U-3468 + R-616_complete file

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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
April 26, 2004
Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele
NC Division of Water Quality
1650 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650
Dear Ms. Van Der Wiele:
WETLA MD,? / 401 GROUP
MAY 0 5 2004
Wkcll QUALITY SECTION
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
SUBJECT: NEPA/404 Concurrence Meeting for the US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor
Study, Wilkes County, JIP Proiect U-3468 and US 268/US 421 Business
Corridor Study, TIP Project R-616
A merger team meeting is scheduled for June 15, 2004 at 1:00 PM. The purpose
of the meeting is to discuss alternatives to be carried forward for TIP Projects U-3468
and R-616. An agenda detailing the location of this meeting will be forwarded under
separate cover.
Enclosed is information regarding the purpose and need for the project. Please
look over the enclosed materials so that we may discuss your concerns prior to the
June 15 meeting. Should you have questions, my phone number is [phone],
extension 244 and my email address is jmsafron(adot.state.nc.us.
Sincerely,
n
Jennifer Safron, PE
Project Development Engineer
Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch
Enclosure
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE. NC.US RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548

NEPA/404 MERGER CONCURRENCE POINT #2
ALTERNATIVES TO BE CARRIED FORWARD
FOR DETAILED STUDY

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US 421 WILKESBORO CORRIDOR STUDY
US 268/US 421 BUSINESS CORRIDOR STUDY
WILKES COUNTY
TIP PROJECTS U-3468 & R-0616
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TIP Project U-3468
WBS ELEMENT 34954.1.1
State Project 8.1761901
Federal Aid Project NHF-42113(1)
TIP Project R-0616
WBS ELEMENT 34349.1.1
State Project 8.1761701
Federal Aid Project STP-268(4)
Purpose of Today's Meeting
The purpose of today's meeting is to present information regarding alternative corridors
for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-0616. The project team will then decide on alternatives to carry
forward. Preliminary study corridors that are based on functional designs will be presented as a
starting point. The project team will then decide to eliminate or add additional alternatives.
Project Description
TIP Projects U-3468 and R-0616 have been included in the 2004-2010 North Carolina
Transportation Improvement Program to improve the US 421 corridor and the NC 268/US 421
Business corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro, in Wilkes County (see
Figure 1). U-3468 focuses on the section of US Highway 401 from west of NC 16 to NC 268,
and R-0616 focuses on US 401 Business from US 401 Bypass to its intersection with
NC 268/NC 18.
Project Purpose
The Purpose and Need was concurred upon at the merger meeting held for U-3468 and R-0616
on August 15, 2002. The Purpose and Need statements are as follows:
Expected future local and regional vehicular congestion in this area of fVilkes
County indicates the need for expanded transportation facilities.
The purpose of U-3468 is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and reduce travel
time for the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. In addition, R-616 will
alleviate vehicular congestion on
the NC 18-268 and US 421 Business corridor.
At the August 15, 2002 meeting, team members agreed that all subsequent concurrence meetings
for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 should be joint meetings.
I
Project Schedule/Cost
Citizens' Informational workshops were held for these projects in July 2003 and February
2004.
Right of Way acquisition for U-3468 is currently scheduled for Federal Fiscal Year 2006
and construction is set to begin in Federal Fiscal Year 2009.
Right of Way acquisition for R-616 is currently scheduled for Federal Fiscal Year 2008
and construction is set to begin in Federal Fiscal Year 2010.
The current estimated total cost for U-3468 is $63,000,000, based on the northern
corridor alternatives. This cost includes $ 11,700,000 for right of way and $ 50,800,000 for
construction.
The current estimated total cost for R-616 is $60,200,000, based on Alternative 1. This
cost includes $ 13,000,000 for right of way and $ 47,000,000 for construction.
Project Alternatives
Several alternatives have been developed in early planning for the project.
U-3468
Northern Option 1 extends from NC 16 to the US 421/NC 268 interchange, north of
existing US 421, approximately 4.3 miles. This study corridor provides interchanges at US 421
Business/SR 1372 and with Alternative Study Corridor 1 of TIP Project R-0616. The yellow line
shows this alternative on the aerial. At the Citizens' Informational Workshop held in July, 2003,
NCDOT was informed this alternative did not go far enough to the west of Wilkesboro to
provide an adequate bypass of the commercial development on US 421. It was noted that any
new-location alternative for U-3468 would need to tie back in to US 421 to the west of NC 16 to
be an adequate bypass. For this reason, NCDOT supports removing Northern Option 1 from the
list of alternatives to be studied in detail.
Northern Option 2 closely follows Northern Option 1 west of SR 1323. It then shifts
northward, allowing for a different interchange configuration at US 421 Business/SR 1372 and
the proposed bypass. This alternative is approximately 4.2 miles. The pink line shows this
alternative on the aerial. At the Citizens' Informational Workshop held in July, 2003, NCDOT
was informed this alternative, like Northern Option 1, did not go far enough to the west of
Wilkesboro to provide an adequate bypass of the commercial development on US 421. It was
noted that any new-location alternative for U-3468 would need to tie back in to US 421 to the
west of NC 16 to be an adequate bypass. For this reason, NCDOT also supports removing
Northern Option 2 from the list of alternatives to be studied in detail.
2

Northern Option 3 runs north of Option 1, crossing NC 16 with an interchange and
tying back in to US 421 furthest west of all the alternatives. This alternative was added as a
result of input from the first workshop held in Wilkesboro in July 2003. This alternative is
approximately 5.0 miles. The dark blue line shows this alternative on the aerial.
The Southern Option extends from NC 16, south of existing US 421, to the US 421/NC
268 interchange and is approximately 5.6 miles. The light blue line shows this alternative on the
aerial. This alternative is representative of the Bypass alternative studied for TIP Project R-
2240, described as widening to a 4-lane divided facility with a 46 foot median, US 421 from the
existing four-lane section east of Maple Springs to the existing four-lane section east of NC 268
in Wilkesboro. The Environmental Assessment (EA) for TIP Project R-2240 was completed in
November 1995. The Bypass alternative for R-2240 recommended a new location portion of
US 421 south of the existing facility, between NC 16 and the US 421/NC 268 interchange, the
same corridor as the Southern Option for U-3468. The Bypass alternative was not recommended
based, in part, on the following: 1) 4(f) considerations as a result of direct conflicts with the
Johnson Farm Complex - a historic property determined eligible for the National Register of
Historic Places; 2) greater environmental impacts, notably with respect to areas of biotic
importance which included the removal of marginally disturbed forested areas along the new
location segment; 3) more residential and commercial relocations; 4) potential conflicts with the
Montford Stokes site - an archaeological site determined eligible for the National Register of
Historic Places; and 5) greater construction costs based on the substantial amount of earthwork
that would be required along the bypass segment (TIP Project R-2240 EA, 1995). NCDOT
would like to eliminate the Southern Option from alternatives to be carried forward for these
same reasons.
The Improve Existing Facilities alternative would widen the existing US 421 Bypass.
This alternative is approximately 4.4 miles. The teal line shows this alternative on the aerial.
R-616
Alternative 1 extends from US 421-NC 16 to the NC 18-268 intersection. This study
alternative is approximately 4.6 miles. The red line shows this alternative on the aerial.
Alternative 2 begins at the intersection of US 421 bypass and NC 268 and ends at the
NC 18-268 intersection. This alternative is approximately 3.3 miles. The orange plus red lines
shows this alternative on the aerial.
The Improve Existing Facilities alternative would widen the existing NC 18-268 and
US 421 business corridors. This alternative is approximately 4.6 miles. The green line shows
this alternative on the aerial.
3
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ALTERNATIVE COMPARISONS
U-3468
NOTES:
• Some impact totals are not for the full 1000' corridor width. The Northern Option 3 and
Southern Option will likely utilize 300' in right-of-way width within their 1000' corridor,
therefore, acreage impacts and relocatees were divided by 3 to represent right-of-way widths
for these two alternatives (these values are marked with an *asterisk*). The "widen
existing" alternative could possibly utilize the entire 1000' corridor due to the necessity of
frontage/service roads and new grade-separated intersections, therefore no impacts were
divided for this alternative.
• The pink and yellow alternatives are not analyzed below, since these alternatives do not meet
the purpose and need for the project.
• Impacts computed from DWQ-based GIS data.
• The "widen existing" alternative would require NOT tying in R-616 at the intersection of
US 421 and NC 18-268 intersection, meaning only the red alternative for R-616 would work
with the "widen existing alternative "for U-3468.
' - WIDEN EXISTING Northern Option 3.-.: Southern` Option'
US 421 (Dark 'blue- 1000' = (Light Blue-] 000'
(Teal-1000' corridor) corridor)
corridor)
RESIDENTIAL
RELOCATEES 49 35* 19*
BUSINESS RELOCATEES 87 14* 24*
SCHOOLS 0 0 0
CHURCHES 1 2 2
CEMETARIES 0 2 2
NATIONAL REGISTER
LISTED PROPERTIES 0 0 1
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (NWI) 0 0 0
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (HYDRIC 16 25* 75*
SOILS)
ACRES HIGH QUALITY
WATER ZONE 0 0 0
ACRES WATER SUPPLY 35 64* 22*
CRITICAL AREAS
STREAM IMPACTS (FT.) 12000 2300* 5200*
LENGTH NEW
LOC.TION (MI.) 0 3.7 2.8
INTERCHANGES 1 2 1
TOTAL LENGTH (MI.) 4.4 5.0 5.6
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R-616
NOTES:
• Some impact totals are not for the full 1000' corridor width. The Red Alternative I and
Orange Alternative 2 will likely utilize 300' in right-of-way width within their 1000'
corridor, therefore, acreage impacts and relocatees were divided by 3 to represent right-of-
way widths for these two alternatives (these values are marked with an *asterisk*). The
"widen existing" alternative could possibly utilize the entire 1000' corridor due to the
necessity of frontage/service roads and new grade-separated intersections, therefore no
impacts were divided for this alternative.
• Impacts computed from DWQ-based GIS data.
WIDEN EXISTING Al ernatNe'2 Alternative-1
US 421 Business (Orange - 1000' (Red- 1000' corridor)
(Green- 150' corridor)
. corridor)
RESIDENTIAL
RELOCATEES 9 56* 78*
BUSINESS RELOCATEES 66 22* 27*
SCHOOLS 1 1 2
CHURCHES 2 1 1
CEMETARIES 2 1 1
NATIONAL REGISTER
LISTED PROPERTIES 0 0 0
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (NWI) 0 0 0
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (HYDRIC 1 7* 12*
SOILS)
ACRES HIGH QUALITY
WATER ZONE 0 134* 134*
ACRES WATER SUPPLY 0 0 0
CRITICAL AREAS
STREAM IMPACTS (FT.) 300 315* 665
LENGTH NEW
LOC.TION (MI.) 0 2.8 4.2
INTERCHANGES 0 1 1
TOTAL LENGTH (MI.) 4.3 3.3 4.6
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NEPA1404 MERGER CONCURRENCE POINT #2
ALTERNATIVES TO BE CARRIED FORWARD
FOR DETAILED STUDY
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US 421 WILKESBORO CORRIDOR STUDY
US 268/US 421 BUSINESS CORRIDOR STUDY
WILKES COUNTY
TIP PROJECTS U-3468 & R-0616
Project Schedule/Cost
Citizens' Informational workshops were held for these projects in July 2003 and February
2004.
Right of Way acquisition for U-3468 is currently scheduled for Federal Fiscal Year 2006
and construction is set to begin in Federal Fiscal Year 2009.
Right of Way acquisition for R-616 is currently scheduled for Federal Fiscal Year 2008
and construction is set to begin in Federal Fiscal Year 2010.
The current estimated total cost for U-3468 is $63,000,000, based on the northern
corridor alternatives. This cost includes $ 11,700,000 for right of way and $ 50,800,000 for
construction.
The current estimated total cost for R-616 is $60,200,000, based on Alternative 1. This
cost includes $ 13,000,000 for right of way and $ 47,000,000 for construction.
Project Alternatives
Several alternatives have been developed in early planning for the project.
U-346.8 _
Northern Option 1 extends from NC 16 to the US 421/NC 268 interchange, north of
existing US 421, approximately 4.3 miles. This study corridor provides interchanges at US 421
Business/SR 1372 and with Alternative Study Corridor 1 of TIP Project R-0616. The yellow line
shows this alternative on the aerial. At the Citizens' Informational Workshop held in July, 2003,
NCDOT was informed this alternative did not go far enough to the west of Wilkesboro to
provide an adequate bypass of the commercial development on US 421. It was noted that any
new-location alternative for U-3468 would need to tie back in to US 421 to the west of NC 16 to
be an adequate bypass. For this reason, NCDOT supports removing Northern Option 1 from the
list of alternatives to be studied in detail.
Northern Option 2 closely follows Northern Option 1 west of SR 1323. It then shifts
northward, allowing for a different interchange configuration at US 421 Business/SR 1372 and
the proposed bypass. This alternative is approximately 4.2 miles. The pink line shows this
alternative on the aerial. At the Citizens' Informational Workshop held in July, 2003, NCDOT
was informed this alternative, like Northern Option 1, did not go far enough to the west of
Wilkesboro to provide an adequate bypass of the commercial development on US 421. It was
noted that any new-location alternative for U-3468 would need to tie back in to US 421 to the
west of NC 16 to be an adequate bypass. For this reason, NCDOT also supports removing
Northern Option 2 from the list of alternatives to be studied in detail.
2
Northern Option 3 runs north of Option 1, crossing NC 16 with an interchange and
tying back in to US 421furthest west of all the alternatives. This alternative was added as a
result of input from the first workshop held in Wilkesboro in July 2003. This alternative is
approximately 4.5 miles. The dark blue line shows this alternative on the aerial.
The Southern Option extends from NC 16, south of existing US 421, to the US 421/NC
268 interchange and is approximately 4.3 miles. The light blue line shows this alternative on the
aerial. This alternative is representative of the Bypass alternative studied for TIP Project R-
2240, described as widening to a 4-lane divided facility with a 46 foot median, US 421 from the
existing four-lane section east of Maple Springs to the existing four-lane section east of NC 268
in Wilkesboro. The Environmental Assessment (EA) for TIP Project R-2240 was completed in
November 1995. The Bypass alternative for R-2240 recommended a new location portion of
US 421 south of the existing facility, between NC 16 and the US 421/NC 268 interchange, the
same corridor as the Southern Option for U-3468. The Bypass alternative was not recommended
based, in part, on the following: 1) 4(f) considerations as a result of direct conflicts with the
Johnson Farm Complex - a historic property determined eligible for the National Register of
Historic Places; 2) greater environmental impacts, notably with respect to areas of biotic
importance which included the removal of marginally disturbed forested areas along the new
location segment; 3) more residential and commercial relocations; 4) potential conflicts with the
Montford Stokes site - an archaeological site determined eligible for the National Register of
Historic Places; and 5) greater construction costs based on the substantial amount of earthwork
that would be required along the bypass segment (TIP Project R-2240 EA, 1995). NCDOT
would like to eliminate the Southern Option from alternatives to be carried forward for these
same reasons.
The Improve Existing Facilities alternative would widen the existing US 421 Bypass.
This alternative is approximately 3.8 miles. The teal line shows this alternative on the aerial.
R-616
Alternative 1 extends from US 421-NC 16 to the NC 18-268 intersection. This study
alternative is approximately 4.6 miles. The red line shows this alternative on the aerial.
Alternative 2 begins at the intersection of US 421 bypass and NC 268 and ends at the
NC 18-268 intersection. This alternative is approximately 4.1 miles. The orange plus red lines
shows this alternative on the aerial.
The Improve Existing Facilities alternative would widen the existing NC 18-268 and
US 421 business corridors. This alternative is approximately 3.9 miles. The green line shows
this alternative on the aerial.
3
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ALTERNATIVE COMPARISONS
U-3468.
WIDEN EXISTING Northern Option 3 Southern Option
US 421 (Dark blue- 1000' (Light Blue -1000'
(Teal- 1000' corridor) corridor)
corridor)
RESIDENTIAL
RELOCATEES 44 46 15
BUSINESS RELOCATEES 53 15 24
SCHOOLS 0 0 0
CHURCHES 1 2 1
CEMETARIES 0 2 1
NATIONAL REGISTER
LISTED PROPERTIES 0 0 1
POTENTIAL NR*
ELIGIBLE PROPERITES 0 0 1
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (NWI) 0 0 0
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (HYDRIC 17.4 15 28
SOILS)
ACRES HIGH QUALITY
WATER ZONE 0 18 0
ACRES WATER SUPPLY 0 11 22
CRITICAL AREAS
STREAM IMPACTS (FT.) 6800 1417 2734
LENGTH NEW
LOC.TION (MI.) 0 4.5 4.3
INTERCHANGES 3 1 0
TOTAL LENGTH (MI.) 3.4 4.5 4.3
NOTE: Some impact totals are not for the full 1000' corridor width. The Northern Option 3
and Southern Option will likely utilize 300' in right-of-way width within their 1000' corridor,
therefore, acreage impacts and relocatees were divided by 3 to represent right-of-way widths
for these two alternatives. The "widen existing" alternative could possibly utilize all of the
1000' corridor due to the necessity of frontage/service roads and new grade-separated
intersections, therefore no impacts were divided for this alternative.
4
R-616
WIDEN EXISTING Alternative 2 Alternative 1
US 421 Business (Orange + red- 1000'_ (Red-1000' corridor)
(Green- 150' corridor)
corridor)
RESIDENTIAL
RELOCATEES 9 65 78
BUSINESS RELOCATEES 66 34 27
SCHOOLS 1 1 2
CHURCHES 2 2 1
CEMETARIES 2 2 1
NATIONAL REGISTER
LISTED PROPERTIES 0 0 0
POTENTIAL NR*
ELIGIBLE PROPERITES 0 0 0
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (NWI) 0 0 0
ACRES WETLANDS
AFFECTED (HYDRIC 0 15 6
SOILS)
ACRES HIGH QUALITY
WATER ZONE 0 134 134
ACRES WATER SUPPLY 0 18 0
CRITICAL AREAS
STREAM IMPACTS (FT.) 300 1800 370
LENGTH NEW
LOC.TION (MI.) 0 4.1 4.6
INTERCHANGES 0 2 1
TOTAL LENGTH (MI.) 4.3 4.1 4.6
NOTE: For Alternative 2 and 1, acreage impacts and relocatees were divided by 3 to represent
the likely right-of-way width utilized within a 1000' corridor. None of the "widen existing"
alternative impacts were divided, as a realistic right-of-way width of 150 feet is represented in
the 150' corridor shown for this alternative.
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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT
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DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study &
NC 18-268/US 421 Business Corridor Improvements
Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
TIP Projects U-3468 & R-0616
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June 27, 2002
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Alethia Raynor
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study, Wilkes County,
F.A. Project NHF-421B(1), State Project 8.1761901,
TIP Project U-3468
A concurrence meeting for the subject project was held on May 15, 2002. The objectives
of the meeting were to present general information about the project study area to the team
members, and to establish purpose and need for the project (concurrence point 1). The following
people attended the meeting:
Jean Manuele US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh
Jake Riggsbee Federal Highway Administration
Marella Buncick US Fish and Wildlife Service
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NC Division of Water Quality
David Cox North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Renee Gledhill-Earley State Historic Preservation Office
Nya Boayue NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Ted Walls NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Rob Hanson NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Jay McInnis NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Alethia Raynor NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Purpose and need documentation for the subject project was provided to participants prior
to the meeting. Handouts made available at the meeting included a copy of all slides and figures
referenced during the presentation. The following is a summary of the information presented to
the team members. Comments and recommendations discussed at the meeting are also included.
Proiect Description
TIP Project U-3468 has been included in the Draft 2004-2010 North Carolina
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to improve the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of
Wilkesboro, in Wilkes County. This project focuses on the section of highway from west of
NC 16 to NC 268. This portion of US 421 is approximately 3.4 miles.
Project Purpose
The project purpose presented at the meeting was stated as follows:
The purpose of the project is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and improve travel time for
traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro.
Project Need
The needs identified for the project are:
1) Growing traffic volumes along US 421 in the project area,
2) High number of rear-end collisions, and
3) Growing delay in travel time due to amount of traffic and number of signals
along US 421 in the area.
Project History
Improvements are currently being made to US 421 in the study area under TIP Project
R-2240B. US 421 is being widened to five fanes between NC 16 and the US 421 Business
intersection. From the US 421 Business intersection to east of NC 268, US 421 is being widened
to four lanes with a median. This work is anticipated to be completed in December 2003.
The Environmental Assessment (EA) for TIP Project R-2240 was completed in November
1995. One alternative considered for the project included a bypass around the existing business
district. The Bypass alternative recommended a new location portion of US 421 south of the
existing facility, between NC 16 and the US 42I NC 268 interchange. The Bypass alternative was
eliminated from further consideration based, in part, on the following: 1) 4(f) considerations as a
result of direct conflicts with the Johnson Farm Complex - a historic property determined eligible
for the National Register of Historic Places; 2) greater environmental impacts, notably with
respect to areas of biotic importance which included the removal of marginally disturbed forested
areas along the new location segment; 3) more residential and commercial relocations; 4) potential
conflicts with the Montford Stokes site - an archaeological site determined eligible for the
National Register of Historic Places; and 5) greater construction costs based on the substantial
amount of earthwork that would be required along the bypass segment (TIP Project R-2240 EA,
1995).
Recommendations
TIP Project R-616 is programmed as the NC 18-268 (Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro
Bypass) from NC 18 to US 421. In the Draft 2004-2010 Transportation Improvement Program
(TIP), right of way is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2008 and construction is scheduled to begin
in 2010. A meeting to discuss purpose and need (concurrence point 1) has not been held on this
project.
At this time, it is recommended that the western termini of the Bypass (R-616) connect to
US 421 within the U-3468 project study area. All the team members emphasized the need to
coordinate planning of these two projects. They expressed concern about precluding options for
both projects since information about project R-616 was not available at the meeting.
Ms. Manuele noted that the NC 18-268 Bypass will direct more traffic onto US 421. The 2025
traffic projections provided at the meeting assume the Bypass is in place. One team member then
questioned if the NC 18-268 Bypass was driving the need for improvements along US 421. On
US 421, east of SR 1323, traffic volumes will range between 39,000 and 49,400 in 2025 with the
NC 18-268 Bypass in place. If the Bypass is not constructed, traffic volumes will range between
48,600 and 65,000 in 2025. Even with TIP Project R-616, US 421 will operate between a level of
service (LOS) E and F in 2025.
Jay McInnis emphasized that planning for the projects will be coordinated, but believed it
was more appropriate to tie the projects together at the alternatives stage. Since the two projects
are routing traffic in different directions, then the purpose and need for each project is different.
Mr. McInnis recommended revising the purpose and need for U-3468 to incorporate a
commitment for coordination of the two projects. Rob Hanson agreed and recommended the
purpose statement include addressing the needs of this and other transportation projects in a
manner that minimizes the combined environmental impact.
Marella Buncick and Jean Manuele both stated that there is a demonstrated need for
improvement to US 421. However, all of the team members agreed that another meeting should
be scheduled to discuss TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 together. Team members want to gather
all available information and then draft purpose and need statements for both projects. They
recognize the importance of TIP Project U-3468 in light of the other improvements to US 421
currently underway, and want to approach project development from a system level.
Ms. Raynor asked for final comments on the purpose and need documentation for TIP
Project U-3468. Ms. Manuele questioned if the purpose statement should be revised to
recommend an interstate or freeway facility for the project. Mr. McInnis disagreed with this
recommendation. David Cox noted that a facility with driveways and a large number of access
points would not meet the stated purpose for the project. Therefore, certain types of facilities will
be excluded from consideration because they do not meet the purpose and need. No other
comments were made.
Cc: Merger Team members
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November 7, 2002
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Alethia Raynor
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study, Wilkes County,
NCDOT Division 11, F.A. Project NHF-421B(1),
State Project 8.1761901, TIP Project U-3468
A concurrence meeting for the subject project was held on August 15, 2002. The
objectives of the meeting were to present information about TIP Project U-3468 and R-616 and
discuss the purpose and need of each project (concurrence point 1). The following people
attended the meeting:
Jean Manuele US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh
Donna Dancausse Federal Highway Administration
Christopher Militscher US Environmental Protection Agency, Raleigh
Marella Buncick US Fish and Wildlife Service, (by video-conference)
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NC Division of Water Quality
Marla Chambers NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Sarah McBride State Historic Preservation Office
Nya Boayue NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Gary Foster NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Rob Hanson NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Jay McInnis NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Ben Upshaw NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Lubin Prevatt NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Cindy Sharer NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Richard Brewer NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Dion Viventi NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Alethia Raynor NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
A meeting to discuss purpose and need for the subject project was held May 15, 2002. At
the meeting, there was some discussion regarding an adjacent TIP Project, R-616. Because of
the proximity of the two project study areas, team members requested a joint meeting to receive
information and discuss the purpose and need for each project. At the May meeting, no changes
were recommended to the U-3468 purpose and need documentation. Therefore, no additional
materials pertaining to the subject project were distributed prior to the August 15 th meeting.

.1
Ms. Raynor began the meeting by restating the following information about TIP Project
U-3468:
Project Description
TIP Project U-3468 has been included in the Draft 2004-2010 North Carolina
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to improve the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of
Wilkesboro, in Wilkes County. This project focuses on the section of highway from west of
NC 16 to NC 268. This portion of US 421 is approximately 3.4 miles.
Project Purpose
The purpose of the project is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and improve travel
time for traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro.
. Improvements are currently being made to US 421 in the study area under TIP Project R-
2240B. US 421 is being widened to five lanes between NC 16 and the US 421 Business
intersection. From the US 421 Business intersection to east of NC 268, US 421 is being widened
to four lanes with a median. This work is anticipated to be completed in December 2003. One
team member asked about level of service (LOS) information along US 421 for the current year.
Ms. Raynor stated that a LOS discussion is included in the purpose and need documentation;
however, present year information is not included.
Coordination of TIP Projects R-616 and U-3468
Following the discussion on TIP Project U-3468, Richard Brewer presented information
on the adjacent project. TIP Project R-616 involves improvements to the NC 18-268 and US 421
Business corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. One team member questioned why the existing
US 421 Bypass does not function to alleviate congestion in the R-616 study corridor. It was
stated that the primary function of US 421 is to serve intrastate and regional traffic. The
facilities included in the R-616 study serve regional and local trips.
Team members emphasized the connectivity of the two projects and the importance of
planning coordination. While the projects share a common study area, they each have
independent utility. Chris Militscher noted that a project which meets the stated purpose for TIP
Project U-3468, will not alleviate the need for TIP Project R-616. Rob Hanson agreed that the
projects share commonalties, but expressed hesitation to link the two projects together. This may
result in problems if one of the projects lost funding. Lubin Prevatt recommended that the
purpose and need of each project be prepared independently. He also recommended that
concurrence meetings for the two projects be held jointly. This would provide independent
documentation for each project, but ensure that coordination of the two projects occurred. The
team members agreed that all subsequent concurrence meetings for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-
616 should be joint meetings.
Cc: Merger Team members
Man
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
August 26, 2002
MEMORANDUM TO: File
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
FROM: Richard L. Brewer, P. E.
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT: Minutes from Concurrence Meeting = Purpose and Need, NC 18-268/
US 421 Business Corridor Improvements, Wilkes County, F. A.
Project STP-268(4), State Project 8.1761701, T.I.P. No. R-0616
A merger team concurrence meeting to discuss and approve the purpose and need of the
subject project was conducted on August 15, 2002. The meeting place was the NCDOT Board
Room.
Summary of the meeting discussion:
1. The meeting began at approximately 9:10 am with a presentation by Alethia Raynor of the
purpose and need for TIP project U-3813. She reminded the agency representatives that
NCDOT was holding this meeting jointly with TIP project R-0616 at their request.
2. After specific discussion of U-3813, the purpose and need statement for R-0616 was read. A
description of the project location, traffic demand, congestion, level of service, and adjacent
land use was discussed.
3. Because the only deficiency of the study corridor is present and future traffic volumes and
resulting congestion, the question of crash history was asked. Recent 3-year crash data
shows crash rates in the corridor being lower than statewide averages for similar highways.
NCDOT explained that crashes only become a justification in the purpose and need if existing
conditions are worse that statewide averages.
4. A question was asked concerning the existing US 421 bypass, and why it does not function to
alleviate congestion in the study corridor. The R-0616 project will mainly handle local and
regional traffic flow. The US 421 bypass, as its designation suggests, handles some local and
regional traffic but has the primary purpose of accommodating statewide and interstate traffic.
5. A team member asked about the population projections for the study area. Although the
numbers weren't available at the meeting, it was explained that the traffic volumes in the
corridor are expected to double from 2000 to 2025. This may or may not correlate with the
population trends forecasted for Wilkes County.
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.NCDOT.ORG RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
r'
e

6. The common features of both projects were briefly discussed. The projects have independent
utility. However the team selection of the R-0616 LEDPA will determine the location of its
western terminus and its length. If the merger team chooses the existing corridor as the
LEDPA for R-0616, the westernmost segment would likely end at existing or proposed US
421. But if R-0616 has a new bypass as its LEDPA, its western terminus would likely shift
further west.
7. Doesn't the draft 2004-2010 TIP include a 'bypass' for R-0616? The current wording in the
TIP does specify a bypass on new location. However, at this stage of project development,
other reasonable and prudent alternatives to be developed, including improving the existing
corridor, will be studied for comparitive purposes.
8. The purpose and need statement was read again. The team agreed to add the phrase "local
and regional" to the 2nd sentence, to indicate the need of the project was to serve this element
of traffic, as opposed to mainly through traffic now (and in the future) using US 421 bypass.
9. The agencies asked if the two projects could hold concurrent merger meetings. It was agreed
upon by the team members to carry out these common meetings.
10. Extra time should be given to discuss possible alternatives for study at the next meeting.
11. Without any further substantive comments, the meeting adjouned at 10:25 am.
If you feel that any statement(s) included the above minutes contains errors or needs
clarification, please notify me at rbrewe dot. state. nc.us or phone [phone], extension 242.
R-0616 CONCURRENCE POINT 1 MEETING ATTENDEES
August 15, 2002
R-0616 TEAM MEMBERS
NAME AGENCY
Richard Brewer NCDOT/PDEA
Marella Buncick b teleconference USFWS
Marla Chambers NCWRC
Donna Dancausse FHWA
Jean Manuele USACE/Ralei h
Sarah McBride SHPO/DCR
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NCDWQ .
OTHER NCDOT STAFF
N a Boa ue Roadway Design
Gary Foster Roadway Design
Rob Hanson PDEA
Jay McInnis PDEA
Lubin Prevatt PDEA
Alethia Raynor PDEA
Cindy Sharer PDEA
Ben U shaw PDEA
Dion Viventi PDEA
1*
January 28, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Alethia Raynor
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study, Wilkes County, NCDOT
Division 11, F.A. Project NHF-42 IB(1), State Project 8.176190 1,
TIP Project U-3468
A concurrence meeting for the subject project was held on November 14, 2002. The
objective of the meeting was to discuss alternatives for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 that may
be shown to the public at the citizens informational workshop. The following people attended the
meeting:
John Thomas US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh
Jake Riggsbee Federal Highway Administration
Rob Ayers Federal Highway Administration
Christopher Militscher US Environmental Protection Agency, Raleigh
Marella Buncick US Fish and Wildlife Service (by video-conference)
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NC Division of Water Quality
Marla Chambers NC Wildlife Resources Commission (by video-conference)
Sarah McBride State Historic Preservation Office
Nya Boayue NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Ted Walls NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Allison White NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Art McMillan NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Sue Flowers NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Anthony West NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Wayne Atkins NCDOT, Division 11
Jerry Parker NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Elizabeth Lusk NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Rob Hanson NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Cindy Sharer NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Jay McInnis NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Dion Viventi NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Richard Brewer NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Alethia Raynor NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
A joint concurrence meeting for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 was held on August 15,
2002. At this meeting, information was presented and concurrence on purpose and need
(concurrence point 1) was reached for both projects. At the August meeting, team members
agreed that all subsequent concurrence meetings for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 should be
r
.It
joint meetings. The November meeting was held in order to continue coordination of the two
projects. Prior to the meeting, documentation on project alternatives for both projects was
distributed to the team members. Quad maps showing the various alternative study corridors
accompanied the documentation.
TIP Project R-616 Summary
Following introductions by meeting attendees, Richard Brewer briefly reviewed the three
alternatives for TIP Project R-616. During discussions, staff from Roadway Design raised
objections to TIP R-616 Alternative Study Corridor 2. In reviewing this alignment within the
context of the U-3468 alternatives, they believed two interchanges would be placed in
approximately the same location. This creates an undesirable situation by not maintaining the
minimum separation between interchanges. Team members emphasized that without
Alternative 2, only one new location alternative existed. Rob Hanson questioned if enough design
work had taken place in order to determine that these interchange configurations would not work
together. It was decided that all three alternatives for TIP Project R-616 would be shown at the
citizens informational workshop. Roadway Design will re-examine the design details for
Alternative 2 along with possible interchange configurations for TIP U-3468. Details regarding
additional discussion on TIP Project R-616 are addressed in a separate memo.
TIP Project U-3468 Summary
Upon request, Alethia Raynor briefly reviewed the purpose and need for TIP Project
U-3468. As demonstrated in the purpose and need documentation, without improvements beyond
those currently under construction, US 421 will likely operate between level of service (LOS) E
and F in the design year (2025). Another part of the purpose and need is to improve travel time
for traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. Upon completion of
improvements currently underway for US. 421 between Winston-Salem and Boone, US 421 will
be a freeway or expressway facility, with the exception of through the study area.
Chris Militscher began discussion of U-3468 project alternatives by questioning the
location of the Southern Option. He noted that it appears to swing far south of existing US 421
through some severe topography. Although not shown on the quad map, there is a great deal of
development to the south of existing US 421 that this alternative attempts to avoid. In addition,
Ms. Raynor mentioned that the southern option is intended to represent the Bypass alternative
studied in the environmental document for TIP Project R-2240. Therefore, every effort was made
to show the alignment in the same location.
John Thomas questioned if NC 268 was examined as a possible alternative for the project.
He recommended utilizing existing NC 268 as part of a southern bypass option. From NC 268,
the bypass would then cross the Yadkin River on new location near the old airport before
connecting with US 421 near NC 16. Wayne Atkins expressed concern with this proposal due to
existing and/or proposed development in the area. He specifically mentioned the YMCA, located
in proximity of the old airport. Mr. Atkins questioned this proposal meeting the purpose and need
for the project. He felt the conditions along NC 268 would mirror the conditions on US 421
unless NC 268 was made a controlled access facility. Without this measure, he did not feel this
2
r'
alternative could meet the purpose and need of the project. No additional comments were made
recommending this alternative be included for further study.
The team members agreed the following three alternatives for TIP Project U-3468 should
be shown at the citizens informational workshop: Northern Option 1, Northern Option 2, and
Southern Option. Ms. Raynor requested input regarding the consideration of further
improvements to US 421. The general consensus of the group was that it would not be reasonable
or feasible to examine additional improvements to US 421 in the project area. It is unlikely that
additional improvements to the existing roadway would meet the project's purpose and need.
Cc: Merger Team members
'i
e.w SfATFo
w?b?s
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTT!ffiNT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
January 15, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO: File
LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
FROM: Richard L. Brewer, P. E.
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT: Minutes from Concurrence Meeting - Alternatives for Study,
NC 18-268/ US 421 Business Corridor Improvements, Wilkes
County, F. A. Project STP-268(4), State Project 8.1761701,
T.I.P. No. R-o616
A merger team concurrence meeting to discuss project alternatives for study was
held on November 14, 2002. The NCDOT Board Room was the meeting site.
Summary of the meeting discussion:
1. The meeting began at 9:1o am with an introduction and distribution of handouts and
maps by Alethia Raynor. (The minutes concerning Alethia's project, U-3468, are
addressed in a separate memo.)
2. I opened by introducing the three alternative corridors NCDOT has developed to this
point. The first alternative is the corridor selected by Statewide Planning through a
phase 1 environmental analysis and report, published in July, 1993• This corridor
would carry a 4-lane roadway on new location, running from US 421-NC 16 to the NC
18-268 intersection. Access would be fully controlled between at-grade
intersections.
3. The second alternative corridor discussed begins at the intersection of US 421 bypass
and NC 268, and ends at the NC 18-268 intersection. This alternative provides a
veritable bypass of NC 268 due to its aligning across from the US 421 bypass. In the
eastbound direction the bypass carries traffic south of the Yadkin River to an
interchange with NC 268. This corridor met opposition from Roadway Design. A
junction where the interchanges of this alternative and the U-3468 highway would
be spaced too closely, and merging and weaving distances between the two would
create high crash potential.
4. The third alternative corridor indicates improvements to the existing NC 18-268 and
US 421 business roadways. At this point in the process, it appears feasible that the
existing corridor can be widened. However, numerous traffic signals along the route
would remain, creating extensive travel delays. Another disadvantage raised would
be the disruption to existing traffic during construction. But an initial capacity
analysis shows that in the design year 2025, the existing corridor with improvements
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.NCDOT.ORG RALEIGH NC
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
f.
would operate at LOS D. A no build scenario indicates the corridor operating at LOS
F in 2025.
5. It was agreed that all 3 alternative corridors will be shown to the public at an
upcoming Citizens' Informational Workshop.
6. After discussion of project R-0616, Alethia Raynor began talking about her U-3468
project; the meeting adjourned at 10:4o am.
If you feel that any statement(s) included above contains errors or needs
clarification, please notify me at rbrewer0dot.state.nc.us or phone [phone],
extension 242.
R-o616 CONCURRENCE POINT 2 MEETING ATTENDEES
November 14, 2002
R-o616 TEAM MEM
NAME BERS
AGENCY
Richard Brewer NCDOT PDEA
Marella Buncick (by
teleconference) USFWS
Marla Chambers (by
teleconference) NCWRC
Sarah McBride DCR SHPO
Chris Militscher EPA
Jake Ri sbee FHWA
John Thomas USACE Ralei h
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NCDW
OTHER NCDOT & AGEN CY STAFF
Art McMillan Roadway Desi gn
Ted Walls Roadway Desi gn
N a Boayue Roadway Desi gn
Sue Flowers Roadway Desi gn
Anthony West Roadway Desi gn
Allison White Roadway Desi gn
Rob Hanson PDEA
Jay McInnis PDEA
Alethia Raynor PDEA
Cindy Sharer PDEA
Elizabeth Lusk PDEA
Jerry Parker PDEA
Dion Viventi PDEA
Wayne Atkins DIV 11
Rob Ayers FHWA

January 28, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Alethia Raynor
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study, Wilkes County, NCDOT
Division 11, F.A. Project NHF-421B(1), State Project 8.1761901,
TIP Project U-3468
A concurrence meeting for the subject project was held on November 14, 2002. The
objective of the meeting was to discuss alternatives for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 that may
be shown to the public at the citizens informational workshop. The following people attended the
meeting:
John Thomas
Jake Riggsbee
Rob Ayers
Christopher Militscher
Marella Buncick
Cynthia Van Der Wiele
Marla Chambers
Sarah McBride
Nya Boayue
Ted Walls
Allison White
Art McMillan
Sue Flowers
Anthony West
Wayne Atkins
Jerry Parker
Elizabeth Lusk
Rob Hanson
Cindy Sharer
Jay McInnis
Dion Viventi
Richard Brewer
Alethia Raynor
US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh
Federal Highway Administration
Federal Highway Administration
US Environmental Protection Agency, Raleigh
US Fish and Wildlife Service (by video-conference)
NC Division of Water Quality
NC Wildlife Resources Commission (by video-conference)
State Historic Preservation Office
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Division 11
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
A joint concurrence meeting for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 was held on August 15,
2002. At this meeting, information was presented and concurrence on purpose and need
(concurrence point 1) was reached for both projects. At the August meeting, team members
agreed that all subsequent concurrence meetings for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 should be

joint meetings. The November meeting was held in order to continue coordination of the two
projects. Prior to the meeting, documentation on project alternatives for both projects was
distributed to the team members. Quad maps showing the various alternative study corridors
accompanied the documentation.
TIP Project R-616 Summary
Following introductions by meeting attendees, Richard Brewer briefly reviewed the three
alternatives for TIP Project R-616. During discussions, staff from Roadway Design raised
objections to TIP R-616 Alternative Study Corridor 2. In reviewing this alignment within the
context of the U-3468 alternatives, they believed two interchanges would be placed in
approximately the same location. This creates an undesirable situation by not maintaining the
minimum separation between interchanges. Team members emphasized that without
Alternative 2, only one new location alternative existed. Rob Hanson questioned if enough design
work had taken place in order to determine that these interchange configurations would not work
together. It was decided that all three alternatives for TIP Project R-616 would be shown at the
citizens informational workshop. Roadway Design will re-examine the design details for
Alternative 2 along with possible interchange configurations for TIP U-3468. Details regarding
additional discussion on TIP Project R-616 are addressed in a separate memo.
TIP Proiect U-3468 Summary
Upon request, Alethia Raynor briefly reviewed the purpose and need for TIP Project
U-3468. As demonstrated in the purpose and need documentation, without improvements beyond
those currently under construction, US 421 will likely operate between level of service (LOS) E
and F in the design year (2025). Another part of the purpose and need is to improve travel time
for traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. Upon completion of
improvements currently underway for US 421 between Winston-Salem and Boone, US 421 will
be a freeway or expressway facility, with the exception of through the study area.
Chris Militscher began discussion of U-3468 project alternatives by questioning the
location of the Southern Option. He noted that it appears to swing far south of existing US 421
through some severe topography. Although not shown on the quad map, there is a great deal of
development to the south of existing US 421 that this alternative attempts to avoid. In addition,
Ms. Raynor mentioned that the southern option is intended to represent the Bypass alternative
studied in the environmental document for TIP Project R-2240. Therefore, every effort was made
to show the alignment in the same location.
John Thomas questioned if NC 268 was examined as a possible alternative for the project.
He recommended utilizing existing NC 268 as part of a southern bypass option. From NC 268,
the bypass would then cross the Yadkin River on new location near the old airport before
connecting with US 421 near NC 16. Wayne Atkins expressed concern with this proposal due to
existing and/or proposed development in the area. He specifically mentioned the YMCA, located
in proximity of the old airport. Mr. Atkins questioned this proposal meeting the purpose and need
for the project. He felt the conditions along NC 268 would mirror the conditions on US 421
unless NC 268 was made a controlled access facility. Without this measure, he did not feel this
2
alternative could meet the purpose and need of the project. No additional comments were made
recommending this alternative be included for further study.
The team members agreed the following three alternatives for TIP Project U-3468 should
be shown at the citizens informational workshop: Northern Option 1, Northern Option 2, and
Southern Option. Ms. Raynor requested input regarding the consideration of further
improvements to US 421. The general consensus of the group was that it would not be reasonable
or feasible to examine additional improvements to US 421 in the project area. It is unlikely that
additional improvements to the existing roadway would meet the project's purpose and need.
Cc: Merger Team members
3
M sTAr! v?
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
January 28, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO: File ?
FROM: Alethi.a Raynor 1%?/
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study, Wilkes County, NCDOT
Division 11, F.A. Project NHF-42IB(1), State Project 8.176190 1,
TIP Project U-3468
A concurrence meeting for the subject project was held on November 14, 2002. The
objective of the meeting was to discuss alternatives for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 that may
be shown to the public at the citizens informational workshop. The following people attended the
meeting:
John Thomas US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh
Jake Riggsbee Federal Highway Administration
Rob Ayers Federal Highway Administration
Christopher Militscher US Environmental Protection Agency, Raleigh
Marella Buncick US Fish and Wildlife Service (by video-conference)
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NC Division of Water Quality
Marla Chambers NC Wildlife Resources Commission (by video-conference)
Sarah McBride
Nya Boayue
Ted Walls
Allison White
Art McMillan
Sue Flowers
Anthony West
Wayne Atkins
Jerry Parker
Elizabeth Lusk
Rob Hanson
Cindy Sharer
Jay McInnis
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
State Historic Preservation Office
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
NCDOT, Division 11
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
WEBSITE: WWW.DOH.DOT. STATE. NC.US RALEIGH NC
Si

Dion Viventi NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Richard Brewer NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Alethia Raynor NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
A joint concurrence meeting for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 was held on August 15,
2002. At this meeting, information was presented and concurrence on purpose and need
(concurrence point 1) was reached for both projects. At the August meeting, team members
agreed that all subsequent concurrence meetings for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 should be
joint meetings. The November meeting was held in order to continue coordination of the two
projects. Prior to the meeting, documentation on project alternatives for both projects was
distributed to the team members. Quad maps showing the various alternative study corridors
accompanied the documentation.
TIP Prolect.R-616 Summa
Following introductions by meeting attendees, Richard Brewer briefly reviewed the three
alternatives for TIP Project R-616. During discussions, staff from Roadway Design raised
objections to TIP R-616 Alternative Study Corridor 2. In reviewing this alignment within the
context of the U-3468 alternatives, they believed two interchanges would be placed in
approximately the same location. This creates an undesirable situation by not maintaining the
minimum separation between interchanges. Team members emphasized that without
Alternative 2, only one new location alternative existed. Rob Hanson questioned if enough design
work had taken place in order to determine that these interchange configurations would not work
together. It was decided that all three alternatives for TIP Project R-616 would be shown at the
citizens informational workshop. Roadway Design will re-examine the design details for
Alternative 2 along with possible interchange configurations for TIP U-3468. Details regarding
additional discussion on TIP Project R-616 are addressed in a separate memo.
TIP Project U-3468 Summary
Upon request, Alethia Raynor briefly reviewed the purpose and need for TIP Project
U-3468. As demonstrated in the purpose and need documentation, without improvements beyond
those currently under construction, US 421 will likely operate between level of service (LOS) E
and F in the design year (2025). Another part of the purpose and need is to improve travel time for
traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. Upon completion of
improvements currently underway for US 421 between Winston-Salem and Boone, US 421 will be
a freeway or expressway facility, with the exception of through the study area.
Chris Militscher began discussion of U-3468 project alternatives by questioning the
location of the Southern Option. He noted that it appears to swing far south of existing US 421
through some severe topography. Although not shown on the quad map, there is a great deal of
development to the south of existing US 421 that this alternative attempts to avoid. In addition,
Ms. Raynor mentioned that the southern option is intended to represent the Bypass alternative
studied in the environmental document for TIP Project R-2240. Therefore, every effort was made
to show the alignment in the same location.
1
2

John Thomas questioned if NC 268 was examined as a possible alternative for the project.
He recommended utilizing existing NC 268 as part of a southern bypass option. From NC 268,
the bypass would then cross the Yadkin River on new location near the old airport before
connecting with US 421 near NC 16. Wayne Atkins expressed concern with this proposal due to
existing and/or proposed development in the area. He specifically mentioned the YMCA, located
in proximity of the old airport. Mr. Atkins questioned this proposal meeting the purpose and need
for the project. He felt the conditions along NC 268 would mirror the conditions on US 421
unless NC 268 was made a controlled access facility. Without this measure, he did not feel this
alternative could meet the purpose and need of the project. No additional comments were made
recommending this alternative be included for further study.
The team members agreed the following three alternatives for TIP Project U-3468 should
be shown at the citizens informational workshop: Northern Option 1, Northern Option 2, and
Southern Option. Ms. Raynor requested input regarding the consideration of further
improvements to US 421. The general consensus of the group was that it would not be reasonable
or feasible to examine additional improvements to US 421 in the project area. It is unlikely that
additional improvements to the existing roadway would meet the project's purpose and need.
Cc: Merger Team members
+w STATFa
Ww
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele
DENR - Division of Water Quality/Wetlands
2321 Crabtree Blvd.
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Dear Ms. Van Der Wiele:
SUBJECT: NEPA/404 Concurrence Meeting for the NC
Corridor Improvements (TIP project R-616); and US 21 Bypass, NC 16 to
Yadkin River (TIP project U-3468); Wilkes County.
A merger team meeting for the subject projects is scheduled for November 14,
2002 at 9:00 AM. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss and determine the projects'
alternative corridors for further study, and to obtain written concurrence on this issue.
The meeting will be held in the Department of Transportion Board Room.
Attached to this letter are draft alternative corridor statements for both projects. If
you have any questions or concerns prior to the 14t'', please contact me by phone at (919)
733-7844 ext. 242, or by E-mail (rbrewergdot.state.nc.us).
October 31, 2002
,„qh?_ _ VVATfi1 QUAtIiY SECTION
18-268 / US 421 Business
LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
Sincerely,
Z, ?X_J?
Richard L. Brewer, P.E.
Project Development Engineer
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WESSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
I r
US 421 WILKESBORO CORRIDOR STUDY
Preliminary Alternatives
TIP Project U-3468 f
State Project 8.1761901
Federal Aid Project NHF-42113(1)
Project Description
TIP Project U-3468 has been included in the Draft 2004-2010 North Carolina
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to improve the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of
Wilkesboro, in Wilkes County. This project focuses on the section of highway from west of
NC 16 to NC 268. This portion of US 421 is approximately 3.4 miles long.
Purpose of Project
The purpose of the project is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and improve travel
time for traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro.
Purpose of Today's Meeting
The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss alternatives to be shown to the public at the
citizens informational workshop.
Project Alternatives
Improve Existing Facilities

Improvements are currently being made to US 421 in the study area under TIP Project
R-2240B. US 421 is being widened to five lanes between 16 and the US 421 Business
intersection. From the US 421 Business intersection to east of NC 268, US 421 is being widened
to four lanes with a median. This work is anticipated to be completed i December 2003.
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To date, three alternatives have been developed for the project. Study corridors for each
of the alternatives are shown on the accompanying quad map. These corridors are approximately
1,000 feet wide.
Alternative Study Corridor (Northern Option 1)
Northern Option 1 extends from NC 16 to the US 421/NC 268 interchange, north of
existing US 421. The alternative is approximately 4.3 miles. This study corridor provides
interchanges at US 421 Business/SR 1372 and with Alternative Study Corridor 1 of TIP Project
R-0616.

Alternative Study Corridor (Northern Option 2)
Northern Option 2 closely follows Northern Option 1 west of SR 1323. This alternative
then shifts northward, allowing for a different interchange configuration at US 421 Business/SR
1372 and the proposed bypass. This alternative is approximately 4.2 miles.
Alternative Study Corridor (Southern Option)
The Environmental Assessment (EA) for TIP Project R-2240 was completed in
November 1995. One alternative considered for the project included a bypass around the
existing business district. The Bypass alternative recommended a new location portion of
US 421 south of the existing facility, between NC 16 and the US 421/NC 268 interchange. The
Bypass alternative was not recommended based, in part, on the following: 1) 4(f) considerations
as a result of direct conflicts with the Johnson Farm Complex - a historic property determined
eligible for the National Register of Historic Places; 2) greater environmental impacts, notably
with respect to areas of biotic importance which included the removal of marginally disturbed
forested areas along the new location segment; 3) more residential and commercial relocations;
4) potential conflicts with the Montford Stokes site - an archaeological site determined eligible
for the National Register of Historic Places; and 5) greater construction costs based on the
substantial amount of earthwork that would be required along the bypass segment (TIP Project
R-2240 EA, 1995).
TIP Project U-3468 Alternative Study Corridor (Southern Option) is representative of the
Bypass alternative studied in the R-2240 document. This alternative extends from NC 16, south
of existing US 421, to the US 421/NC 268 interchange. This alternative is approximately 43
miles.
Project Status/Schedule
A scoping meeting for the subject project was held March 27, 2001. A meeting to
discuss purpose and need was held May 15, 2002. Another meeting followed on August 15,
2002. At the meeting, there was some discussion regarding an adjacent TIP Project, R-616.
Because of the proximity of the two project study areas, team members requested a joint meeting
to receive information and discuss the purpose and need for each project.
A joint meeting was held on August 15, 2002 and concurrence on purpose and need was
reached for both projects. Citizens informational workshops for both projects will be scheduled
following agreement on the alternatives to be shown to the public. Concurrence on alternatives
to be studied in detail will be requested following the workshops.
R-616
ALTERNATIVE CORRIDORS
A. PREFACE C? Ct a"? b f "V - °'f '
The Draft 2004-2010 TIP includes Project R-616 in Wilkes County, which is referred to as the
Wilkesboro-North Wilkesboro Bypass, from US 421 to NC 18. The scope of work indicated in the TIP calls
for a multi-lane highway partly on new location. A cooperative effort of NCDOT's Statewide Planning
Branch and environmental regulatory and resource agencies began in 1991. In this particular pilot study, a
phased environmental analysis approach was used, as the agencies became involved in the early stages of
the thoroughfare plan process. The team of the Federal Highway Administration, NCDOT and the
environmental agencies analyzed multiple corridors against typical engineering and environmental
parameters.
B. CORRIDOR 1
In July of 1992, the team selected Corridor 1, referred to as alternative C-3/D-2 in earlier
documentation, as the most reasonable and feasible thoroughfare corridor for a bypass.
The principal objectives used in determining the preferred corridor include (in no particular order):
Avoidance of residential housing and businesses,
Avoidance of properties and sites on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places,
Avoidance and minimization of stream relocations and filling of wetlands,
Minimization of severing neighborhoods, big individual tracts of land, and farmlands.
From the beginning of the alternative at US 421/NC 16 and SR 1323 (Dancy Road), the alignment
tracks on new location to the north and then northeast. After crossing Tucker Hole Creek, the alternative
intersects SR 1372 (Boone Trail Road) south of Cricket. Further east the alternative crosses the Reddies
River before ending at the NC 18-268 intersection (total length=4.94 miles).
1
The proposed typical section is four lanes, divided by a 46-foot wide, graded, natural median. The
proposed highway will have partial control of access, employing at-grade intersections. A corridor width of
1000 feet will be analyzed, and the feasible alignment that minimizes environmental impacts would be
placed within this corridor.
C. CORRIDOR 2
Corridor 2 runs concurrently with Corridor 1 from the west of SR 1372 (Boone Trail Road) to the
NC 18-268 intersection. However, Corridor 2 begins at US 421/NC 18 and SR 1327 (Woodleaf Road),
some 1.2 miles east of the Corridor 1 starting point. This shortens the corridor by about 0.5 miles.
An advantage Corridor 2 has is better connectivi_ ty to NC 268. By beginning at Woodleaf Road, the
corridor becomes an authentic bypass of NC 268. Existing US 421 bypass/NC 16 is easily accessible, and
the connection to existing NC 268 south of the Yadkin River is accomplished.
The proposed typical section is the same as Corridor 1, with four lanes divided by a 46-foot wide,
graded, natural median. The proposed highway will have partial control of access, employing at-grade
intersections. A corridor width of 1000 feet will be analyzed, and the feasible alignment that minimizes
environmental impacts would be placed within this corridor.
D. CORRIDOR 3
Corridor 3 is a proposal to widen US 421 Business/NC 18-268. Beginning at SR 1185 (Curtis
Bridge Road), Corridor 3 follows existing US 421 Business and crosses the Reddies River before entering
downtown North Wilkesboro. Downtown, the existing pair of one-way streets (Main Street and CBD Loop)
would continue to carry cross-town traffic. On the east side of downtown, existing NC 18-268 would carry
traffic to the project's eastern terminus (NC 18 and NC 268 intersection).
)-4 ?C.
Multi-lanes exist in certain areas of Corridor 3. US 421 Business, Main Street and CBD Loop all
have multi-lanes in places. Without detailed information, one should expect the existing corridor to have
fewer impacts to the natural environment than Corridors 1 and 2, since man-dominated environment
prevails. However, with all of the residential and business development, higher impacts to the human
environment are likely. For example, heavy trucks would continue to use downtown and neighborhood
streets, already a complaint by locals.
On both sides of downtown, a 4-lane divided cross-section with 46-foot wide median would be
proposed. It is assumed at this juncture of the planning process that in the immediate downtown area,
Main Street and CBD Loop would continue to carry one-way flow.
E. "NO BUILD" OPTION
A "No Build" option is being addressed to illustrate in the impacts (mainly to the human
environment) of not having any highway improvements in place by the design year of 2025. The "No Build"
option is typically discarded from further consideration since it does not satisfy the purpose and need of the
project, which is to alleviate vehicle congestion on the NC 18-268 and US 421 Business corridor.
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
November 7, 2002
MEMORANDUM TO
FROM:
File
Alethia Raynor
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study, Wilkes County,
NCDOT Division 11, F.A. Project NHF-42 IB(1),
State Project 8.1761901, TIP Project U-3468
A concurrence meeting for the subject project was held on August 15, 2002. The
objectives of the meeting were to present information about TIP Project U-3468 and R-616 and
discuss the purpose and need of each project (concurrence point 1). The following people
attended the meeting:
Jean Manuele US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh
Donna Dancausse Federal Highway Administration
Christopher Militscher US Environmental Protection Agency, Raleigh
Marella Buncick US Fish and Wildlife Service, (by video-conference)
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NC Division of Water Quality
Marla Chambers NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Sarah McBride State Historic Preservation Office
Nya Boayue NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Gary Foster NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Rob Hanson NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Jay McInnis NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Ben Upshaw NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Lubin Prevatt NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Cindy Sharer NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Richard Brewer NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Dion Viventi NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Alethia Raynor NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
A meeting to discuss purpose and need for the subject project was held May 15, 2002. At
the meeting, there was some discussion regarding an adjacent TIP Project, R-616. Because of
the proximity of the two project study areas, team members requested a joint meeting to receive
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.DOH. DOT. STATE.NC. US
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
information and discuss the purpose and need for each project. At the May meeting, no changes
were recommended to the U-3468 purpose and need documentation. Therefore, no additional
materials pertaining to the subject project were distributed prior to the.August 15`x' meeting.
Ms. Raynor began the meeting by restating the following information about TIP Project
U-3468:
Project Description
TIP Project U-3468 has been included in the Draft 2004-2010 North Carolina
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to improve the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of
Wilkesboro, in Wilkes County. This project focuses on the section of highway from west of
NC 16 to NC 268. This portion of US 421 is approximately 3.4 miles.
Project Purpose
The purpose of the project is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and improve travel
time for traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro.
Improvements are currently being made to US 421 in the study area under TIP Project R-
2240B. US 421 is being widened to five lanes between NC 16 and the US 421 Business
intersection. From the US 421 Business intersection to east of NC 268, US 421 is being widened
to four lanes with a median. This work is anticipated to be completed in December 2003. One
team member asked about level of service (LOS) information along US 421 for the current year.
Ms. Raynor stated that a LOS discussion is included in the purpose and need documentation;
however, present year information is not included.
Coordination of TIP Projects R-616 and U-3468
Following the discussion on TIP Project U-3468, Richard Brewer presented information
on the adjacent project. TIP Project R-616 involves improvements to the NC 18-268 and US 421
Business corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. One team member questioned why the existing
US 421 Bypass does not function to alleviate congestion in the R-616 study corridor. It was
stated that the primary function of US 421 is to serve intrastate and regional traffic. The facilities
included in the R-616 study serve regional and local trips.
Team members emphasized the connectivity of the two projects and the importance of
planning coordination. While the projects share a common study area, they each have
independent utility. Chris Militscher noted that a project which meets the stated purpose for TIP
Project U-3468, will not alleviate the need for TIP Project R-616. Rob Hanson agreed that the
projects share commonalties, but expressed hesitation to link the two projects together. This may
result in problems if one of the projects lost funding. Lubin Prevatt recommended that the
purpose and need of each project be prepared independently. He also recommended that
concurrence meetings for the two projects be held jointly. This would provide independent
documentation for each project, but ensure that coordination of the two projects occurred. The
team members agreed that all subsequent concurrence meetings for TIP Projects U-3468 and R-
616 should be joint meetings.
Cc: Merger Team members

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
July 22, 2002
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele
DENR - Division of Water Quality/Wetlands
2321 Crabtree Blvd.
Raleigh, NC 27604-2260
Dear Ms. Van Der Wiele:
SUBJECT: NEPA/404 Concurrence Meeting for the NC 18-268 / US 421 Business
Corridor Improvements, Wilkes County, TIP project R-616
A merger team meeting for the subject project is scheduled for August 15, 2002 at
9:00 AM. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the project's purpose and need, and to
obtain written concurrence on this issue.
The meeting will be held in the Department of Transportion Board Room. The meeting
will be held in conjunction with Ms. Alethia Raynor's U-3468 concurrence meeting,
since both projects are located in the same vicinity.
Attached to this letter is a draft purpose and need statement for R-616. If you have any
questions or concerns prior to the 15`h, please call me at [phone] ext. 242. My
email address is rbrewer(,dot.state.nc.us.
Sincerely,
Richard L. Brewer, P.E.
U - 3y(o? `?'? '? Project Development Engineer
A
R
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
NEPA/404 MERGER CONCURRENCE POINT #1
PURPOSE AND NEED DOCUMENTATION
FOR
NC 18-268 / US 421 BUSINESS
CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENTS
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TIP PROJECT R-0616 WILKES COUNTY
NC 18-268 / US 421 BUSINESS CORRIDOR
IMPROVEMENTS
TIP Project R-0616 * State Project 8.1761701- Federal Aid Project STP-268(4)
Purpose of Today's Meeting
The purpose of today's meeting is to present information regarding the
purpose and need of TIP Project R-0616. The goal is to reach written
concurrence on the purpose and need. Any discussion relating to probable
alternatives for this project will not take place at today's meeting, but only after
concurrence on purpose and need has been achieved.
Project Description
TIP Project R-0616 is included in the draft 2004-2010 N. C.
Transportation Improvement Program. The TIP project description is:
Wilkesboro-North Wilkesboro bypass, NC 18 to US 421, multi-lanes, part on
new location. Figure 1 shows the project vicinity.
Purpose and Need Statement

The purpose of this project is to alleviate vehicular congestion on
the NC 18-268 and US 421 Business corridor.
Expected future vehicular congestion in this corridor indicates the need
for expanded transportation facilities.
Existing Highway and Land Use Conditions
NC 18 and NC 268 are north-south highways sewing both through and
local traffic in Wilkes County. The two routes merge (NC 18-268) north of City
of North Wilkesboro and pass through the central business district (CBD) before
crossing the Yadkin River. US 421 Business carries traffic through the CBD.
The roads are generally multi-lane facilities. In the CBD the routes are
carried by one-way pairs (Main Street is one-way westbound, CBD Loop one-
way eastbound) with two travel lanes in each direction. D Street also serves
CBD traffic. The speed limit is 35 mph in the CBD and 45 mph outside of the
CBD.
Existing land use adjoining the roadways is a combination of residential,
commercial and industrial.
2
Existing (2000) Traffic Conditions and Level of Service
Current (2000) estimated average daily traffic (ADT) on NC 18-268 east of
the CBD is 22,400 vehicles per day (vpd). In the CBD volumes are 9,100 vpd on
each one-way street (18,200 vpd total traffic), and 15,400 vpd on D Street.
West of the CBD, volumes on US 421 Business are 27,400 vpd. Current ADTs are
shown in the attached figure (top number).
The existing NC 18-268 and US 421 Business corridor operates at level of
service (LOS) D. The corridor's most congested intersection is the NC 18 and
Elkin Highway (NC 268A) junction. During the peak travel periods, the
intersection operates at LOS E.
The capacity of the corridor and its busiest intersection is defined as LOS E.
Currently these facilities are operating at or just below capacity.
Design Year (2025) Forecasted Traffic and Level of Service
The design year for this project is 2025. If no improvements are made to
the NC 18-268 and US 421 Business corridor by that time, vehicular demand is
forecasted to be 41,600 vpd on NC 18-268 east of the CBD; 14,900 vpd on
each one-way pair in the CBD; 25,400 vpd on D Street; and 46,200 on US 421
Business west of the CBD. Forecasted ADT for the no build condition is depicted
in the attached figure (bottom number).
If improvements in traffic-carrying capacity are not made to the NC 18-
268 and US 421 Business corridor, these facilities will operate at level of service
LOS F during the peak travel periods by 2025. At the congested intersection
of NC 18 and Elkin Highway (NC 268A), LOS F is forecasted to occur during
peak travel periods.
LOS F occurs when the capacity of a transportation facility is exceeded.
The resulting traffic operations are forced flow and highly variable travel speeds
on the main road, and long queuing at intersections.
Summary
The proposed project will alleviate vehicular congestion in the general
east-west direction in Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro. Alternatives to meet
the purpose of the project will be submitted to the merger team and the public
as the development of the project progresses.
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US 421
EAST OF MAPLE SPRINGS TO
EAST OF NC 268 NEAR WILKESBORO
WILKES COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
STATE PROJECT No. 6.769002T
T.I.P. No. R-2240
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Submitted Pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 4332(2) (c)
By the
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
and the
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
Da a of pproval H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
Planning & Environmental Branch, NCDOT
?? Zz 9S
Date of Approval Fc,e Nicholas L. Graf, P.E.
Division Administrator, FHWA
V_
US 421
9
3.0 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
3.1 NO-BUILD ALTERNATIVE
The no-build alternative would result in no improvements to US 421 in the study area.
The existing 12-mile segment of US 421 would remain a two-lane facility, with the
exception of the 1.2-mile, existing five-lane section in the vicinity of the US 421
Bypass/US 421 Business intersection.
Benefits associated with the no-build alternative include: no residential relocations; no
impacts to biotic communities, wetlands, wildlife, and agricultural lands; and no
temporal increases in noise, dirt, and dust during construction. In addition, no state or
federal funds would be expended for right of way acquisition and construction.
The no-build alternative would have a profoundly negative effect on level of service.
(LOS) and highway capacity in the project area. As previously described in. Section
2.3.4, projected traffic volumes for the design year will result in current signalized
intersections exceeding their capacity. Travel in this area will be characterized by
extensive stopping delays at these intersections of well over 60 seconds per vehicle.
Key unsignalized intersections in the project area will operate at a LOS "E" during
peak periods. Increased traffic volumes on the unimproved highway will also likely
increase the incidence of vehicular accidents, especially at intersections.
In summary, the no-build alternative will result in significant travel delays and traffic
congestion along this portion of US 421. The unacceptable level of service will conflict
with US 421's important role as the main highway link between the Piedmont and the
western part of the state. Without the recommended improvements, US 421's ability to
function as a safe and effective part of the Intrastate Corridor System will be
substantially compromised. In conclusion, the no-build alternative is not considered a
reasonable or feasible alternative for this project.
3.2 OTHER ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
A series of preliminary construction alternatives were considered for the project,
ranging from improvements along the existing US 421 facility, to alignments on new
location that would bypass the existing commercial district.
Preliminary highway alternatives were developed through the application of land
suitability mapping (LSM) within the study area. This mapping shows factors that
would limit or discourage highway development by utilizing overlays at a common
scale. The factors mapped and subsequently evaluated included wetlands, floodplains,
biotic communities, agricultural uses (prime farmland), soils, topography, residential,
commercial, and industrial development density and archaeological and historic
architectural resources. The overlay process revealed specific areas or "windows" that
would minimize potential impacts. These windows, in turn, were linked to form
potential highway corridors.
NCDOT
Federal EA
July 1W)
US 421 10
3.2.1 Bypass Alternatives
Through the above-described process, a series of potential alignments on new location
were developed. These bypass alternatives were preliminarily sited south of existing
US 421, between NC 16 and the US 421/NC 268 interchange. Five new location
corridors were identified, both north and south of the Yadkin River. These corridors
exited the existing US 421 roadway in the vicinity of NC 16 and tied back into US 421
just west of the Yadkin River bridge. Each of the proposed controlled access
alternatives bypassed the existing business district. New right of way would be required
to accomodate the proposed four-lane divided facility. A preliminary centerline was
established for assessing environmental impacts. The assessment process concluded that
a bypass north of the Yadkin River, thereby requiring only one crossing of the river,
was the most reasonable and feasible.
West of NC 16, this Bypass Alternative was identical to the current Recommended
Alternative. At NC 16, however, the Bypass Alternative departed from the existing
US 421 facility in a southeast direction. This four-lane divided freeway facility,
extending approximately 3.0 miles in length, would cross Millers Creek, Tucker Hole
Creek, and two unnamed tributaries before tieing back into US 421 approximately 500
feet west of the Yadkin River bridge. This segment, on new location, would have full
control of access. The bypass would be designed with a 46-foot median and require the
purchase of 250 feet (minimum) of new R/W.
A detailed evaluation and comparison between the improve Existing and the Bypass
Alternatives was then performed. The comparison of these two reasonable and feasible
alternatives or "build" alternatives considered a variety of factors, including
environmental impacts (i.e., impacts to wetlands, floodplain, vegetative communities of
biotic importance, et al.), ability to meet the purpose and need of the US 421 Intrastate
Corridor System, safety and engineering, traffic (level of service), and estimated
construction costs.
' As a result of this evaluation the Bypass Alternative was eliminated from further
consideration based, in part, on the following: 1) 4(f) considerations as a result of
I direct conflicts with the Johnson Farm Complex - an historic property determined
eligible for the National Register of Historic Places (refer to Section 4.1.6); 2) greater
environmental impacts, notably with respect to areas of biotic importance which
I included the removal of marginally disturbed forested areas along the new location
segment; 3) more residential and commercial relocations; 4) potential conflicts with the
Montford Stokes site - an archaeological site determined eligible for the National
Register of Historic Places (refer to Section 4.1.6); and 5) greater construction costs
based on the substantial amount of earthwork that would be required along the bypass
segment. Contrastingly, the Improve Existing Alternative would 1) result in no conflicts
with historic or archaeological properties, 2) have minimal impact on forested areas of
{ biotic importance, with proposed improvements to be largely confined within the
existing right of way, and 3) require approximately 60% less earthwork.
3.2.2 Improve Existing Alternatives
North side widening of existing US 421 was also evaluated. This alternative would
involve the addition of two westbound travel lanes and a 46-foot median north of the
NCDOT Federal E! July 1995
US 421 I1
existing roadway. This alternative was compared with the Recommended Alternative
(south side widening) and eliminated from further consideration based, in part, on the
following: 1) greater wetlands and floodplain impacts; 2) more involvement with
operational gas stations and potential conflicts with underground storage tanks; and 3)
more residential and commercial relocations - this alternative would fail to take full
advantage of the existing right of way which has been offset to the south to
accommodate future widening.
3.3 RECONEWENDED ALTERNATIVE
The proposed improvements will involve constructing additional eastbound travel lanes
south of the existing roadway. The proposed roadway will follow the alignment of
existing US 421 and provide partial control of access.
West of NC 16 and east of the US 421 Bypass/US 421 Business intersection, the
proposed widening will involve the addition of two eastbound lanes and a 46-foot
grassed median south of the existing roadway. East of NC 16 this four-lane divided
section will transition to a five-lane section to tie into the existing five-lane facility
located between SR 1323 and the US 421 Bypass/US 421 Business intersection. The
Typical Sections and Design Criteria governing the proposed improvements are
included in Appendix A. Functional Design Drawings of the Recommended Alternative
are presented in Appendix G.
As previously described, US 421 between SR 1323 and the US 421 Bypass/US 421
Business intersection was recently upgraded to a five-lane section as part of TIP Nos.
W-2817 and W-2861. Further minor improvements to this 1.2 mile segment will be
considered, as necessary, during final design of this project. These minor improvements
will be contained within the existing right of way.
3.3.1 Project Terminus
The western terminus of the project is located east of the community of Maple Springs
and approximately 2,700 feet west of SR 1304. West of the project, US 421 is a four-
lane divided facility with partial control of access. The eastern terminus of R-2240 is
1,000 feet east of the US 421/NC 268 interchange. East of the project is a 1.8-mile
segment of the US 421 North Wilkesboro Bypass with full control of access and a four-
lane divided cross section.
3.3.2 Length of Project
The overall length of this project, including the 1.2-mile section of existing five-lane
roadway from SR 1323 to east of the US 421 Bypass/US 421 Business intersection, is
approximately 12 miles.
3.3.3 Design Criteria and Typical Sections
West of NC 16 and east of the US 421 Bypass/US 421 Business intersection, the
proposed widening will involve the addition of two eastbound lanes and a 46-foot
grassed median south of the existing roadway. East of NC 16 this four-lane divided
NCDOT Federal EA July 1995
tr -= US 421 21
US 421 and NC 268 encourages visitors from North Wilkesboro, Wilkesboro, Boone,
Hickory, Lenoir, Winston-Salem, and Morganton (Wilkes County Land Use Planning
Committee, 1987). Improvements of US 421 will enhance accessibility and may
increase visitation and utilization of this park.
4.1.5 Public Services and Utilities
At the present time, no intercity bus lines pass through Wilkes County. Six taxicab
companies operate in the county and all of the companies are located in either
Wilkesboro or North Wilkesboro (Travel, et al., 1989). Neither a Rideshare Program
nor commuter rail service exists in the county.
The new Wilkes County Airport provides services and facilities for private aircraft as
well as private-for-hire flights. This airport is located northeast of North Wilkesboro.
The former county airport site is located south of the Yadkin River and northwest of
the US 421/NC 268 interchange. Airports for commercial flights are located
approximately two hours from Wilkesboro in the cities of Charlotte, Winston-Salem,
Greensboro, and High Point.
Emergency response services in the project area include police, fire, and ambulance.
During construction activities, traffic flow will be maintained along US 421, thereby
minimizing any disruption in the movement of emergency vehicles.
The completion of the project will have a positive impact on the above-described
services and other users of US 421 by improving traffic flow, relieving traffic
congestion, and improving the driveability and safety of the roadway.
Existing utilities in the study area include electric, sewer, and water. Most of the utility
lines follow existing roadways. Consequently, the Recommended Alternative will result
in expenditures for utility relocations. Based on a utility conflict severability-scale of
low, medium, or high, utility conflicts are anticipated to be medium for the project.
The preliminary estimate for utility relocations for the Recommended Alternative is
$440,000.
4.1.6 Historic Architectural and Archaeological Resources
Archaeological Resources
An Archaeological Survey was conducted for the proposed project corridors. This
survey was coordinated with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) in
accordance with the Federal Highway Administration's procedures for compliance with
the National Historic Preservation Act and the Federal-Aid Highways Act (Department
of Transportation Act, as amended). The archaeological survey was conducted to
evaluate the project's probable impact upon archaeological resources.
During the survey, nine previously unrecorded archaeological sites were recorded and
two previously recorded sites were revisited. In addition, the archaeological remains of
the Montford Stokes house site were recorded as archaeological site 31WK121. The
Montford Stokes house was listed in the National Register of Historic Places, but was
delisted after the structure burned in 1972. The archaeological components of this site,
NCDOT Federal EA 1u4' 1995
US 421
22
however, were assessed as potentially eligible for the National Register. In a letter of
August 27, 1992, the Deputy SHPO concurred with this recommendation (See
Appendix. C)
The proposed widening of US 421 along the existing right of way will have no effect
on archaeological sites previously identified in the southern bypass alternative. The
project's area of potential effect does not include archaeological resources currently
listed in the National Register or on the State Study List.
Historical Architectural Resources
An Architectural Resources Survey has been completed for the project. The survey had
the following goals: (1) to determine the "area of potential effects" (APE) of the
project; (2) to identify all historic architectural resources within this area; (3) to
evaluate these resources according to National Register Criteria; and (4) to provide
preliminary assessments of effects for properties listed in or evaluated as eligible for the
National Register, if such properties exist. The architectural survey within the APE was
necessary for the project's compliance with both Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act and Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act.
The survey identified a total of 31 resources considered to be 50 years of age or older
within the APE. Of these, eight were recorded, of which one, the Johnson Farm
Complex, has been determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The
approximately 51-acre complex is located on the north side of the Yadkin River. This
potential National Register property includes cultivated bottomland, pasture, and
woodland, a 1913 vernacular, frame, story-and-a-half house, a.1935 gable-front, story-
and-a-half house, and eight associated farm outbuildings. The approximate location of
the Johnson Farm Complex property is presented on Figure 6. The findings of the
survey were coordinated. with the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources and
the SHPO has concurred (Appendix Q.
FHWA has determined and the SHPO has concurred that the proposed widening of
US 421 along the existing right of way will have no affect on the National Register-
eligible property located within the project's APE (Appendix Q. The APE does not
contain architectural resources currently listed in or eligible for the National Register or
on the State Study List.
The completed architectural survey report, a technical appendix to this EA, is available
for review at the NCDOT Planning and Environmental Branch, located in the
Transportation Building at One South Wilmington Street in Raleigh, North Carolina.
4.2 ECONOMIC EFFECTS
The population of Wilkes County has steadily increased since the 1960s. The period
from 1970 to 1980 experienced a 9.4% increase in population. This trend is "directly
attributable to the location of manufacturing firms and businesses into the county,
effectively reducing the out-migration of the young to seek employment in the adjoining
counties." (Wilkes County Land Use Committee, 1987). The 1990 Census lists the
population of Wilkesboro as 2,573 (2,086 over the age of 18) and the population of
Wilkes County as 59,393 (45,423 over the age of 18) (NC Data Center, 1990). By the
NCDOT Federal EA July 1995

`J
e a5U7E4
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDO TIPPETT
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
June 27, 2002
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Alethia Raynor a42
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor Study, Wilkes County,
F.A. Proj ect NHF-421 B(1), State Proj ect 8.176190 1,
TIP Project U-3
A concurrence meeting for the subject project was held on Ma 15 -20-02. The objectives
of the meeting were to present general information about the project study area to the team
members, and to establish purpose and need for the project (concurrence point 1). The following
people attended the meeting:
Jean Manuele US Army Corps of Engineers, Raleigh
Jake Riggsbee Federal Highway Administration
Marella Buncick US Fish and Wildlife Service
Cynthia Van Der Wiele NC Division of Water Quality
David Cox North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Renee Gledhill-Earley State Historic Preservation Office
Nya Boayue NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Ted Walls NCDOT, Roadway Design Unit
Rob Hanson NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Jay McInnis NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Alethia Raynor NCDOT, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Purpose and need documentation for the subject project was provided to participants prior
to the meeting. Handouts made available at the meeting included a copy of all slides and figures
referenced during the presentation. The following is a summary of the information presented to
the team members. Comments and recommendations discussed at the meeting are also included.
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE. WWWDOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC

Project Description
TIP Project U-3468 has been included in the Draft 2004-2010 North Carolina
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to improve the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of
Wilkesboro, in Wilkes County. This project focuses on the section of highway from west of
NC 16 to NC 268. This portion of US 421 is approximately 3.4 miles.
Project Purpose
The project purpose presented at the meeting was stated as follows:
The purpose of the project is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and improve travel time for
traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro.
Project Need
The needs identified for the project are:
1) Growing traffic volumes along US 421 in the project area,
2) High number of rear-end collisions, and
3) Growing delay in travel time due to amount of traffic and number of signals along
US 421 in the area.
Project History
Improvements are currently being made to US 421 in the study area under TIP Project
R-2240B. US 421 is being widened to five lanes between NC 16 and the US 421 Business
intersection. From the US 421 Business intersection to east of NC 268, US 421 is being widened
to four lanes with a median. This work is anticipated to be completed in December 2003.
The Environmental Assessment (EA) for TIP Project R-2240 was completed in November
1995. One alternative considered for the project included a bypass around the existing business
district. The Bypass alternative recommended a new location portion of US 421 south of the
existing facility, between NC 16 and the US 421/NC 268 interchange. The Bypass alternative was
eliminated from further consideration based, in part, on the following: 1) 4(f) considerations as a
result of direct conflicts with the Johnson Farm Complex - a historic property determined eligible
for the National Register of Historic Places; 2) greater environmental impacts, notably with respect
to areas of biotic importance which included the removal of marginally disturbed forested areas
along the new location segment; 3) more residential and commercial relocations; 4) potential
conflicts with the Montford Stokes site - an archaeological site determined eligible for the
National Register of Historic Places; and 5) greater construction costs based on the substantial
amount of earthwork that would be required along the bypass segment (TIP Project R-2240 EA,
1995).
Recommendations
TIP Project R-616 is programmed as the NC 18-268 (Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro
Bypass) from NC 18 to US 421. In the Draft 2004-2010 Transportation Improvement Program
(TIP), right of way is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2008 and construction is scheduled to begin
V„ L
in 2010. A meeting to discuss purpose and need (concurrence point 1) has not been held on this
project.
At this time, it is recommended that the western termini of the Bypass (R-616) connect to
US 421 within the U-3468 project study area. All the team members emphasized the need to
coordinate planning of these two projects. They expressed concern about precluding options for
both projects since information about project R-616 was not available at the meeting.
Ms. Manuele noted that the NC 18-268 Bypass will direct more traffic onto US 421. The 2025
traffic projections provided at the meeting assume the Bypass is in place. One team member then
questioned if the NC 18-268 Bypass was driving the need for improvements along US 421. On
US 421, east of SR 1323, traffic volumes will range between 39,000 and 49,400 in 2025 with the
NC 18-268 Bypass in place. If the Bypass is not constructed, traffic volumes will range between
48,600 and 65,000 in 2025. Even with TIP Project R-616, US 421 will operate between a level of
service (LOS) E and F in 2025.
Jay McInnis emphasized that planning for the projects will be coordinated, but believed it
was more appropriate to tie the projects together at the alternatives stage. Since the two projects
are routing traffic in different directions, then the purpose and need for each project is different.
Mr. McInnis recommended revising the purpose and need for U-3468 to incorporate a
commitment for coordination of the two projects. Rob Hanson agreed and recommended the
purpose statement include addressing the needs of this and other transportation projects in a
manner that minimizes the combined environmental impact.
Marella Buncick and Jean Manuele both stated that there is a demonstrated need for
improvement to US 421. However, all of the team members agreed that another meeting should
be scheduled to discuss TIP Projects U-3468 and R-616 together. Team members want to gather
all available information and then draft purpose and need statements for both projects. They
recognize the importance of TIP Project U-3468 in light of the other improvements to US 421
currently underway, and want to approach project development from a system level.
Ms. Raynor asked for final comments on the purpose and need documentation for TIP
Project U-3468. Ms. Manuele questioned if the purpose statement should be revised to
recommend an interstate or freeway facility for the project. Mr. McInnis disagreed with this
recommendation. David Cox noted that a facility with driveways and a large number of access
points would not meet the stated purpose for the project. Therefore, certain types of facilities will
be excluded from consideration because they do not meet the purpose and need. No other
comments were made.
Cc: Merger Team members
? d
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
-
GOVERNOR
pMM
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
March 22, 2002
Ms. Jean Manuele
US Army Corps of Engineers
6508 Falls of the Neuse Road
Suite 120
Raleigh, North Carolina 27615-6814
Dear Ms. Manuele:
? l? l i U It1 ?y
W28M
WETLAtO GROUP
WATE2UALITY SECTION
SUBJECT: NEPA/404 Concurrence Meeting for the US 421 Wilkesboro Corridor
Study, Wilkes County, TIP Project U-3468
A merger team meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April I lth at 9:00 AM. The purpose of
the meeting is to discuss purpose and need for TIP Project U-3468, improvements to the US 421
corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. An agenda detailing the location of this meeting will be
forwarded under separate cover.
Enclosed is information regarding the purpose and need for the project. Please let me
know if you have any questions or need additional information prior to the April I I' meeting.
My phone number is [phone], extension 247 and my email address is
afraynorkdot. state.nc.us.
Sincerely,
Alethia Raynor
Project Development Engineer
Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch
afr
Enclosure
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone]
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone]
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC.
Cc: Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele, NC Division of Water Quality
Ms. Marella Buncick, US Fish and Wildlife Service
Ms. Maryellen Haggard, NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley, State Historic Preservation Office
Mr. Jake Riggsbee, Federal Highway Administration
Mr. Jimmy Norris, P.E., NCDOT Roadway Design Unit
Mr. Rob Hanson, P.E., NCDOT Project Development and Environmental
Analysis Branch
Mr. Jay McInnis, P.E., NCDOT Project Development and Environmental
Analysis Branch
??xx D

NEPA/404 MERGER CONCURRENCE POINT #1
PURPOSE AND NEED DOCUMENTATION
FOR
JAORTII
co g
m o
OF TRA?Se
US 421 WILKESBORO CORRIDOR STUDY
WILKES COUNTY
"-?- TIP PROJECT U-3468

US 421 WILKESBORO CORRIDOR STUDY
TIP Project U-3468
State Project 8.1761901
Federal Aid Project NHF-421B(1)
Purpose of Today's Meeting
The purpose of today's meeting is to present information regarding the purpose and need
of TIP Project U-3468. Likely alternatives for this project will not be discussed at today's
meeting. Discussions on alternatives will follow concurrence on purpose and need.
Project Description &Kyk = 3- 4 'ry ?
TIP Project U-3468 has been included in the 2002-2008 North Carolina Transportation
Improvement Program to improve the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro, in Wilkes
County (see Figure 1). This project focuses on the section of highway from west of NC 16 to
NC 268. 06
NIs
Purpose of Project
The purpose of the project is to reduce congestion, improve safety, and improve travel
time for traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro.
- 1"Z44
Existing Conditions
US 421 is an intrastate highway facility that connects the southern coastal area to the
piedmont and the northwestern part of the state. In the western part of North Carolina, US 421 is
primarily an east-west facility. In this area, US 421 serves to connect Winston-Salem and
Boone. US 421 is classified as a principal urban arterial.
US 421 INTRASIATE CORRIDOR
:ASHE J/\ SURRY S2
WATAUGA\
WLKES
YADKIN
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P-2615 1-529 R-2240 R-2239 R 2124
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Several ski resorts are located in the vicinity of Boone. Appalachian State University is
located in Boone. US 421 is the primary route for motorists traveling from the eastern part of the
state to these resorts and the university. The Blue Ridge Parkway can be accessed from US 421
east of Boone, as well.
US 421 has two different typical sections within the project study area. West of NC 16 to
SR 1323, US 421 is a two-lane facility. From SR 1323 to US 421 Business, the roadway has five
lanes. East of the US 421 Business intersection, US 421 returns to two lanes. The posted speed
limit within the study area is between 45 and 55 mph.
Improvements are currently being made to US 421 in the study area under TIP Project
R-2240B. US 421 is being widened to five lanes between NC 16 and the US 421 Business
intersection. From the US 421 Business intersection to east of NC 268, US 421 is being widened
to four lanes with a median. This work is anticipated to be completed in December 2003.
Existing land use along US 421 varies. US 421 is surrounded by dense commercial and
business development between SR 1323 (Dancy Road) and US 421 Business. Multiple access
points exist along US 421 for the different shopping centers. West of SR 1323, the land use
consists of residential areas with scattered businesses. Signalized intersections exist within the
project study area at the following locations: NC 16, SR 1323, Addison Avenue, SR 1322, and
US 421 Business.
Current (year 2001) daily traffic volumes along US 421 range between 12,200 and
34,800 vehicles per day. Traffic volumes are the highest within the dense commercial area along
US 421. In that area, the volumes range between 25,200 and 34,800 vehicles per day. Current
traffic volumes for the study area are shown on Figure 2.
The portion of US 421 in the project study area serves a mixture of local and through
traffic. Most of the retail space in Wilkesboro is located along or near US 421. During
weekends in the fall, tourists traveling to the mountains to view the leaves and football traffic
contribute to traffic congestion along US 421.
Anticipated Future Conditions
In 2025, daily traffic volumes along US 421 are anticipated to range between 23,400 and
58,200 vehicles per day. Within the commercial area, volumes are the highest and are
anticipated to be between 46,800 and 49,400 vehicles per day. Figure 3 shows the anticipated
traffic volumes along US 421 for 2025.
As described in the Wilkes County Growth Management Plan, the Town of Wilkesboro is
experiencing substantial commercial growth along the US 421 corridor. They are anticipating
that this trend will continue in the future.
2
Deficiencies of Existing Facility
Traffic Carrying Capacity
Without further improvements beyond those currently under construction, US 421 in the
study area will operate between level of service (LOS) E and F in the design year (2025).
The following signalized intersections are anticipated to operate at a LOS F in 2025:
• US 421 and SR 1323 (Dancy Road)
• US 421 and SR 1322, and
• US 421 and US 421 Business intersection.
The intersection of US 421 and NC 16 is anticipated to reach LOS E in 2025. As a result
of the spacing of these signals along US 421, it is anticipated that the level of service at the
signals will control the level of service along the facility.
Accident Record
An accident study was conducted along US 421 in the study area for the time period
between November 1998 and October 2001. During the studied time period, 113 crashes
occurred between NC 16 and SR 1323. The accident rate for this section of US 421 was 320.66
accidents per 100 million vehicle miles. This is higher than the statewide average of 290.84
accidents per 100 million vehicle miles for urban two-lane US routes (1996-1998 three year
average). On the five-lane section of US 421 between SR 1323 and the US 421 Business split,
124 crashes were reported for the studied time period. This results in a crash rate of 386.53
accidents per 100 million vehicle miles. In comparison, the statewide crash rate for urban US
four-lane highways with a continuous left turn lane was 470.97 accidents per 100 million vehicle
miles.
In the study area, the most frequent type of accidents involved rear end collisions due to
vehicles slowing or stopping and angle accidents. Often, these types of crashes are more likely
to occur on congested roadways. The recorded accidents in this study are based on the current
typical section. Upon completion of the widening of US 421 (TIP Project R-2240B), the crash
rates should decrease; however, it is expected the rates will not fall as much as they might
otherwise due to the congestion expected along this section of roadway.
Travel Time
Improvements are currently underway along US 421 between Winston-Salem and
Wilkesboro. Upon completion, US 421 between these areas will be a four-lane divided highway
with limited access. Many portions of US 421 will be full control of access. US 421 between
Winston-Salem and I-77 in Yadkin County has been upgraded to a freeway and the facility is
posted at 65 mph. US 421 west of Wilkesboro is currently being widened to four lanes with a
median, as well. When all of the projects which are now under construction are complete,
US 421 will be a freeway or expressway from Winston-Salem to Boone, with the exception of
through the study area.
3
Through traffic using US 421 in the project area will experience significant delay, even
after completion of the current widening, due to the amount of traffic and the number of signals
along this section of US 421. During the peak hour in the design year (2025), it is anticipated
that approximately 20 minutes of delay will be experienced along the 2.5 mile signalized section.

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TIP PROJECT U-3468
NEPA/404 MERGER TEAM
MEETING

,/Objectives of Today's Meeting
• Present general information about Project
Study Area
• Establish Purpose and Need for the Project
(Concurrence Point 1)

1

Location
Wilkes County, North Carolina
f?
s
.+.A;
t F
Existing US 421
• Two-lane facility from west of NC 16 to
SR 1323 (Dancy Road)
• Five lane typical section from SR 1323 to
US 421 Business \
• US 421 is currently being widened to five
lanes as part of TIP Project R-2240B.
` _ -
3
PROJECT PURPOSE
The purpose of this project is to
reduce congestion, improve safety, and
improve travel time for traffic using the
US 421 corridor in the vicinity of
Wilkesboro.
PROJECT NEED
Needs to be addressed by project include:
1) Growing traffic volumes along US 421 in
the project area

4
w
TIP PROJECT U3468
US 421 VN LKESBORO CORRIDOR STUDY
2025 ADT VOLUMES
N
NC 16 SR 1372 No Scale
12 PM 60 12 PM 65 2 Pet 80
7
.
15,6) SR 1313 (5,9) SR 132 1],5)
SR 1372
SR 1323 ya
J
2],900 -
US 42 ]],000
37.500
38.000 3%W0
49,400
35,000 36.800 96.800
SR 1185
io 6oope
12 PLI 65 Addes w Ave. 56.20
SR 1182 1]b)
( SR 1143 V6d %qeg
I
NC 268
49.60
US 42

Kerr Scott R.-0i ? - WILKESBORO
%D-\ %DIRELTIONAL E"m-4L-1. S9 k4
PEAK HOUR-,,. 2PM60 ® Appuxmably LOSD
DIRECTION (Sbl
m-tyLOSF
%DUALS/ `%TTST App-
PROJECT NEED
Needs to be addressed by project:
1) Growing traffic volumes along US 421 in the project area
2) High numbk.;-.,; of rear-end collisions
}Y

Accidents by Type
along US 421 in project area
Ip Angle
M Animal ! Movable Object
{ p Backing Up
"p Jackknife
1
M Left turn
g] Right turn
4 i Other collision with \,ehicl
p Other non-collision
Owrtum/Rollo\,er
M Parked motor vehicle
p Ran off Road
Rear End Collisions
0 Sideswipe
PROJECT NEED
Needs to be addressed by project:
1) Growing traffic volumes along US 421 in the project area
2) High number of rear-end collisions
3) Growing delay in travel time due to
amount of traffic and number of signals
along US 421 in the area

US 421 Intrastate Corridor

ASHE BURRY S2
QI
WATAUGA

9; Wt1 KE5 I
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rakeaNYO fv ' YADKIN
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R-2120
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Comparing ADT and Capacity along US 421
80,000
-
60,000
p 40,000 _ _ / - - - '
20,000
0 8 12 25 29 32 36 41 51 59 69 80
Approximate Distances (miles)
..ADT Year 2000 Capacity - - ADT (Year 2025)-
J
WATAUGA WILKES YADKIN FORSYTH
Boone Wilkesboro Winston-
US 421 US 421 Sal m
NC 194 NC 16 67 140
-in vidnA of Wilkesboro

I N
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LO O
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TydaA STATF y
N M
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
May 4, 2001
MEMORANDUM TO: File
FROM: Alethia Raynor ? C? ??x "C'L'
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
SUBJECT: US 421 Wilkesboro Bypass, NC 16 to the Yadkin River,
Wilkes County, F.A. Project No. NHF-421B(1),
State Project No. 8.176190 1, TIP Project No. U-3468
A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on March 27, 2001, at 1:30 P.M. in
the Roadway Design Conference Room at the Century Center. The following people were in
attendance:
Gary Page
Ken Noland
Wayne Myers
Arnold Lakey
Mary Ellen Haggard
Carl McCann
Debbie Barbour
Jerome Nix
Bob Deaton
Sid Autry
Len Hendricks
Ann Steedly
Van Argabright
John Shambley
Betty Yancey
Mark Salter
Marc Clifford
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
Wilkes County Manager
Town of Wilkesboro Manager
Wilkes County Chamber of Commerce
Wilkes County Commissioner
Wildlife Resources Commission
Division Engineer, Division 11
Highway Design
Hydraulics Unit
Human Environment Unit, Community Impacts
Location & Surveys
Public Involvement
Public Involvement
Program Development
Program Development
Right of Way
Right of Way, Utilities
Roadway Design
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW. DOH. DOT. STATE. NC. US
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
Sue Flowers
Gary Foster
Betsy Watson
Tom Payne
Walker Armistead
Basir Rashid
Richard Helms
Roadway Design
Roadway Design
Signals & Geometrics
Structure Design
Structure Design
Traffic Engineering, Signing
Traffic Control
Lubin Prevatt Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Jay McInnis Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Ray Lotfi Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Matthew King Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Alethia Raynor Project Development and Environmental Analysis
After brief introductions, Ms. Raynor discussed the following:
Project Description
TIP Project U-3468 is programmed in the Draft 2002-2008 Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) as the construction of a US 421 Bypass on new location north of existing US 421
from NC 16 to the Yadkin River, west of Wilkesboro. The total project length is 3.4 miles.
Project Background
An adjacent project, TIP Project R-2240, recommended improvements to existing US 421
in the area of this project. The environmental document for Project R-2240 was completed in
1995. As part of the environmental study, some alternatives on new location were evaluated.
These alternatives were primarily sited south of existing US 421 and bypassed the Wilkesboro
Business District. The bypass alternative was eliminated because of potential impacts to historic
properties, homes and businesses, and the Yadkin River. The R-2240 document recommended
widening US 421 to a multi-lane facility from east of Maple Springs to east of NC 268.
Purpose of Project
The purpose of the proposed project is to reduce congestion and travel time and improve
safety for traffic using the US 421 corridor in the vicinity of Wilkesboro. In addition, the project
would extend the freeway type facility that is currently in place or under construction leading
into Wilkesboro.
Information concerning traffic volumes along US 421 was gathered from projections
prepared for TIP Project R-2240 and TIP Project R-616 (NC 18-268 Wilkesboro Bypass).
Estimates prepared for Project R-2240 show that in the year 2030, portions of existing. US 421
will be at or above capacity. Traffic projections prepared for project R-616 estimate that
volumes in 2025 will range from 45,000 to 49,000 along US 421 with the NC 268 Bypass in
place. Without the NC 268 Bypass, traffic volumes are expected to range from 45,000 to 65,000.
These traffic projections are only valid along existing US 421 in the area of SR 1323 to the US
421 Business/Bypass split. Traffic estimates for this project are expected to be available in June
or July.
Although accident data has not been received for this project, some. conclusion about
accident experience can be made from comparing statewide averages. Statewide averages for US
routes reflect accident rates three and one-half times higher along five lane sections than along
four lane divided facilities with full access control. Therefore, it would be expected that the
proposed bypass would improve the accident experience for traffic using US 421.
Schedule
The project schedule for TIP Project U-3468 is:
Right of Way (begin): Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2006
Construction (begin): FFY 2008
Intermediate Schedules*:
Citizens Informational Workshop: January 2002
Roadway Design scheduled to complete Preliminary Design: May 2002
Document Schedule*:
Environmental Assessment (EA): April 2003
Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI): June 2004
*These schedules do not reflect any changes that may occur in scheduling the 2002-2008
Transportation Improvement Program (TIP).
Existing Transportation Facilities
Roadway Characteristics
US 421 has two different typical sections within the project study area. West of NC 16 to
SR 1323, US 421 is a two-lane facility. The roadway then expands to five lanes within the
business district. East of the US 421 Business/Bypass split, US 421 returns to two lanes. The
posted speed limit within the study area is 45-55 mph. US 421 is classified as a principal urban
arterial.
Full control of access for existing US 421 in the project area begins east of SR 1322
(Winkler Mill Road). West of SR 1322, there is no control of access.
Traffic Operations
Signalized intersections exist within the project limits at the following locations: NC 16,
Addison Avenue, US 421 Business, SR 1323 (Dancy Road), and SR 1322.
Area TIP Projects
R-2240B
TIP Project R-2240B proposes to widen existing US 421 to a multi-lane facility in the
area of this project. The proposed improvements involve constructing additional lanes south of
the existing roadway. West of NC 16, existing US 421 will be widened for two eastbound lanes
and a 46-foot grass median south of the existing roadway. East of NC 16, this four-lane divided
section will transition to a five-lane section to tie into the existing five-lane facility located
between SR 1323 and the US 421 Bypass/US 421 Business intersection. From the US 421
Bypass/US 421 Business intersection to east of NC 268, a four-lane typical section is proposed.
This project was let to construction in September 2000.
R-616
TIP Project R-616 is programmed as the NC 268 Bypass (Wilkesboro and North
Wilkesboro Bypass) from NC 18-268 to US 421. The project proposes to construct two lanes on
multi-lane right of way. Right of way is scheduled to begin on this project in fiscal year 2005,
and construction is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2008.
R-2120
TIP Project R-2120 proposes to widen US 421 from I-77 to west of the Yadkin River.
The proposed improvements involve constructing a four-lane divided facility with part on new
location. This project has been let to construction.
Proposed Improvements
The feasibility study recommended the following typical section for the new roadway: 4
12-foot travel lanes with 4-foot inside paved shoulders and 10-foot outside paved shoulders (12-
foot total shoulder width), separated by a 60-foot median. DOT staff recommends using a 46-
foot median for the proposed roadway to match the median width of US 421 following
completion of Project R-2240. Full control of access is recommended for the new facility. The
proposed design speed is 60 mph.
The feasibility study proposed four interchanges as part of this project. Roadway Design
has made preliminary recommendations for each of the interchanges. The recommendations are
as follows:
• US 421 & NC 16/SR 1143 -Partial cloverleaf interchange with ramps and loops in the
northeast and southeast quadrants.
• Existing US 421 & Proposed Bypass - Flyover style interchange. Eastbound traffic can exit
by ramp onto US 421 Business or continue along the proposed bypass.
• US 421 & NC 268 Bypass (R-616) - Standard diamond interchange.
• US 421 Bypass & SR 1327 - Trumpet style interchange.
These recommendations will be examined further following receipt of traffic volumes and
topographic information.
Roadway Design commented that modifications to the bridges over the Yadkin River
may be needed to accommodate the proposed design.
Environmental Factors
Local land use along US 421 varies. US 421 is surrounded by dense commercial and
business development between SR 1323 (Dancy Road) and the US 421 Business/Bypass split.
Outside of this area is a mix of residential and business interests.

The natural terrain of the area is rolling hills. The project is located within a protected
watershed with classification WS IV. City representatives also noted that the City's water supply
intake is within 300 feet of the Yadkin River bridge on US 421. Several streams are located
within the project area and stream crossings will be required as a result of the proposed project.
They include: Tucker Hole Creek, Millers Creek, and an unnamed tributary (UT) of the Yadkin
River. Tucker Hole Creek is classified as a Trout Stream.
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) stated that an archaeological survey
would be needed. It appears that the project study area is outside of the area of potential effect
that was surveyed for TIP Project R-2240.
Cost Estimates
The cost estimate for TIP Project U-3468 is:
TIP Cost Estimate Current Cost Estimate
Construction: $50,800,000 $55,800,000
*Right of Way: $11,700,000 $11,700,000
Total Cost: $62,500,000 $67,500,000
*TIP Right of Way Cost
Comments/Questions
The proposed interchange sited at the eastern end of the project will result in several
crossings of Tucker Hole Creek. It was recommended that staff examine other options for this
interchange.
Location and Surveys staff commented on the installation of 10-inch and 6-inch gas lines
along US 421. The lines begin west of the intersection with SR 1322 and continue along the
north side of US 421 until they reach SR 1323 (Dancy Road). Both lines turn north at SR 1323
and follow this road to its intersection with Congo Road. The 10-inch line is a high-pressure
transmission line.
Tyson Food has a wood shavings operation located southwest of US 421 at the Yadkin
River. This facility is currently accessed by a private drive connecting to US 421 at the
intersection of SR 1322.
There was some discussion about extending the project approximately 0.75 miles west of
NC 16 (near the Ridgecrest subdivision). City utilities now extend to this area.
City representatives commented that the historical site impeding the southern bypass
options has been altered. A fire destroyed the building and the cemetery has been relocated. The
City Manager asked if another corridor might now be considered.
Cc: Scoping Participants