R-3405

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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
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DEC 1 7 2004
DENR - Wg=AU ALITY
?VEIIANDS AND STM BRANCN
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
December 15, 2004
(Wednesday)
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. David Baird (High County RPO)
Ms. Marella Buncick (USFWS)
Ms. Marla Chambers (NCWRC)
Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley (NCDCR-SHPO)
Ms. Sarah McBride (NCDCR-SHPO)
Mr. Christopher Militscher (USEPA)
Mr. Jake Riggsbee (FHWA)
Mr. John Thomas (USACE)
Mr. Brian Wrenn (NCDENR-DWQ)
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
CC: Mr. Michael Pettyjohn, P.E. (NCDOT - Division 11)
Mr. Joe Laws, P.E. (NCDOT - Division 11)
Mr. Roy Shelton (NCDOT - PDEA)
Mr. Robert Hanson, P.E. (NCDOT - PDEA)
Mr. Linwood Stone (NCDOT - PDEA)
FROM: Mark Pierce, P.E., Project Development Engineer
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT: TIP Project No. R-3405: NC 18 Improvements in Wilkes County
Project to remain out of Merger Process
I am writing to document the concurrence of the Merger Process Team to continue this project without following the
Section 4Q4 / NEPA Merger Process.
This project was originally programmed to widen the travel lanes to current standards, add left turn lanes at 4
intersections, and add a center turn lane in the vicinity of Mulberry Elementary School from Mulberry Mill Road to
Yellow Banks Road. This would require 55 % to 60 % of the project length to be 2 lanes, 40 % to 45 % to be 3 lanes
and tapers, and an 80-foot right of way.
Division 11 is now recommending a continuous 3-lane shoulder section because 3-lane portions are required for almost
half of the project length and a continuous center lane would provide storage for left turns. The remainder of the scope
would not change from the original programming and a State Environmental Assessment will be prepared.
Based upon the project context and nature of this scope change, the Merger Process Team unanimously concurred that
this project should remain out of the Merger Process.
I appreciate your time in reviewing this scope change and look forward to continuing to work with each of you.
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG/PLANNING
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC 27601
a t STATE ?.
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
August 23, 2004
(Monday)
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. David Baird (High County RPO)
Ms. Marella Buncick (USFWS)
Ms. Marla Chambers (NCWRC)
Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley (NCDCR-SHPO)
Ms. Sarah McBride (NCDCR-SHPO)
Mr. Christopher Militscher (USEPA)
Mr. Jake Riggsbee (FHWA)
Mr. John Thomas (USACE)
Mr. Brian Wrenn (NCDENR-DWQ) ?
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
WETLANDS X40+ (;P(N)p
AUG 2 4 2004
WATER UUAd f r +k + ; i g.)t .
CC: Mr. Michael Pettyjohn, P.E. (NCDOT - Division 11)
Mr. Joe Laws, P.E. (NCDOT - Division 11)
Mr. Roy Shelton (NCDOT - PDEA)
Mr. Robert Hanson, P.E. (NCDOT - PDEA)
Mr. Linwood Stone (NCDOT - PDEA) -`
FROM: Mark Pierce, P.E., Project Development Engineer /0+d" -.4f. %100.4"d-
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT: TIP Project No. R-3405: NC 18 Improvements in Wilkes County
Scope Change and Merger Process
I am writing to notify you of a scope change and to recommend that we continue this project without following the
Section 404 / NEPA Merger Process.
This project was originally programmed to widen the travel lanes to current standards, add left turn lanes at 4
intersections, and add a center turn lane in the vicinity of Mulberry Elementary School from Mulberry Mill Road to
Yellow Banks Road. This would require 55 % to 60 % of the project length to be 2 lanes, 40 % to 45 % to be 3 lanes
and tapers, and an 80-foot right of way.
The Merger Process Team conducted site visits and meetings and reviewed the project scope during May 2003 in
accordance with the Merger 01 Screening Criteria. The Merger Process Team unanimously concurred that this project
should be removed from the Merger Process as documented in my May 14, 2003 Memorandum to the Team.
Division 11 is now recommending a continuous 3-lane shoulder section because 3-lane portions are required for almost
half of the project length and a continuous center lane would provide storage for left turns. The remainder of the scope
would not change from the original programming and a State Environmental Assessment will be prepared.
Based upon the project context and nature of this scope change, I recommend that this project remain out of the Merger
Process. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to offer your concurrence or comments.
Again, I appreciate your time and look forward to your response.
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
ENVi,: nPLEIC,=NC
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
MEMORANDUM TO: Ms. Marella Buncick (USFWS)
Ms. Marla Chambers (NCWRC)
Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley (NCDCR-SHPO)
Mr. Christopher Militscher (USEPA)
Mr. Jake Riggsbee (FHWA)
Mr. John Thomas (USACE)
Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele (NCDENR-DWQ)
CC: Mr. Phillip Trew (High Country RPO)
Mr. Carl McCann (NCDOT-Division 11)
Mr. Robert Hanson (NCDOT-PDEA)
Mr. Linwood Stone (NCDOT-PDEA)
FROM: Mark Pierce, P.E., Project Development Engineer
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT: TIP Project No. R-3405: NC 18 in Wilkes County
Team Removes Project from Merger Process
State Project No. 6.761019
I am writing to document the findings of the Merger 01 Screening Process and the Merger Team's
concurrence on the removal of R-3405 from the Section 404 / NEPA Merger Process.
The Merger Process Team conducted recent site visits and meetings and reviewed project scoping materials
in accordance with the Merger 01 Screening Criteria. I received telephone calls and correspondence from
the Team presenting regulatory positions on the Merger Process along with specific comments and
recommendations for consideration by NCDOT as the project proceeds under NEPA compliance. The Team
unanimously concurred that this project should be removed from the Merger Process.
If it appears that the current project scope would be necessarily altered by the findings from our
environmental studies conducted under NEPA, I will notify the Team and request input accordingly.
May 14, 2003
(Wednesday)
NETIANDS 1401 GROUP
MAY? 6 ')0V
,NATER QUALITY SECTION
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
Should you have comments or questions regarding this memorandum, please contact me at [phone]
x214 by May 28, 2003. I appreciate your time in screening this project and look forward to continuing to
work with each of you on other Merger Team projects.
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
INEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG/PLANNING
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC 27601
Re: R-3405: 5/6/03 Site Visit/Mtg
Subject: Re: R-3405: 5/6/03 Site Visit/Mtg
Date: Thu, 08 May 2003 12:01:27 -0400
From: [e-mail]
To: Mark Pierce <[e-mail]>
CC: [e-mail], [e-mail], [e-mail],
[e-mail]. mi1, [e-mail],
[e-mail]
Mark: I did not note any environmental concerns from USEPA's
perspective Per Cynthia's suggestion, NCDOT should also evaluate
(besides the currently planned improvements) the addition of an approx.
2-ft. paved shoulder on one side of the roadway to accomodate bicycles
and infrequent pedestrian traffic. Per Merger 01 guidance, this project
would not be placed in merger. Should the scope of the proposed project
significantly change during planning, please let me (and other merger
team agencies) know. Thank you for the opportunity to look at this one.
CAM
Mark Pierce
<[e-mail] To: Chris
te.nc.us> Militscher/R4/USEPA/US@EPA, Cynthia
Van Der Wiele
05/07/03 02:39 PM <[e-mail]>
CC: Marella Buncick
<[e-mail]>, "Marla J.
Chambers" <[e-mail]>,
Renee Gledhill-Earley
<[e-mail]>,
Jake Riggsbee
<[e-mail]>, John
Thomas
<[e-mail].m
il>
Subject: R-3405: 5/6/03 Site
Visit/Mtg
Chris and Cynthia,
Thanks for conducting a site visit and meeting with me yesterday
morning for R-3405, NC 18 in Wilkes County ! It gave us a chance
to drive the project and to discuss the physical setting,
proposed scope, regulatory permitting, and the merger process.
I look forward to receiving your comments and regulatory
positions on this project. If you need additional information,
please contact me at your earliest convenience.
Mark Pierce, P.E.
Project Development Engineer
[phone] x214
1 of 2 5/8/03 3:01 PM
15: 5/6/03 Merger Team Site Visit
Subject: R-3405: 5/6/03 Merger Team Site Visit
Date: Tue, 01 Apr 2003 14:09:40 -0500
From: Mark Pierce <[e-mail]>
Organization: North Carolina Department of Transportation
To: Marella Buncick <[e-mail]>,
"Marla J. Chambers" <[e-mail]>,
Renee Gledhill-Earley <[e-mail]>,
Christopher Militscher <[e-mail]>,
Jake Riggsbee <[e-mail]>,
John Thomas <[e-mail]>,
Cynthia Van Der Wiele <[e-mail]>
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen:
I received four responses to my 3/24/03 e-mail regarding your availability and preferences for a Merger
Team Site Visit. Based upon the majority of your responses, we will be conducting a site visit on 5/6/03
(Tuesday) to drive and walk the project, and to discuss the proposed scope, regulatory permitting, and the
merger process. Two starting times were requested, 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. In order to allow for
problems in Greensboro, 11:00 a.m. might be better. Is 11:00 a.m. acceptable to everyone ?
If anyone in the Raleigh area wants to carpool, please let me know so that I can reserve a van for the trip.
For those that will driving in by themselves, we will be meeting and parking at the north end of the
Mulberry Elementary School parking lot. The school is located at the northern limit of the project near SR
1717 (Yellow Banks Road).
For those that are unable to meet on 5/6/03, I will be preparing and submitting meeting minutes to all
Merger Team Members.
Date: May 6, 2003 (Tuesday)
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Mulberry Elementary School Parking Lot
Subject: Merger Team Meeting
Please contact me at your earliest convenience to confirm your attendance at this meeting.
Sincerely, CeI? Phtme go?+, ?jc?o, go 30
Mark Pierce, P.E.
Project Development Engineer
[phone] x214
I of 1 4/16/03 10:04 AM
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January 3, 2003
MEMORANDUM
TO: Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Environmental Management Director
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for Improvements to NC 18, Wilkes County, State Project No.
6.761019, TIP No. R-3405.
In reply to your correspondence dated December 30, 2002 (received January 3, 2003) in which you
requested comments for the referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project indicates that the
Lousy Creek Watershed in Hydrologic Unit 030701 lies within the project area. Despite the creek's
name, the stream is classified as WS-111 High Quality Waters.
Within the Yadkin-Pee Dee Basin, sedimentation and stormwater runoff are major concerns. The Yadkin-
Pee Dee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (January 2003 draft) recommends the use of BMPs to
reduce non-point source pollution. NC Division of Water Quality has the following comments:
Environmental Documentation
A. Any environmental documents pertaining to this project should provide a detailed and itemized
presentation of the proposed impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. There
should be a discussion on mitigation plans for unavoidable impacts. If mitigation is required, it is
preferable to present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental
documentation. While the NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be practical, it should be
noted that for projects requiring mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to
issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification.
B. An analysis of cumulative and secondary impacts anticipated as a result of this project may be
required.
Design & Construction
A. The project shall incorporate the requirements for WS-II and High Quality Waters as specified in
15A NCAC 213.0214 (WS-11),.0217 (Stormwater Control Criteria), and .0224 (High Quality
Waters) with respect to storm water management, sedimentation and erosion control, and riparian
buffers.
B. Trout moratoriums and other restrictions to protect species and habitat may be required by the NC
Wildlife Resources Commission.
C. The DWQ requests that DOT adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled, "Design Standards in
Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B .0124) and use Best Management Practices for the
Protection of Surface Waters (March 1997) specifically using all applicable preventive and control
measures during the design, construction and maintenance of this project. These measures should
be implemented prior to any ground-disturbing activities to minimize impacts to downstream
aquatic resources.
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
D. Storm water should be designed to be directed to vegetated buffer areas, grass-lined ditches or other
means appropriate to the site for the purpose of pre-treating storm water runoff, and must not be
routed directly into streams. Mowing of existing vegetated buffers is strongly discouraged, so that
they may be utilized for storm water sheet flow.
E. In order to reduce sedimentation in receiving waters, same day seeding and mulching is strongly
encouraged. Stormwater should be directed to grassed swales, buffer areas, preformed scour holes
or retention basins rather than routed directly into streams.
F. Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. Sediment should be
removed from any water pumped from behind a cofferdam before the water is returned to the
stream.
G. Do not use any machinery in the stream channels unless absolutely necessary. Do not remove
vegetation from the stream bank unless it is absolutely necessary. Avoid removing large trees and
undercut banks. If large, undercut trees must be removed, then cut the trunks and leave the stumps
and root systems in place to minimize damage to stream banks.
H. Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigation
will be required if wetlands are impacted by waste or borrow.
1. Wetland and stream impacts should be avoided to the maximum extent practical. If this is not
possible, alternatives that minimize wetland impacts should be chosen. In accordance with the
NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)), mitigation will be required for impacts of
greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation becomes
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. In
accordance with the NCDWQ Wetlands Rules { 15A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3) }, the Wetland
Restoration Program may be available for use as stream mitigation.
J. While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps and soil surveys is a useful office tool,
their inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineations
prior to permit approval.
K. DWQ prefers replacement of bridges with bridges, particularly in higher quality waters (i.e. trout
streams, water supply watersheds, high quality and outstanding resource waters).
L. When practical, the DWQ requests that bridges be replaced on the existing location with road
closure. If a detour proves necessary, remediation measures in accordance with the NCDWQ
requirements for General 401 Certification No. 3366/Nationwide Permit No. 33 (Temporary
Construction, Access and Dewatering) must be followed.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Cynthia Van Der Wiele at [phone].
pc: Steve Lund, USACE Asheville Field Office
Chris Militscher, USEPA
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Marla Chambers, NCWRC
File Copy
4 ?t?? 3
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
February 21, 2003

MEMORANDUM TO : Ms. Beth Barnes
NCDOT Coordinator, Western Region
NCDENR Division of Water Quality
1650 Mail Service Center
FROM : Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Environmental Management Director
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
SUBJECT : Scoping Sheets - TIP Project No. R-3405 - State Project No. 6.761019
Widen NC 18 to current standards with 12-foot lanes and 2-foot paved
shoulders, add left turn lanes at SR 1701, SR 1703, SR 1532, and SR 1536, and
add a center turn lane with opposing lefts between SR 1718 and SR 1717 at
Mulberry Elementary School.
We hereby request your review of the attached project map and scoping sheets. The purpose of your review
is to prepare for the upcoming scoping meeting and to offer your input regarding the scope of work that
should be performed during this project.
We have scheduled a scoping meeting for March 12, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. in the Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch Conference Room (Room 470 of the Transportation Building in Raleigh).
Please provide your comments at the meeting or mail them to us. We respectfully request that all comments
reach us by April 11, 2003 for consideration during the scoping process. Please reference TIP Project No.
R-3405 in all correspondence.
We thank you for your assistance in the project development process. Should you have comments or
questions regarding the information presented in the scoping sheets or the upcoming meeting, please contact
Mr. Mark Pierce, P.E., Project Development Engineer, at [phone] ext. 214 at your earliest
convenience. We thank you for your time and consideration and look forward to your response.
GJT/msp
Attachments
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENTAND 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US RALEIGH NC
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548

LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ION DIVISION OF PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT 41 _
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH 17
NC 18 Widening ?•
SR 1002 Mountain View Rd to SR 1717 Yellow Banks Rd 18
? ? ? ) NORTH WILKESE;ORO
Fairplains to Mulberry in Wilkes County POP. 3,956 TIP No. R-3405
SCALE `
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PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
Date: 2121103
Revision Date:
Project Development Stage
Programming:
Planning: X
Design:
TIP No.: R•3405
F.A. Project No.: (N/A) State Project No.: 6.761019
Division: 11 County: Wilkes
Route: NC 18 Length: 3.5 miles
Functional Classification: NC 18 is a Vane undivided rural North Carolina route.
Purpose Of Project: To improvo traffic safety.
Description Of Project (including specific limits) And Major Elements Of Work: Widen NC 18 to current standards
with 12-foot lanes and 2-foot paved shoulders, adding left tum lanes at SR 1701, SR 1703, SR 1532, and
SR 1536, and adding a center tum lane with opposing lefts between SR 1718 and SR 1717 at Mulberry
Elementary School.
Type Of Environmental Document To Be Prepared: State Environmental Assessment (SEA).
Environmental Study Schedule: SEA Completion Date: July 2004 SFONSI Completion Date: May 2005
Right of Way: July 2006 Construction: July 2007
Type Of Funding: State.
Will there be special funding participation by municipality, developers, or other?
Yes: No:
If YES, by whom:
If YES, by what amount? ($) , or (%)
How and when will this be paid?

PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
Thoroughfare Plan Designation: (NIA
Type Of Access Control- Full: Partial: None: X
Number of- Interchanges: 0 Grade Separations: 0 Stream Crossings: 0
Typical Section of Roadway: 2-lane facility with 28-foot pavement including 2-foot shoulders.
Traffic: Past: Design Year:
%TTST: %DUAL: %DHV:
Design Speed:
Preliminary Resurfacing Design:
Preliminary Pavement Design:

Current Cost Estimate:
Construction Cost $ 3,600,000
(including engineering and contingencies)
Right of Way Cost $ 500,000
(including relocations, utilities, and acquisition)
Force Account Items $
Preliminary Engineering $
Total Cost $ 4,100,000
TIP Cost Estimate:
Construction $ 2,000,000
Right of Way $ 500,000
Total Cost $ 2,500,000
List any special features, such as railroad involvement, which could affect cost or schedule of project
Relocation of existing 8-Inch water main owned and operated by Mulberry-Fairplains Water Association

PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
CONSTRUCTION
Estimated Costs of Improvements
X Pavement
X Surface $ 900,590
X Fine Grading $ 74,100
_ Resurfacing Existing Pavement $
X Curb & Gutter (channelization curbing) $ 10,200
_ Shoulders: _ Paved $
Earth $
X Earthwork $ 222,000
X Clearing & Grubbing $ 34,000
_ Subgrade and Stabilization $
X Drainage (List any special items) $ 350,000
Sub-Drainage $
_ Structures Width x Length
_ Bridge Rehabilitation x $
_ New Bridges () x $
Widen Bridge x $
_ Remove Bridges () x $
New Culverts- Size: Length: Fill Ht: $
_ Culvert Extension $
X Retaining Walls- Type: Avg. HL: 4' Shew: $ 27,000
Noise Walls $
_ Any Other Misc. Structures () $
Concrete Curb & Gutter $
Ramp & Y line work $
_ Guardrail $
_ Fencing- W.W.: and/or C.L.: $
X Erosion Control $ 86,400
_ Landscape $
X Relocate Existing Waterline (8-inch main) $ 554,400
X Traffic Control $ 105,000
- Signing: _ New $
Upgrading $
_ Traffic Signals: _ New $
_ Revised $
_ RR Signals: _ New $
_ Revised $
_ With or Without Arms $
If 3R: _ Drainage Safety Enhancement $
_ Roadside Safety Enhancement $
_ Realignment for Safety Upgrade $
X Pavement Markings- Paint _ Thermo: X Markers: X $ 52,500
_ Delineators $
X Other (mobilization and misc.) $ 700,810
Contract Cost (Subtotal) $ 3,117,000
3
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
Contingencies & Engineering
Preliminary Engineering Costs
Force Account

483,000
Construction (Subtotal) $ 3,600,000
RIGHT OF WAY
Existing Right of Way Width:
Will Contain Within Existing Right of Way-
New Right of Way Needed-
Width:
Easements- Type:
Width:
Utilities
Yes: No:
Est. Cost
Est Cost

Right Of Way (Subtotal) $ 500,000
Total Estimated Project Cost $ 4,100,000
The above scoping has been reviewed and approved by:
INIT. DATE INIT. DATE
Highway Design Board of Trans. Member
Roadway Mgr. Program & Policy
Structure Chief Engineer-Precon.
Design Services Chief Engineer-Operations
Geotechnical Secondary Roads Off.
Hydraulics Construction Branch
Loc. & Surveys Roadside Environmental
Photogrammetry Maintenance Branch
Prelim. Est. Engr. Bridge Maintenance
Proj. Devel. & Environ. Anal. Statewide Planning
Right of Way Division Engineer
R/W Utilities Bicycle Coordinator
Traffic Engineering Program Development
Project Management FHWA
County Manager Dept. of Cult. Res.
City/Municipality Dept. of EH & NR
Others Others
Scope Sheet for local officials will be sent to Division Engineer for handling.
If you are not in agreement with proposed project or scoping, note your proposed revisions in Comments or Remarks
Section and initial and date after comments.
4
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
COMMENTS OR REMARKS SECTION:
Prepared By: Date:
u''s=Ni
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
March 21, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO: Ms. Cynthia Van Der Wiele
NCDOT Coordinator, Western Region
NCDENR Division of Water Quality
1650 Mail Service Center
and other Scoping Participants
FROM : Mark Pierce, P.E., Project Development Engineer
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
WLANDS1401 GROUP
"AR 2 5 2003
WATER QUALITY SECTION
SUBJECT : Minutes from Scoping Meeting held on 3/12/03
TIP Project Number: R-3405
NC 18 Improvement Project in Wilkes County (Division 11)
State Project Number: 6.761019
A Scoping Meeting was held on March 12, 2003 in the Project Development and Environmental Analysis
Branch Conference Room (Room 470 of the Transportation Building in Raleigh) for T.I.P. Project Number
R-3405, NC 18 in Wilkes County. The following 17 individuals were in attendance:
John Thomas U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Chris Militscher U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Marla Chambers N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Phillip Trew High Country RPO
Joe Laws NCDOT Division 11
Mark Freeman NCDOT Division 11
Dennis Medley NCDOT Traffic Control
Teresa Becher NCDOT Congestion Management
BenJetta Johnson NCDOT Congestion Management
Jay Twisdale NCDOT Hydraulics
Pat Tuttle NCDOT Location and Surveys
Heather Montague NCDOT PDEA - Office of Natural Environment
Teresa Townsend NCDOT PDEA - Office of Human Environment
Robert Hanson NCDOT PDEA - Project Development
Linwood Stone NCDOT PDEA - Project Development
Daniel Keel NCDOT PDEA - Project Development
Mark Pierce NCDOT PDEA - Project Development
MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: [phone] LOCATION:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: [phone] TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG/PLANNING RALEIGH NC 27601
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
R-3405: 3/12/03 Scoping Meeting Minutes
March 21, 2003
Page 2 of 6
After brief introductions, the following issues were discussed during the meeting:
TIP Project Description
Tile North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to widen approximately 3.5 miles of
NC 18 (Sparta Road) to current standards from SR 1002 (Mountain View Road) to SR 1717
(Yellow Banks Road) and add turn lanes at particular locations.
Purpose and Need
The purpose of this action is to improve traffic safety on NC 18. The need is based upon the Total
and Non-Fatal Injury Rates being higher than Statewide Crash Rates for rural North Carolina
Routes.
Environmental Document
Based upon the current TIP description, a State Environmental Assessment (SEA) will be produced
to address the proposed improvements. The SEA is scheduled for completion in July 2004 and
completion of the State Finding Of No Significant Impact is anticipated by May 2005.
Related Proiect - R-2517
NCDOT's 1.4-mile, curb and gutter, multilane widening of NC 18 from Finley Avenue to SR 1002
(Mountain View Road) is currently under construction. We anticipate completion of this project
during the summer of 2003. The northerly terminus of R-2517 is the southerly terminus of R-3405.
Division anticipates that the R-2517 tapers might be reworked during the R-3405 project.
Existine Conditions
General
NC 18 is a two-lane, undivided, paved roadway with 10-foot lanes and grassed shoulders and
access is not limited. It is classified as a rural major collector in the Functional Classification
System (June 19, 1995). There is no recorded right-of-way and Division 11 is presently
claiming maintenance limits of approximately 20 feet on each side of the centerline of the
roadway. The posted speed is 35 and 45 mph and, with the exception of the intersection at SR
1002 (Mountain View Road), all of the intersections are stop sign controlled. The horizontal
alignment is comprised of six, 3 and 4-degree curves. The vertical alignment is relatively flat to
rolling with 3 to 5-percent grades. Small-diameter (probably 12, 15, 18-inch) driveway and
roadway culverts convey runoff along and beneath the roadway at several locations. Box
culverts and bridging are not anticipated for this project since NC 18 is located on a ridgeline
and there are no stream crossings. Land in the vicinity is primarily used for residential purposes
with interspersed retail businesses. The majority of commercial properties in the vicinity are
located south of SR 1002. Agricultural properties are located north of the project.
R-3405: 3/12/03 Scoping Meeting Minutes
March 21, 2003
Page 3 of 6
Traffic Projections
The annual ADT is currently 10,600 vehicles per day. Updated traffic projections are
anticipated by June 2003. Based upon recent visual observations and road mapping, it appears
that a large volume of traffic heading north on NC 18 splits off in an easterly direction on
SR 1002 (Mountain View Road).
Accidents
During the period from January 1999 through May 2002, the facility recorded 95 accidents (51
injury / 44 property damage). These consisted of rear-end (48%), left turn (19%), and run-off-
road (6%) accidents. The Total and Non-Fatal Injury Rates are both higher than the statewide
average for similar roads.
Proposed Improvements
General
In order to improve the overall safety and operation of the facility, the proposed improvements
to NC 18 include widening to current standards, providing left turn lanes at SR 1532, SR 1701,
SR 1703, and SR 1536. Adding a center turn lane with opposing left turns between SR 1718
and SR 1717 should reduce the number of left turn crashes. It was noted that the scope of this
project is not the same as the scope of R-2517, a 5-lane curb and gutter improvement project,
that is now under construction south of SR 1002 (Mountain View Road).
Typical Section
The typical section will be a two-lane, undivided facility with 12-foot lanes and 2-foot paved
shoulders. It was recommended that we consider 4-foot paved shoulders to allow for bicycle
traffic in the community. The proposed right-of-way will require approximately 80 feet.
Project Costs
Construction $ 3.6 M R/W $ 500,000 Total Cost $ 4.1 M
Scheduling Dates for Division - Design - Construct Project
Began Project Development January 2003
State Environmental Assessment Completion July 2004
State Finding Of No Significant Impact Completion May 2005
Right-of-Way July 2006
Let July 2007
R-3405: 3/12/03 Scoping Meeting Minutes
March 21, 2003
Page 4 of 6
Potential Environmental Issues and Special Project Commitments
Relocation of Existing Water Main
This project might involve the relocation of a water main that is owned and operated by the
Mulberry-Fairplains Water Association. A 10-inch diameter main exists from Fankey Road to
Mulberry Pine Street. An 8-inch main exists from Mulberry Pine Street north of Mulberry Pine
Street. NCDOT will coordinate with the Mulberry-Fairplains Water Association during
planning and construction regarding the location and protection of the main. Should relocation
of the main become necessary, NCDOT will submit relocation plans to the Division of
Environmental Health of the North Carolina Department of the Environment and Natural
Resources.
Relocation of Existing Utility Poles
Utility poles exist on both sides of the roadway within 30 feet of the pavement. We anticipate
that relocation of several of these poles will be necessary.
Retaining Wall
A concrete, gravity, retaining wall will be required at one location on this project. The
Geotechnical Unit will design this wall and be prepared to study potential slope stability,
foundations, and/or other geoteclinical concerns at this or other locations as the alignment is
developed.
Underground Storage Tanks
Underground storage tank installations exist along the project at various locations. Two
facilities are active and one or more inactive or abandoned facilities are suspected. The
Geoenvironmental Section will coordinate with the Right-of-Way Branch to address these
facilities as the alignment is developed and right-of-way needs are determined.
Relocatees
NCDOT must purchase right-of-way for the proposed improvements to NC 18. NCDOT will
determine the potential number of relocatees as alignment details are developed. At this time, it
is anticipated that two convenience stores will be impacted and there will be at least one
relocates on this project. Based upon preliminary information, the potential exists for
environmental justice issues to be raised on this project.
Non-Point Source Pollution
The project is located in the Yadkin River Watershed. NCDOT will design and implement best
management practices in accordance with the Yadkin-Pee Dee River Basinwide Water Quality
Plan (draft, January 2003) in order to eliminate or minimize the potential for non-point source
pollution from this project.
High Quality Waters and Water Supply Watersheds
NC 18 is located on a common ridgeline between the Mulberry Creek Watershed to the east and
the Lousy Creek and Reddies River watersheds to the west. The Mulberry Creek Watershed is
classified as Class C Waters. The Lousy Creek Watershed is classified as WS-III High Quality
Waters and as a WS-11 Drinking Water Supply Watershed. The Reddies River Watershed is
classified as a WS-II Drinking Water Supply Watershed. NCDOT will design and implement
proper erosion and sediment control measures and protect these water supply watersheds in
accordance with "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds."
R-3405: 3/12/03 Scoping Meeting Minutes
March 21, 2003
Page 5 of 6
NPDES Permit
If the disturbance from this construction project is greater than or equal to 5 acres, NCDOT will
apply for a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination Permit and will ensure the design and
implementation of proper erosion and sediment control measures. It was recommended that we
determine whether this project will be regulated under the Phase II NPDES Storm Water
Program.
Smallmouth Bass
If stream crossings exist in the project area, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
will recommend a May 1 St through July 15th construction moratorium for smallmouth bass.
Bog Turtle
Based upon information from the Division of Parks and Recreation of NCDENR, the bog turtle
is a state and federal-listed threatened species due to similarity of appearance. It has been
recorded from an area about 1/4 mile east of NC 18 and just south of SR 1718 (Mulberry Mill
Road) and at other locations in the northern half of Wilkes County. The Division further states
that there is a possibility of their presence in the project area closer to NC 18 than the above-
listed site and that a survey for the bog turtle may be warranted. The Division has instructed
NCDOT not to publicize the location of the population in the draft or final environmental
documents due to the practice of illegal poaching.
Section 404 / NEPA Interagency Merger Process and Permitting
The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) of the North Carolina Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (NCDENR) recommends a site visit and pre-application meeting between
DWQ and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers to discuss the existing facility and the proposed
improvements with respect to permitting requirements for 401 Water Quality Certification and
the 404 Corps Permit. During this Scoping Meeting, we discussed the project scope and
circulated photographs that depict typical views of the existing conditions along NC 18.
Particular individuals viewed the project video at the end of the meeting. We discussed the
existing conditions and project scope with respect to the merger process and the initial
impression was that, unless thresholds are exceeded, this project might not have to follow the
merger process. It was concluded that a confirmatory site visit and meeting of the resource
agencies would be necessary in order to determine the necessity of following the merger
process. We proposed the following target dates for the site visit: May 6, May 7, or May 8,
2003. NCDOT Project Development will coordinate with the resource agencies to determine a
suitable date and to schedule the site visit and meeting as soon as possible.
Outstandiny, Studies and Action Items
Traffic Projections
The anticipated completion date for the traffic forecast is June 2003.
Human Environment
The community impact assessment will be assigned by June 2003 and the final report is
anticipated by October 2003. The anticipated completion date for the historic architectural
resources and the archaeological resources surveys is August 2003.
R-3405: 3/12/03 Scoping Meeting Minutes
March 21, 2003
Page 6 of 6
Natural Environment
The Office of Natural Environment will be using a consultant on this project that will be
directed to use an 80 to 100-foot study window. The anticipated completion date for the
wetland delineation and the natural resources technical report is June 2003.
Location and Surveys
The project is being reflown and the survey plan sheets are anticipated by July 2004, at which
time, Division 11 will begin their preliminary design.
Roadway Design Plans
Division 11 will be designing and constructing the NC 18 improvements. If this project
involves less than 10 acres of widening, the state minimum criteria will apply. In the locations
where left turns and the center turn lane are proposed, asymmetrical (best-fit) widening will be
employed to avoid or minimize impacts to the human and natural environment. In order to meet
the current project schedule, Project Development requested functional designs for use during
the public involvement and draft document preparation stages.
Public Involvement
The level of public involvement was discussed for this environmental assessment. We
concluded that this project should include a citizens informational workshop and a public
hearing. Target dates for the CIW are in June or July 2003. Project development will
coordinate with Public Involvement and Community Studies and Division I 1 to schedule,
prepare for, and hold a CIW at Mulberry Elementary School.
Written Comments
The following municipal, state, and federal entities offered comments prior to the Scoping Meeting
that were incorporated, as applicable, into the Scoping Meeting Agenda and these Scoping Meeting
Minutes. We hereby offer the attached correspondence for your reference.
? NCDENR Division of Water Quality (1/3/03 Memorandum)
? NCDENR Division of Soil and Water Conservation (1/9/03 Memorandum)
? NCDENR Division of Parks and Recreation (1/21/03 Memorandum)
? NCDOT Division Right of Way (1/22/03 Memorandum)
? North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (1/24/03 Memorandum)
? NCDENR Division of Forest Resources (January 2003 Memorandum)
? NCDENR Intergovernmental Review (1/30/03 Memorandum and attachments)
? NCDCR State Historic Preservation Office (2/13/03 Memorandum)
? Mulberry-Fairplain s Water Association (3/11/03 E-Mail)
MSP - End of Memorandum -
W A r?RQ?
UJ W V? y
MEMORANDUM
January 3, 2003 Gel V64
IZ'
TO: Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Environmental Management Director ?QN g 2003
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
_sto AYS A,
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator GvaC? 0 vi e?.'
Q?C7DEV0, 9y??5
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for Improvements to NC 18, Wilkes County, State
6.761019, TIP No. R-3405.
In reply to your correspondence dated December 30, 2002 (received January 3, 2003) in which you
requested comments for the referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project indicates that the
Lousy Creek Watershed in Hydrologic Unit 030701 lies within the project area. Despite the creek's
name, the stream is classified as WS-III High Quality Waters.
Within the Yadkin-Pee Dee Basin, sedimentation and stormwater runoff are major concerns. The Yadkin-
Pee Dee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (January 2003 draft) recommends the use of BMPs to
reduce non-point source pollution. NC Division of Water Quality has the following comments:
Environmental Documentation
A. Any environmental documents pertaining to this project should provide a detailed and itemized
presentation of the proposed impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. There
should be a discussion on mitigation plans for unavoidable impacts. If mitigation is required, it is
preferable to present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental
documentation. While the NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be practical, it should be
noted that for projects requiring mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to
issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification.
B. An analysis of cumulative and secondary impacts anticipated as a result of this project may be
required.
Design & Construction
A. The project shall incorporate the requirements for WS-II and High Quality Waters as specified in
15A NCAC 2B.0214 (WS-II),.0217 (Stormwater Control Criteria), and .0224 (High Quality
Waters) with respect to storm water management, sedimentation and erosion control, and riparian
buffers.
B. Trout moratoriums and other restrictions to protect species and habitat may be required by the NC
Wildlife Resources Commission.
C. The DWQ requests that DOT adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled, "Design Standards in
Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B .0124) and use Best Management Practices for the
Protection of Surface Waters (March 1997) specifically using all applicable preventive and control
measures during the design, construction and maintenance of this project. These measures should
be implemented prior to any ground-disturbing activities to minimize impacts to downstream
aquatic resources.
F4COENF
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/
Michael F. Easley, Governor
?' William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
RIECEyVrED North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
BY M 5 to 511 71-1 o 7e 3 Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
R- 3 4- O 5 Division of Water Quality
D. Storm water should be designed to be directed to vegetated buffer areas, grass-lined ditches or other
means appropriate to the site for the purpose of pre-treating storm water runoff, and must not be
routed directly into streams. Mowing of existing vegetated buffers is strongly discouraged, so that
they may be utilized for storm water sheet flow.
E. In order to reduce sedimentation in receiving waters, same day seeding and mulching is strongly
encouraged. Stormwater should be directed to grassed swales, buffer areas, preformed scour holes
or retention basins rather than routed directly into streams.
F. Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. Sediment should be
removed from any water pumped from behind a cofferdam before the water is returned to the
stream.
G. Do not use any machinery in the stream channels unless absolutely necessary. Do not remove
vegetation from the stream bank unless it is absolutely necessary. Avoid removing large trees and
undercut banks. If large, undercut trees must be removed, then cut the trunks and leave the stumps
and root systems in place to minimize damage to stream banks.
H. Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigation
will be required if wetlands are impacted by waste or borrow.
1. Wetland and stream impacts should be avoided to the maximum extent practical. If this is not
possible, alternatives that minimize wetland impacts should be chosen. In accordance with the
NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)), mitigation will be required for impacts of
greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation becomes
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. In
accordance with the NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3)), the Wetland
Restoration Program may be available for use as stream mitigation.
While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps and soil surveys is a useful office tool,
their inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineations
prior to permit approval.
K. DWQ prefers replacement of bridges with bridges, particularly in higher quality waters (i.e. trout
streams, water supply watersheds, high quality and outstanding resource waters).
L. When practical, the DWQ requests that bridges be replaced on the existing location with road
closure. If a detour proves necessary, remediation measures in accordance with the NCDWQ
requirements for General 401 Certification No. 3366/Nationwide Permit No. 33 (Temporary
Construction, Access and Dewatering) must be followed.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Cynthia Van Der Wiele at [phone].
pc: Steve Lund, USACE Asheville Field Office
Chris Militscher, USEPA
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Marla Chambers, NCWRC
File Copy
3Wo,7f1hL <Caroluza. De]partmernt oX
)Sa1.u roriment a.azd R7atural g?esou?ces
Disrision or boil 2Lncl1M2Lter C,onsea--.ratiori
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
David S. Vogel, Director
MEMORANDUM: January 9, 2003
TO: Melba McGee
FROM: David Harrison
SUBJECT: NC 18 Improvements in Wilkes County. Project # 03-E-0189

RECEIVED
3x use , i,F z71-4,1,o3
12- 3¢45
The project involves widening NC - 18 from Mountain View Road (SR 1002) to Yellow
Bank Road (SR 1717) and providing turn lanes. Distance is 3.5 miles.
The environmental assessment should include information on adverse impacts to Prime
or Statewide Important Farmland.
The definition of Prime or Statewide Important Farmland is based on the soil series and
not on its current land use. Areas that are developed or are within municipal boundaries are
exempt from consideration as Prime or Important Farmland.
For additional information, contact the soils specialists with the Natural Resources
Conservation Service, USDA, Raleigh, NC at [phone].
1614 Trail Sersrice Ceziter, Raleigh, Noz-th Carolina 27699-1614
Phone: [phone] \ F1-iX: 919 -715-.'3559
Zziterziet: www.ezzr.state.z?c.ua/ENR/DSYYC/
A.N ZrQUA.L OppORTUNZTY \ 11FFZRMATZY1r A.CTZON ZrM1PLOYER
450°6 RECYCLZ=D / 10°.6 POET CONSUMER PA.pZ- R
RECEIVED
nY nits Z1441)3
Division of Parks and Recreation ?q -34-09
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, DENR Environmental Coordinators
FROM: Brian Strong, DPR Environmental Review Coordinator j J
DATE: January 21, 2003
SUBJECT: NC 18 Improvments in Wilkes County, State Project No. 6.761019, TIP Project
No. R-3405. Project No. 03-E-0189.
The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation (DPR) appreciates the opportunity
to comment on the NC 18 improvements in Wilkes County, State Project No. 6.761019, TIP
Project No. R-3405. The NHP has a record of the bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) from an
area about 0.25 mile east of NC 18 and just south of SR 1718 (Mulberry Mill Road). This is a
population found in 2000 and is a fairly good population. In addition, the bog turtle has been
found at several other sites recently in the northern half of Wilkes County, including a site
very close to NC 18 (but north of this project area). Thus, it is possible that there could be bog
turtles in the project area closer to NC 18 than the site listed above. As this species is State
Threatened and Federal Threatened Due to Similarity of Appearance, a survey for bog turtle, or
at least potential habitat, may be warranted.
NHP suggests that DOT contact Mark Cantrell at the Asheville office of Fish and Wildlife
Service (828-258-3939) about this project. Also, because of the sensitive nature of bog turtles
and their habitat, in terms of illegal poaching, we request that DOT not publicize the location of
this population (such as using these comments directly) in any draft or final document about this
project.
If you have any questions regarding these comments please contact me at
[phone].
cc: Project files (2)
SLAT(
N
o
STATE OF WORTH CAROLINA
MECEIVED
DATE / / ZzA03
R - 3¢05
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
January 22, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Mark Pierce, PE
Project Planning Engineer
FROM: Jimmy L. Caudle
Division Right of Way Agent
SUBJECT: Comments on State Project 6.761019 - - I.D. #R-3405
NC-18 Improvements in Wilkes County
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
Please be advised that I have reviewed the above referenced project and my comments are as follows:
1) There are underground fuel storage tanks located at the AAmco Service Station approximately 0.2 mile north of
SR-1002 on the east side of NC-18.
2) There is also a cemetery (Mount Lawn Cemetery) on the east side of NC-18 approximately 0.4 mile north of SR-
1002.
3) There is possibly underground fuel storage tanks located on the west side of NC-18 approximately 1.0 mile north
of SR-1002, (currently Bridal Traditions - - appears to have been a service station in the past).
4) Possibly underground fuel storage tanks at a building on the west side of NC-18, approximately 1.3 miles north
of SR-1002.
5) Possibly underground fuel storage tanks on west side of NC-18 approximately 1.9 miles north of SR-1002.
6) Baptist Home Church is located on the west side of NC-18 approximately 2.2 miles north of SR-1002 - - Church
sign and some parking areas in close proximity to NC-18.
7) Underground storage tanks at the Exxon Station on the east side of NC-18 approximately 3.0 miles north of SR-
1002.
8) Mulberry Elementary School is located on the west side of NC-18 approximately 3.1 miles north of SR-1002.
Drive in front of school is close to NC-18.
I believe the above listed items should be taken into consideration during preparation of plans to improve
existing NC-18. There may be other items to be considered but these definitely should be considered.
If we can be of further assistance, please advise.
JLC/scs
cc: David M. Bailey
MAILING ADDRESS
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
RIGHT OF WAY
P. O. BOX 250
NORTH WILKESBORO, NC 28659
TELEPHONE - - 336-667-9114
FAX - - 336-667-1196
WEB SITE - - WW W.DOII.DOT.STATE.NC.US
LOCATION.
922 C STREET, SUITE 201
NORTH WILKESBORO, NC 28659
CEIL a
.al .?15to =2 !¢?03
? -3¢05
® North Carol naWAdhfe Resources Commission
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DENR
?t?,,Q,? C
FROM: Marla Chambers, Highway Projects Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program, NCWRC
DATE: January 24, 2003
SUBJECT: Scoping review ofNCDOT's proposed widening of NC 18 from SR 1002
(Mountain View Road) to SR 1717 (Yellow Banks Road) in Wilkes County. TIP
No. R-3405.
Staff biologists with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have
reviewed the information provided by North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)
and have the following preliminary comments regarding impacts to fish and wildlife resources
resulting from the subject project. These comments are provided in accordance with the
provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and
Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d).
The NCDOT proposes to widen NC 18 and provide turn lanes from SR 1002 (Mountain
View Road) to SR 1717 (Yellow Banks Road) in Wilkes County, for a distance of approximately
3.5 miles. While no stream crossings are apparent from the map provided, the Mulberry Creek
watershed, Class C waters, lies to the east and the Lousy Creek watershed, classified as WS-II,
lies to the west. "Design Standards in Sensitive Watershed" (15A NCAC 04B .0124) should be
used to protect the water supply watershed and a work moratorium for smallmouth bass (May 1
to July 15) may be appropriate for any stream crossings in the project area. In addition, to help
facilitate document preparation and the review process, our general information needs are
outlined below:
1. Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a listing of
federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concern species. Potential
borrow areas to be used for project construction should be included in the inventories. A
Mailing Address: Division of Inland Fisheries • 1721 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-172 1
Telephone: [phone] est. _'S'1 • Fax: [phone] ii43
NC 18 from SR 1002 to SR 1717 2 January 24, 2003
Wilkes County
listing of designated plant species can be developed through consultation with the
following programs:
The Natural Heritage Program
N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation
1615 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N. C. 27699-1615
[phone]
and,
NCDA Plant Conservation Program
P. O. Box 27647
Raleigh, N. C. 27611
[phone]
2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the project. If applicable, include the
linear feet of stream that will be channelized or relocated.
3. Cover type maps showing wetland acreage impacted by the project. Wetland acreage
should include all project-related areas that may undergo hydrologic change as a result of
ditching, other drainage, or filling for project construction. Wetland identification may
be accomplished through coordination with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE). If the USACE is not consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be
identified and criteria listed.
4. Cover type maps showing acreage of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the proposed
project. Potential borrow sites should be included.
Show the extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or fragmentation of
wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands).
6. Include the mitigation plan for avoiding, minimizing or compensating for direct and
indirect degradation in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses.
7. Address the overall environmental effects of the project construction and quantify the
contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation.
8. Provide a discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources, which will result from
secondary development, facilitated by the improved road access.
9. If construction of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, municipal, or private
development projects, a description of these projects should be included in the
environmental document, and all project sponsors should be identified.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early planning stages of this project.
If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at [phone].
A ,
NC 1 8 from SR 1002 to SR 1717 3 January 24, 2003
Wilkes County
cc: Marella Buncick, USFWS
Cynthia Van Der Wiele, NCDWQ
RECEIVED
aY ,o-t C= 21r4- 63
MEMORANDUM
f Legislative Affairs
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
d TIP # R-340
10 V.
Wilkes County
Cry aVcC O
PROJECT #.. 03-0107""
as reviewe the d EA the referenced concerning scol?" impact document and
dressed in s to woodlands.
The North Carolina Division ts Kati sho Resources should be ad h the loss of timber
comme us evaluate
offers the following project. To help ri ht of way
to forest resources may occur as a result of this e that is removed by b aQe l .Impacts t acts to woodlands in the
rest land acre? - the EA should list the tote f align corn dots to mynimize imp
products on should be mad Efforts
construction. der of priority'
following ord high site index woodland
Managed,
Productive ?o`eLtsde indexa yoodlands
Managed, l lands-
Unmanaged, forest ecosystems
Unmanaged, fully stocked woods
Unmanaged, cutover woodlands
• ect as indicated by the soil series.
Urban woodlands proposed proJ
. The prod uctivity of the forest soils affected by the d Meer cts. However, if the
2 o
3. The EA should state the provisions the contractor will take to util??oohpmerchantable timber
construction. Emphasis should be be selling all ,odu and the risk of
burnin 7 a it snt
during s should be made to haul off bri material or turn
removed wood products cannot be sold then effort for ehways, schools, and towns. the need
imize mulch b grinder. This Practice wslems to residences, hig with a to probl burning
escaped fires and smoke management with the laws and regulations of open
comply non-high
Wilkes County is classified as a
is needed, the contractor mus 113 60 31. Local
4 DFR
as permit would apply.
. If debris burning -60.21 through G.S regular burning
covered under G.S. 113 .
hazard county, and G.S. 113 -60.24 requiring a
rangers and other local agents are authorized to issue this permit.
North Carolina 27699 .d60state.nc.us
Service . Center,
19 - 733-0138 \ Internet:
1616 Mail
014 - 731-7162 \ FAXAX - rTInN EMPLOYER - 50`70 RECYCLED / 10`Ic POST
Melba McGee, Office o
Bill Pickens, NC Division Forest Resources
DOT Scoping for Improvements to NC IS,
RECEIVED
ZA nx /-f51- V= z / 1103
.ago
HCDENR
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
MEMORANDUM
JAN 2043 v `r?
RECEIVED
.4 4iu
90A
?
TO: Chrys Baggett `gl `?.
State clearinghouse ll9( St a1 _`
FROM: Melba McGee
Project Review Coordinator
RE: 03-0189 Scoping for Improvements to NC 18, Wilkes County
DATE: January 30, 2003
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has reviewed the
proposed project. The attached comments are a result of this review.-
More specific comments will be.provided during the environmental review
process.
Thank you for the opportunity to respond. If during the preparation
of the environmental document, additional information is needed, the
applicant is encouraged to notify our respective divisions.
Attachments
1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601
Phone: [phone] FAX: [phone] Internet: www.enr.state.nc.us/ENR/
>' E: ! rY^.•,AI -- -•.- . . ?.!' . V- c.... a %'. D"1 ..11 - P-
s ]RECEIVED
B"M 010 1=2271 41,03 Page 1
-?2-3¢05
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND Project Number
NATURAL RESOURCES 03-E-0189
DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH County
Wilkes
Inter-Agency Project Review Response
Improvements to NC 18, begins
Project Name N(- n0T Type of Project at cn 1nn2, ends at ?717
Comments provided by:
? Regional Program Person
Regional Engineer for Public Water Supply Section

? Central Office program person
4

c E
Z Date: / C7
_
Name:
7 3
Telephone number:
Program within Division of Environmental Health:
Public Water Supply !-= -
? Other, Name of Program:
Response (check all applicable):
? No objection to project as proposed

? No comment P
? Insufficient information to complete review

? Comments attached Reegiociai Office
See comments below
1 (.'C %r.J?c ?S f L C. !r C / -
Return to:
Public Water Supply Section
Environmental Review Coordinator
for the
Division of Environmental Health
RECEEMP
DTr2sr CM 2.41,03 Page 2
A -3+6S
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND Project Number
NATURAL RESOURCES c s
DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH County
Inter-Agency Project Review Response
Project Name Vii/ L ??' --r Type of Project
? The applicant should be advised that plans and specifications or all water system
improvements must be approved by the Division of Environmental Health prior to the
award of a contract or the initiation of construction (as required by 15A NCAC 18C
.0300et. seq.). For information, contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919)
733-2321.
? This project will be classified as a non-community public water supply and must comply
with state and federal drinking water monitoring requirements. For more information the
applicant should contact the Public Water Supply Section, [phone].
? If this project is constructed as proposed, we will recommend closure of feet of
adjacent waters to the harvest of shellfish. For information regarding the shellfish
sanitation program, the applicant should contact the Shellfish Sanitation Section at (252)
726-6827.
? The soil disposal area(s) proposed for this project may produce a mosquito breeding
problem. For information concerning appropriate mosquito control measures, the
applicant should contact the Public Health Pest Management Section at [phone].
? The applicant should be advised that prior to the removal or demolition of dilapidated
structures, a extensive rodent control program may be necessary in order to prevent the
migration of the rodents to adjacent areas. For information concerning rodent control,
contact the local health department or the Public Health Pest Management Section at
[phone].
? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding their
requirements for septic tank installations (as required under 15A NCAC 18A. 1900 et.
sep.). For information concerning septic tank and other on-site waste disposal methods,
contact the On-Site Wastewater Section at [phone].
? The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding the
sanitary facilities required for this project.
If existing water lines will be relocated during the construction, plans for the water line
relocation must be submitted to the Division of Environmental Health, Public Water
Supply Section, Technical Services Branch, 1634 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North
Carolina 27699-1634, [phone].
For Regional and Central Office comments, see the reverse side of this form.
/ Reviewer Section/Branch Date

'7i.A State of North Carolina
?CDENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources
? T ERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS
Reviewing Office: Gl.)s "
Project Number: Due Date: 1 rZ9'i -02
ter review of this project it has been determined that the DENR permit (s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in order for this project
comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of this form.
I applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office.
PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS Normal Process Time
(Statutory Time Limit)
Permit to construct & operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award of construction

facilities, sewer system extensions & sewer systems
contracts. On-site inspection. Post-application technical conference usual. 30 days

not discharging into state surface waters. (g0 days)
Ys)
NPDES-permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application 180 days before begin activity. On-site inspection preapplication
permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities conference usual. Additionally, obtain permit to construct wastewater treatment 90 -120 days
discharging into state surface waters. facility-granted after NPDES. Reply time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue (N/A)
of NPDES permit-whichever is later.
Water Use Permit Preapplication technical conference usually necessary 30 days
(N/A)
Well Construction Permit Complete application must be received and permit issued prior to the 7 days
installation of a well. (15 days)
Dredge and Fill Permit Application copy must be served on each adjacent riparian property owner. '
On-site inspection. Preapplication conference usual. Filling may require Easement 55 days

to Fill from N.C. Department of Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. (90 days)
Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement
facilities and/or Emission Sources as per 15 A NCAC N/A 60 days
(20.0100, 2 Q.0300, 2 H.0600)
Any open burning associated with subject proposal
must be in compliance with 15 A NCAC 2D.1900
Demolition or renovations of structures containing
asbestos material must be in compliance with
15 A NCAC 20.1110 (a) (1) which requires notification N/A 60 days
and removal prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos (90 days)
Control Group 919-733.0820.
1 Complex Source Permit required under 15 A NCAC
/2D.08CO
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion & sedimentation
coritrel plan will be . equired if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality Section) at least 30 20 days
days before beginning activity. A fee of $40 for the first acre or any part of an acre. (30 days)
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the referenced Local Ordinance. 30 days
Mining Permit On-site inspection usual. Surety bond filed with DENR. Bond amount varies with '
type mine and number of acres of affected land. Any are mined greater than 30 days
one acre must be permitted. The appropriate bond must be received before (60 days)
the permit can be issued.
1 North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division of Forest Resources if permit exceeds 4 days 1 day
(N/A)
Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit-22 counties On-site inspection by N.C. Division of Forest Resources required 'if more than five 1 day
in coastal N.C..with organic soils. acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections should be requested (N/A)
at least ten days before actual burn is planned.'
Oil Refining Facilities N 90- 120 days
/A (N/A)
Dam Safety Permit If permit required, application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant
must hire N.C.qualifiedengineer to: prepare plans, inspect construction, certify
construction is according to DENR approved plans. May also require permit under
mosquito control program, and a 404 permit from Corps of Engineers. 30 days
An inspection of site is necessary to verify Hazard Classification. A minimum (60 days)
fee of $200.00 must accompany the application. An additional processing fee
based on a percentage or the total project cost will be required upon completion.
RECET, ED
04T zli4/63
,o_-:'% w.-
--------------
PERMITS
i '
Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well
Geophysical ExPloration Permit
State Lakes Construction Permit
401 Water Quality Certification
I CAMA Permit for MAJOR development
CAMA Permit for MINOR development
SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS
File surety bond of ss,0o0 with DENR running to State of N.C. conditional that any
well opened by drill operator shall, upon abandonment, be plugged according
to DENR rules and regulations.
Application filed with DENR at least 10 days prior to issue of permit. Application
by lever. No standard application form.
Application fees based on structure size is charged. Must include descriptions
& drawings of structure & proof of ownership of riparian property.
N/A
$250.00 fee must accompany application
550.00 fee must accompany application
Several geodetic monuments are located Geodetnear t Survey, project 27687 area. If Raany leigh, N.C.27 monument j needs to be moved or destroyed, please notify:
Abandonment of any wells, if required must be in accordance with Title I SA.Subchapter 2C.0100.
Normal Process Time
(Statutory Time Limit)
10 days
(N/A)
10 days
(N/A)
15.20 days
(N/A)
55 days
(130 days)
60 days
(130 days)
22 days
(25 days)
No'ification of the pre er regional office is requested if *orphan* underground storage tanks (LISTS) are discovered during any excavation operation.
. 4s days
Compliance with 15A NCAC 2H 1000 (Coastal Stormwater Rules) is required. (NIA)
l a to crnment authority)
>E Other com nts aaach additional pages as necessary, being certain c
- L J?0Jc o
T-t .o-v?
LA:
s ?' J
REGIONAL OFFICES
Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office marked below.
1Off' e
? Asheville Regional Office ? Mooresville Regional Office
59 Woodfin Place 919 North Main Street
Asheville, N.C.28801 Mooresville, N.C.28115
[phone] [phone]
Fayetteville Regional Office ? Raleigh Regional Office
225 Green Street, Suite 714 3800 Barrett Drive, RO.Box 27687
Fayetteville, N.C.28301 Raleigh, N.C.27611
110) 486-1541 [phone]
? Washington Regional Office
943 Washington Square Mall
Washington, N.C.27889
[phone]
? Wilmington Reglona 1c
127 Cardinal Drive Extension
Wilmington, N.C.28405
[phone]
? Winston-Salem Regional office
585 Waughtown Street
Winston-Salem, N.C.27107
[phone]
`QF VIA Te. Michael F. Easley, Governor
?G William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
r North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
i J Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Acting Director
O Division of Water Quality
401 WATER QUALITY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM COMMENTS
The Winston-Salem Regional Office (WSRO) recommends that the applicant
coordinate a Pre-Application Meeting and Site Visit with the Division of Water Quality
(DWQ) and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to determine if a Section 404
Permit (USACE) and a Section 401 Water Quality Certification (DWQ) will be required.
Even though a Section 401 Water Quality Certification cannot be issued until the EA/EIS
procedure is complete, proceeding with the pre-application and application process will
enable the applicant to address Water Quality concerns and Regulations early in the
project's development. Such issues include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Avoidance and Minimization of surface water and riparian buffer impacts.
2. Stormwater Management requirements (as related to the 401 Program).
3. Compensatory Mitigation for streams, wetlands, and/or buffers (where
applicable),
4. Water Supply, Nutrient Sensitive, Trout, Outstanding Resource, and/or High
Quality Watershed concerns and requirements (where applicable),
5. Compliance with and protection of appropriate Water Quality Standards, on-
site as well as off-site, both during construction and after.
NPDES STORNIWATER PERMITS CO-MNIENTS
V
Any construction activity including clearing, grading, and excavation activities
resulting in the disturbance of five (5) or more acres of total land are required to obtain a
NPDES Stormwater Permit, NCG 010000, prior to beginning these activities.
Any facility that is defined as having stormwater discharges associated with
industrial activity is required to obtain a NPDES Stormwater Permit (varies) prior to
beginning operation.
STATE STORMWATER PERMIT COMMENTS
State Stormwater Permits may be required for development activities draining to
Outstanding Resources Waters or activities within one mile and draining to High Quality
Waters. These must also be obtained prior to development activities.
1VSRO 10/01
Ag?L!
M_DENR
Customer Service Division of Water Quality /Water Quality Section
1 800 858 0368 585 Waughtown Street Winston-Salem, NC 27107
Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone] Internet: http://wq.ehnr.state.nc.us
North Carolina Department of Cultural
State Historic Preservation Office
David L. S. Brook, Administrator
Michael F. Easley, Governor
Lisbeth C. Evans, Secretary
Jeffrey J. Crow, Deputy Secretary
February 13, 2003
MEMORANDUM
TO: Greg Thorpe, Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
NCDOT'Division of Highways
FROM: David Brook
SUBJECT: NC 18 Improvements, R-3405, Wilkes County, ER 03-0040
Thank you for your letter of December 30, 2002, concerning the above project.
E 'CFO
fFEB 19^!
S fn -ts
2
?0 DW)GION OF Q4z)(t
?ChHe
1;1 c F?TAi. ??NAL?'
Division of Historical Resources
David J. Olson, Director
:r ?y g,o iaATBZ/ice/a 3
?2 -3¢O 5
There are no know-recorded archaeological sites within the project boundaries. However, the
project area has never been systematically surveyed to determine the location or significance of
archaeological resources.
We recommend that a comprehensive survey be conducted by an experienced archaeologist to
identify and evaldate the significance of archaeological remains that may be damaged or destroyed by
the proposed project. Potential effects on unknown resources must be assessed prior to the
initiation of construction activities.
Two copies of the resulting archaeological survey report, as well as one copy of the appropriate site
forms, should be forwarded to us for review and comment as soon as they are available and well in
advance of any construction activities.
A list of archaeological consultants who have conducted or expressed an interest in contract work in
North Carolina is available at www.arch.dcr.state.ne.us/consults. The archaeologists listed, or any
other experienced archaeologist, may be contacted to conduct the recommended survey.
While we note that this project review is only for a state action or permit, the potential for federal
permits may require further consultation with us and compliance with Section 106 of the National
Historic Preservation Act.
www.hpoAcr.state.ne.us
Location Mailing Address Telephone/Fax
ADMINISTRATION 507 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 276994617 (919) 7331763 •733-8653
RESTORATION 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4613 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 276994613 [phone] • 7154801
SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. Blount St., Raleigh NC 4618 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 276994618 [phone] •715-4801
Februafy 13, 2003
Fage 2
Because the architectural survey for the area of potential effect is more than twenty years old, we
recommend that a Department of Transportation architectural historinil identify and evaluate any
structures over fifty years olds and report the finds to us.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act
and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106
codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above
comment, contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. In all
future communication concerning this project, please cite the above referenced tracking number.
cc: Mary Pope Furr
Matt Wilkerson
-Iwy 18 North, State Project No. 6.761019
•
Subject: Hwy 18 North, State Project No. 6.761019
Date: Tue, 11 Mar 2003 16:16:16 EST
From: [e-mail]
To: [e-mail]
Dear Mark,
On the scoping sheets our water main along 18 N was described as 8". Part of the line is 8" but there is some
10" water line involved. the 10" water line runs from the intersection of 18N and SR 1700 Fan/Key Road to
Mulberry Pine Street. This is approximately 6,500 ft. of 10" main.
The 8" main begins at the end of the 10" main and runs for approximately 9,500 ft. to the end of the proposed
project.
This may not be important at this stage but I thought I would pass along the information.
Sincerely,
Ronald B. McGrady
Mulberry-Fairplains Water Association, Inc.
1613 Sparta Road
North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
336-670-3428
1 of 1 3/12/03 9:34 AM

ot 0 wATF9pG
p -c
January 3, 2003
MEMORANDUM
TO: Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Environmental Management Director
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator GUd&A.)
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for Improvements to NC 18, Wilkes County, State Project No.
6.761019, TIP No. R-3405.
In reply to your correspondence dated December 30, 2002 (received January 3, 2003) in which you
requested comments for the referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project indicates that the
Lousy Creek Watershed in Hydrologic Unit 030701 lies within the project area. Despite the creek's
name, the stream is classified as WS-III High Quality Waters.
Within the Yadkin-Pee Dee Basin, sedimentation and stormwater runoff are major concerns. The Yadkin-
Pee Dee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (January 2003 draft) recommends the use of BMPs to
reduce non-point source pollution. NC Division of Water Quality has the following comments:
Environmental Documentation
A. Any environmental documents pertaining to this project should provide a detailed and itemized
presentation of the proposed impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. There
should be a discussion on mitigation plans for unavoidable impacts. If mitigation is required, it is
preferable to present a conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental
documentation. While the NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be practical, it should be
noted that for projects requiring mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to
issuance of a 401 Water Quality Certification.
B. An analysis of cumulative and secondary impacts anticipated as a result of this project may be
required.
Design & Construction
A. The project shall incorporate the requirements for WS-II and High Quality Waters as specified in
15A NCAC 2B .0214 (WS-II), .0217 (Stormwater Control Criteria), and .0224 (High Quality
Waters) with respect to storm water management, sedimentation and erosion control, and riparian
buffers.
B. Trout moratoriums and other restrictions to protect species and habitat may be required by the NC
Wildlife Resources Commission.
C. The DWQ requests that DOT adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled, "Design Standards in
Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC 04B .0124) and use Best Management Practices for the
Protection of Surface Waters (March 1997) specifically using all applicable preventive and control
measures during the design, construction and maintenance of this project. These measures should
be implemented prior to any ground-disturbing activities to minimize impacts to downstream
aquatic resources.
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/
Michael F. Easley, Governor
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
r "?'fiA
D. Storm water should be designed to be directed to vegetated buffer areas, grass-lined ditches e
means appropriate to the site for the purpose of pre-treating storm water runoff, and must not
routed directly into streams. Mowing of existing vegetated buffers is strongly discouraged, s
they may be utilized for storm water sheet flow.
E. In order to reduce sedimentation in receiving waters, same day seeding and mulching is si
encouraged. Stormwater should be directed to grassed swales, buffer areas, preformed scou
or retention basins rather than routed directly into streams.
F. Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. Sediment should b,
removed from any water pumped from behind a cofferdam before the water is returned to the
stream.
G. Do not use any machinery in the stream channels unless absolutely necessary. Do not remove
vegetation from the stream bank unless it is absolutely necessary. Avoid removing large tree;
undercut banks. If large, undercut trees must be removed, then cut the trunks and leave the st
and root systems in place to minimize damage to stream banks.
H. Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigati
will be required if wetlands are impacted by waste or borrow.
1. Wetland and stream impacts should be avoided to the maximum extent practical. If this is no
possible, alternatives that minimize wetland impacts should be chosen. In accordance with th
NCDWQ Wetlands Rules (I 5A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6) ), mitigation will be required for impac
greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation become
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and vale
accordance with the NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3)), the Wetland
Restoration Program may be available for use as stream mitigation.
J. While the use of National Wetland Inventory (NWI) maps and soil surveys is a useful office t
their inherent inaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineatior
prior to permit approval.
K. DWQ prefers replacement of bridges with bridges, particularly in higher quality waters (i.e. tj
streams, water supply watersheds, high quality and outstanding resource waters).
L. When practical, the DWQ requests that bridges be replaced on the existing location with road
closure. If a detour proves necessary, remediation measures in accordance with the NCDWQ
requirements for General 401 Certification No. 3366/Nationwide Permit No. 33 (Temporary
Construction, Access and Dewatering) must be followed.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Cynthia Van Der Wiele at [phone].
pc: Steve Lund, USACE Asheville Field Office
Chris Militscher, USEPA
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Marla Chambers, NCWRC
File Copy
Z %
- `may/7
,..srnr'o? Ern, 1 ? ? ? ? ="w43 11 A
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA { vETtANos GROUP
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIv?vVATE`; Qu`QurY sECTI014
MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDO TIPPETT
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
December 30, 2002
MEMORANDUM TO: Ms. Cynthia Van der Wiele
Division of Water Quality/Wetlands
FROM: 44,t-- Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D.
Environmental Management Director, PDEA
SUBJECT: NC 18 Improvements in Wilkes County, State Project
No. 6.761019, TIP Project No. R-3405
The Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch has begun studying the
proposed improvements to NC 18. The project is included in the 2002-2008 North Carolina
Transportation Improvement Program and is scheduled for right of way in fiscal year 2007 and
construction in fiscal year 2008.
The proposed project improves NC 18 by widening the roadway and providing turn lanes.
The project begins at SR 1002 (Mountain View Road) and ends at SR 1717 (Yellow Bank
Road), a distance of approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers).
If you have any comments or questions concerning the project, please contact Mark
Pierce, P.E., Project Development Engineer at [phone], Ext. 214. Please include the TIP
Project Number in all correspondence and comments.
GJT/plr
Attachment

MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWWNCDOT.ORG

LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC

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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
' TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
l' ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
AC its
Il7DEN ROADtKAY AND PROt= TURN LLVES
FROST SR 1002 !310CNTAIN VIEW ROJ,1D)
TO SR 171: 41112OW IUA S ROAD,
I{ILKES COUNTY
TIP NO. 17-3405
FIGURE 1