
7. Wherever appropriate, construction in sensitive areas should occur outside fish spawning
and migratory bird nesting seasons. In waterways that may serve as travel corridors for
fish, in-water work should be avoided during moratorium periods associated with
migration, spawning and sensitive pre-adult life stages. The general moratorium period
for anadromous fish is February 15 - June 30;
8. Best Management Practices (BMP) for Protection of Surface Waters should be
implemented; and
9. Activities within designated riparian buffers should be avoided or minimized.
Section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act requires that all federal action agencies.(or their
designated non-federal representatives), in consultation with the Service, insure that any action
federally authorized, funded, or carried out by such agencies is not likely to jeopardize the
continued existence of any federally-listed threatened or endangered species. A biological
assessment/evaluation may be prepared to fulfill the section 7(a)(2) requirement and will
expedite the consultation process. To assist you, a county-by-county list of federally protected
species known to occur in North Carolina and information on their life histories and habitats can
be found on our web page at http://nc-es.fws.gov/es/countyfr.html .
Although the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database does not indicate any
known occurrences of listed species near the project vicinity, use of the NCNHP data should not
be substituted for actual field surveys if suitable habitat occurs near the project site. The
NCNHP database only indicates the presence of known occurrences of listed species and does
not necessarily mean that such species are not present. It may simply mean that the area has not
been surveyed. If suitable habitat occurs within the project vicinity for any listed species,
surveys should be conducted to determine presence or absence of the species.
If you determine that the proposed action may affect (i.e., likely to adversely affect or not likely
to adversely affect) a listed species, you should notify this office with your determination, the
results of your surveys, survey methodologies, and an analysis of the effects of the action on
listed species, including consideration of direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, before
conducting any activities that might affect the species. If you determine that the proposed action
will have no effect (i.e., no beneficial or adverse, direct or indirect effect) on listed species, then
you are not required to contact our office for concurrence.
We reserve the right to review any federal permits that may be required for this project, at the
public notice stage. Therefore, it is important that resource agency coordination occur early in
the planning process in order to resolve any conflicts that may arise and minimize delays in
project implementation. In addition to the above guidance, we recommend that the
environmental documentation for this project include the following in sufficient detail to
facilitate a thorough review of the action:
1. A clearly defined and detailed purpose and need for the proposed project, supported by
tabular data, if available, and including a discussion of the project's independent utility;
2. A description of the proposed action with an analysis of all alternatives being considered,
including the upgrading of existing roads and a "no action" alternative;
3. A description of the fish and wildlife resources, and their habitats, within the project
impact area that may be directly or indirectly affected;
4. The extent and acreage of waters of the U.S., including wetlands, that are to be impacted
by filling, dredging, clearing, ditching, or draining. Acres of wetland impact should be
differentiated by habitat type based on the wetland classification scheme of the National
Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Wetland boundaries should be determined by using the 1987
Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and verified by the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers;
5. The anticipated environmental impacts, both temporary and permanent, that would be
likely to occur as a direct result of the proposed project. The assessment should also
include the extent to which the proposed project would result in secondary impacts to
natural resources, and how this and similar projects contribute to cumulative adverse
effects;
6. Design features and construction techniques which would be employed to avoid or
minimize impacts to fish and wildlife resources, both direct and indirect, and including
fragmentation and direct loss of habitat;
7. Design features, construction techniques, or any other mitigation measures which would
be employed at wetland crossings and stream channel relocations to avoid or minimize
impacts to waters of the US; and,
8. If unavoidable wetland or stream impacts are proposed, project planning should include a
compensatory mitigation plan for offsetting the unavoidable impacts.
The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. Please continue to advise us
during the progression of the planning process, including your official determination of the
impacts of this project. If you have any questions regarding our response, please contact Mr.
Gary Jordan at [phone], ext. 32.
me ,
Pet enjiamin
Ecological Services Supervisor
cc: Dave Timpy, USACE, Wilmington, NC
Nicole Thomson, NCDWQ, Raleigh, NC
Travis Wilson, NCWRC, Creedmoor, NC
Chris Militscher, USEPA, Raleigh, NC
11. Sources
Al Hull, Spencer's Woods realtor, personal interview, June 23, 2006.
Edgecombe County, Land Development Plan, 1997 - 2007 (1997).
Edgecombe County, Thoroughfare Plan Study and Technical Report (1997).
Edgecombe County, Unified Development Ordinance, 1999.
I

A Guidebook for Evaluating the Indirect Land Use and Groxth Impacts of Highavay Improvements (Final Report).
Prepared by ECONorthwest and Portland State University for the Oregon Department of
Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration. FHWA-OR-RD-01-16 and SPR
Project 327. April 2001.
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis TIP U - 3826, SR 9537 Daniel Street Extension from SR 1518
(Baker Street) to US 258. Prepared for the North Carolina Department of Transportation Office
of Human Environment by the Louis Berger Group, Inc. Final Document August, 2005.
NCDENR Division of Water Quality website, www.h2o.enr.state.nc.us.
' NCDOT/NCDENR Guidance for Assessing Indirect and Cumulative Impacts of Transportation Projects in
North Carolina, Volume II.• Practitioners Handbook, prepared by the Louis Berger Group, Inc.
November 2001.
t Town of Tarboro website, http://w-,vw.tarboro-nc.com.
Troy Lewis, Planning Director, personal interview, June 2, 2006.
' United States Bureau of the Census, htW://www.census.gov.

i

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' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 01
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R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 34
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis ,

12. Appendix.
' The following is a copy of the NCDOT Preliminary Assessment Document for McNair Road
Extension Project (R - 4434), courtesy of Jamie Guerrero, NCDOT Division 4, Environmental
Officer.

R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 35
' Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis 01
NC 122 (McNair Road Ext.)
From NC 111 (Wilson St.) to US 258
Edgecombe County
TIP No. R-4434
1. General Description
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), Division of Highways,
proposes to extend existing McNair Road (NC 122) from NC 111 (Wilson St.) to US 258 in
Tarboro. The proposed project will consist of a two-lane shoulder section. The improved facility
will provide 12-foot travel lanes with 8-foot shoulders (2-foot paved) in each direction. The
project will be approximately 1.4 miles on new location. The new location will tie in to existing
SR 1344 and continue for approximately 0.5 miles to an intersection with US 258.
This project is included in the approved 2004-2010 Transportation Improvement Program
(T.I.P.) with a total estimated cost of $2,100,000. This estimate includes $250,000 for right of
way acquisition and $1,850,000 for construction. Acquisition of right of way is scheduled for
SFY `04 and construction in SFY `04.
The recommended right of way width is 100 ft. No residences or businesses will be
relocated as a result of the project.
II. Need For Project
The purpose of extending McNair Road is to provide system linkage between existing
NC 122/NC 111 and US 258. This link has been identified as a portion of the proposed
"southern loop" in the mutually adopted "Thoroughfare Plan Study and Technical Report" of
April 1997. Due to increased development along other routes into downtown Tarboro, future
traffic growth will create longer travel times, and an increase in accidents. Therefore,
improvements are warranted to accommodate traffic growth and to ensure safety. Even with a
proposed widening project along NC 111 from McNair Rd. to US 64A (Western Blvd.), the
traffic through this section will only operate at LOS D in the future. If no improvements are
made, this roadway will reach LOS F by the design year. Upon completion of the proposed
McNair Rd. Extension and based on traffic volumes, the expected LOS should be C or B.
Therefore, improvements are warranted to accommodate traffic growth and to insure safety.
NC 122 (McNair Rd.) is designated as an urban major thoroughfare in the mutually
adopted "Thoroughfare Plan Study and Technical Report" of April 1997. The proposed
extension will connect US 258 (urban major thoroughfare) with NC 111 (urban major
thoroughfare).
The current traffic volume on NC 111 is estimated at approximately 7000 vehicles per
day (vpd). The proposed project along with other improvements to the local transportation
network is expected to encourage growth in the area. This growth combined with the current
growth trend in traffic is expected to generate an estimated traffic volume of 13,000 vpd for the
design year 2025. Truck traffic will make up approximately 7% of this total.
R - 4434, WBS #35600.1.1 36
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Analysis