R2517

I
Facsimile Transmittal Cover Sheet
Date: S- 3-2- If.
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-'? TOd VSE# ON 131 :QI d0:80 fHl 86i-8e-AU14-.
V
t
PROIECI' No.: R-2517
Wilkes County
Overview Summary of Permit Site Streams Involvements
Identifying Management Practices (BND's) being employed
to lesson Stream Channel and Water Quality Impacts
Station 11+74.5 -Y1-
Proposed Action: Discharge from an existing 450 mm csp and proposed 375
nim csp into an existing grassy swell.
BNT Pavement discharge into ditches allowing filtration before
entering streams.
BW proposed system discharge to existing ditch allows area for
spill contaimnent.
BMP Channcl provides for filtration of flow before entering
Redding River_
BNO Stable channel design
BMP Rip rap pad at end of outlet pipe allowing infiltration and
stabilization.
Station 14+09 -LREV-
Proposed Action: Discharge from an existing 600 mm csp into an existing
grassy swell.
k1MP Pavement discharge into ditches allowing filtration before
entering streams.
RUP Proposed system discharge to existing ditch allows area for
spill containment,
BW Channel provides for filtration of flow before entering
Redding River.
" ' ?Wf0d PS24 : ON -131 :(11 20:80 nHi 86 8d-AUW - - •?

B1V1P Stable channel design
BW Rip rap pad at end of outlet pipe allowing infiltration and
stabilization,
Station 17-30 -LREV-
Proposed Action.: Discharge from an existing 600 mm csp into as existing
grassy swell,
BW Pavement discharge into ditches allowing filtration before
entering streams-
BMP Proposed system discharge to existing ditch allows area for
spill containmont.
BW Channel provides for filtration of flow before catering
Redding River.
BMP Stable channel design
B1VT Rip rap pad at end of outlet pipe allowing infiltration and
stabilization-
Station 20+66 -LREV-
Proposed Action- Discharge from an existing 375 mm csp into an existing
grassy swell.
B1V,fl,' Pavement discharge into ditches allowing filtration before
entering streams.
BNIF Proposed system discharge to existing ditch allows area for
spill containment_
BAP Channel provides for filtration of flow before entering
Redding River.
BW Stable channel design,
BMP Rip rap pad at end of outlet pipe allowing infiltration and
stabilization.
20d PS24
: ON -131
:aI £0:80 rHl 86 8z-Adw ..

Station 28+17.5 -LF-EV-
Proposed Action: Replacement of an existing 450 cap with a proposed
600 nun csp. Discharge into an existing grassy swell.
BMP Pavement discharge into ditches allowing filtration before
entering streams.
BMP Proposed system discharge to existing ditch allows area for
spill containment.
BW Channel provides for filtration of flow before entering
Redding River.
BMP Stable channel design
BW Rip rap pad at end of outlet pipe allowing infiltration and
stabilization.
Station 37+69.5 -LREV-
proposed Action: Extend existing 1050 mm csp 10 m. Discharge into an
existing grassy swell.
BNV Pavement discharge into ditches allowing filtration before
entering streams.
B1V1)P Proposed system discharge to existing ditch allows area for
spill containment.
BNIP Channel provides for filtration of flow before entering
Redding River.
BMP Stable channel design
BMP Rip rap pad at end of outlet pipe allowing infiltration And
stabilization.
rod VSE# ON X31 : a I ba :80 r to 86 -8z-Akita
I
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources AW4'.
Division of Environmental Management -?I
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary ID E H N
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
June 26, 1995
MEMORANDUM
To: Melba McGee
Through: John Dorno
Monica Swihart
From: Eric Galamb
Subject: EA for NC 18 Widening in North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
State Project DOT No. 8.1761201, TIP # R-2517
EHNR # 95-0842, DEM # 10954
The subject document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of
Environmental Management is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water
Quality Certification for activities which impact waters of the state including wetlands.
The subject project will not have wetland impacts and water impacts will be small.
NC 18 is on a ridge. Water on the east side drains to C classified waters while the
drainage on the west side empties into a WS II watershed. DEM appreciates the
effort to route stormwater to the watershed classified C instead of the Reddies Creek
watershed (class WS II).
DOT is reminded that the 401 Certification could be denied unless water quality
concerns are satisfied. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to
Eric Galamb (733-1786) in DEM's Water Quality Environmental Sciences Branch.
cc: Raleigh COE
Ted Devans, DOT
ncl8wil.ea
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper

Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
A.,?gr- ? Project located in 7th floor library
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmtitai Affairs
Project Review Form 161)51-
Project Number: County: Date: Date Response Due (firm deadline):
`ll?? s a3 Co q?-
This project is being reviewed as indicated below:
Regional Office/Phone Regional Office Area In-House Review
? Asheville ? All R/O Areas Soil and Water ? Marine Fisheries
? Fayetteville ? Air ? Coastal management ? Water Planning
? Water ? Water Resources ? Environmental Health
? Mooresville ? Groundwater WWildlife ? Solid Waste Management
El Raleigh ? Land Quality Engineer \%Forest Resources ? Radiation Protection
hi
t
? W ? Recreational Consultant -' ? Land Resources ? David Foster
on
ng
as ?Coastal Management Consultant Parks and Recreation ?Other (specify)
? Wilmington ? Others nvironmental Management
RECEIVED
? Winston-Salem PWS
Monica Swihart
MAY 2 S 1995
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
PDA kfn
Manager Sign-Off/Region: Date: In-House Reviewer/Agency:
Response (check all applicable)
Regional Office response to be compiled and completed by Regional Manager
? No objection to project as proposed
? No Comment
? Insufficient information to complete review
? Approve
? Permit(s) needed (permit files have been checked)
? Recommended for further development with recommendations for
strengthening (comments attached)
? Recommended for further development if specific & substantive
changes incorporated by funding agency (comments
attached/authority(ies) cited)
In-House Reviewer complete individual response.
? Not recommended for further development for reasons
stated in attached comments (authority(ies) cited)
?Applicant has been contacted
? Applicant has not been contacted
? Project Controversial (comments attached)
? Consistency Statement needed (comments attached)
? Consistency Statement not needed
? Full EIS must be required under the provisions of
NEPA and SEPA
? Other (specify and attach comments)
RETURN TO:
Melba McGee
M-104
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources FI.WA •
Division of Environmental Management
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor ? F1
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretory C
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
March 26, 1996
MEMORANDUM
To: Melba McGee
From: Eric Galamb
Subject: FONSI for NC 18 Widening in North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
State Project DOT No. 8.1761201, TIP # R-2517
EHNR # 96-0554, DEM # 11198
The subject document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of
Environmental Management is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water
Quality Certification for activities which impact waters of the state including wetlands.
The subject project will not have wetland impacts and water impacts will be small.
DOT is reminded that the 401 Certification could be denied unless water quality
concerns are satisfied. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to
Eric Galamb (733-1786) in DEM's Water Quality Environmental Sciences Branch.
cc: Raleigh COE
Monica Swihart
ncl8wil.fon
FAXED
MM 2 61996
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
Project Review Form
Project Number: County:
bn('? ?e?ssl W?doa
Date:
? Project located in 7th floor library
179 _HM-5
Date Response Due (firm deadline):
Nit/1,J v? W& W i(K'4#yo I -rl-F Ito - ?ja5tI
This project is being reviewed as indicated below:
- t "f /?JX?7/? V U I
Regional Office/Phone Regional Office Area In-House Review
?Asheville ?All R/O Areas ?Soil and Water ?Marine Fisheries
? Fayetteville ? Air ? Coastal management ? Water Planning
? Water ? Water Resources ? Environmental Health
? Mooresville
?Groundwater
Wildlife ?Solid waste management
?
El Raleigh ? Land Quality Engineer ? Forest Resources ? Radiation Protection
hi
W ? Recreational Consultant ? Land Resources U David Foster
ngton
as
:J El Coastal Management Consultant 01 Parks and Recreation ? Other (specify)
? Wilmington ?
?Others
vironmental Management
WE
? Winston-Salem PWS M
onica Swihart
Manager Sign-Off/Region: Date: In-House Reviewer/Agency:
Response (check all applicable)
Regional Office response to be compiled and completed by Regional Manager
? No objection to project as proposed
? No Comment
? Insufficient information to complete review
? Approve
? Permit(s) needed (permit files have been checked)
? Recommended for further development with recommendations for
strengthening (comments attached)'
? Recommended for further development if specific & substantive
changes incorporated by funding agency (comments
attachedlauthority(ies) cited)
In-House Reviewer complete individual response.
? Not recommended for further development for reasons
stated in attached comments (authority(ies) cited)
? Applicant has been contacted
?Applicant has not been contacted
? Project Controversial (comments attached)
? Consistency Statement needed (comments attached)
? Consistency Statement not needed
? Full EIS must be required under the provisions of
NEPA and SEPA
? Other (specify and attach comments)
RETURN TO:
Melba McGee Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
P$.,O4
Widening of NC 18
from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road)
North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
F. A. Project STP-18(5)
State Project 8.1761201
T.I.P. Project R-2517
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
Finding of No Significant Impact
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
and
N.C. Department of Transportation
Division of Highways
30
Date ?r H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manger
Planning and Environmental Branch
Da e Ni as L. Graf, P. E.,
P4 Division Administrator, FHWA
Widening of NC 18
from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road)
North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
F. A. Project STP-18(5)
State Project 8.1761201
T.I.P. Project R-2517
Finding of No Significant Impact
Document Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By:
G ?19? lr: •E?cc?d?
Ronald G. Lucas, Jr. °e"ea?? t°°°°° ss
Project Planning Engineer ??J??1COpCA?
i SEA!
17282,
T P. ?.o
,, ?ttHp1°?ti ?°
Robert Hanson, P. E. / ? 9 9
Project Planning Unit Head

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
1. TYPE OF ACTION ................................................................... 1
II. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION ................................ 1
III. LIST OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS ..................... 2
IV. SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 2
V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION ...................................... 3
A. Circulation of the Environmental Assessment ................... 3
B. Comments on the Environmental Assessment ................... 3
C. Public Hearing and Other Comments ................................ 3
VII. REVISIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT.... 4
VIII. BASIS FOR FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT.......... 5
FIGURES
APPENDIX
Widening of NC 18
from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road)
North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
F. A. Project STP-18(5)
State Project 8.1761201
T.I.P. Project R-2517
I. TYPE OF ACTION
This is a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), Finding of No Significant
Impact (FONSI).
The FHWA has determined that this project will not have any significant impact on
the human or natural environment. This Finding of No Significant Impact is based on the
Environmental Assessment for the subject project, which has been independently evaluated
by the FHWA and determined to adequately and accurately discuss the environmental
issues and impacts of the proposed project. It provides sufficient evidence and analyses
for determining that an Environmental Impact Statement is not required. The FHWA
takes full responsibility for the accuracy scope and content of the Environmental
Assessment.
II. DESCRIPTION OF ACTION _
The North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of Highway proposes
to widen NC 18 (Sparta Road) to a multi-lane cross section from 400 feet (120 m) south
of Finley Avenue to 300 feet (90 m) north of SR 1531 (Foster Road) in North
Wilkesboro. The project is located on the north side of North Wilkesboro (See Figure 1).
From 400 feet (120 m) south of Finley Avenue to 300 feet (90 m) north of SR
1531 (Foster Road), the existing two-lane facility will be widened to a five-lane curb and
gutter highway which is 64 feet (19.8 m) from curb-face to curb-face, with 8-foot (2.4 m)
berms on the outside of the curbs. The typical section shall consist of a continuous 12-
foot (3.6 m) left turn lane and two 12-foot (3.6 m) travel lanes in each direction (See
Figure 2).
Recommended minimum right-of-way width is 80 feet (24.4 m), plus any
additional temporary easements. Widening will occur symmetrically or asymmetrically as
desirable to minimize damages. The existing alignment of NC 18 is to be utilized to the
best extent possible.
This project is included in the 1996-2002 Transportation Improvement Program
(T.I.P.). The T.I.P. has allocated $3,726,000 for right-of -way acquisition and $2,500,000
2
for construction. The project is currently planned for construction in one phase. Right-of-
way acquisition is scheduled for Fiscal Year (FY) 1996, with construction letting
scheduled for FY 1998.
This 1.9 (3.1 km) project has a current estimated cost of $ 7,550,000 (including
$ 4,150,000 for construction and $ 3,400,000 for right of way).
III. LIST OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
All standard procedures and measures will be implemented to avoid and minimize
environmental impacts. Impacts will be minimized by utilizing High Quality Water Best
Management Practices during construction.
A 401 Water Quality Certification administered through the N. C. Department of
Environment, Health, and Natural Resources may be required.
In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C.
1344), a permit may be required from the United States Army Corps of Engineers for the
discharge of dredged or fill material in "Waters of the United States". It is anticipated that
the Provisions of Nationwide Permit 33 CFR 330.5(A)14 will apply to this project. Final
permit decisions are left to the discretionary authority of United States Army Corps of
Engineers.
In the studied section between NC 268-A and SR 1517 (Sunset Drive),
N.C.D.O.T. will make every attempt to divert stormwater from the recommended curb
and gutter facility onto the east side of NC 18, away from Hooper's Branch. Where
grades do not allow diversion of water to the east side of NC 18, efforts will be made to
divert stormwater into the grassy swales and ditches before reaching Hooper's Branch.
IV. SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
The proposed project will have a positive impact on the North Wilkesboro /
Fairplains area by providing increased traffic handling capacity and safety through this
densely-developed area. Northern Wilkes, Ashe, and Alleghany Counties will also benefit
from increased access to North Wilkesboro, NC 268, and US 421. Approximately 13
residences and 5 businesses will be relocated by the proposed project. It is anticipated
that comparable replacement housing will be available as needed.
There may be some erosion and siltation during construction; however the effects
will be short-term in nature and minimized to the best extent possible. No significant
effects to plant or animal life are expected.
No federally protected species will be impacted by this project.
Several residences and businesses are predicted to experience traffic noise level
increases in excess of the FHWA noise abatement criteria. However, noise abatement is
not considered reasonable or feasible as part of this project.
V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION
A. Circulation of the Environment Assessment
The Environmental Assessment was made available to the public and distributed to
the following Federal, State, and local agencies:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
N.C. State Clearinghouse
N.C. Department of Health and Natural Resources
N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission
N.C. Board of Transportation - Division 11 Representative
B. Comments on the Environmental Assessment
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Comment
Review of the subject project indicates that the proposed work may involve the
discharge of fill material into adjacent unnamed tributaries to Mulberry Creek and Reddies
River.
All work restricted to existing high ground areas will not require prior Federal
permit authorization. However, Department of Army permits authorization pursuant to
Section 404 of The Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended, will be required for the
discharge of excavated or fill material within the crossing of the aforementioned waters
and wetlands. Specific permit requirements will depend on design of the project, extent of
fill work within streams and wetland areas (dimensions, fill amounts, etc.), construction
methods and other factors.
Response
Applicable 404 permits for the crossings of tributaries of Mulberry Creek and
Reddies River will be obtained during later design phases of this project.
C. Public Hearing Land Other Comments
An informal public hearing was held on November 8, 1995. Approximately 20
citizens attended the hearing.
4
The following comments and questions are typical of those raised by citizens who
attended the informal public hearing:
Comment
Please strongly consider a traffic light at the intersection of Fairplains School Road
and NC 18. It is difficult and dangerous to make turns from Fairplains School Road onto
NC 18 due to traffic loads early in the morning and in the afternoon. ... School buses are
currently negotiating turns from a stop sign on a hill trying to pull into heavy morning
traffic.
The light would only need to operate as the school opens and closes each
weekday.
Response
The Division Traffic Engineer is currently investigating the installation of a traffic
signal at Fairplains School Road (SR 1972).
Comment
The project will be a great asset to the people on NC 18. It will speed up traffic
on NC 18.
Response
The Environmental Assessment stated that the proposed widening will have a
positive impact on the North Wilkesboro / Fairplains area by providing increased traveling
capacity and safety through this densely-developed area.
VI. REVISIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
A. Project Revisions
The Environmental Assessment stated that the design speed is 50 mph and the
posted speed will be 45 mph throughout the project. However, to minimize impacts to
adjacent properties, NC 18 will have a design speed of 40 mph and a posted speed of 35
mph from the southern terminus of the project northward 400 feet (120 m).
The Environmental Assessment also specified an exclusive left turn lane for
northbound NC 18 at Finley Avenue. However, to minimize impacts to adjacent
properties on NC 18, no exclusive left turn lane will be added at Finley Avenue. Due to
the low number of left turns at Finley Avenue, the intersection will continue to operate at
an acceptable level-of-service (LOS D) in the design year without adding the left turn lane.
5
VII. FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT
Based on a study of the proposed project documented in the Environmental
Assessment and upon comments received from federal, state, and local agencies, and the
public, it is the finding of the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the
Federal Highway Administration that the project will not have a significant impact upon
the human or natural environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement or
further environmental analysis will not be required.
FIGURES

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malls eflR E S
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is Math dtef0ao 11 411 cY
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WILKES COUNTY

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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTI ENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PLANNING A.,\', ENVIRONMENTAL
BRANCH
WILKES COUNTY
Nc 1s
FROM FINLEY AVENUE TO SR 1531
T. I. P. NUMBER R - 2517
FIG. 1

FIVE-LANE HIGHWAY WITH CURB AND GUTTER.
TWO TRAVEL LANES IN EACH DIRECTION,
WITH A SHELTERED, CENTER LEFT-TURN LANE.
. , ., n ¦ -s n ¦ A.a. n w RA
[,1} 1Vl /.L IVIULU[b 0.0 IVI / G MULVIO G.--r IVI
(8 Feet) (24 Feet) (12 Feet) (24 Feet) (8 Feet)
MINIMUM RIGHT-OF-WAY
24.4 METERS (80 Feet)
Drawing Not to Scale FIGURE 2
CURB CURB
FINLEY AVENUE / NC 18
A.
I
I I
I I
FlNLEY AVE. t t t
J MoOONALD'S
J
t tttt
I II
o I I
Z I I
t t

t t
t t
RNLEY AVE. ?? 1 ? ?
- ? ? (?? McDONALD'S
1 yl}
I ?
n I I
1 t
B. I
PROPOSED INTERSECTION
CONFIGURATION

REVISED INTERSECTION
CONFIGURATION
F1GU RE . 3

APPENDIX
Additional Comments / Coordination

DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
P.O. BOX 1890
WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROUNA28402.1890
REPLY TO
Ar7ENnoN OF
June 27, 1995
Special Studies and
Flood Plain Services Section
-,-'s CEJ" \
FQ
Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
North Carolina Division of Highways
Post Office Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201
Dear Mr. Vick:
JUN 2- o 199S
ZC rvrslc) OF
GyWa y3 . ?.
This is in response to your letter of May 10, 1995, requesting our
comments on the "Federal Environmental Assessment for North Wilkesboro, Wilkes
County, Widening of NC 18 from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road), Federal
Aid Project No. STP-18(5), State Project 8.1761201, T.I.P. Project R-2517"
(Regulatory Branch Action I.D. No. 199503075).
Our comments involve impacts to flood plains and jurisdictional resources,
which include waters, wetlands, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects.
The proposed roadway improvements would not cross any Corps-constructed flood
control or navigation project. Enclosed are our comments on the other issues.
We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of
further assistance, please contact us.
Sincerely,
wson, P.E.
?1+1i l l i am /n,
ering and
Chief, i-
Planning Division
Enclosure
Pnnted on 0 Recycled Paper
:s

June 27, 1995
Page 1 of 1
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, WILMINGTON DISTRICT, COMMENTS ON:
"Federal Environmental Assessment for North Wilkesboro, Wilkes
County, Widening of NC 18 from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road), Federal
Aid Project No. STP-18(5), State Project 8.1761201, T.I.P. Project R-2511"
(Regulatory Branch Action I.D. No. 199503075)
1. FLOOD PLAINS: POC - Bobby L. Willis, Special Studies and Flood Plain
Services Section, at [phone]
The proposed project is located in Wilkes County and partially within the
City of North Wilkesboro. The county is a participant in the National Flood
Insurance Program, but North Wilkesboro is not. From a review of Panel 175 of
the September 1992 Wilkes County Flood Insurance Rate Map, the segment of
roadway under consideration does not appear to be within an identified flood
hazard area. This is confirmed by a review of the pertinent United States
Geological Survey topo map of the area. Therefore, we concur with your
statement on page 21 of the Environmental Assessment that there is no
significant flood plain involvement associated with this project.
2. WATERS AND WETLANDS: POC - Mr. John Thomas, Raleigh Field Office,
Regulatory Branch, at [phone], Extension 25
Review of the subject project indicates that the proposed work may involve
the discharge of fill material into adjacent unnamed tributaries to Mulberry
Creek and Reddies River.
All work restricted to existing high ground areas will not require prior
Federal permit authorization. However, Department of the Army permit
authorization pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as
amended, will be required for the discharge of excavated or fill material
within the crossing of the aforementioned waters and wetlands. Specific
permit requirements will depend on design of the project, extent'of fill work
within streams and wetland areas (dimensions, fill amounts, etc.), y
construction methods, and other factors.
At this point in time, construction plans were not available for review.
When final plans are completed, including the extent and location of
development within waters and wetlands, the applicants should contact
Mr. Thomas for a final determination of the Federal permit requirements.
NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE
'FM208
DEPARTMENT OF'ADMINISTRATION
°pp 115 WEST:JDNES'STREET
ft+.,.
=? S 1995' I RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA.27603-8003
5
FROjECi ?'f:A:?;.GE1fiENT
`. _ 311995
INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COMMENTS ..;?:
MAILED TO
N-C•;DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION
WHIT, WEBB
PROGRAM DEV--BRANCH
TRANSPORTATION BLDG./INTER-OFF

FROM '------•----??.._....,_ .
MRS- CHRYS BAGGETT
DIRECTOR ,
N C STATE CLEARINGHOUSE
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
ENV. ASSESS. - PROPOSED WIDENING OF NC--18 FROM FINLEY AVENUE TO
SR 1531 (FOSTER ROAD) IN NORTH WILKESBORO TIP #R-2517
SAI NO 95E42200842 PROGRAM TITLE - ENV- ASSESS-
THE ABOVE PROJECT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE NORTH CAROLINA
INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS- AS A RESULT OF THE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING
IS SUBMITT=D ( ) NO COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED
( X) COMMENTS ATTACHED
SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONSt PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE [phone]-
C-C• REGION D
_y
: State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources 0 A
Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs 0
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor ®?
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary NF
Henry M. Lancaster Ii, Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Chrys Baggett
FROM: Melba McGee V
RE: 95-0842 EA Widening NC 18, Wilkes County
DATE: June 27, 1995
The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
has reviewed the proposed project. The attached comments are for
the applicant's consideration.
Thank you for the opportunity to review.
attachments
RECEIVED
JUN 2 R 1995
-? N.C. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE
P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-7687 Telephone [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmctive Action Employer 5010 recycled/ 10% post-consumer pcper
- State of North-Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Environmental Management
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
June 26, 1995

MEMORANDUM
To: Melba McGee
Through:
From:
Subject:
John DornU \'
Monica Swihart
Eric Galamb??
, r4**A
AM
PA F::),'
EA for NC 18 Widening in North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
State Project DOT No. 8.1761201, TIP # R-2517
EHNR # 95-0842, DEM # 10954
The subject document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of
Environmental Management is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water
Quality Certification for activities which ,impact waters of the state including wetlands.
j The subject project will not have wetland, impacts and water impacts will be small.
/ NC 18 is on a ridge. Water on the east side drains to C classified waters while the
drainage on the west side empties into a WS II watershed. DEM appreciates the
effort to route stormwater to the watershed classified C instead of the Reddies Creek
watershed (class WS II).
DOT is reminded that the 401 Certification could be denied unless water quality
concerns are satisfied. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to
Eric Galamb (733-1786) in DEM's Water Quality Environmental Sciences Branch.
cc: Raleigh COE
Ted Devans, DOT
ncl8wil.ea
P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper
1
® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
312 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188,.919-733-3391
Charles R. FuLwood, Executive Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
Dept. of Environment, Health, and Natural-Resources
FROM: Stephanie E. Goudreau, Mt. Region Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program
T
DATE: June 13, 1995
SUBJECT: State Clearinghouse Project No. 95-0842, Environmental Assessment for widening
NC 18 from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 in North Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, TIP
#?,-2517.
This correspondence responds to a request by you for our review and comments on the
Environmental Assessment (EA) for widening NC 18 in North Wilkesboro. These comments are
provided in accordance with the provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat.
401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d.) and the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C.
4332(2)(c)).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to widen a 1.9-mile section of
NC 18 from Finley Avenue to SR 1531(Foster Road) from a two-lane facility to a five-lane
highway. The existing alignment will be utilized to the extent possible, although some
asymmetrical widening will take place to minimize impacts. The project will impact 11.4 acres of
maintained community (lawns, road shoulders) and 0.6 acre of hardwood forest. One intermittent
tributary to the Reddies River is crossed by this section ofNC 18.
This project should have minimal impact on fisheries and wildlife resources due to the
commercial and residential nature of the project area. Therefore we concur with the findings of
the EA and would concur with a Finding of No Significant Impact..
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this project. If you have any
questions regarding these comments, please contact me at 704/652-4257.
cc: Mr. Joe Mickey, District 7 Fisheries Biologist
Mr. David Sawyer, District 7 Wildlife Biologist
Ms. Janice Nicholls, USFWS, Asheville

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF 1PANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. R. SAMUEL HUNT III
GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 SECRETARY
May 10, 1995 RECEIVED
MAY 3 1 1995
Mr. Eric G a l am b ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
DEHNR - Div. of Environmental Management mop"I^y
512 North Salisbury Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1148
Dear Mr. Galamb:
SUBJECT: Federal Environmental Assessment for North Wilkesboro, Wilkes
County, Widening of NC 18 from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster
Road), Federal Aid Project No. STP-18(5), State Project 8.1761201,
T.I.P. Project R-2517
Attached is a copy of the Environmental Assessment and the Natural
Resources Technical Report for the subject proposed highway improvement. It
is anticipated this project will be processed with a "Finding of No
Significant Impact"; however, should comments received on the Environmental
Assessment or at the public hearing demonstrate a need for preparing a Draft
Environmental Impact Statement you will be contacted as part of our scoping
process.
Copies of this Assessment are being submitted to the State
Clearinghouse, areawide planning agencies, and the counties, towns, and
cities involved.
Permit review agencies should note it is anticipated Federal Permits
will be required as discussed in the report.
Any comment you have concerning the Environmental Assessment should be
forwarded to:
Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
N. C. Division of Highways
P. 0. Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611
Your comments should be received by June 26, 1995. If no comments are
received by that date we will assume you have none. If you desire a copy of
the "Finding of No Significant Impact," please so indicate.
Sin e ,
ranklin Vick, P. E. Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
HFV/plr 9
3 .
of M-?qs,
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TkANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT. JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS R. SAMUEL HUNT I-II
GovERNOR P.O. BOX25201. RALEIGH. N.G 27611-5201 SECRETARY
x
June 9. 1994
' MEMORANDUM TO: Joe Foutz, P.E., Unit Head
Project Planning Unit
ATTENTION: Ted Devens, P.E., Project Manager
Project Planning Unit
FROM: Janet L. Shipley, Environmental'Biologist
Environmental Unit
SUBJECT: Natural Resource Technical Report for
Widening of NC 18 from NC 368 A to SR
1002; Wilkes County; T.I.P. R-2517;
State Project. No. 8.1761201; F.A.
Project No. STP - 18(5).
The following Natural Resources Technical Report has
been prepared following a field survey conducted by
Environmental Unit Staff on May 12, 1994. Please note:
sedimentation control guidelines for High Quality Waters
(HQW), must be implemented during the construction phase of
the subject project. If you have questions or need
additional information, please give me a call.
cc: V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D
M. Randall Turner, Environmental Supervisor "
File: R-2517

Natural Resource Technical Report
for the Proposed Widening of NC 18,
from NC 268 A to SR 1002
Wilkes County
TIP No. R-2517
State Project No. 8.1761201
Federal Aid No. STP - 18(5)
NATURAL RESOURCE TECHNICAL REPORT
R-2517

NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH
ENVIRONMENTAL UNIT
JANET L. SHIPLEY
June 1994

5
?t
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction .......................... 1
. .............
1.1 Project Description..... .......................... 1
1.2 Purpose .. .... .............. 1
.....................
1
3 Study Area 1
.
.. ........................ ..........
1.4 Methodology ...................
...
. 1
.
.......
.......
2.0 Biotic Resources .
.
. 2
................ ....
.
...........
2.1. Plant Communities ............................... 2
2.2 Wildlife ........................
.. 3
..
........ ...
2
3
i
if
.
Aquat
c L
e .................................... 3
2.3 Biotic Resource Impacts ............. ........... 4
3.0 Physical Resources ....................
..... 5
.
..........
3.1 Soils and Topography .................
.
- 5
.
.........,
3.2 Water Resources..... ...... .................... 5'
4.0 Special Topics ........................
. 6
..
.............
4.1 Jurisidictionai Waters of the United States ...... 6
4.1.1 Permits .................................... 6
4.1.2 Mitigation.... ........................... 7
4.2 Rare and Protected Species ....................... 7
4.2.1 Federally Protected Species ................ 7
4.2.2 Federal Candidate/State Protected Species.. 9
5.0 References ........................
1 0
...................
APPENDIX A - Natural Resource Agency Commnets

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? j
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7?}
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((? IS North3 rlke? +
G dkesboro 'r
U M?orawsn Falls
WILKES COUNTY F«acn
t ?' Boomer
e
I

1.0 INTRODUCTION
The.following Natural Resources Technical Report is
prepared to assist in the preparation of a federally funded
Environmental Assessment (EA).
1.1 Project Description

Subject project calls for the widening of NC 18 near
North Wilkesboro, 'from Finley Avenue to 500 feet north of SR
1002. The proposed cross section is a five-lane.curb-and-
gutter..facility within a proposed right-of-way of 24.4
m (80.._
.
ft), Project "'length is 2_3 km (1:4 mile).
1.2 Purpose
._.,The purpose of this technical report is to.describe the
natural systems found within the project area and to document
probable impacts.-to these-systems.

-
1.3 Study Area
l
Subject project lies in an urbanized setting outside
of North Wilkesboro in Wilkes County. Located within the ?
Piedmont Physiographic Province, the project area is
characterized by gently 'rolling terrain (Fig.l).
1.4 Methodology
An.,ecological survey was conducted May 12, 1994 to
identify vegetative communities and wildlife species
contained within the project area. Vegetative communities
and wildlife were inventoried and mapped during on-site
surveys. Wetlands were identified, using methods in the
Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (1987).
In-house preparatory work was completed prior to a field
visit. The Wilkes County Soil Survey, USES Wilkesboro
quadrangle map, and the hydric soils list for Wilkes County
were studied to identify potential wetland sites. The
Environmental Sensitivity Base Map for Wilkes County was
utilized to determine if any sensitive resources are present
in the project area. N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP)
and Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) files were reviewed to
determine i-f- any- -prnte.ct.-ed -or.-.rare~ flora, or. fauna occurs an
-the project area. -
2.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES ,
Distribution and composition of biotic resources
throughout the project area reflect topographic positioning.
hydrologic influences, and past and present land use
practices. Urban areas comprise the majority of the project.
7

Wildlife observed during field investigations-are denoted by
(*) in the text. Common and scientific names are provided
for each species listed. In subsequent references to the
same organism, only the common name is given.
2.1 Plant Communities
.Two plant communities were identified in the project
area: Maintained.Community, and Hardwood Forest. Natural :,?
community profile descriptions, where applicable, have been,.,,..
adopted and modified from the NCNHP classification scheme
.(Schafale and Weakley 1.990).
Maintained Communities
Roadside shoulders, commercial and residential
development, constitute maintained communities in the project
area. In this community, man's structures or activities
preclude natural plant succession. Maintained shoulder
slopes, and lawns support fescue (Festuca sp.) as the
dominant vegetative component, complemented with - landscape..
ornamentals. Redbud (Cercis canadensis), dogwood, (Cornus
florida), azaleas (Azalea spp.), and various oak trees
(Ouercus spp.) are common. Mowing is frequently associated
with this community.
Common plant species include broom-sedge (Andropogon
virginica), trumpet vine, vetch (Viccia sp.), dog-fennel /
(Eupatorium capillifolium), and rabbit tobacco (Gnaphalium ?
obtusifolium). Grasses make up a large component of this
community. Typically occurring are panicum (Panicum boscii),
paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum), Bermuda grass (Cvnodon
dactylon) and bent grass (Agrostis sp.).
Hardwood Forest
A small tract of hardwood forest occupies a dry ridgetop
and an associated mesic slope. The canopy contains mixed
hardwood species, the presence of'which is largely dictated
by hydrologic conditions. On the well drained ridgetop,
common canopy species such as white oak (Ouercus alba), t
southern red oak (0. falcata), post oak (_Q. stellata) and /
mockernut hickory (Carya tomentosa) may be found. Red cedar,
and sourwood (Oxvdendrum arboreum) are typical understory
components.-complimented with shrubs such as blueberries
(Vaccinium.staminium:,and V. arboreum). Pip' sissewa
.(Chimaphila maculata), partridge berry (Mitchella repens),
crane-fly orchid (Tipularia discolor) and heartleaf
(Hexastvlis arifolia) are common herbaceous plants:
Mesic slopes support a canopy of tulip tree
(Liriodendron tul.ipifera), and sweet gum (Liauidambar /
stvraciflua), while the under.story consists of red maple,
water oak (Ouercus nigra). iron wood (Carpinus caroliniana)
3
j and American holly (Ilex opaca)..:-Christmas fern (Polvstichum
acrostichoides) is the prevalent herbaceous plant present.
2.2 Wildlife-Terrestrial
Disturbed roadside communities and urban areas provide
shelter for opportunistic animal species, such as the Norway
rat (Rattus norvegicus), house mouse (Mus musculus)' hispid
cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus),`:and eastern cottontail;
/ (Svlvilagus floridanus mallurus). ;These are primarily
? animals of disturbed environments, brushy edges, and other
habitats characterized by mixtures of -herbaceous vegetation
and shrubby plants. Gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis)*
were frequently observed in the project area,-as were bird
species such as the rock dove (Columba livia)*, northern
cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)*, blue jay.(Cvanocitta
cristata)* and European starling -(Sturnus vulgaris).*..:._
Most commonly seen in the-canopy of foresfed habitats
are the downy woodpecker(Picoid.es pubescens),.*brown creeper
(Certhia familiaris), *northern cardinal,._and.t.he-;4Carolina'
wren (Thvomanes bewickii)
1-7 0
The eastern box turtle (Terrapene caroling), slimy
salamander (Plethodon glutinosus), worm snake (C.arphophis
amoenus), and black racer (Coluber constrictor) are reptiles
and amphibians that may be found in the project area. These
species utilize fallen logs and the litter layer for cover.
2.3 Aquatic Life
O:ne intermittent Piedmont stream is located in the
project area. In the winter and spring, water is present.
In summer, stream beds are dry, but may retain small pools of
/ water. Stream bed was dry at-time of field visit. Sections
J of these stream courses occur in urbanized areas, resulti.ne
in degraded water quality and habitat for aquatic species.
Aquatic insects and snails were noted at many crossings, as
were cra.,fish (Cambaridae) burrows. Neither fish nor mussel
fauna were seen during field investigations. Fish.diversity
is expected to be low in waters without continual flow.
Shiners (Notropis spp.), creek chub (Semotilus "
atromaculatus), and bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) may
utilize these intermittent tributaries for spawning during
periods of flow.
Amphibians are water-dependent,.l.a.ying shell.-le.ss.'eggs
in freshwater or in mpist places and having an aquatic larval
J stage. Amphibians which may inhabit ditches and streams in
the project area include the northern dusky salamander
(Desmoenathus fuscus), three-lined salamander (Eurvicea
guttolineata), northern cricket frog (Acris crepitans),
spring peeper (Hvla crucifer), and upland chorus frog
(Pseudacris triseriata). These animals are likely to reside

4 .
in burrows under logs, stones and leaf litter along streams /
of the project area.
2.4' Biotic Community Imnacts
Table 1 summarizes potential losses from proposed
project construction. Calculations are based on right-of-way
limits of 24.4 m (80 ft)
Table 1. ANTICIPATED BIOTIC COMMUNITY IMPACTS
COMMUNITY IMPACTS
Hectares (Acres)
Maintained Community 4.6 (11.4)-
Hardwood Forest 0.2 (0.6)
TOTAL 4.8 (12.0)
3.0 PHYSICAL RESOURCES
3.1 soils and ToT)octraphy
The study area falls within the felsic crystalline soil
system located within the Piedmont Physiographic Province.
The project area is gently rolling and lies over bedrock of
granite, granite gneiss, mica gneiss and mica schist.
All soils within the study area are of the Pacolet
Series. This series consists of well drained soils that
formed in residuum from metamorphic and igneous rocks on
Piedmont uplands. --
3.2 Water Resources
Subject project intercepts one intermittent stream that
drains into Reddies River, located within the Yadkin-Pee.Dee'
River basin. Point of stream crossing is above headwaters ,
(less than 5 cfs annual flow) and passes through the.project /
area by way of culvert. Channel width is approximately 1 m
(3 ft) with a silt substrate. No water was present at time
of fieldvisit. Adjacent vegetation_ is of the mesic mixed
hardwood :.type . -
"Best usage'] classifications are assigned to the waters
of North Carolina by the Division of Environmental Management
(DEM). Reddies River carries a "best usage" classification %
of WS-II. The unnamed tributary present in the project area,. v
drains into Reddies River and carries the same "best usage"
classification. Any stream which is not named in the
schedule of stream classifications carries the same
classification as that assigned to the stream segment ,to
W
which it is tributary. -
Waters classified as WS-II are waters protected as water
supplies which are generally in predominantly undeveloped
watersheds; point source discharges are permitted; local
/ programs to-control nonpoint source-and stormwater discharge
( of'pollution are`'required; and suitable for-all Class C uses.
Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life propagation: and
survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and
agri.cuIture.. _,-
-Watersheds classified as WS-II are considered High
J Quality Water's-(HQW). Projects that are located 1.6 km (1'-
mile) from a HQW and fail within a HQW zone are subject to
special regulations as defined in "Design Standards in
Sensitive Watersheds" (TISA:04B.0024) of the Sedimentation
Control guidelines.
The Benthic Macroinvertebrate- Ambient Network (BMAN)
(NC-DEHNR,"Division of Environmental Management) addresses.-`
j long term trends in water q.ual;ity at fixed monitoring sites
by the sampling `'for selected benthic macroinvertebrates.
These organisms are sensitive to very subtle changes in water'
quality. No data is available for waterbodies that fall
within the project area.
No Outstanding Resource waters are located within the
study area, or within 1.6 km (one mile) downstream. No
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits have
been issued for the project area.
3.2.1 Water Resource Impacts
/Surface water impacts are anticipated for the stream
crossing present. A culvert will be extended, reducing the
linear feet of natural stream channel. /Other potential
'impacts are increased sedimentation from construction and/or
erosion, increased concentration of toxic compounds from
highway runoff'and/or toxic spills, scouring of stream beds
due to the channelization of streams, alterations of water
.levels due to interruptions or additions to surficial and/or"
groundwater flow, changes in light incidence due to the
removal of vegetative cover.
. Recommendati-ores- -
-Schedule instream activities during low flow periods
(summer, fall).
-Non-point sediment sources should be identified and efforts
made to control sediment runoff.
-Strict adherence to Best Management Practices and
Sedimentation Control guidelines for HQW's must be
implemented during the construction phase of the project.

6
k;:
4.0 SPECIAL TOPICS
4.1 Jurisdictional Waters of the United States

Surface waters fall under the broad category of "Waters
of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 338.3. /
Jurisdictional areas impacted by the proposed alignment are.,.
confined to defined channel boundaries of headwater _ _.. '
tributaries and fall under the jurisdiction of the U..S. Army
Corps of Engineers (COE). No jurisdictional wetlands are
located within the project area.
4.1.1 Permits
In accordance with provisions of section 404 of the
Clean Water Act .(33 U.S.C 1344), a permit will be required
from the COE for the discharge of dredged or fill material
into "Waters of the United States". It is anticipated that
impacts will be authorized by Nationwide Permit-•[33 CFR 330.5
(a) (14)]. Nationwide #14 allows for road crossing fills of
non-tidal "Waters of the United States", provided that the.
that the fill placed in waters of the U.S. is limited to
filled area of no more than 0.1 ha (0.3 ac).
A 401 Water Quality Certification administered through
the N.C. Department of Environment, Health and Natural
Resources will be required. This certificate is issued for
any activity which may result in a discharge into waters for
which a federal permit is required.
4.1.2 Mitigation
Compensatory mitigation is generally not required where
Nationwide permits or General permits are authorized,
according to the Memorandum of Agreement (N10A) between the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the COE. Final
discretionary authority in these matters rests with the COE.
4.2- Rare and Protected Species
4.2.1 Federally Protected Species
It
Plants and animals with federal classifications of
Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE) and i
Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of
Sect ion -7 and -Sect.i,on. 9 of the Endangered:, Species Act of
19?3, as.amend ed. As of May'12, 1994, the FWS lists the
federally Endangered (E) peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus')
for Wilkes County. A brief description and habitat
requirements for the peregrine falcon is summarized below.
Falco pereRrinus (Peregrine falcon) E
Animal Family: Falconidae
Date Listed: 3/20/84
L/
7
a
/ Distribution in N.C.: Avery, Brunswick. Burke.-Carteret,
Dare, Hyde, Jackson, Madison, New Hanover,
Rutherford, Surry, Transylvania,_Wilkes,
Yancey.
J The peregrine falcon has a dark plumage along its back
and its underside is lighter, barred and spotted. I,It is most
easily recognized by a dark crown and.a dark wedge that
extends below the eye :forming a distinct helmet..
The American peregrine falcon is found throughout the
United States in areas with high cliffs and open land for
foraging. Nesting for the falcons is generally on.high cliff
ledges, but they may also nest in broken off tree tops in the
eastern deciduous forest and on-skyscrapers and bridges in
urban areas. 'Nesting occurs from mid-March to May.
Prey for the peregrine falcon consists of small mammals
and birds, including mammals as large as a woodchuck, birds
as large as _a duck, and insects. The preferred prey is
medium sized birds such as pigeons'.'
Biological Conclusion: No Effect.
J No suitable habitat is present in the project area for
this species. No impacts to this species from project
construction will occur.
4.2.2 Federal-Candidate/State Protected Species
The following federal Candidate 2 (C2) species are not
legally protected under the Endangered Species Act and are
not subject to any of it's provisions until they are formally
proposed or listed as Threatened or .Endangered. C2 species
are defined as organisms for which there is some evidence of
vulnerability, but data are not sufficient to warrant a
listing of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered or
Proposed Threatened at this time.
Plants or animals with state designations of Endangered,
(E), Threatened (T) or Special Concern (SC) are granted
protection by the State Endangered Species Act and the NC "
Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979, administered
and enforced by the North Carolina Wildlife'Resources
Commission and the NC Department of Agricult.ure..
The following table includes.federal Candidate species
listed for Wilkes County and their state protected status
J (Table 2). These species may potentially occur in the
project area; however, organisms and their suitable habitat
were not surveyed for. The NHP data base was reviewed to
determine if any protected species have been verified in the
project area. None were recorded.
e
a ri
}
8 7
Table 2. FEDERAL CANDIDATE/STATE PROTECTED SPECIES
WILKES COUNTY
Scientific Name Status Habitat
Common name Federal/State
Dendroica cerulea
Cerulean warbler C2/-* No
Clemmys muhlenbergii
Bog turtle C2/T No
Speyeria diana
Diana fritillary butterfly C2/- No
Orthotrichum keeverae
Keever's bristle-moss C2/E No
*-No state protected status

9
5.0 REFERENCES
American Ornithologists' Union. 1983. Checklist of North
American Birds. (6th ed.) Allen Press, Inc., Lawrence,
Kansas :877 pp.
Ehrlich, P.E., D.S. Dobkin and D. Wheye.-1988. The Birders
Handbook. A Field Guide to the Natural HIstorv of North
American Birds. Simon and Schuster, N.Y., N.Y. 785 pp.
Depoe, C.E., J.B. Funderburg, and T.L. Quay. 1961. The
reptiles and amphibians of North Carolina: a preliminary
-check-list and bibliography. J. Elisha,Mitchell Sci._Soc.
77:125-136
Environmental Laboratory. 1987. "Corps of Engineers Wetlands
Delineation Manual, "Technical Report Y-87--1, US Army
Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Miss.
Godfrey, R.K., J.W. Wooten. 1981. Aquatic and Wetland Plants
of Southeastern United States. Dicotyledons. The University
of Georgia Press, Athens. 933 pp.
Lee, D.S., Funderburg, J.B. Jr., and M.K. Clark. 1982. A
Distributional Survey of North American Mammals. North
Carolina State Museum of Natural History, Raleigh, N.C.
70 pp.
Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey and J.R. Harrison 111.
1980. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia.
The University of North.Carolina Press, Chapel Hill.^264pp.
North Carolina Wildlife Resourses Commission. 1974. North
Carolina mammalian species with keys to the orders and
families. N.C. Wildl. Resour. Comm.,Raleigh.
NCDEHNR-DER. 1992. Classifications and water quality
standards assigned to the waters of the Yadkin-Pee Dee River "
basin. Division of Environmental Management, Raleigh, N.C.
34pp.
Potter ,; E.F-., J:.F:_ Parnel-1, and R.P. Teulings V980. Birds of
'the Carolinas. University of North Carolina Press, Chapel
Hill. 408 pp. ,
Radford, A.B., H.E. Ahles and G.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the
Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. The University of North
Carolina Press, Chapel Hill. 1183 pp.
Scott, S.L. (ed.). 1987. Field Guide to the Birds of North
America. National Geographic Society, Washington, D..C.
464 pp.
10

Smith, R.R., J.B. Funderburg and T.L. Quay. 1960. A
checklist of North Carolina mammals. N.C. Wildl. Resour.
Comm., Raleigh.
.U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service.
Unpublished. Soil Survey of Wilkes County, North Carolina.
North Carolina Agricultural Experiment Station.
Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell and W.C. Biggs. 1985. Mammals of
the Carolinas, Virginia and Maryland. The University of
North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill. 255 pp.

X

l.rt ?t.
• !7
R North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commis
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment
Dept. of Environment, Health, & Natural Resources
FROM: Stephanie E. Goudreau, Mt. Region Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program
DATE: July 9, 1993
G
SUBJECT: State Clearinghouse Project No. 93-0996, Scoping
comments for proposed widening of NC 18 from NC 268A to
SR 1002, Wilkes County (TIP #R-2517)

This correspondence is in response to a request by you for
scopin
comm
t
r
i
g
en
s
egard
ng the North Carolina Department of
Transportation's (NCDOT) proposal to widen 1.4 miles of NC 18
from NC 268A to SR 1002 near Fairplains in Wilkes County.

Presently this section of roadway consists of 2 lanes with a
middle turning lane. The NCDOT proposes to widen NC 18 to a 5-
lane curb and gutter with 8-foot berms. An additional northbound
lane is desired from Finley Avenue to NC 268A, and an additional
southbound land is anticipated from 400 feet north of SR 1002 to
SR 1002. Approximately 8o feet of right-of-way will be required.
I conducted a site visit on May.25, 1993. The project site i
is largely a commercial and residential area with businesses and
single-family residences lining the roadway on both sides.
Wildlife habitat is limited to parking lots, mowed lawns and a
horse pasture; therefore, there is little wildlife habitat of
value that will be disturbed if the roadway is widened along the
existing alignment. It was hot apparent during my site visit
that any streams or wetlands would be impacted by the project.

The NCWRC has no- objection to this project- and no special
concerns as long as the NCDOT proposes to widen the roadway along
existing alignment.
The NCDOT should include the following information in the
Environment Assessment that will be prepared for this project:
Description of fishery and wildlife resources wi
project area, including a listing of federally orht
designated t state
hreatened,.endangered, or special concern
species, maint The NCWRC,s Nongame and Endangered Species Section
ains databases for loc
speci ations
1
es.
While there is of fish and wildlife
charge no charge for the list
for com uter time is involved. I.a,service
Contact
Mr. Randy Wilson, Manager...:
Nongame & Endangered Species Section
Division of Wildlife Management
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh. NC 27604-1188
919/733-7291
A listing of designated plant species can
be
through consultation with the following a developed
gency; __
Natural Heritage Program
N•C• Division of Parks and Recreation
P• O• Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611
919/733-7795 -
2) Description of waters and/or wetlands
project, affected by the
3) Project map identifying wetland areas
wetlands may be accomplished through coordination wi on
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COB). anon w
consulted If the COE is A t°the
the person delineating wetlands should be ,
identified and criteria listed.
4) Description " of °ji ' : •
wetlands project activities that will occur with
such as fill or channel alteration.
wetlands impacted by Y alternative project designs should be
Project sponsors should indicate whether the COE.
has been contacted to determine the need for a 404
under -the Clean Water Act. Contact is Mr. Ken Joll?'e
at
919./846-1217.
Y at
5) Description of project site and non-wetland vegetative
communities,
6) The extent to which the
- --degradation,?or project will result in loss,
fragmentation of wildlife habitat.
7) Any measures proposed to avoid or reduce
projector to mitigate for unavoidable habit attlosses.
8) A list of document preparers which shows eac
professional background and qualifications, h individuals
It
r
. l
t
L
I appreciate the opportunity to provide this information to
you in the early planning stages of this project. If you have
any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at
704/652-4257.
ccc: Mr. Joe Mickey, District 7 Fisheries Biologist
.Mr. David Sawyer, District 7 Wildlife Biologist
t

lk

Y
i?

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Environmental Management
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan 'B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
July 20, 1993
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment
FROM: Monica SwihartI Water Quality Planning

Lam" '?f
OpR 8?? f
Cot))
I
SUBJECT: Project Review #93-0996; Scoping Comments NC DOT
Proposed Improvements to NC 18, From NC 268-A to $R 1002,
North Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, R-2517
The Water Quality Section of the Division of Environmental
Management requests that the following topics be discussed in the
environmental documents prepared on the subject project:
A. Identify the.streams potentially impacted by the project. The
stream classifications should be current.

B. Identify the linear feet of stream channelizations/
listream banks were vegeta-tedr it
relocations. If the.original
zed/relocated stream banks be -
is requested that the channe
revegetated.
C. Number of stream crossings.
D. Will permanent spill catch basins be utilized? DEMlrequests suppy stream
that these catch basins be placed at all water
maintenance.
crossings: Identify the responsible party
E. Identify the stormwater controls (permanent and temporary), to
be employed..
F. Please ensure that sediment and erosion and control measures
are not placed in wetlands.

P.O. Box 29535, Rdeigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper
Melba McGee
July 20, 1993
Page 2.
???.?2az9?a3? ??
4
ti JUL 1993 L
ECE1VEp
?, SAC cN
per OFFICE -_?

G. Wetland Impacts rgf ?1qi ; y+,??• ,'•`
1) Identify the federal manual used for identifying and
delineating jurisdictional wetlands. . _. -. 1
Have wetlands been avoided as much as possible? '
3) Have wetland impacts been minimized?
4) , Discuss wetland impacts by plant communities affected.'
5) Discuss the.quality of wetlands.impacted.
6) Summarize the total wetland impacts.
7) List the 401 General Certification numbers requested from
DEM. _
H.- Will borrow locations be in wetlands? . Borrow/waste areas
should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practicable..
Prior to approval of any borrow/waste site in a wetland, the
contractor shall obtain a 401 Certification from DEM.
I.' Did NCDOT utilize the existing road alignments as much as
possible? Why'not (if applicable)?
J. Please provide a detailed discussion for mass-transit.as- an
option.
K. To what extent can traffic congestion management techniques
alleviate the traffic problems in the study area?
L. Please provide a conceptual mitigation plan to help the
environmental review. The mitigation plan may state the
following:
1. Compensatory mitigation will be considered only after
wetland impacts have been avoided and minimized to the
maximum extent possible.
2. On-site, in-kind mitigation is the preferred method of
mitigation. In-kind mitigation within the same watershed
is preferred over out-of-kind mitigation.
3. Mitigation • should be in the following order:
restoration, creation, enhancement, and lastly banking.
Written concurrence of 40'Z Water Quality Certification may be
required for this project. Applications requesting coverage under
our General Certification 14 or General Permit 31 will require
written. concurrence.. Please be aware that 401 Certification may be
denied if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to
the maximum extent practicable.

9711er.mem
cc: Eric Galamb
R. E C E 1..VIE D.
State of North Carolina CJUN 2 a 1993
of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
Division of Land Resources LAND QUALITY SECTION
James G. MQ?? Wrr PROJECT RsvlHw COMMENTS Charles H. Gardner
W1111am W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Director
Project Number: ct 3071 6 county: -lc-
Project Name: O 9 6
Geodetic Survey This project will impact '.geodetic surveymarkers. N.C. Geodetic
Survey should be contacted prior'to construction at P.o'`Box 27687,
Raleigh, N.C. 27611 [phone]. -Intentional destruction of a
geodetic monument-is a violation of N.C. General Statute 102-4.
This project will have no impact on geodetic survey markers.
Other (comments attached)
x/Ifivy -993
For more information contact the Geodetic Survey office at ( ^) 7
? ref T
Reviewer Date ?JCl
Erosion and Sedimentation.Control
No comment
This project will require approval of an erosion and.sedimentation
control plan prior to beginning any land-disturbing activity if more
than one (1) acre will be disturbed.
? If an environmental document is required to satisfy Environmental
Policy Act (SEPA).requirements, the document must.be submitted as-part
of the erosion and sedimentation control plan. ,
If any portion of the project is located within a High
Quality Water
Zone (HQW), as classified by the Division of Environmental Management,
-increased design standards for sediment and erosion control will apply.
The erosion and sedimentation .control plan required for this project
should be prepared by the Dgpartment of Transportation under the
erosion control program delegation to the Division of Highways from the
North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission.
Other (comments attached)
For more information contact the Land Quality Section at [phone].
ot V7-9193
Reviewer Date
?y
P.O. Box 27687 • Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7687 • Telephone [phone]
. An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer
ate of North caronnu , - - r
Department of Environment, 0.
?
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Forest Resources
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
Griffiths Forestry Center
2411 Garner Road
Clayton, North Carolina 27520
July 8, 1993
MEMORANDUM
?Vk - .
JUL 1993
, LDC& ED
OA OFFICE
_ ?0t Slbl??.?
TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Assessment.IIai.t
FROM: Don R. Robbins, Staff Forester 0*x SUBJECT: DOT EA/Scoping for improvements to NC 18 from NC 268-A to Stt 1002 in
Norh Wilkesboro in Wilkes County (R--2517)
PROJECT #93-0996
DUE DATE: 7-20-93
t
act to forestry in the area of the proposed
To better determine the imp information
project, the Environmental Assessment should contain the following
the proposed pro
concerning project!
1. The total forest land acreage by types that would be-taken out of forest
production as a result of new right-of-way purchases.
of the forest soils as indicated by the soil series,
2. .The productivity
that would be involved within the proposed project.
impact upon existing greenways within the area of the proposed
3. The
project.
4. The provisions that the contractor will take to sell any merchantable
timber that is to be removed. durimractice is encouraged to iniig
construction. if any is
the need for piling and burning g regulations
needed, the. contractor. should comply -withall laws and pertaining to debris burning.
Box 27687. Weigh, North Ccxofina 27611-7687 Telephone 919.733_2,62 e 19-733-0138
P.O
?An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 5096 recycled/

r
age 2 B
55 The provisions that the contractor will take during the construction
phase to prevent erosion, sedimentation and construction damage to forest
land outside the right-of-way and construction limits. Trees outside the
construction limits should be protected from construction activities to
avoid:
a. Skinning of tree trunks by machinery. y
' tT , b. Soil compaction and root exposure or injury b heavy equipment.
c. Adding layers of fill dirt over the root systems of trees,. a
•` practice that impairs root aeration.
d. Accidental spilling of
petroleum products or other damaging
substances over the root systems of trees.
We would hope that the project would have the least impact to forest and
related resources in that area.
DHR: gm
.pc: Warren Boyette -CO
File

i
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Widenfng of NC 18
from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road)
North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
F. A. Project STP - 18(5)
State Project 8.1761201
T.I.P. Project # R-2517
I
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
Environmental Assessment
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
and
N.C. Department of Transportation
Division of Highways
Submitted Pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)
Date ?r H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT
4 z/ '?-
Date Nich s L. G af, P. E.
Fogivis on Administrator, FHWA
RECEIVED
MAY 2 51995
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
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Widening of NC 18
from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road)
North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
F. A. Project STP - 18(5)
State Project 8.1761201
T.I.P. Project # R-2517

Environmental Assessment
Document Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By:

Thomas E. Devens P.E. 'iF
'
'
Project Planning Engineer ;•%EESS/pN.9
-w
r

` SEAL '
S 18334
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b
R bert Hanson P.E.
o ,
Project Planning Unit Head
y?l9
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT SUMMARY SECTION
Description of Action
Environmental Commitments
Summary of Estimated Environmental Impacts
Alternatives Considered
Coordination
Action Required by Other Agencies
Additional Information
PAGE
I. BASIS FOR PROPOSED ACTION ............................... 1
A. Existing Conditions .......... ................... 1
B. Traffic Volumes ................................... 4
C. Capacity Analysis .............................. 4
D. Transportation Planning ............................ 6
E. Accident Record ... ..... . ... ............. 6
F. Benefits to State, Region, and Community ........... 7
II. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION .......................... 7
A. General Description ................................ 7
B. Programmed Funding .. ......... ................... 7
C. Recommended Improvements ........................... 8
III. ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED ................................. 10
A. Other Build Alternatives ... .................... 10
B. Public Transportation Alternative .................. 10
C. "No-Build" Alternative ............................. 10
IV. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ............. 10
A. Land Use Planning . ........................... 10
B. Social and Economic Environment .................... 12
C. Cultural Resources ................................. 15
D. Section 4(f) Resources ............................. 16
E. Natural Resources .................................. 16
F. Floodplain Involvement ...................... 21
- G. Highway Traffic Noise Analysis ..................... 22
H. Air Quality Analysis ............................... 26
I. Construction Impacts .............................. 28
J. Contaminated Properties ............................ 29
V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION ............................... 31
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Figure 1 - Vicinity Map
Figure 2 - Recommended Cross-Section
Figure 3 - Recommended Alignment
Figure 4 - Traffic Projections
Figure 5 - Proposed Configurations for Signalized Intersections
Appendix A - FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria
Appendix B - Additional Comments/Coordination
Widening of NC 18
from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road)
North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
F. A. Project STP - 18(5)
State Project 8.1761201
T.I.P. Project # R-2517
SUMMARY
1. Description of Action
The North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of
Highways, proposes to widen NC 18 (Sparta Road) to a multi-lane
cross-section from 400 feet (120 m) south of Finley Avenue to 300 feet (90
m) north of SR 1531 (Foster Road) in North Wilkesboro. The project is
located on the north side of North Wilkesboro (See Figure 1)..
This project is included in the 1995-2001 Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP). The TIP has allocated $3,726,000 for right-of-way
acquisition and $2,500,000 for construction of this project (R-2517). The
project is currently planned for construction in one phase. Right-of-way
acquisition is scheduled for Fiscal Year (FY) 1996, with construction
letting scheduled for FY 1998.
From 400 feet (120 m) south of Finley Avenue to 300 feet (90 m) north
of SR 1531 (Foster Road), the existing two-lane facility will be widened
to a five-lane curb and gutter highway which is 64 feet (19.5 m) from
curb-face to curb-face, with 8-foot (2.4 m) berms on the outside of curbs.
The typical section shall consist of a center, 12-foot (3.6 m) left-turn
lane, and four 12-foot outside travel lanes (2 per travel direction). See
Figure 2.
Recommended minimum right-of-way width is 80 feet (24.4 m), plus any
additional temporary easements. Widening will occur symmetrically or
asymmetrically as desirable to minimize damages. The existing alignment of
NC 18 is to be utilized to the extent possible.
This 1.9 mile (3.1 km) project has a current estimated cost of
$7,550,000 (including $4,150,000 for construction and $3,400,000 for right
• of way).
2. Environmental Commitments
All standard procedures and measures will be implemented to avoid and
minimize environmental impacts. Impacts will be minimized by utilizing
High Quality Water Best Management Practices during construction.
A 401 Water Quality Certification administered through the N.C.
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources may be required.
In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit may be required from the United States Army
Corps of Engineers for the discharge of dredged or fill material in
"Waters of the United States". It is anticipated that the Provisions of
Nationwide Permit 33 CFR 330.5(A)14 will apply to this project. Final
permit decisions, however, are left to the discretionary authority of the
United States Corps of Engineers.
In the studied section between NC 268-A and SR 1517 (Sunset Drive),
NCDOT will make every attempt to divert stormwater from the recommended
curb and gutter facility onto the east side of NC 18, away from Hooper's
Branch. Where grades do not allow diversion of water to the east side of
NC 18, efforts will be made to divert stormwater into grassy swales and >
ditches before reaching Hooper's Branch.
3. Summary of Estimated Environmental Impacts
The proposed project will have a positive impact on the North
Wilkesboro / Fairplains area by providing increased capacity and safety
through this densely-developed area. Northern Wilkes, Ashe, and Alleghany
Counties. will- also benefit from increased access to North Wilkesboro, NC
268, and US 421. Approximately 13 residences and 5 businesses will be
relocated by the proposed project. It is anticipated that comparable
replacement housing will be available as needed.
There may be some erosion and siltation during construction; however,
the effects will be short-term in nature and minimized to the extent
possible. No significant effects to plant or animal life are expected.
Several residences and businesses are predicted to experience traffic
noise level increases in excess of the FHWA noise abatement criteria.
However, noise abatement is not considered reasonable or feasible as part
of this project.
4. Alternatives Considered
Due to the nature of this project (the widening of an existing
roadway), alternative alignments on new location are generally not
feasible or practicable. Preferably, the existing right-of-way and
roadbed can be incorporated into the final design to the extent possible.
The "no-build" alternative was considered and rejected, due to the
traffic and safety benefits provided by the proposed improvements. •
Failure to widen NC 18 will result in future congestion problems and an
eventual breakdown of traffic flow.
5. Coordination
The following federal, state, and local agencies and officials were
consulted regarding this project:
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
U. S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
*U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
U. S. Geological Survey
*N. C. State Clearinghouse
*N. C. Dept. of Cultural Resources
N. C. Dept. of Human Resources
N. C. Dept. of Public Instruction
*N. C. Dept. of Environment, Health, & Natural Resources
*N. C. Dept. of Environmental Management
*N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Region D Council of Governments
Wilkes County Commissioners
The Mayor of North Wilkesboro
Asterisks (*) indicate agencies from which written responses were
received. Those comments are included in the appendix of this report.
6. Action Required by Other Agencies
NC 18 crosses a small, intermittent stream just north of SR 1002 in
the vicinity of Lowe's supermarket. Section 404 impacts to surface waters
may occur. Construction at this site is likely to be authorized by
provisions of Nationwide Permit 33 CFR 330.5 (A) under Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act. This permit authorizes fills for roads crossing waters
of the United States. It appears this crossing will meet the criteria for
Nationwide #14 permit. The site may require a predischarge notification
to be sent to the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers for their evaluation of the
proposed crossing.
A 401 Water Quality Certification administered through the N.C.
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources may be required.
This certificate is issued for any activity which may result in a
discharge into waters for which a federal permit is required.
7. Additional Information
Additional information concerning the proposal and assessment can be
obtained by contacting either of the following:
Nicholas L. Graf, P. E.
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
310 New Bern Avenue, Suite 410
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
Telephone [phone]
H. Franklin Vick, P. E.
Manager, Planning and Environmental Branch
N. C. Department of Transportation
Post Office Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611
Telephone [phone]
Widening of NC 18
from Finley Avenue to SR 1531 (Foster Road)
North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County
F. A. Project STP - 18(5)
State Project 8.1761201
T.I.P. Project # R-2517
1. BASIS FOR PROPOSED ACTION
A. Existing Conditions
1. Length of Studied Section
The studied section of NC 18 has a length of 1.9 miles (3.1 km),
from 400 feet (120 m) south of Finley Avenue to 300 feet (90 m) north
of SR 1531 (Foster Road).
2.. Functional Classification
NC 18 is an Urban Minor Arterial inside North Wilkesboro
municipal limits, and a Rural Major Collector north of the city
limits, according to the NC Statewide Functional Classification
System. This section of NC 18 is a Federal Aid Urban highway.
3. Existing Cross Section
South of NC 268-A NC 18 is a four-lane highway which has two
travel lanes in the southbound direction and one travel lane in the
northbound direction.
From NC 268-A to SR 1517 (Sunset Drive), NC 18 is a three-lane
highway with a center left-turn lane, and one travel lane in each.
direction. From Sunset Drive to 300 feet (90 m) north of SR 1531, NC
18 is a two-lane highway with a 20-foot (6 m) pavement width. Usable
shoulders vary from 3-6 feet (1-2 m). Separate left-turn lanes are
located on NC 18 at signalized intersections with NC 268-A, SR 1002,
and the signalized intersection (southbound left only) which provides
access to Bi-Lo, Revco, Family Dollar, Pizza Hut, and Village Market.
4. Right-of-Way
Existing right-of-way along the project length varies
substantially. Previous spot improvements have resulted in NCDOT
acquisition of various land parcels. Therefore, it is difficult to
uniformly describe right-of-way. The local location engineer should
be contacted prior to survey crews beginning work. From 400 feet
(120 m) south of Finley Avenue to Finley Avenue, NCDOT owns 100 feet
(30 m) of right-of-way, symmetrical about the roadway centerline.
2
From Finley Avenue to NC 268-A, NCDOT owns 50 feet (15 m) of
right-of-way from the centerline on the east side of NC 18, and 30
feet (9 m) from the centerline on the west side.
From NC 268-A to SR 1517, the existing right-of-way is the
maintained road width, symmetrical about the centerline of the
existing roadway. In this section, right-of-way is estimated to be
60 feet (18 m).
From SR 1517 to the signalized intersection at the entrance to
Bi-Lo, right-of-way is 60 feet (18 m), symmetrical about the roadway
centerline.
. From the Bi-Lo entrance SR 1972 (Fairplains School Road), the
existing right-of-way is the maintained road width. In this section,
right-of-way is estimated to be 30 feet (9 m).
From SR 1972 to SR 1002, right=of-way on the west side of NC 18
is 30 feet (9 m) from the roadway centerline. On the east side of
NC 18 from SR 1972 to 1000 feet (300 m) north of SR 1972,
right-of-way is the maintained width which is approximately 15 feet
(4.6 m) from the centerline. From 1000 feet (300 m) north of SR 1972
to SR 1002, east-side right-of-way increases to 30 feet (9 m).
From SR 1002 to the project terminus, right-of-way on the west
side of NC 18 is 20 feet (6 m) from roadway centerline, while
right-of-way on the. east side of NC 18 is 30 feet (9 m) from
centerline.
5. Alignment
Existing horizontal roadway alignment is adequate, with the
exception of a horizontal curve between SR 1527 and SR 1528. This
8-degree horizontal curve has an approximate radius of 716 feet (218
m), which is substandard for a 50 mph design speed. Therefore some
realignment is necessary to widen according to AASHTO standards. At
this location, NC 18 will be widened to the inside of the curve to
reduce degree of curvature.
6. Structures
No structures exist on the studied section of NC 18.
7. Intersecting Roads and Type of Control
The following roads intersect NC 18 within the project limits:
Finley Avenue, NC 268-A, Felts Street, SR 1525, SR 1517 (Sunset
Drive), SR 1584 (Russell Street), SR 1625, SR 2140, SR 1973, SR 1527
(Doughton Street), SR 1528 (Fairplains-Church Road), SR 1529 (Thomas
Road), SR 1972 (Fairplains School Road), SR 1530 (Jones/Dancy
Street), SR 1971 (Fairplains Road), SR 1002 (Mountain View Road), and
SR 1531 (Foster Road).
3
All intersections are at grade. The studied section has four
signalized intersections located at: Finley Avenue, NC 268-A, a
shopping center entrance, and SR 1002 (Mountain View Road).
8. Access Control
No control of access exists, and none is recommended for the
project.
9. Utilities
Preliminary utility information indi cates that the proposed
section will impact a considerable number of existing utility lines
within the right -of-way of the studied section. The following
describes the type and location of the uti lities within the proposed
section:
SR NUMBER STREET NAME UTILITY
SR-1525 WAUGH ST. 2" WATER LINE
SR-1976 2" WATER LINE
SHADY LANE 2" WATER LINE
SR-1517 SUNSET DRIVE 6" WATER LINE
SR-1584 RUSSELL ST. 2" WATER LINE
SR-1625 2" WATER LINE
UNDERGROUND TEL.
SR-2140 2" WATER LINE
SR-1627 GILREATH ST. 2" WATER LINE
SR-1973 REYNOLDS AVE. 6" WATER LINE
UNDERGROUND TEL.
SR-1527 DOUGHTON ST. 2" WATER LINE
SR-1528 FAIRPLAINS -CHURCH ST. 6" WATER LINE
SR-1972 FAIRPLAINS SCHOOL RD. 6" WATER LINE
SR-1529 THOMAS RD. 2" & 3" WATER LINE
SR-1530 JONES/DANCY ST. 6" WATER LINE
SR-1971 FAIRPLAINS RD. 8" WATER LINE
UNDERGROUND TEL.
SR-1002 MOUNTAIN VIEW RD. 6" WATER LINE
UNDERGROUND TEL.
SR-1531 FOSTER RD. 2" & 6" WATER LINE
UNDERGROUND TEL.
NC 18 10" WATER LINE EAST
SIDE, 8" SAN. SEWER
WEST SIDE. AERIAL
TEL. CABLE WEST SIDE
TEL. CABLE EAST SIDE
Telephone and electric services are aerial wires and will
require relocation to accommodate widening.
4
Additional structures of concern in the right-of-way are two
concrete vaults 'located under the existing pavement just north of
NC 268, at Nations Bank. One vault is an underground 6.5 x 13 feet
(2 x 4 m) concrete vault and the other is an underground 5 x 8 feet
(1.5 x 2.4 m) concrete vault housing a water pump and metering
station. Any widening of NC 18 will require vault relocations. A
utility impact rating of medium has been assigned to this project.
10. Geodetic Markers
No geodetic markers will be impacted by the proposed project.
11. Bicycle Facilities
The North Carolina Bicycle Program has determined that no
special accommodations are needed for bicycle traffic.
12. School Buses
A total of six school buses use the studied section of NC 18.
NC 18 is a feeder for five schools in the area, which are: Mulberry
Elementary, Fairplains Elementary, Wilkes Central, Woodward Middle
School, and North Wilkesboro Elementary. The bus system during the
regular school year consists of six buses with morning and afternoon
routes. The times of the routes are: 6:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. in the
morning and 2:15 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. in the afternoon. The bus service
in the summer months is limited to one bus for a period of about one
month. The type of buses used are five 54-passenger and one
36-passenger vehicle.
B. Traffic Volumes
The estimated traffic volumes for the studied facility are as follows
(see also Figure 4E) on NC 18:
1998 Average Daily Traffic : high 26,400 vpd low 20,800 vpd
2018 Average Daily Traffic : high 47,800 vpd low 28,200 vpd
(vehicles per day)
Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer (TTST) = A. of ADT
Dual Tired Vehicles (Dual) = 42-. of ADT
r
The Design Hourly Volume (DHV) is estimated to be 1011. of the Average
Daily Traffic (ADT). Directional distribution of peak-hour traffic is
expected to be 60% in one direction and 409.1- in the opposite direction.
C. Capacity Analysis
The concept of level of service (LOS) is defined as a qualitative
measure describing the operational conditions within a traffic stream and
how these conditions are perceived by motorists and/or passengers. A
level of service definition generally describes conditions in terms of
5
such factors as speed, travel,- time, freedom to maneuver, traffic
interruptions, delay,' comfort, convenience, and safety. Six levels of
service are defined for each type of facility for which analysis
procedures are available. They are given letter designations from A to F,
with level of service A representing the best operation conditions and
level of service F representing the worst.
Due to the urban nature of development in the vicinity of this
project and the close spacing of intersections, the overall level of
service of the facility will be determined by levels of service at
intersections.
FINLEY AVENUE
The intersection of Finley Avenue and NC 18 requires several
additional turning lanes to operate at an acceptable level of service in
the design year. The proposed lane configuration for the intersection is
shown in Figure 5, Diagram A. This configuration is anticipated to
operate at LOS C in the design year.
NC 268-A
To handle future traffic volumes, the NC 18/NC 268-A intersection
will require additional turning lanes. It is anticipated that the
proposed intersection configuration shown in Figure 5, Diagram B, will
operate at LOS C in the design year. This configuration will reduce delay
and queues anticipated for turning movements during peak hours, and
accommodate the high volume of southbound left-turns projected for the
design year.
SR 1517
The currently unsignalized intersection of SR 1517 (Sunset Drive) and
NC 18 will require signalization and additional turning lanes to operate
at an acceptable level of service in the design year. The proposed lane
configuration for the intersection is shown in Figure 5, Diagram C. This
configuration is anticipated to operate at LOS C in the design year.
SHOPPING CENTER
The existing intersection of the Bi-Lo Shopping Center and NC 18 does
not require any additional improvements to operate efficiently in the
• design year. The proposed lane configuration for the intersection is
shown in Figure 5, Diagram D. This intersection is anticipated to operate
at LOS C in 2018.
SR 1002
The existing intersection of SR 1002 and NC 18 requires additional
turning lanes to function efficiently in the design year. With the
proposed improvements as shown in Figure 5, Diagram E, the intersection is
anticipated to operate at LOS B in the design year.
6
According to queue analysis, southbound left-turn traffic on NC 18 is
expected to queue, given the high volume of opposing through traffic. In
addition, northbound traffic on NC 18 is expected to queue through the
SR 1971 (Fairplains Road) intersection. This queuing could effectively
shut-down operation of the SR 1971 intersection during peak hours.
Therefore, in future years, the NC 18/SR 1002 intersection may require
realignment to the north to reduce potential conflicts with the SR 1971
intersection.
D. Transportation Planning
NC 18 serves as a radial route into North Wilkesboro from the north.
It is designated as a Major Thoroughfare in the 1983 North Wilkesboro
Thoroughfare Plan.
NC 18 is an Urban Minor Arterial inside North Wilkesboro town limits,
and a Rural Major Collector outside the limits.
The proposed five-lane cross-section is in conformance with the
Thoroughfare Plan of Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro, therefore
construction of this project will be a step toward implementation of the
thoroughfare plan.
E. Accident Record
During the period between January 1990 and March 1993, a total of 62
accidents were reported on NC 18 between NC 268-A and SR 1002.
On the three-lane highway from NC 268-A to SR 1517 (Sunset Drive), a
total of 17 accidents occurred, resulting in an accident rate of 385.2
accidents per 100 million vehicle miles (ACC/100MVM). This is slightly
higher than the 369.0 ACC/MVM statewide average for urban three-lane
undivided NC routes during the same time period.
On the two-lane highway from SR 1517 (Sunset Drive) to SR 1002
(Mountain View Road), a total of 45 accidents occurred, resulting in an
accident rate of 274.9 accidents per 100 million vehicle miles
(ACC/100MVM). This is slightly higher than the 258.1 ACC/MVM statewide
average for urban two-lane NC routes during the same time period.
Of these accidents, 52% entailed rear-end collisions, 19% were
left-turns across traffic, and 16% were angular collisions. Analysis
shows a high occurrence of rear-end collisions on NC 18 in the vicinity of
SR 1625, SR 1971, and just north of NC 268-A where Hardee's, Wachovia,
Nationsbank, and Subway access driveways are located. Additionally, three
cars ran off of the road on the sharper horizontal curve which is located
between SR's 1527 and 1528.
The proposed improvements will reduce the potential for these types
of accidents. Center left-turn lanes will shelter turning vehicles from
through traffic while waiting for a gap in opposing traffic. Also, an
additional through-lane in each direction will allow drivers to slow down
for a right-turn without slowing all traffic moving in their direction, as
occurs under current conditions.
7
The improved alignment will likely reduce accidents caused by running
off the road.
F. Benefits to State, Region, and Community
The widening of NC 18 will have a positive impact on the North
Wilkesboro / Fairplains area by providing increased capacity and safety
through this densely-developed area. Northern Wilkes, Ashe, and Alleghany
Counties will also benefit from increased access to North Wilkesboro,
NC 268, and US 421.
Improved access and safety to the area, savings in operating costs,
reduction in travel times, and the general improvement in the ease and
convenience of travel will benefit all concerned.
II. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION
A. General Description
The North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of
Highways, proposes to widen NC 18 (Sparta Road) to a multi-lane
cross-section from 400 feet (120 m) south of Finley Avenue to 300 feet
(90 m) north of SR 1531 (Foster Road) in North Wilkesboro. The project is
located on the north side of North Wilkesboro (See Figure 1).
Right-of-way acquisition is scheduled for Fiscal Year (FY) 1996, with
construction letting scheduled for FY 1998.
From 400 feet (120 m) south of Finley Avenue to 300 feet (90 m) north
of SR 1531 (Foster Road), the existing two-lane facility will be widened
to a five-lane curb and gutter highway which is 64 feet (19.5 m) from
curb-face to curb-face, with 8-foot (2.4 m) berms on the outside of curbs.
The typical section shall consist of a center, 12-foot (3.6 m) left-turn
lane, and four 12-foot outside travel lanes .(2 per travel direction). See
Figure 2.
Recommended minimum right-of-way width is 80 feet (24.4 m), plus any
additional temporary easements. Widening will occur symmetrically or
asymmetrically as desirable to minimize damages. The existing alignment
of NC 18 is to be utilized to the extent possible.
This 1.9 mile (3.1 km) project has an estimated cost of $7,550,000
(including $4,150,000 for construction and $3,400,000 for right of way).
B. Programmed Funding
This project is included in the 1995-2001 Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP has allocated $3,726,000 for
right-of-way acquisition and $2,500,000 for construction of this project
for a total cost of $6,226,000.
8
C. Recommended Improvements
1. Project Termini
The proposed project begins approximately 400 feet (120 m) south
of Finley Avenue and ends approximately 300 feet (90 m) north of
SR 1531 (Foster Road). These project limits allow dual left
movements onto NC 18 from Finley Avenue, and incorporate two
northbound through lanes at the SR 1002 (Mountain View Road)
intersection.
2. Proposed Typical Section
The proposed typical cross-section is a five-lane curb and
gutter facility which is 64 feet (19.5 m) from curb-face to curb-face
with 8-foot (2.4 m) berms on the outside of curbs. The facility
shall consist of a center 12-foot (3.6 m) left-turn lane, and four
12-foot outside travel lanes (two per travel direction).
3. Proposed Right-of-Way Width and Access Control
From Finley Avenue to SR 1531, the proposed minimum right-of-way
is 80 feet (24.4 m), plus any additional temporary easements.
Widening will occur symmetrically or asymmetrically as desirable
to minimize damages. The existing alignment of NC 18 is to be
utilized to the extent possible.
No control of access is recommended for this project.
4. Design Speed
The design speed for this facility will be 50 miles per hour.
This is due to the urban nature of the proposed curb and gutter
section. The posted speed limit is expected to be 45 miles per hour.
5. Permits
In accordance with provisions of section 404 of the Clean Water
Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit may be required from the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers (COE) for the discharge of dredged or fill
material into "Waters of the United States". It is anticipated that
impacts will be authorized by Nationwide Permit [33 CFR 330.5 (a)
(14)J. Nationwide #14 allows for road crossing fills of non-tidal
"Waters of the United States", provided that the fill place in waters
of the U.S. is limited to a filled area of no more than 0.1 ha (0.3
ac).
A 401 Water Quality Certification administered through the N.C.
Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources may be
required. This certificate is issued for any activity which may
result in a discharge into waters for which a federal permit is
required.

6. Proposed Intersection Treatments
All roadway intersections will be at-grade and stop sign
controlled, with the exception of Finley Avenue, NC 268-A, SR 1517,
the Bi-Lo shopping center entrance, and SR 1002. The signal controls
at these intersections will be revised to accommodate new traffic
patterns. During the design phase, NCDOT will study these
intersections in greater detail, and may modify the recommendations
presented in this document.
It is recommended that a coordinated signal system be
incorporated in this project. This system should include all traffic
signals on NC 18, from Old US 421 Business (south of the current
project limits) to SR 1002.
FINLEY AVENUE
Capacity analysis at the Finley Avenue intersection indicates
the need for several additional turning lanes in addition to the
proposed widening. The recommended configuration is shown in Figure
5, Diagram A. During the design phase the two existing entrances/
exits to NC 18 from McDonald's should be studied to determine if it
is possible to combine them into a single entrance/exit that directly
faces Finley Avenue. This reconfiguration will allow a single
McDonald's entrance to be included in signal phasing for the traffic
signal.
NC 268-A
At the intersection of NC 18
indicates the need for dedicated
proposed widening to five lanes.
shown in Figure 5, Diagram B.
and NC 268-A, capacity analysis
turning lanes in addition to the
The recommended configuration is
SR 1517
A new traffic signal is recommended on NC 18 at the existing
unsignalized intersection with SR 1517 (Sunset Drive). The
recommended configuration is shown in Figure 5, Diagram C. A slight
realignment of SR 1517 and/or increased turning radius in the
northeast quadrant of the intersection, is also recommended to
improve the operation of southbound right-turns from NC 18 and
eastbound left-turns from SR 1517.
SHOPPING CENTER
No additional improvements are recommended at the existing
signalized intersection of NC 18 and the Bi-Lo Shopping Center. The
existing configuration after widening will be as shown in Figure 5,
Diagram D.
10
SR 1002
The intersection of SR 1002 and NC 18 requires several turning
lanes in addition to the proposed widening. The recommended
configuration is shown in Figure 5, Diagram E.
As traffic volumes increase, a future spot improvement should be
considered at this intersection. SR 1002 may require realignment
approximately 500 feet (152 m) to the north to reduce potential
conflicts with queues at the intersection of NC 18 and SR 1971.
III. ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
A. Other Build Alternatives
Due to the nature of this project (the widening of an existing
roadway), alternative alignments on new location are generally not
feasible or practicable. Preferably, the existing right-of-way and
roadbed can be incorporated into the final design to the extent possible.
B. Public Transportation Alternative
While a considerable portion of the traffic on the proposed section
of NC 18 is local traffic, residential densities are low enough that
providing some form of public transportation would not be a feasible
alternative to widening the existing roadway. Highway transportation is
the dominant mode of transportation in the project area, therefore, public
transportation is not a viable substitute for widening this road.
C. "No-Build" Alternative
If the "no-build" alternative were chosen, it would have a
considerable negative impact on transportation in the North Wilkesboro
area of Wilkes County, and portions of Alleghany, and Ashe Counties. The
studied portion of NC 18 is a highly congested facility at present,
especially during peak periods. With increases in traffic, the service
provided by the existing facility would deteriorate even more. Increased
congestion would lead to higher operating costs and longer travel times.
Motorist safety would also be sacrificed, leading to even greater losses.
due to accidents and deaths. Therefore, the "no-build" alternative has
been rejected.
IV. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
A. Land Use Planning
1. Existing Land Use
The entire project is located in an urbanized area with a wide
variety of land uses, predominantly residential and commercial.
Other uses along NC 18 include industry, government offices, and
small farms and pastures.
11
The southernmost portion of the project is characterized by
strip commercial development, with gas stations, fast food
restaurants and banks. Commercial development dominates the road
frontage north to the Bi-Lo grocery store, although a few residences
are also located along the roadway. Small shops and offices front
the roadway from SR 1584 (Russell Street) to SR 1973. A Blue Ridge
Opportunity Commission (BROC) Human Resources administrative office
and senior citizens day care is located on NC 18 just south of
SR 2140. A homeless shelter is located behind the BROC offices.
The mix of residential
north to the project terminus
businesses interspersed among
that residential lots fronting
to commercial uses.
and commercial development continues
with a church,. funeral home, and small
single family residences. It is likely
the roadway will continue to redevelop
2. Land Use
The Town of North Wilkesboro has not adopted a land use plan.
Therefore, its zoning ordinance serves -as its primary land
development guide. As with existing land uses, the zoning districts
vary considerably along the roadway. The southernmost portion of the
project includes Highway Business districts to SR 1517 (Sunset
Drive). Existing residential lots are classified in R-6, High
Density Residential districts. The small businesses scattered
throughout the project are assigned to General Business districts.
3. Parks and Greenways
No parks or greenways will be effected by the proposed
construction.
4. Project Consistency with Local Plans
Because the proposed improvement furthers the mutually adopted
Thoroughfare Plan, it is considered to be consistent with local
plans.
5. Farmland
The Farmland Protection Policy Act of 1981 requires all federal
agencies or their representatives to consider the impact of land
acquisition and construction projects on prime and important farmland
soils. The proposed improvements to NC 18 occur entirely within an
urbanized area where development, particularly commercial
development, is likely to continue. Therefore, no further
consideration of potential farmland impacts is required.
12
B. Social and Economic Environment
1. Neighborhood Characteristic
The proposed project is located partly within the North
Wilkesboro corporate boundary and partly in Wilkes County. North
Wilkesboro is currently one of the largest towns in Wilkes County.
Per the 1990 US Census, Wilkes County has a population of 59,393.
Proceeding in a northerly direction from Finley Avenue toward
SR 1517, NC 18 begins as a three-lane section and passes first
through a commercial business district consisting primarily of fast
food franchises, gas stations, and banks. Several small homes are
located in this area.
Continuing northward, NC 18 narrows to two lanes at SR 1517.
For the duration of the project, there exists a mixture of business
and residential property. These businesses and homes exist in close
proximity to the roadway, and as such, numerous impacts are expected
to be realized. Several business properties are abandoned.
NC 18 curves westerly between SR 1527 and SR 1528. At this
location, NC 18 will be widened to the inside of the curve to reduce
degree of curvature. As a result of this proposed action, some
dwellings may be relocated.
2. Economic Factors
The North Carolina Employment Security Commission reported that
in November of 1994, Wilkes County had a labor force of 32,180 with
30,810 persons considered to be gainfully employed. This results in
an unemployment total of 1,370 or 4.3 percent.
The proposed widening of NC 18 will generate positive economic
impacts by increasing the tax base along the existing highway
corridor. Improved safety and convenience for motorists will
increase commercial activities in the area. Also, it can be assumed
that some portions of the labor force and construction materials will
come from North Wilkesboro and Wilkes County, somewhat increasing
construction commerce for the project duration.
3. Public Facilities and Services
No Public Facilities will be affected by the proposed project.
4. Probable Impacts of the Proposed Action
a. Relocation Impacts
It is anticipated that the proposed action will cause the
relocation of 13 residences and 5 businesses. Other residences
may suffer from proximity damage due to the proposed
improvements. These relocations are not expected to cause a
13
breakup of a community, nor the disruption of services. It is
anticipated that comparable replacement properties will be
available for the relocatees. All relocations will be in
accordance with the revised North Carolina General Statutes
Chapter 133. A relocation report is included in the Appendix to
this document.
It is the policy of the NCDOT to ensure that comparable
replacement housing will be available prior to construction of
state and federally-assisted projects. Furthermore, the North
Carolina Board of Transportation has the following three
programs to minimize the inconvenience of relocation:
* Relocation Assistance,
* Relocation Moving Payments, and
* Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement.
With the Relocation Assistance Program, experienced NCDOT
staff will be available to assist displacees with information
such as availability and prices of homes, apartments, or
businesses for sale or rent and financing of other housing
programs. The Relocation Moving Payments Program, in general,
provides for payment of actual moving expenses encountered in
relocation. Where displacement will force an owner or tenant to
purchase or rent property of higher cost or to lose a favorable
financing arrangement (in cases of ownership), the Relocation
Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement Program will
compensate up to $22,500 to owners who are eligible and qualify
and up to $5,250 to tenants who are eligible and qualify.
The relocation program for the proposed action will be
conducted in accordance with the Federal Uniform Relocation
Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970
(Public Law 91-646), and/or the North Carolina Relocation
Assistance Act (GS-133-5 through 133-18). The program is
designed to provide assistance to displaced persons in
relocating to a replacement site in which to live or do
business. At least one relocation officer is assigned to each
highway project for this purpose.
The relocation officer will determine the needs of
displaced families, individuals, businesses, non-profit
organizations, and farm operations for relocation assistance
advisory services without regard to race, color, religion, sex,
or national origin. The NCDOT will schedule its work to allow
ample time, prior to displacement, for negotiations, and
possession of replacement housing which meets decent, safe, and
sanitary standards. The displacees are given at least a 90-day
written notice after NCDOT purchases the property. Relocation
of displaced persons will be offered in areas not generally less
desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial
facilities. Rent and sale prices of replacement property will
be within the financial means of the families and individuals
14
displaced and will be reasonably accessible to their places of
employment. The relocation officer will also assist owners of
displaced businesses, non-profit organization, and farm
operations in searching for and moving to replacement property.
All tenant and owner residential occupants who may be
displaced will receive an explanation regarding all available
options, such as (1) purchase of replacement housing, (2) rental
of replacement housing, either private or public, or (3) moving
existing owner-occupant housing to another site (if possible). -
The relocation officer will also supply information concerning
other state or federal programs offering assistance to displaced
persons and will provide other advisory services as needed in
order to minimize hardships to displaced persons in adjusting to
a new location.
The Moving Expense Payments Program is designed to
compensate the displacee for the costs of moving personal
property from homes, businesses, non-profit organizations, and
farm operations acquired for a highway project. Under the
Replacement Program for Owners, NCDOT will participate in
reasonable incidental purchase payments for replacement
dwellings such as attorney's fees, surveys, appraisals, and
other closing costs and, if applicable, make a payment for any
increased interest expenses for replacement dwellings.
Reimbursement to owner-occupants for replacement housing
payments, increase interest payments, and incidental purchase
expenses may not exceed $22,500 (combined total), except under
the Last Resort Housing provision.
A displaced tenant may be eligible to receive a payment,
not to exceed $5,250, to rentaa replacement dwelling or to make
a down payment, including incidental expenses, on the purchase
of a replacement dwelling. The down payment is based upon what
the State determines is required when the rent supplement
exceeds $5,250.
It is a policy of the State that no person will be
displaced by the NCDOT's state or federally-assisted
construction projects unless or until comparable replacement
housing has been offered or provided for each displacee within a
reasonable period of time prior to displacement. No relocation
payment received will be considered as income for the purposes `
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or for the purposes of
determining eligibility or the extent of eligibility of any
person for assistance under the Social Security Act or any other
federal law.
Last Resort Housing is a program used when comparable
replacement housing is not available, or when it is unavailable
within the displacee's financial means, and the replacement
payment exceeds the federal/state legal limitation. The purpose
15
of the program is to allow broad latitudes in methods of
implementation by the State so that decent, safe, and sanitary
replacement housing can be provided. It is not felt that this
program will be necessary on the project, since there appears to
be adequate opportunities for relocation within the area.
b. Social Impacts
The proposed action will have a positive impact on the
community as a whole. Such positive impacts will include:
increased safety and convenience for the motoring public,
improved visibility and accessibility for various businesses and
services along the proposed facility, and improved response time
for emergency vehicles.
The proposed action will not be a disruption to community
cohesion, and it will not interfere with the accessibility of
public facilities or services.
C. Cultural Resources
1. Architectural Resources
This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the
Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended, and the Regulations of
the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Governing the Section
106 Review Process, codified at 36 CFR Part 800. It is also subject
to compliance with Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation
Act of 1966, as amended.
Prior to a field survey, the,NCDOT Historic Architecture Section
(HARS) reviewed all files of the North Carolina State Historic
Preservation Office (SHPO) relative to the project vicinity and
examined all publications relating to the architectural heritage of
the county. The Area of Potential Effect was largely determined by
the lay of the land, finalized after the field survey, and defined by
adjacent commercial and residential development along NC 18.
Forty-six structures over fifty years of age within the Area of
Potential Effect were surveyed, but none were found to be eligible
for listing on the National Register.
The SHPO and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has agreed
with the NCDOT Historic Architecture Resources Section that in the
Area of Potential Effect, no properties exist that are on or
potentially eligible for the National Register of Historic Places.
This undertaking therefore complies with Section 106 requirements.
2. Archaeological Resources
In early project coordination, the SHPO indicated that there
exists a low probability of any archaeological site in the proposed
project area. Therefore, SHPO did not require an archaeological
survey so long as the widening follows along existing alignment. The
SHPO indicated that asymmetrical widening is acceptable.
16
D. Section 4(f) Resources
This project does not impact any resources which are subject to
compliance with Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of
1966.
E. Natural Resources
1. Studv Area and Methodolo
The proposed project study area lies in an urbanized setting of
North Wilkesboro in Wilkes County. Located within the Piedmont
Physiographic Province, the project area is characterized by gently
rolling terrain.
An ecological survey was conducted on May 12, 1994 to identify
vegetative communities and wildlife species contained within the
project area. Vegetative communities and wildlife were inventoried
and mapped during on-site surveys. Wetlands were identified, using
methods in the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual (1987).
In-house preparatory work was completed prior to a field visit.
The Wilkes County Soil Survey, USGS Wilkesboro quadrangle map, and
the hydric soils list for Wilkes County were studied to identify
potential wetland sites, then utilized to determine if any sensitive
resources are present in the project area. N.C. Natural Heritage
Program (NCNHP) and. Wildlife Service (FWS) files were reviewed to
determine if any protected or rare flora or fauna occurs in the
project area.
2. Water Resources
The subject project intercepts one intermittent stream that
drains into the Reddies River, located within the Yadkin-Pee Dee
River basin. The point of stream crossing is above headwaters (less
than 5 cfs annual flow) and passes through the project area by way of
culvert. Channel width is approximately 3 ft (1 m) with a silt
substrate. No water was present at time of field visit. Adjacent
vegetation is of the mesic mixed hardwood type. w
"Best usage" classifications are assigned to the waters of North
Carolina by the Division of Environmental Management (DEM). Reddies
River carries a "best usage" classification of WS-II. The unnamed
tributary present in the project area, drains into Reddies River and
therefore carries the same "best usage" classification. Any stream
which is not named in the schedule of stream classifications carries
the same classification as that assigned to the stream segment to
which it is tributary.
Waters classified as WS-II are waters protected as water
supplies which are generally in predominantly undeveloped watersheds;
point source discharges are permitted; local.programs to control
17
nonpoint source and stormwater discharge of pollution are required;
and suitable for all Class C uses. Class C waters are suitable for
aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary
recreation, and agriculture.
Watersheds classified as WS-II are considered High Quality
Waters (HQW). Projects that are located 1.6 km (1 mile) from a HQW
and fall within a HQW zone are subject to special regulations as
defined in "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" of the
Sedimentation Control guidelines.
Rain falling on the west side of NC 18 drains into the Reddies
River, from which North Wilkesboro operates a water supply intake.
Land west of NC 18 is classified as WS II (High Water Quality Zone);
however, the minimum drainage distance from NC 18 to the intake is
approximately 2.3 miles (3.7 km). Therefore, High Quality Water Best
Management Practices will be implemented.
Hooper's Branch lies on the west side of NC 18 and is a direct
tributary to the Reddies River. The project crosses Hoopers Branch
watershed in the vicinity of NC 268-A, however the portion of Hoopers
Branch in the studied section is not within the half-mile "critical
zone" of the water supply intake. Therefore no hazardous spill
catchment measures are needed. Nonetheless, NCDOT desires to
minimize any possible contamination from spills of hazardous
substances from the roadway. Therefore, in the studied section
between NC 268-A and SR 1517 (Sunset Drive), NCDOT will make every
attempt to divert stormwater from the recommended curb and gutter
facility onto the east side of NC 18, away from Hooper's Branch.
Where grades do not allow diversion of stormwater to the east side of
NC 18, efforts will be made to divert stormwater into grassy swales
and ditches before reaching Hooper's Branch.
The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN) (NC-DEHNR,
Division of Environmental Management) addresses long term trends in
water quality at fixed monitoring sites by the sampling for selected
benthic macroinvertebrates. These organisms are sensitive to very
subtle changes in water quality. No data is available for
waterbodies that fall within the project area.
No Outstanding Resource Waters are located within the study
area, or within 1.6 km (one mile) downstream. No National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System permits have been issued for the project
area.
Surface water impacts are anticipated for the stream crossings.
Other potential impacts are increased sedimentation from construction
and/or erosion, increased concentration of toxic spills, scouring of
stream beds due to the channelization of streams, alterations of
water levels due to interruptions or additions to surficial and/or
groundwater flow, and changes in light incidence due to the removal
of vegetative cover.
18
Strict adherence to Best Management Practices and Sedimentation
Control guidelines for High Quality Water's will be implemented
during the construction phase of the project.
3. Biotic Resources
Distribution and composition of biotic resources throughout the
project area reflect topographic positioning, hydrologic influences,
and past and present land use practices. Urban areas comprise the
majority of the project. Wildlife observed during field
investigations are denoted by (*) in the text.
a. Plant Communities
Two plant communities were identified in the project area:
Maintained Community, and Hardwood Forest. Natural community
profile descriptions, where applicable, have been adopted and
modified from the NCNHP classification scheme.
b. Maintained Communities
Roadside shoulders and commercial /residential development
constitute maintained communities in the project area. In this
community, man's structures or activities preclude natural plant
succession. Maintained shoulder slopes, and lawns support
fescue as the dominant vegetative component, complemented with
landscape ornamentals. Redbud, dogwood, azaleas, and various oak
trees are common. Mowing is frequently associated with this
community.
Common plant species include broom-sedge, trumpet vine,
vetch, dog-fennel, and rabbit tobacco. Grasses make up a large
component of this community. Typically occurring are panicum,
paspalum, Bermuda grass and bent grass.
C. Hardwood Forest
A small tract of hardwood forest occupies a dry ridgetop
and an associated mesic slope. The canopy contains mixed
hardwood species, the presence of which is largely dictated by
hydrologic conditions. On the well drained ridgetop, common
canopy species such as white oak, southern red oak, post oak and
mockernut hickory may be found. Red cedar, and sourwood are
typical understory components, complimented with shrubs such as
blueberries. Pipsissewa, partridge berry, crane-fly orchid and
heartleaf are common herbaceous plants.
Mesic slopes support a canopy of tulip tree, and sweet gum,
while the understory consists of red maple, water oak, iron
wood, and American holly. Christmas fern is the prevalent
herbaceous plant present.
19
d. Wildlife-Terrestrial
Disturbed roadside communities and urban areas provide
shelter for opportunistic animal species, such as the Norway
rat, house mouse, hispid cotton rat, and eastern cottontail.
These are primarily animals of disturbed environments, brushy
edges, and other habitats characterized by mixtures of
herbaceous vegetation and shrubby plants. Gray squirrels* were
frequently observed in the project area, as were bird species
such as the rock dove*, northern cardinal*, blue jay* and
European starling*.
Most commonly seen in the canopy of forested habitats are
the downy woodpecker, *brown creeper, *northern cardinal, and
the *Carolina wren.
The eastern box turtle, slimy salamander, worm snake, and
black racer, are reptiles and amphibians that may be found in
the project area. These species utilize fallen logs and the
litter layer for cover.
e. Aquatic Life
One intermittent Piedmont stream is located in the project
area. In the winter and spring, water is present. In summer,
stream beds are dry, but may retain small pools of water. The
stream bed was dry at the time of the field visit. Sections of
these stream courses occur in urbanized areas, resulting in
degraded water quality and habitat for aquatic species.- Aquatic
insects and snails were noted at many crossings, as were
crayfish burrows. Neither fish nor mussel fauna were seen during
field investigations. Fish diversity is expected to be low in
waters without continual flow. Shiners, creek chub, and bluegill
may utilize these intermittent tributaries for spawning during
periods of flow.
Amphibians are water-dependent, laying shell-less eggs in
freshwater or in moist places and having an aquatic larval
stage. Amphibians which may inhabit ditches and streams in the
project area include the northern dusky salamander, three-lined
salamander, northern cricket frog, spring peeper, and upland
chorus frog. These animals are likely to reside in burrows
under logs, stones and leaf litter along streams of the project
area.
f. Biotic Community Impacts
Table 1 summarizes potential losses from proposed project
construction. Calculations are based on right-of-way limits of
80 ft (24.4 m).
20
Table 1. ANTICIPATED BIOTIC COMMUNITY IMPACTS
COMMUNITY
Maintained Community
Hardwood Forest
IMPACTS
Hectares (Acres)
4.6 (11.4)
0.2 0.6
TOTAL 4.8 (12.0)
g. Waters of the United States
Surface waters fall under the broad category of "Waters of
the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3. Jurisdictional
areas impacted by the proposed alignment are confined to defined
channel boundaries of headwater tributaries and fall under the
jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE).
No jurisdictional wetlands are located within the project
area.
h. Protected Species
Plants and animals with federal classifications of
Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE) and
Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of
Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973,
as amended. As of the writing of this report, the FWS lists the
federally Endangered (E) peregrine falcon for Wilkes County. A
brief description and habitat requirements for the peregrine
falcon is summarized below.
Falco peregrinus (Peregrine falcon) E
The American peregrine falcon is found throughout the
United States in areas with high cliffs and open land for
foraging. Nesting for the falcons is generally on high cliff
ledges, but they may also nest in broken off tree tops in the
eastern deciduous forest and on skyscrapers and bridges in urban
areas.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect.
No suitable habitat is present in the project area for this
species. No impacts to this species from project construction
will occur.
21
i. Federal Candidate Species
The following federal Candidate 2 (C2) species are not
legally protected under the Endangered Species Act and are not
subject to any of it's provisions until they are formally
proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. C2 species are
defined as organisms for which there is some evidence of
vulnerability, but data are not sufficient to warrant a listing
of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered or Proposed
Threatened at this time.
Plants or animals with state designations of Endangered
(E), Threatened (T) or Special Concern (SC) are granted
protection by the State Endangered Species Act and the NC Plant
Protection and Conservation Act of 1979, administered and
enforced by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and
the NC Department of Agriculture.
The following table includes federal Candidate species
listed for Wilkes County and their state protected status (Table
2). These species may potentially occur in the project area;
however, organisms and their suitable habitat were not found.
The NHP data base was reviewed to determine if any protected
species have been verified in the project area. None were
recorded.
Table 2. FEDERAL CANDIDATE/STATE PROTECTED SPECIES
WILKES COUNTY
Scientific Name Status Habitat
Common name Federal/State Present?
Dendroica cerulea
Cerulean warbler
Clemmys muhlenbergii
Bog turtle
Speyeria diana
Diana fritillary butterfly
Orthotrichum keeverae
Keever 's bristle-moss
C2/-* No
C2/T No
C2/- No
C2/E No
*-No state protected status
F. Floodplain Involvement
Wilkes County participates in the National Flood Insurance Regular
program; however, the project is not in any flood hazard zone, including
the 100 year floodplain. Therefore, no significant floodplain involvement
is associated with this project.
22
Because this project is the widening of an existing roadway, no
significant adverse impact on quality or quantity of ground water is
anticipated. Siltation of adjacent areas due to project construction will
be minimized with the implementation and maintenance of stringent erosion
and sediment control measures.
G. Highway Traffic Noise Analysis
An analysis was performed to determine the effect on noise levels in
the immediate project area. The investigation included an inventory of
existing noise sensitive land uses and a field survey of ambient
(existing) noise levels in the study area. It also included a comparison
of the predicted noise levels and the ambient noise levels to determine if
traffic noise impacts can be expected from the proposed project. Traffic
noise impacts are determined from the current procedures for the abatement
of highway traffic noise and construction noise, appearing as Part 772 of
Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations. If traffic noise impacts are
predicted, examination and evaluation of alternative noise abatement
measures for reducing or eliminating the noise impacts must be considered.
L. Characteristics of Noise
The magnitude of noise is usually described by its sound
pressure. Since the range of sound pressure varies greatly, a
logarithmic scale is used to relate sound pressures to some common
reference level, usually the decibel (dB). Sound pressures described
in decibels are called sound pressure levels and are often defined in
terms of frequency weighted scales (A, B, C, or D).
The weighted-A decibel scale is used almost exclusively in
vehicle noise measurements because it places the most emphasis on the
frequency range to which the human ear is most sensitive (1,000-6,000
Hertz). Sound levels measured using a weighted-A decibel scale are
often expressed as dBA. Throughout this report references will be
made to dBA which means an A-weighted decibel level.
Most individuals in urbanized areas are exposed to fairly high
noise levels from many sources as they go about their daily
activities. The degree of disturbance or annoyance of unwanted sound
depends essentially on three factors:
1) The amount and nature of the intruding noise.
2) The relationship between the background noise and the
intruding noise.
3) The type of activity occurring when the noise is heard.
2. Noise Abatement Criteria
In order to determine whether highway noise levels are or are
not compatible with various land uses, the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) has developed noise abatement criteria (NAC)
and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways (See
23
Appendix A). These abatement criteria and procedures are set forth
in the aforementioned Federal reference (Title 23 CFR Part 772). The
Leq, or equivalent sound level, is the level of constant sound which
in a given situation and time period has the same energy as does time
varying sound. In other words, the fluctuating sound levels of
traffic noise are represented in terms of a steady noise level with
the same energy content.
3. Ambient Noise Levels
Ambient noise measurements were taken in the vicinity of the
project to determine the existing background noise levels. The
purpose of this noise level information was to quantify the existing
acoustic environment and to provide a base for assessing the impact
of noise level increases.
The ambient exterior Leq noise levels along the project ranged
from 67.8 dBA on the west side of NC 18, 46 meters (150 feet)
southwest of SR 1517 (Sunset Drive), to 69.9 dBA, which was obtained
on the east side of NC 18, 107 meters (350 feet) southeast of
SR 1973. These noise levels were determined from existing roadway
and traffic conditions.
4. . Procedure for Predicting Future Noise Levels
The procedure used to predict future noise levels in this study
was the Noise Barrier Cost Reduction Procedure, STAMINA 2.0 and
OPTIMA (revised March, 1983).
Only preliminary alignment was available for use in this noise
analysis. Existing natural or man-made barriers were included in the
analysis. The roadway sections and proposed intersections were
assumed to be flat and at-grade. Thus, this analysis represents the
"worst-case" topographical conditions. The noise predictions made in
this report are highway-related noise predictions for the traffic
conditions during the year being analyzed.
Peak hour design and level-of-service (LOS) C volumes were
compared, and the volumes resulting in the noisiest conditions were
used with the proposed speed limits. Hence, during all other time
periods, the noise levels will be no greater than those indicated in
this report.
The STAMINA 2.0 computer model was utilized in order to
determine the number of land uses (by type) which, during the peak
hour in the design year, would be exposed to noise levels approaching
or exceeding the FHWA noise abatement criteria and those land uses
predicted to expect substantial noise increase.
5. Traffic Noise Impact Analysis
Traffic noise impacts occur when the predicted traffic noise
levels either: [a] approach or exceed the FHWA noise abatement
criteria (with "approach" meaning within 1 dBA of the Table N2
24
value), or [b] substantially
Appendix A). Consideration
given to receptors which fall
exceed the existing noise levels (See
for noise abatement measures must be
in either category.
Over the entire project
predicted to experience noise
noise abatement criteria.
some 66 residences and 34 businesses are
impacts by approaching or exceeding the
No receptors are predicted to experience a substantial increase
in traffic noise levels during peak conditions (See Appendix A).
Predicted noise level increases for this project range up to +9 dBA.
When real-life noises are heard, it is possible to barely detect
noise level changes of 2-3 dBA. A 5 dBA change is more readily
noticeable. A 10 dBA changed is judged by most people as a doubling
or halving of the loudness of the sound.
6. Noise Abatement
a. Highway Alignment
Highway alignment selection involves the horizontal or
vertical orientation of the proposed improvements in such a way
as to minimize impacts and costs. The selection for noise
abatement purposes must consider the balance between noise
impacts and other engineering and environmental parameters. For
noise abatement, horizontal alignment selection is primarily a
matter of siting the roadway at a sufficient distance from noise
sensitive areas. Changes in the vertical alignment can be
effective in limiting noise impacts of certain highway
facilities. However, this mitigation measure is not reasonable
or feasible and would be too costly for this project, which
involves at-grade intersections and no control of access. The
proposed alignment for NC 18 was developed to minimize costs and
socio-economic impacts. Hence, further alteration of the
proposed alignment is not reasonable or feasible from a planning
and design perspective.
b. Traffic System Management Measures
Traffic management measures which limit vehicle type,
speed, volume and time of operations are often effective noise
abatement measures. For this project, traffic management
measures are not considered appropriate for noise abatement due
to their effect on the capacity and level-of-service on the
proposed roadway.
C. Noise Barriers
Physical measures to abate anticipated traffic noise levels
can often be applied with a measurable degree of success by the
application of solid mass, attenuable measures to effectively
diffract, absorb, and reflect highway traffic noise emissions.
Solid mass, attenuable measures may include earth berms or
artificial abatement walls.
25
The project will maintain no control of access, with
driveway connections permitted for most abutting properties and
with all intersecting roadways adjoining the project at grade.
For a noise barrier to provide sufficient noise reduction
it must be high enough and long enough to shield the receptor
from significant sections of the highway. Access openings in
the barrier severely reduce the noise reduction provided by the
barrier. It then becomes economically unreasonable to construct
a barrier for a small noise reduction. Safety at access
openings (driveways, crossing streets, etc.) due to restricted
sight distance is also a concern. Furthermore, to provide a
sufficient reduction, a barrier's length would normally be eight
(8) times the distance from the barrier to the receptor. For
example, a receptor located 50 feet (15 m) from the barrier
would normally require a barrier 400 feet (120 m) long. An
access opening of 40 feet (12 m, or 10 percent of the area)
would limit its noise reduction to approximately 4 dBA.
Businesses, churches, and other related establishments
located along a . particular highway normally require
accessibility and high visibility. Solid mass, attenuable
measures for traffic noise abatement would tend to disallow
these two qualities, and thus, would not be acceptable abatement
measures in this case.
Based on past project experience, isolated receptors and/or
scattered receptors generally require noise barriers which are
to costly because of the length and height required for a
reasonable noise level reduction. For this reason, no isolated
receptors were analyzed in detail.
7. "No Build" Alternative
Traffic noise impacts for the "no build" alternative were
also considered. Given future traffic projections, if the
proposed widening does not occur, 62 residential and 5
commercial receptors would still experience traffic noise
impacts by approaching or exceeding the FHWA's NAC. Also, the
receptors could anticipate experiencing an increase of
approximately +2 dBA in exterior noise levels. This small
increase to the present noise level would be barely noticeable
to the people working and living in the area.
8. Summary
Based on these preliminary studies, traffic noise abatement
is not feasible or reasonable, and no noise abatement measures
are proposed. This evaluation completes the highway traffic
noise requirements of Title 23 CFR Part 772, and unless a major
project change develops, no additional noise reports will be
submitted for this project.
26
H. Air Quality Analysis
Air pollution originates from various sources. Emissions from
industrial and internal combustion engines are the most prevalent sources.
The impact resulting from highway construction ranges from intensifying
existing air pollution problems to improving the ambient air quality. The
traffic is the center of concern when determining the impact of a new
highway facility or the improvement of an existing highway facility.
Motor vehicles emit carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NO),
hydrocarbons (HC), particulate matter, sulfur dioxide (SO ), and lead (Pb)
(listed in order of decreasing emission rate). Automobil9s are considered
to be the major source of CO in the project area. For this reason, most
of the analysis presented is concerned with determining expected carbon
monoxide levels in the vicinity of the project due to traffic flow.
1. Carbon Monoxide Analvsis
In order to determine the ambient CO concentration at a receptor
near a highway, two concentration components must be used: local and
background. The local concentration is defined as the CO emissions
from cars operating on highways in the near vicinity (i.e., distances
within 100 meters) of the receptor location. The background
concentration is defined by the North Carolina Department of
Environment, Health and Natural Resources as "the concentration of a
pollutant at a point that is the result of emissions outside the
local vicinity; that is, the concentration at the upwind edge of the
local sources."
In this study, the local concentration was determined by the
NCDOT Traffic Noise/Air Quality Staff using line source computer
modeling and the background concentration was obtained from the North
Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources
(NCDEHNR) Once the two concentration components were resolved, they
were added together to determine the ambient CO concentration for the
receptor in question and to compare to the National Ambient Air
Quality Standards (NAAQS).
A microscale air quality analysis was performed to determine
future CO concentrations resulting from the proposed highway
improvements. "CAL3QHC - A Modeling Methodology For Predicting
Pollutant Concentrations Near Roadway Intersections" was used to
predict the CO concentration at the nearest sensitive receptor to the
project.
Inputs into the mathematical model to estimate hourly CO
concentrations consisted of a level roadway under normal conditions
with predicted traffic volumes, vehicle emission factors, and
worst-case meteorological parameters. The traffic volumes are based
on the annual average daily traffic projections. Carbon monoxide
vehicle emission factors were calculated for the completion year
(1998) and the design year of 2018 using the EPA publication "Mobile
Source Emission Factors" and the MOBILE 5A mobile source emissions
computer model.
27
The background CO concentration for the project area was
estimated to be 1.9 parts per million (ppm). Consultation with the
Air Quality Section, Division of Environmental Management, North
Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
indicated that an ambient CO concentration of 1.9 ppm is suitable for
most suburban and rural areas.
The worst-case air quality receptor was located at a distance of
12 meters from the proposed centerline of NC 18. The "build" and
"no-build" one-hour CO concentrations for the nearest sensitive
receptor for the years of 1998 and 2018 are shown in the following
table.
One Hour CO Concentrations (PPM)
Nearest
iti
S Build No-Build
ve
ens
Receptor
1998
2018
1998
2018
R-95 3.9 4.3 4.6 10.0
Comparison of the predicted CO concentrations with the NAAQS
(maximum permitted for 1-hour averaging period is 35 ppm; 8-hour
averaging period is 9 ppm) indicates no violation of these standards.
Since the results of the worst-case 1-hour CO analysis is less than 9
ppm, it can be concluded that the 8-hour CO level does not exceed the
standard.
2. Other Pollutants
Automobiles are regarded as sources of hydrocarbons and nitrogen
oxides. Hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides emitted from cars are
carried into the atmosphere where they react with sunlight to form
ozone and nitrogen dioxide. Area-wide automotive emissions of HC and
NO are expected to decrease in the future due to the continued
installation and maintenance of pollution control devices on new
cars, and thus help to lower ambient ozone and nitrogen dioxide
levels.
The photochemical reactions that form ozone and nitrogen dioxide
require several hours to occur. For this reason, the peak levels of
ozone generally occur 10 to 20 kilometers downwind of the source of
hydrocarbon emissions. Urban areas as a whole are regarded as
sources of hydrocarbons, not individual streets and highways.
Automobiles are not regarded as significant sources of
particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. Because emissions of
particulate matter and sulfur dioxide from automobiles are very low,
there is no reason to suspect that traffic on the project will cause
air quality standards for particulate matter and sulfur dioxide to be
exceeded.
28
Automobiles without catalytic converters can burn regular
gasoline. Newer cars with catalytic converters burn unleaded
gasoline eliminating lead emissions.
In the future, lead emissions are expected to decrease as more
cars use unleaded fuels and as the lead content of leaded gasoline is
reduced. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 make the sale, supply,
or transport of leaded gasoline or lead additives unlawful after
December 31, 1995. Because of these reasons, it is not expected that
traffic on the proposed project will cause the NAAQS for lead to be
exceeded.
3. Conformance with Clean Air Act and Conformitv Guidelines
The project is located within the jurisdiction for air quality
of the Winston-Salem Regional Office of the North Carolina Department
of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources. Wilkes County has
been determined to be in compliance with the National Ambient Air
Quality Standards. Because the proposed project is located in an
attainment area, the provisions of the November 24, 1993
Transportation regulation provisions (40 CFR Parts 51 and 93) are not
currently applicable. This project is not anticipated to create any
adverse effect on the air quality of this attainment area.
4. Construction Impacts on Air Qualit
During construction of the proposed project, all materials
resulting from clearing and grubbing, demolition or other operations
will be removed from the project, burned or otherwise disposed of by
the contractor. Any burning will be done in accordance with
applicable local laws and ordinances and regulations of the North
Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance.with 15 NCAC 2D.0520.
Care will be taken to insure that burning will be done at the
greatest practical distance from dwellings and not when atmospheric
conditions are such as to create a hazard to the public. Burning
will only be utilized under constant surveillance. Also during
construction, measures will be taken to reduce the dust generated by
construction when the control of dust is necessary for the protection
and comfort of motorists or area residents.
I. Construction Impacts
There are a number of environmental impacts normally associated with
the construction of highways. These are generally short term in duration
and measures will be taken to mitigate these impacts.
Traffic along NC 18 will experience brief periods of disruption
during construction.
The major construction elements of this project are expected to be
earth removal, hauling, grading, and paving. General construction noise
impacts, such as temporary speech interference for passersby and those
individuals living or working near the project, can be expected
29
particularly from paving operations and from the earth moving equipment
during grading operations. In some areas, construction will cause
temporary noise impacts due to the project's close proximity to existing
housing. However, considering the relatively short-term nature of
construction noise and the limitation of construction to daytime hours,
these impacts are not expected to be substantial. The transmission loss
characteristics of nearby natural elements and man-made structures are
believed to be sufficient to moderate the effects of intrusive
construction noise.
The general requirements concerning erosion and siltation are covered
in Article 107-13 of the Standard Specifications which is entitled
"Control of Erosion, Siltation, and Pollution". The N. C. Division of
Highways has also developed an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program
which has been approved by the N. C. Sedimentation Control Commission.-
This program consists of the rigorous requirements to minimize erosion and
sedimentation contained in the "N. C. Highway Standard Specifications for
Roads and Structures" together with the policies of the Division of
Highways regarding the control of accelerated erosion and sedimentation on
work performed by State Forces.
Waste and debris shall be disposed of in areas that are outside of
the right-of-way and provided by the Contractor, unless otherwise required
by the plans or special provisions or unless disposal within the
right-of-way is permitted by the Engineer.
Borrow pits and all ditches will be drained insofar as possible to
alleviate breeding areas for mosquitoes. In addition, care will be taken
not to block existing drainage ditches.
Prior to-the approval of any borrow source developed for the use on
this project, the contractor shall obtain a certification from the State
Historic Preservation Officer of the State Department of Cultural
Resources certifying that the removal of the material from the borrow
source will have no effect on any known district, site, building,
structure, or object that is listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. A copy of this certification shall be furnished to the Engineer
prior to performing any work on the proposed borrow source.
J. Contaminated Properties
A reconnaissance survey-of the study area identified four (4) active
and two (4) non-operational facilities- with potential for underground
storage tank (UST) involvement within the project corridor. A subsequent
records search of the DEM/Groundwater Section was conducted to determine
the status of these tanks. The following information was obtained:
Site Number 1
Petrolane Gas Service is a vacant service station located on the east
side of NC 18 just south of NC 268-A. There appears to be USTs at this
facility.
30
Site Number 2
Johnson Oil and Tractor, Inc. is an abandoned gas station located on
the east side of NC 18 just south of NC 268-A. There appear to be several
USTs on the premises approximately 100 feet (30 m) from the centerline of
NC 18.
Site Number 3
Sunset Drive Package Store is located in the southwest quadrant of
SR 1517 (Sunset Drive) and NC 18. The UST at this abandoned store has
recently been removed and the 8-foot (2.4 m) deep pit is still left open.
The pit, which still contains product lines, is located approximately
33 feet (10 m) from the centerline of NC 18. The owner of the UST is
unknown.
Site Number 4
Wyatts Texaco is an old abandoned service station located on the
southwest quadrant of the intersection of NC 18 and Rogers Street. There
appear to be two UST fill caps on the premises located at approximately
39 feet (12 m) from the centerline of NC 18. Rogers Street is a fire
through-exit made for the houses in that vicinity.
Site Number 5
Bell Bro's Coal & Wood is the site of a coal depot that also includes
a diesel fuel pump. The diesel pump and the UST is located approximately
22 feet (6.7 m) from the centerline of NC 18, on the northeast quadrant of
the intersection of NC 18 and SR 2140.
Site Number 6
Wyatt's Mustang is located on NC 18 north of SR 1528 (Fairplains -
Church Road) across from Myers Tire. There are three (3) gasoline USTs
(4000, 6000, and 10,000 gallons) registered with the DEM/Groundwater
Section at this facility. All tanks are located approximately 75 feet
(22.9 m) west of the centerline of NC 18. These USTs are made of steel
construction-with no cathodic protection. Installation of the USTs was
completed on May 5, 1971.
Site Number 7
Run-In #711 is located on the southeast quadrant of the intersection
of NC 18 and SR 1971 (Fairplains Road). The three gasoline USTs at this
facility were installed April 24, 1981 and are registered with the
DEM/Groundwater Section. According to records, each of these tanks is
constructed of steel with no cathodic protection and has a respective
capacity of 10,000 gallons. The USTs at this facility are located
approximately 51 feet (15 m) east of the existing centerline of NC 18.
31
Site Number 8
Country Market & Deli is located in the northeast quadrant of the
intersection of SR 1002 (Mountain View Road) and NC 18. There are three
(3) gasoline USTs (all 10,000 gallons) and one (1) diesel UST (6000
gallons) registered with the DEM/Groundwater Section at this site. All
tanks are located approximately 36 feet (11 m) from the centerline of
NC 18. These tanks are constructed of steel with no cathodic protection.
Installation of these USTs was completed on May 7, 1986.
Of the identified facilities, it appears that four (4) may experience
impacts due to the widening of NC 18.
A files search of the Division of Solid Waste Management was also
conducted to determine whether any known unregulated dumps or other
potentially contaminated sites are within the project corridor. After
review of these files, none of the known sites in Wilkes County were
identified within the corridor.
V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION
On June 21, 1993, a letter was mailed to the following federal,
state, and local agencies and officials to solicit suggestions and receive
environmental input concerning the proposed project:
U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
U. S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
*U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
U. S. Geological Survey
*N. C. State Clearinghouse
*N. C. Dept. of Cultural Resources
N. C. Dept. of Human Resources
N. C. Dept. of Public Instruction
N. C. Dept. of Public Transportation
*N. C. Dept. of Environment, Health, & Natural Resources
*N. C. Dept. of Environmental Management
*N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Region D Council of Governments
Wilkes County Commissioners
The Mayor of North Wilkesboro
Asterisks (*) indicate agencies from which written responses were
received. Those comments are included in the appendix of this report.
On September 21, 1993 an Informational Workshop was held at the
Division 11 Maintenance conference room to obtain public comments and
suggestions on the project. This meeting was attended by approximately 35
citizens. Those in attendance voiced their support for the project.
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--- t .13 ? • •? ••?
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ISm 1527 ' ?r' -_• : Mal ,
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- •-- •- 1y 1'? -?' BEGIN ?? --
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_ ,517 ` -
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i
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' 1579
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1

NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PLANNING AND ENVIRON.NTAL
BRANCH
WILKES COUNTY
NC IS
FROM FINLEY AVENUE TO SR 1531
T. 1. P. NUMBER R - 2517
FIG. 1
FIVE-LANE HIGHWAY WITH CURB AND GUTTER.
TWO TRAVEL LANES IN EACH DIRECTION,
WITH A SHELTERED, CENTER LEFT-TURN LANE.
'2.4 M' 7.2 Meters 3.6 M 7.2 Meters ' 2.4 M
(8 Feet) (24 Feet) (12 Feet) (24 Feet) (8 Feet)
MINIMUM RIGHT-OF-WAY
24.4 METERS (80 Feet)
Drawing Not to Scale
FIGURE 2
CURB CURB

d?
Iii
JOA4
i
i
o!
N
v
m

NC 18
A- I -A'
108 *
l l 1 108
SR-1625
2 1 iuh
~ j 1
-? 1! I
2 1 -1 1 107
1081
2 102 4
s 1 1.
Village Mart ~
Shopping 2
Center 6
1- ?
4 -?
1121
SR-1517
8 104
26 l 1
--0- 8?
26 18 ?'.
1221
97 25
11
59
t ~ NC 268-A
98 34 59
1321 t 132
L 1
r
67 62 69 1 2 6
3
Finley Avenue .0-- -, 1 1. r North 8 South
---w 62 -? '1 t (' -• McDonald's
67 3 69 3 6 Driveways
2 ?
3
761 t75
NC 18 8 NC 268
Drawing Not To Scale
t 108
t 4
f- 1-
6 10
Bi-Lo
t r Shopping
4 102 6 10 Center
t112
-1 t
18 104
t 122
4-24
it 35
ESTIMATED 1998 ADT
VOLUMES IN HUNDREDS
February, 1995
NC 18 FROM FINLEY
AVENUE TO SR 1531
WILKES COUNTY
T.I.P. PROJECT # R-2517
FIGURE 4A
NC 18
76 ; t 76
2 76
1.
SR-1531 ~
t76
2 2 -V 2
78 ; t 78
77 1 4- 1 25
I. f- 24 -
101 ;
5 1 9I4 6
SR-1530 ~ + I"
5 1
3
103 ;
r --
24 25
77
t 101
SR-1002
i6
-a- 1 13
r 6 ~ SR-1971
-1 t r
3 6
94
t 103
1 99 t3
3 3 _
r 'I + 1
4 ~ SR-1972
1-l -Itr
3 1~ 1 4 8
1 99
104 ; t 104
2 1 1013
SR-1528 .-- 'I +
-' 1 1103
2 1? 1
104; t 104
103 1 i 1 6
try
103 6.
108; t 108
A- - -A'
NC 18
Drawing Not To Scale
SR-1973
ESTIMATED 1998 ADT
VOLUMES IN HUNDREDS
February, 1995
NC 18 FROM FINLEY
AVENUE TO SR 1531
WILKES COUNTY
T.I.P. PROJECT # R-2517
FIGURE 4B
NC 18
A -
195 1 t195
4 2 193
SR-1625 ~ j 1
-? 2 -# .I t
4 2- 2 193
1951 1195
6
3 186 6 ~ 1
9 9 16
Village Mart ~ j BI-Lo
Shopping 3 -) t r y Shopping
Center 9 5 186 9 16 Center
1 -0.
5 -1
2001
SR-1517
46 14 186
•- .1 1
'--w 14 -.!
46 32 --V
2181
175 43
4 1_
2394
100 93 144 2
Fin* Avenue
93 !
100
3 -?
4
1521
t 200
-1 t
32 186
t 218
4-43

= 64 r
NC 268-A
r
t
,07
175 64
t 239
L 2
--- 3
r 4 .e-
North & South
", t r -+ McDonald's
9 Driveways
4 144 4
t 152
NC 18 & NC 268
Drawing Not To Scale
ESTIMATED 2018 ADT
VOLUMES IN HUNDREDS
February, 1995
NC 18 FROM FINLEY
AVENUE TO SR 1531
WILKES COUNTY
T.I.P. PROJECT # R-2517
FIGURE 4C
NC 18
139 1 t 139
4 1318
~ ? 1
SR-1531 y 1 ! .1
4 3 Z 3 t 138
1411 t 141
139 2 4- 2 45
1 i- 43
t 43
- 45
SR-1530
182 1
169
8 2 11
.0- j
-.0. 2
8 2 -•
4
184 1
SR-1529
179
4 1 4
r11.
4 1 -•
2-1
188 1
t 182
4- 11
2 24
? 11
t r a
2
4 11
169
t 184
4- 4
1 12
r 7 .0-
-1 t r- -.a-
2 179 7 12
t 188
4 186
.1
SR-1528 -+ 2 ! •1 t
4 2-t 2 186
188 1 t 188
186 2 4- 2 11
1 'r 9 '-'
t r9
186 11
195 1 t 195
A- - -A!
NC 18
Drawing Not To Scale
SR-1002
SR-1971
SR-1972
SR-1973
ESTIMATED 2018 ADT
VOLUMES IN HUNDREDS
February, 1995
NC 18 FROM FINLEY
AVENUE TO SR 1531
WILKES COUNTY
T.I.P. PROJECT # R-2517
FIGURE 4D
NC 18, from NC 268-A to SR 1531
DIRECTIONAL DISTRIBUTION
WILKES COUNTY
T.I.P. PROJECT # R-2517
ROUTE TTST DUAL DHV DIR
SR 1002 1 2 10 60
SR 1971 1 2 10 60
SR 1530 1 2 10 60
SR 1972 1 2 10 60
SR 1529 1 2 10 60
SR 1528 1 2 10 60
SR 1973 1 2 10 60
SR 1625 1 1 10 60
SR 1517 1 2 10 60
NC 268-A 3 4 10 60
NC 18 NORTH
OF SR 1002
3
4
10
60
NC 18 NORTH
OF SR 1973
3
4
10
60
NC 18 NORTH
OF NC 268-A
3
4
10
60
SR 1531 1 2 10 60
SHOPPING
CENTER
1
2
10
60
FINLEY AVE. 1 1 10 60
FIGURE 4E
FINLEY AVENUE / NC 18
A.
I I
I I
I I
FINLEY AVE. JI I I
McDONALD'S
J
I tit
I II
U I I
Z I I
I I
SR 1517/NC 18
C.
I I
I
I I
SR 1517 I I
J EAST COAST
- - -- MILL WORKS
I 11 I t
I II
10
I I
Z I I
I I
SR 1002 / NC 18
E.
TEXACO
I I
? I
?? I
SR 1002
Z ?-
l?
tit
I
I I
SATELLITE
TV SERVICE
NC 268-A / NC 18
B.
D.
HARDEE'S I I
I I
NC 268-A
L
tr
U
l?
I tit
I II
I I
VAN NOY I I
PLUMBING
I I
SHOPPING CENTER / NC 18
I I
I I
BI-LO
VILLAGE I I I SHOPPING
MARKET 'IlllL I CENTER
J r
I lltlt?
I II
I I
Z I I
I I
PROPOSED
CONFIGURATIONS
FOR SIGNALIZED
INTERSECTIONS
N
` R-2517
FIGURE 5
APPENDIX A
FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria
TABLE N2
NOISE ARATE14ENT CRITERIA
Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA)
Activity
Category Leq(h)
A 57
(Exterior)
B 67
(Exterior)
C 72
(Exterior)
Description of Activity Category
Lands on which serenity and quiet are of extraordinary significance and serve an important public
need and where the preservation of those qualities is essential if the area is to continue to
serve its intended purpose.
Picnic areas, recreation areas, playgrounds, active sports areas, parks, residences, motels,
hotels, schools, churches, libraries, and hospitals.
Developed lands, properties, or activities not included in Categories A or B above.
D -- Undeveloped lands
E 52 Residences, motels, hotels, public meeting rooms, schools, churches, libraries, hospitals, and
(Interior) auditoriums.
Soqrce: Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 772, U. S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway
Administration
DEFINITION OF SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE
Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA)
Existing Noise Level Increase in dBA from Existing Noise
in Leq(h) Levels to Future Noise Levels
< 50 > 15
> 50 > 10
Source: North Carolina Department of Transportation Noise Abatement Guidelines.
APPENDIX B
Additional Comments / Coordination
RELOCATION REPORT
North Carolina Department of Transportation
AREA RELOCATION OFFICE
X? E.I.S. F CORRIDOR F7DESIGN 30 METERS
PROJECT: 8.1761201 COUNTY Wilkes Alternate 1B of 3 Alternate
I.D. NO.: R-2517 F.A. PROJECT
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: NC 18 From South of Finley Avenue to North of SR 1002, North Wilkesboro

:......:.,
..

::.::::
... .
............................:.... ....... ..... . ..
. . .. :..
.
.................. .. ........... .
:...:EST'IMATEA DISPLACEES..:':: :::. > ::...:.:..:.:.

...::.:...:: ....:: .:..:.. :...
........................ .........•....:.., :........:....:.....
. ??:<:::=:..:............::::....:::::::? :IN AE LE L ,............ ,.

..: .
..:: ,
Type of
I
Dis lacees Owners Tenants Total Minorities 0-15M I 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP
Individuals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Families 5 1 6 1 0 3 3 0 0

Businesses
1
0
1
0
::.:.:_:.:V??I,UE:OFDWEIZ,?NG::;:? :.::.: .........
:.DSSD?YEiJTGA,?n.;t7ir F :: ....
:.:*?> 66
Farms 1 0
1 0 0 0
- Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent
Non-Profit -
0 0 0 0 o-20M p s o tso p 0-2ox p so-ISO 0
..................
A1VSIVER Ai:L . L?ESTIOPTS : >::: >:: ...... - ::<
20-40bd
3
150-250
1
20-40M
11
150-250
4
Yes No E lain all "YES" answers 40-70M .2 250-400 p 40-70M 38 250-400 16
X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100M p 4007600 p 70-100M 20 400-600 4
X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by loo vp o 600 UP p too VP 14 600 uP 1

displacement? ?
TOTAL. 5 83
25

X 3.
........................
.
Will business services still be available after ,,., ... ....... ... .
::>.>.;:>.::::':::.;:;:::<::::`::;:::.:.:.: RE1wL1RKS Res oiad b .1lrntier).:<: >;:`.::`: >:.::: »: .>'
`:::.:.:
. project? 3. THERE WILL BE SIMILAR BUSINESS SERVICES NOT
X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, AFFECTED.
............................
indicate size, type, estimated number of
4. (B) ARNDT & HERMAN LUMBER CO.. - CUT STOCK
employees, minorities, etc. DIVISION. BUILDING IS FOR SALE AND DID NOT
X 5.
...................... Will relocation cause a housing shortage? APPEAR TO BE OCCUPIED AT TIME OF STUDY.

6.
........................
Source for available housing (list).
X 7. Will additional housing programs needed? 6. LOCAL REALTORS, WILKES COUNTY MLS, NEWS-
X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? PAPERS AND VISUAL SURVEY.
X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc.
families? S. WILL BE IMPLEMENTED AS NECESSARY.
X 10. Will public housing be needed for project?
X 11. Is public housing available? 9. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THERE MAY BE SOME LARGE
X 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing FAMILIES, SOME ELDERLY AND DISABLED AFFECTED
.............................
.............

housing available during relocation period?

BY THIS PROJECT. HOWEVER, NO LARGE NUMBERS

X 13.
............. .
Will there be a problem ofhousing within
ARE EXPECTED DUE TO LIMITED NUMBER OF
...........................
financial means?
DISPLACEES ON PROJECT. NO PROBLEMS
X 14. Are suitable business sites available (fist ANTICIPATED.
............................
source).
15. Number months estimated to complete 11. WILKES COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY.
RELOCATION?
12. YES, AS INDICATED BY THE AVAILABLE HOUSING LIST.
14. SEE ITEM #6.
NOTE - AVAILABLE HOUSING LIST WAS COMPILED FROM LISTINGS IN THE GENERAL AREA OF PROJECT AND
DOES NOT INDICATE THE TOTAL AVAILABLE HOUSING IN WILKES COUNTY.

S
H. ALAN RO THROCK 03-30-95
Relocation Agent Date Approved by Date
Farm 15.4 Pxmd 5r?o rw;o;-1 .a, t r,,,„,. state Relocation Agent
RELOCATION REPORT
North Carolina Department of Transportation
AREA RELOCATION OFFICE
IE E.I.S. ? CORRIDOR FIDESIGN
(PAGE 1 OF 2)
30 METERS
PROJECT: 8.1761201 COUNTY Wilkes Alternate 2 of 3 Alternate
I.D. NO.: R-2517 F.A. PROJECT
DESCRII ION OF PROJECT: NC 18 From South of Finley Avenue to North of SR 1002, North Wilkesboro

.. . ............................
MATED?I5PIACEE....:.:..................
. _ nvco
ivys==:

.
.
Type of
Dis lacees
Owners
Tenants
Total
Minorities
0-15M
15-251
25-35M I 35-50M
50 UP
Individuals 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0
Families 6 3 9 1 0 4 3 2 0

Businesses
8
0
8
1
::?n F ...............
la rG::: :.:.:::.:.:.< .................................... ............
??: n :t ±tGaV-au„tsrE:::
Fawns 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent
Non-Profit 1 0 1 0 0-20M p so-ISO p 0-20al p t $0-150 p
..........
;:.:::ANSW
ER 1Id. ` JES
TIOI!iS >: <::::::':.:::
20-001
2
140240
3
20-401 I
li 130-250
,}
Yes No E lain all "YES" answers. 40-70M 3 250400 1 40-70M 38 250-400 16
X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 70-100M 1 400400 p 70-1001 20 400600 4
X 2. Will schools or churches be affect by 100 UP p 600 UP 0 1so UP 14 600 ur 1
displacement? TOTAL 6
4
' €
83 25
X 3. Will business services still be available after :::::>.;:;:.......1+?Rx& spend-by ::
.............. ..............
project?
NON-PROFIT - CATHERINE H. BARBER HOMELESS
X 4. Will any business be displaced? If so,
indicate size, type, estimated number of
employees, minorities, etc. SHELTER

3. THERE WILL BE SIMILAR BUSINESS SERVICES NOT
X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage?
6. Source for available housing (list). AFFECTED.
4. (A) ROGER'S DISCOUNT FURNITURE STORE -
? X 9. Will additional housing programs needed? FURNITURE SALES OUTLET, 3 FULL TIIVIE,1 PART
X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? TIME. NOT A MINORITY BUSINESS.
.. X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc.
families?
(B) KNIGHT'S CLEAN & SHINE - AUTO DETAILING. 2
X 10. Will public housing be needed for project? FULL TIME & 3 PART TIME - NOT A MINORITY
BUSINESS.
X 11. Is public housing available?
X 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing
housing available during relocation period? (C) BROC. HUMAN RESOURCE CENTER - 5 FULL TIME
& 2 PART TIME.

........... .... X
...........:. 13. Will there be. a problem of housing within

financial means?

(D) BELL BROTHERS COAL & WOOD - COAL & WOOD
X
........
.... 14. Are suitable business sites_ available (list

source). SALES DISTRIBUTOR - 2 FULL• TIME,1 PART TIME.

NOT A MINORITY BUSINESS.
15. Number months estimated to complete
RELOCATION? (E) HILLTOP NOVELTIES - NOVELTY STORE -1 FULL

(F) TIME, 2 PART TIME. A MINORITY BUSINESS.
WOODS SANDBLASTING & MONUMENT CO. MONUMENT PRODUCTION AND SANDBLASTING SERVICE. THIS
IS T HE OFFICE BUILDING FOR BUSINESS - 1 FULL TIME,1 PART TIME. NOT A MINORITY BUSINESS.
H. ALAN ROTHROCK LGI?-- 03-30-95
Relocation Agent // Date {'`< Approved by Date
Form 15.4 Reused 5190
Original & 1 Copy: State Relocation Anent
RELOCATION REPORT
EIS
ID # R-2517
PAGE 2OF2
8.1761201 WILKES CO.
4. (Gj C & B FIBERS INSULATION - INSULATION CONTRACTOR 3 FULL
TAB AND 1 PART TIME. NOT A MINORITY BUSINESS.
(H) WILKES TV SERVICE - 2 FULL TAME AND 1 PART TAB. NOT A
MINORITY BUSINESS.
6. LOCAL REALTORS, -%Af KES COUNTY MLS, NEWSPAPERS AND
VISUAL SURVEY.
8. WILL BE IMPLEMENTED AS NECESSARY.
9. TT IS POSSIBLE THAT THERE MAY BE SOME LARGE FAMILIES, SOME
ELDERLY AND DISABLED AFFECTED BY THIS PROJECT. HOWEVER,
NO LARGE NUMBERS ARE EXPECTED DUE TO LIMITED NUMBER OF
DISPLACEES ON PROJECT. NO PROBLEMS ANTICIPATED.
11. WILKES COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY.
12. YES, AN INDICATED BY THE AVAILABLE HOUSING LIST.
14. SEE ITEM #6.
NOTE - AVAILABLE HOUSING LIST WAS COMPLIED FROM LISTINGS I'i T THE
GENERAL AREA OF PROJECT AMID DOES NOT INDICATE THE TOTAL
AVAILABLE HOUSING IN WILKES COUNTY.
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Forest Resources
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
Griffiths Forestry Center
2411 Garner Road
Clayton, North Carolina 27520
July 8, 1993
MEMORANDUM
ti JUC 1993
sEC ?A?IVEO
G? DOA OFFICE

TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Assessment Unit
FROM: Don H. Robbins, Staff Forester
SUBJECT: DOT EA/Scoping for Improvements to NC 18 from NC 268-A to SR 1002 in
Norh Wilkesboro in Wilkes County (R-2517)
PROJECT #93-0996
DUE DATE: 7-20-93
To better determine the impact to forestry in the area of the proposed
project, the Environmental Assessment should contain the following information
concerning the proposed project:
1. The total forest land acreage by types that would be taken out of forest
production as a result of new right-of-way purchases.
2. The productivity of the forest soils as indicated by the soil series,
that would be involved within the proposed project.
3. The impact upon existing greenways within the area of the proposed
project.
A
4. The provisions that the contractor will take to sell any merchantable
timber that is to be removed. This practice is encouraged to minimize
the need for piling and burning during construction. If any burning is
_ needed, the contractor should comply with all laws and regulations
pertaining to debris burning.
P.O. Box 27687. Raleigh. North Ccrolina 27611-7687 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equcl Opportunity A?rmative Action Employer 50%recyded/ 10% post-consumer pccer
Page 2 -
5. The provisions that the contractor will take during the construction
phase to prevent erosion, sedimentation and construction damage to forest
land outside the right-of-way and construction limits. Trees outside the
construction limits should be protected from construction activities to
avoid:
a. Skinning of tree trunks by machinery.
b. Soil compaction and root exposure or injury by heavy equipment.
C. Adding layers of fill dirt over the root systems of trees, a
practice that impairs root aeration.
d. Accidental --spilling of, ..petroleum products. or other damaging
substances over the root systems of trees.
We would hope that the project would have the least impact to forest and
related resources in that area.
DHR:gm
PC: Warren Boyette -CO
File
® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Comas
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment
Dept. of Environment, Health, & Natural Resources
FROM: Stephanie E. Goudreau, Mt. Region Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Prog
ram /0-
1 1.
DATE: July 9, 1993
SUBJECT: State Clearinghouse Project No. 93-0996, Scoping
comments for proposed widening of NC 18 from NC 268A to
SR 1002, Wilkes County (TIP #R-2517)
This correspondence is in response to a request by you for
scoping comments regarding the North Carolina Department of
Transportation's (NCDOT) proposal to widen 1.4 miles of NC 18
from NC 268A to SR 1002 near Fairplains in Wilkes County.
Presently this section of roadway consists of 2 lanes with a
middle turning lane.' The NCDOT proposes to widen NC 18 to a 5-
lane curb and gutter with 8-foot berms. An additional northbound
lane is desired from Finley Avenue to NC 268A, and an additional
southbound land is anticipated from 400 feet north of SR 1002 to
SR 1002. Approximately 80 feet of right-of-way will be required.

I conducted a site visit on May 25, 1993. The project site
is largely a commercial and residential area with businesses and
single-family residences lining the roadway on both sides.
Wildlife habitat is limited to parking lots, mowed lawns and a
horse pasture; therefore, there is little wildlife habitat of
value that will be disturbed if the roadway is widened along the
existing alignment. It was not apparent. during my site visit
that any streams or wetlands would be impacted by the project.
The NCWRC has no objection to this project and no special
concerns as long as the NCDOT proposes to widen the roadway along
existing alignment.
The NCDOT should include the following information in the
Environment Assessment that will be prepared for this project:
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. The NCWRC's Nongame and Endangered Species Section
maintains databases for locations of fish and wildlife
species. While there is no charge for the list, a service
charge for computer time is involved. Contact is:
a Mr. Randy Wilson, Manager
Nongame & Endangered Species Section
Division of Wildlife Management
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27604-1188
919/733-7291
A listing of designated plant species can be developed
through consultation with the following agency:
Natural Heritage Program
N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation
P. O. Box 27687
Raleigh, NC 27611
919/733-7795
2) Description of waters and/or wetlands affected by the
project.
3) Project map identifying wetland areas. Identification of
wetlands may be accomplished through coordination with.the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE). If the COE is not
consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be ..,
identified and criteria listed.
4) Description of project activities that will occur within
wetlands, such as fill or channel alteration. Acreages of
wetlands impacted by alternative project designs should be
listed. Project sponsors should indicate whether the COE
has been contacted to determine the need for a 404 Permit
under the Clean Water Act. Contact is Mr. Ken Jolly at
919/846-1217.
5) Description of project site and non-wetland vegetative
communities.
6) The extent to which the project will result in loss,
degradation, or fragmentation of wildlife habitat.
7) Any measures proposed to avoid or reduce impacts of the
project or to mitigate for unavoidable habitat losses.
8) A list of document preparers which shows each individual's
professional background and qualifications.
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Soil & Water Conservation
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
4
July 12, 1993
MEMORANDUM IQ
fF?f
TO: Melba McGee
FROM: David Harrison
SUBJECT: Improvements to NC 18 North Wilkesboro.
Project No. 93-0996. .
The proposed project involves widening NC 18 north of North
Wilkesboro with an approximately 80 foot right-of-way. The
Environmental Assessment should identify any unique, prime, or
important farmlands that would be impacted by the project. A
wetlands evaluation should be included.
DH/tl
P.O. Sox 27687, Raleigh, North Ccrolina 27611-7687 Telephone [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper
I appreciate the opportunity to provide this information to
you in the early planning stages of this project. If you have
any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at
704/652-4257.
cc: Mr. Joe Mickey, District 7 Fisheries Biologist
Mr. David Sawyer, District 7 Wildlife Biologist
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
&7*0
Division of Environmental Management .. .
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor ® F== u ? F1
Jonathon B. Howes, , Secretary ?-i
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
July 20., 1993 ?a'L-1' -A -1
ti ?U? I y93 ??
r N a
e4 Ln
pqR Sef? M y
MEMORANDUM a'} %ce QD
T0: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment
FROM: Monica Swihart","Water-Quality Planning
SUBJECT: Project Review #93-0996;.. Scoping Comments - NC DOT
Proposed Improvements to NC 18, From NC 268-A to SR 1002,
North Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, R-2517
The Water Quality Section of the Division of Environmental
Management requests that the following topics be discussed in the
environmental documents prepared on the subject project:
A. Identify the streams potentially impacted by the project. The
stream classifications should be current.
B. Identify the linear feet, of stream channelizations/
relocations. If the original stream banks were vegetated, it
is requested that the channelized/relocated stream banks be
revegetated.
C. Number.of stream crossings.
D. Will permanent spill catch basins be utilized? DEM-requests
that these catch basins be placed at all water supply stream
crossings. Identify the responsible party for maintenance.
E. Identify the stormwa.ter controls (permanent and temporary) to
be employed.
F. Please ensure that sediment and erosion and control measures
are not placed in wetlands.
P.O. Box 29535, Rdeigh, North Carorina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal opportunity Affirmat'rre Action Employer 50% recyc.ed/ 10% post-consumer peper
Melba McGee
July 20, 1993
Page 2
-JUL 1993 ?QC!
REC?IYFp
DOA
G. Wetland Impacts
1) Identify the federal manual used for identifying and
delineating jurisdictional wetlands.
2) Have wetlands been avoided as much as possible?
3) Have wetland impacts been minimized?
4). Discuss wetland impacts by plant communities affected.
5) Discuss the quality of wetlands impacted.
6) Summarize the total wetland impacts.
7) List the 401 General Certification numbers requested from
DEM.
a
H. Will borrow locations be in wetlands? Borrow/waste areas
should avoid wetlands to the. maximum extent practicable.
Prior to approval of any borrow/waste site in-a wetland, the.
contractor shall obtain a 401 Certification from DEM.
I. Did NCDOT utilize the existing road alignments as much as
possible? Why not (if applicable)?
J. Please provide a detailed discussion for mass-transit as an
option.
K. To what extent can traffic congestion management techniques
alleviate the traffic problems in the study area?
L. Please provide a conceptual mitigation plan to help the
environmental review. The mitigation plan may state the
following:
1. '-Compensatory mitigation will be considered only after
wetland impacts have been avoided and minimized to the
maximum extent possible.
2. on-site, in-kind mitigation is the preferred method of
mitigation. In-kind mitigation within the same watershed
is preferred over out-of-kind mitigation.
3. Mitigation should be in the following order:
restoration, creation, enhancement, and lastly banking.
Written concurrence of 401 Water Quality Certification may be
required for this project. Applications requesting coverage under
our General Certification 14 or General Permit 31 will require
written concurrence. Please be aware that 401 Certification may be
denied if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to
the maximum extent practicable.
971ler.mem
cc: Eric Galamb
State of North Carolina Reviewing Office:
Department of Environment. Health, and Natural Resources Le??/ D
INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS Pro'act Number. Due Date:
3-0994) 2 -7 ao 93
Alter review of this project It has been determined that the EHNR permit(s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in .
order for this project to comply with North Carolina Law.
Questions t?garding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of Ow form.
d"ll stpplscatwrs, etttormanon ano guaxnraes relative to These plans and permits are available from the saute
Regional! Offilics. Normsl process
T
une
PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REOUIREMENTS "Islutory bust
limit)

D Permit to construct It operate wastewater tmonvent Application !o days before begin construction or award of 3D days
facilities, "wet system extensions, a sewer construction contracts On-site inspection. PoslApplication
systems not discharging into state surface waters. technical contergheig spa"
NPDES • permit to discharge into surface water and?or Application tad days balm begin activity. Or*she inspection. OD-120 days
^
0 permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities
i
i
f Pre•apphution conference usual Additionally, obtain perm: to
ng
Discharg
nto state sur
afs waters. construct wastewater treatment ta:ilily•granled after NPDES Reply mss)
time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPDES
permit-whichever Ira later.
D
water Use: Permit
Illane-application technical conference usually necessary
30 days
(NIA)
D
well CAnslruCtlOn Permit
Complete aDDlit:ation must be received and permit issued
7 days
pnot to the installation of a well. (15040)
/ Application copy must be served on each adjacent riparian property 35 Days
i .• A5r"24 and Flit Permit Owner On-site inilpl:lion. Pre-applicalion conference usual Filling
may repuire Easement to Fill from N.C. Department of (9o days)
Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit.
Permit to construct L operate Air Pollution Abatement
f
il
/ 60 days
rtres and
ac
or Emission Sources as per 15A NCAC 21N NIA (90 days)
7
ny open burning associated with subject proposal
t
n
must be in eom
ith 1SA NCAC 2D
0520
p
,a
ce w
.
.
?
Demolition or renovations of structures containing
as5tstos ms!
ria' muss be in compliance with 15A w
7
993
t
60
` N
?
' days

` NCAC 2D 0525 oh-Ch requites notification and removal NIA
O
prior to demolition Conisct As9estos Conltof Group
919.733-0820 (90 da
s)
y
1 Complex Source Permit required under 15A NCAC 20.0800.

The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly ?ddlessed for am (snd drslvrbiny &Lti fin'e?dsior; 'iedrmentsilo
control plan will be required If one or mote acres to be disturbed Plan filed with proper Reg,onsl Office (Lsna• .y hl-- Sect.l at leas) 3d 20 dayt
da:s before be .nn,n aCt,vrt A fee or S30 tot the first acre and 52000 for each aad-trona' acre or ail must aCCOmpan the plate 30 c st
The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the rerertenced Local Ordin Inca: (33 days)
On-site inspection usual. Surety bond file! with EHNR Bond amount
Mining Permit varies with type mine and number of acres of affected land Any arts 30 days
mined greater than one acre must be permaM. The appropnate bond W days)
must be received before the permit can be issued.
North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources If permit 1 day
l exceeds t days (NIA)
Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit • 22 On•si(e inspection by N D. Division Forest Resources required "if more 1 day
counties in eoastaf N.C. with oiranle split than live acres of Qround clearing activities are involved inspections (NIA)
should be requested at feast ten days before actual burn is planned."
t 90 120 days
OR Refining Facilities NIA (NIA)
If permit required, appl;cation E0 days before btgin construction.
Applicant must hire N C. quald.ed engineer to prepare plant, 30 days
-n-arn sa!e:y Permit Inspect Construction. certify construction is YCording to CHNR approv,
ed plans. May a'so Ieq :re ptrmil under mosquito control program. And (60 drys)
a 404 permit from Corps of Engineers An inspection of site is neees•
sa•y to tier!.', Hazard Cla:srfica:tort. A minimum fet of 12'.%D 00 must ac*
• eom;.any tr•t a?pliG a'.iOn. An addiliUnar processing fec L--,sed on a
n.rr ?nls^,? Of the IC:a! Dr0?ect COS! wit: F. re- .:rFA .. n rmmnlolian
A
A

a
Normal 1140uss
Ti.

PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES Of REOUIREMENTS tstatutory time
omit)
File surely bore of 85,000 with ENNR running to irate at N.C. 10 days
Permit to drW asplorlorr oil or Sea welt Conditional that any well opened by drill operator shaft, upon 4N/A! .
abandonment. be plugged according to ENNR rules and reguistioea.
Geopmysicat Expiartion PsrnNt AWication filed with ENNR at Most 10 days prior to issue of permit 10 days
Apphcatioh by letter. No standard application form. MIA!
Stste Lake; Conttruotioh IMrmq Application fee based on structure sue is charged Must include 16-20 nays
descriptions t drawings of etruotum i proof of ownership MIA!
of riparian propane
60 Days
401 Water Owitty Certification MIA (130 days)
65 Days
f:?tUA Permit for MAJOR development SM.00 fee rwst accompany applrea+ion 1150 days)
22 days
CAM& Permit for MINOR development 150.00 fee must aecomwy applicalro" 125 days)
Several geadttic monuments are located In or her the protect area ff any monuments head to be moved or destroyed. Please notify:
N.C Geodetic surrey, box 27697, Raleigh. N.C. 27611
Abandonment of any wefts, if required, must be in accordance with Title 1SA, SubCAapter 2CAico.
Notification of the proper regional office is mQvesied If -wphan- underground stom2e tanks (LISTS) are discovered during any e.cavalior operation.
ComphanCe with 1SA NCAC 2M 1000 (CC4sta' Stprhwattt Rules) Is required. 45 days
(NIA)
Other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being cenarn to ettc comment authority):
ANY CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES INCLUDING CL$ARING, 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
PRIOR TO-BEGINNING THESE ACTIVITIES.
-/215 -7 '

1
J
' REGIONAL OFFICES
Ouestions regarding these permits should be'addeessed to the Regional Office marked below.
Q Asheville Regional Office ? Fayetteville Regional Office
ite 714 W
h
via Buildin
S
59 Woodlin Place g
u
ac
o
Asheville, NC 28801 Fayetteville, NC 28301
[phone] [phone]
Q Mooresville Regional Office ? Raleigh Regional of rice
i
101
3800 B
it
D
S
919 North Main Street, P.O. Box 850 r
artell
ve,
e
u
Mooresville. NC 28115 Ra'e;gh, NC 27609
(704) (,63.1699 [phone]
t^-1
OV.ashington Regional Office ?1',simingfon Regional Office
1424 Carolina Avenue 127 Cardinal Drive E1tcn5idn
Y:,shin?!rn, NC 27889 Y:iirnin,,-fon, NC 2BA05
• (919) 9'E'6-031 (919) 395.3-M
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources 4 • e
Division of Planning & Assessment
James B. Hunt, Jr„ Governor ® C N
Jonathan B. Howes, , Secretary G
29
MEMORANDUM ' 61U/L X1993 ,LP
TO: Chrys Baggett ?A
FROM : Melba McGee °•,
RE: 93-0996 Scoping Proposed Widening of NC 18 from NC 268A
to SR 1002, Wilkes County
DATE: July 27, 1993
The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources
has reviewed the subject proposal. The attached comments have been
provided for the applicant's information.
Thank you for the opportunity to review. The applicant is
encouraged to continue to work with appropriate divisions prior to
possible permit application.
attachments.
cc: David Foster
f
r
P.O. Box 27687, Rdeigh, North Carolina 27611-7687 Telephone [phone] FAX [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer W% recycled/ 10% post-consLmer paper
M
,,.
State of North Carolina 2 1993
of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources -
DMsion of Land Resources. Uu'lD Q'U L17f SECTION
It
James G. r PROJECT REVIEW CO24U=S
W illam W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary
Project Number: 30 !? q 6 County: Cti L lc"C 15
Charles H. Gardner
Director
Project Name: q 9 6
Geodetic Survey
This project will impact geodetic survey markers. N.C. Geodetic
Survey should be contacted prior *to construction at P.O. Box* 27687,
Raleigh, N.C. 27611 [phone]. Intentional destruction of a
geodetic monument is a violation of N.C. General Statute 102-4.
This project will have no impact on geodetic survey markers.
Other (comments attached) cw"
'
' il(??v 1^Q3
•.. `l
For more information contact the Geodetic Survey office at (9,,XS) 733,3536,' A
Reviewer Date
u
Erosion and Sedimentation Control
No comment

This project will require approval of an erosion and sedimentation
control plan prior to beginning any land-disturbing activity if more
than one (1) acre will be disturbed.
? If an environmental document is required to satisfy Environmental
Policy Act (SEPA),requirements, the document must be submitted as part
of the erosion and sedimentation control plan.
If an portion of the
any project is located within a High Quality Water
Zone (HQW), as classified by the Division of Environmental Management,
increased design standards for sediment and erosion control will apply.
The erosion and sedimentation control plan required for this project
should be prepared by the Department of Transportation under the
erosion control program delegation to the Division of Highways from the
North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission.
-Other (comments attached)
For more information contact the Land Quality Section at [phone].
610-9193
Reviewer Date
P.O. Box 27687 • Raleigh. N.C. 27611-7687 • Telephone [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Acton Employer
ANT OF r
Ppt, ?t . ? hFiZ
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United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Asheville Field Office
330 Ridgefield Court
Asheville, North Carolina 28806
August 3, 1993
Mr. L. J. Ward, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
Division of Highways
North Carolina Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201
Dear Mr. Ward:
¦
v--Nwv
O
AUG 0 6 1993 ,.
2 DIVISION OF
ZG? HIGHWAYS ???
Subject: Scoping for the proposed widening of NC 18 from NC 268-A to SR
1002, North Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, North Carolina, T.I.P.
No. R-2517
In your letter of June 21, 1993 (received June 28, 1993), you requested
information for the preparation of an environmental assessment for the
proposed project. The following comments are provided in accordance with
the provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended
(16 U.S.C. 661-667e), and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of
1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543).
According to information provided in your letter, this proposal will
involve the asymmetric widening of NC 18 to a five-lane curb and gutter
section. Additional lanes will be added from Finley Avenue to NC. 268-A
(northbound) and from 400 feet north of SR 1002 to SR 1002 (southbound).
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is particularly concerned
about the potential impacts the proposed project could have on listed or
proposed endangered or threatened species and on stream and wetland
ecosystems within the project impact area.. Preference should be given to
alternative alignments, stream-crossing structures, and construction
techniques that avoid and/or minimize encroachment and impacts to these
resources.
The enclosed page identifies federally protected endangered and
threatened species known from Wilkes County that may occur within the
area of influence of this proposed action. The legal responsibilities of
a Federal agency or their designated non-Federal representative under
Section 7 of the Act are on file with the Federal Highway Administration
and the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The enclosed page
also identifies candidate species that are currently under status review
by- the Service which may occur in the project impact area. Candidate
species are not legally protected under the Act and are not subject to
any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formal.ly
proposed or listed as endangered or threatened. We are including these
species in our response to give you advance notification.
The Service's review of the subject environmental impact statement would
be greatly facilitated if the document contained the following
information:
(1) A complete analysis and comparison of the available
alternatives (the build and no-build alternatives).
(2) A description of the fishery and wildlife resources
within existing and required additional rights-of-way
' and any areas, such as borrow areas, that may be
affected directly or indirectly by the proposed road
construction.
(3) Acreage and description of the creeks, streams, or
wetlands that will be impacted because of the
proposed road project. We recommend contacting the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Asheville Regulatory
Field Office (704/259-0855), to determine the need
for a Section 404 Clean Water Act permit.
(4) Acreage of upland habitat, by cover type, that will
be eliminated because of proposed project.
(5) Mitigation measures that will be employed to avoid,
eliminate, reduce, or compensate for habitat value
losses associated with the proposed project.
(6) Description of all expected secondary and cumulative
environmental impacts associated with this proposed work.
(7) An analysis of the crossing structures considered (i.e.,
spanning structure, culverts) and the rationale for
choosing the preferred structure(s) for the proposed new
crossings.
We appreciate-the opportunity to provide these scoping comments and
request that you continue to keep us informed as to the progress of this
project. In any future correspondence concerning this project, please
reference our Log Number 4-2-93-106.
Sinc ely,
Brian P. Cole
Field Supervisor
Enclosure
cc:
Mr. Dennis L. Stewart, Program Manager, Division of Boating and Inland
Fisheries, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, Archdale
Building, 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27604-1188
IN REPLY REFER TO
LOG NO. 4-2-93-106.
WILKES COUNTY
BIRDS
Peregrine falcon.(Falco peregrinus) - Endangered
Cerulean warbler (Dendroica cerulea) - Candidate
REPTILES
Bog turtle (Clemmvs muhlenbergii) - Candidate
INSECTS
Diana fritillary butterfly (Speyeria diana) - Candidate
PLANTS
Keever's bristle-moss (Orthotrichum keeverae) - Candidate
x
4
4
r STATE e
5 •?
North Carolina Department of Cultural
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary
August 4, 1993
MEMORANDUM
TO: L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
Division of Highw s
Department of Transp ation
FROM: David Brook //I , U?z ?X
Deputy State 11storic Preservation Officer
SUBJECT: NC 18 from NC 268-A to SR 1002, North Wilkesboro,
Wilkes County, R-2517, CH 93-E-4220-0996
Y `
F V,
J_t
i 'AUG 0 b 1993
k ArPUAMI OM SSstory _ .
i ?. F'Fice.;ili;??DIiecLor?
We have received information concerning the above project from the State Clearinghouse.
We have conducted a search of our files and are aware of no structures of historical or
architectural importance located within the planning area. However, since a comprehensive
historical architectural inventory of Wilkes County has never been conducted, there may be
structures of which we are unaware located within the planning area.
Thus, we recommend that a comprehensive survey be conducted by a qualified
architectural historian to identify the presence and significance of any historic structures,
buildings, or districts. Please provide photographs, keyed to a map, of all structures over
fifty years of age in the area of potential effect. Also include a brief statement about each
structure's history and explain which National Register criteria it does or does not meet. If
there are no structures over fifty years of age in the area of potential effect, please notify
us of this in writing.
There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based on our
present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely that any archaeological resources which may be
eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by the
project construction. We, therefore, recommend that no archaeological investigation be
conducted in connection with this project.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations
for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the
above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at
919/733-4763.
DB:slw
cc: -State Clearinghouse
N. Graf
B. Church
T. Padgett
109 East Sores Street - RaT.exh, :tic.-' Carolina 27601-2307 ??
110 3 T
V1 •u• ly
North Carolina Department of Cultural
James B. Hunt. Jr., Governor
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary
November 30, 1994
Nicholas L. Graf
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
Department of Transportation
310 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1442
Re: Historic Architectural Survey for Improvements to
NC 18 from Finley Avenue (NC 268-A) to SR
1002, North Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, Tip R-
2517, State 8.1761201, Federal Aid STP-18(5),
ER 95-7836
Dear Mr. Graf:
C E )?
c
i oCghi e6ar story
iam S. Price, Jr., lctor
DIVISION, OF ?v
HIGHWAYS
?N??RONNIE?P
Thank you for your letter of November 2, 1994, transmitting the above referenced
report. Due to internal inconsistencies and omissions within the report, we are
unable to complete our review. Once the following items are clarified, we will be
happy to continue our review.
Item 1
We would note that at the meeting on January 24, 1994, we stated that thirty-
five of the buildings "did not appear eligible and did not warrant further
evaluation." We did not state that they were not eligible, since additional
information from a third party could result in a request for further study and
evaluation. We still believe the thirty-five do not appear to be eligible for listing in
the National Register.
Item 2
The map indicating the area of potential effect, buildings recorded, and buildings
evaluated shows forty-six properties. The Summary Results on page ii states that
there were forty-four structures over fifty years of age in the area of potential
effect. Even though there is a skip in the numbers on the map from #4 to #6, one
building is unaccounted for.
Item 3
The summary states that the Smith's Outlet Store .was razed since January 1994.
Which property on the map was the outlet store? Even though destroyed, the
photograph of the property should be included.
J
m
109 East Jones Street - Raleigh. North Carolina 27601-2807 Ip
Nicholas L. Graf
November 30, 1994, Page 2

Item 4
Rather than use the numbers shown on the map, the evaluated properties use
letters. While we assume Properties B-D and G (Bungalows #7, 8, 9, and 42), and
Building F (#38) are the same as the numbered properties, we are not sure and it
is not entirely clear that this is the case. Nor can we correlate the Wingler
Brothers Grocery, Kilby Place, and Absher House with the numbered sites. We
would appreciate the numbers used on the map being used to identify the
evaluated properties, as well as the remaining properties which were only
photographed and located on the map.
We look forward to receipt of the above information and to completing our review
in a timely manner.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's
Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800:
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions
concerning the above -comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley,
environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763.
Sifter ly,
avid Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:slw
cc: H. F. Vick
B. Church-

North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources ' .
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary William S. Price, Jr., Director
January 26, 1995
Nicholas L. Graf
Division Administrator
Federal Highway Administration
Department of Transportation
310 New Bern Avenue
Raleigh, N.C.. 27601-1442
Re: Historic Structures Survey Report for NC 18 from NC
268-A to SR 1002 near Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, R-
2517, STP-018(5), 8.1761201, ER 95-8160
Dear Mr. Graf:
Thank you for your letter of January 9, 1995, transmitting the amended historic structures
survey report by Ed Davis concerning the above project.
The following properties were determined not eligible for listing in the National Register of
Historic Places:
Properties #1, 7, 8, 9, 32, 38, 42, 44
There is ongoing confusion over which properties did not appear to be eligible at the
January 24, 1994, meeting. At that meeting, we reviewed photographs of forty-six
properties and concurred that the following thirty-seven did not appear to be eligible for the
National Register:
Properties #2-6, 10-25, 27-31, 33-37, 39-41, 43, 45, 46
We understand that Property #26 has been razed and that the North Carolina Department
of Transportation no longer has photographs of this building.
The report.meets our office's guidelines and those of the Secretary of the Interior.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations
for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the
above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at
919/733-4763.
Sincerely,
Da M Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
DB:stlw?
cc: H. F. Vick
B. Church
109 East Jones Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 ?P
It

MEMO
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DATE: -.&a
SUBJECT: /V L
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From: b
North Carolina Department of Environment,
Health, and Natural Resources ep
printed on Recycled Paper
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

TRANSM!TTAL SLIP DATE
IjAy 7 ",P3
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TO.
(?/
,?ffiir m
? G
/ REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.
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Mf/
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FROM: REF. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.
ACTION
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER 9UR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS ? FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? P EPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:
??,a. SCAlE a,
JAMES B. HUNT. JR
GOVERNOR
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
May 6, 1993
MEMORANDUM TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Mr. Eric Galamb
DEM - DEHNR, 6th Floor
L. J. Ward, P. E., Manager znc
Planning and Environmental Branch
Review of Scoping Sheet for NC 18 from NC 268A to
SR 1002, Wilkes County, Federal Project STP-18(5),
State Project 8.1761201, TIP Project R-2517
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
GROUP
SAM HUNT
SECRETARY
Attached for your review and comments are the scoping sheets for the
subject project (See attached map for project location). The purpose of
these sheets and the related review procedure is to have an early "meeting
of the minds" as to the scope of work that should be performed and thereby
enable us to better implement the project. A scoping meeting for this
project is scheduled for June 8, 1993 at 9:00 A. M. in the Planning and
Environmental Branch Conference Room (Room 470). You may provide us with
your comments at the meeting or mail them to us prior to that date.
Thank you for your
If there are any questi
call Ted Devens, P. E.,
TD/wp
Attachment(t?5

L
5 G
d fm
• q.
.1 S 5 tuli w
assistance in this part of our planning process.
)ns about the meeting or the scoping sheets, please
Project Engineer, at 733-7842.
1? ? +Ies ck WS -, 12-q0-6)
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PROJECT SCOPINC SHEET
Date May ?, 1993
Revision Date _
Project Development Stage
Programming
Planning _ Y
Design -- -- ----- -
TIP # R-251%
Project # 8.1761201
F.A. Project # STP-18(5.)
Division 11
County Wilke
Route NC IS
Functional Classification U_r.bar: Minor .Arterial, / Rural Ma_ior
Collector
Length 1.4 mild
Purpose of Project:
The widening of NC 1S to a multi--lane section is needed to
provide adequate capacit-I- for CCXistinL,. and future traffic
volumes. The project will improve access into North Wilkesboro
from the north, and will improve access to development along. the
road. The project will also enhance safety on NC 15.
Description of project (including specific limits) and major
elements of work:
Widen NC 18 from NC' ?68--P, to SR 1002.
Type of environmental document to be prepared:
Federal Environmental Assessment and FONSI
Environmental study schedule:
Environmental Assessment APR 94
FOIE S I MAR 9 -
1-Will there be special funding pa:rt.icipation by municipality,
developers, or other? Yes No
If yes, by whom and amount: How and when will this be paid?

Page 2
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
Features of Proposed Facility
Type of Facility: Multi-lane
Type of Access Control: Full Partial None X
Type of Roadway: 4-lane curb & gutter/5-1ane c & g
Interchanges Grade Separations _ Stream Crossings
Typical Section of Roadway:
4-1ane curb and gutter which is 48 feet from face-to-face
Traffic: Current 13,100 vpd Design Year 22.500 vpd
% Trucks _ % DHV
Design Standards Applicable: AASHTO X 3R
Design Speed: 50 MPH
Preliminary Resurfacing Design:
Preliminary Pavement Design:
Current Cost Estimate: Based on 1990 feasibilit}, study:
Construction Cost (including engineering
and contingencies). . . . S 1,750,000_
Right of Way Cost (including rel., uti.l.,
and acquisition). . . . . . . . . . S 3,500,000
Force Account Items. . . . . . . . . . . . S _
Preliminary Engineering. S
'total. Cost.
TIP Cost Estimate:
Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Right of Way . . . . . . . . . . . . .
S _.._5,50,000
S 1,750,000
S 3,500,000
Total Cost . . . . . . . . . . . . S 5,250,000
List any special features,. such as railroad involvement, which
could affect cost or schedule of project:

Page 3
PROJECT SLOPING SHEET
ITEMS REQUIRED { ) COMMENTS COST
Estimated Costs of Improvements:
Pavement
Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
-- Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Milling & Recycling . . . . . . . . . $
Turnouts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Shoulders: Paved. . . . . . . . . . . . $
---
-------
- Earth . -
$
_
Earthwork . . . . . . . . . . . . , . $
Subsurface Items: . . . . . ... . . . . . . $
Subgrade and Stabilization. . . . . .
Drainage (List any special items) . . . . . S
Sub-Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 --
Structures: Width x Length
- Bridge Rehabilitation X
----
------ S
,
- New Bridge S
- Widen Bridge -- ---- - - S
_ Remove Bridge x
- New Culverts: Size -_-_ Length
Fill Ht.
- Culvert Extension . . . . . . . . . .
- Retaining Walls: Type Ave. Ht.
-------- -
------------
Skew
_ Noise Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S
_ Any Other Misc. Structures. . . . . . . . $

Concrete Curb & Gutter. . . . . . . . . . _
. S

Concrete Sidewalk . . . . . . . . . . _
F,
Guardrail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S
Fencing: W.W. ___- and/or C.L.
Erosion Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . >
-
Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -
. $
Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ -- -- -----
Traffic Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Signing: -- New . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S -..-------
Upgrading. . . . . . . . . . . . S ---------
Traffic Signals: New . . . . . . . . . $
------ -- -
- -- Revised . . . . . . . S
RR Signals: New . . . . . . . . . . . . S ------
_ Revised . . . . . . . . . . S ---- -- --
_ With or Without Arms. . . . $
If 3R: Drainage Safety Enhancement. . . S
Roadside Safety Enhancement. S
Realignment for Safety Upgrade S
Pavement Markings: Paint ____ Thermo S
Markers
Delineators . S
Other . . S -- ----- - -----
CONTRACT COST (Subtotal.): S
Page 4
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
Contingencies & Engineering . . . . . . . $
PE Costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S
Force Account . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S
Subtotal: S
Right of Way:
Will Contain within Exist Right of Way: Yes
Existing Right of Way Width: 32 feet
New Right of Way Needed: Width Est. Cost $
Easements: Type Width Est. Cost $
Utilities: $
No Y
Right of Way Subtotal: $
Total Estimated Cost (Includes R/W): $
Prepared By: Ted Devens, P.E. Date: May J. 1993
The above scoping has been reviewed and approved* by:
INIT. DATE INIT. DATE
Highway Design
Roadway
Structure
Design Services
Geotechnical
Hydraulics
Loc. & Surveys
Photogrammetry
Prel. Est. Engr.
Planning & Environ.
Right of Way
R/W Utilities
Traffic Engineering
Project Management
County Manager
City/Municipality
Others
Board of Tran. Member
Mgr. Program & Policy
Chief Engineer-Precons
Chief Engineer-Oper
Secondary Roads Off.
Construction Branch
Roadside Environmental
Maintenance Branch
Bridge Maintenance
Statewide Planning
Division Engineer
Bicycle Coordinator.
Program Development
FHWA
Dept. of Cult. Res.
Dept. of' EH & NR
Scope Sheet for local officials will be sent to Division
Engineer for handling.
Comments or Remarks:
widening to a-lane section throu,hout the project length may
result in additional relocation of 18 residences and 14
businesses. Therefore, the feasibility study recommends a --
lane curb and gutter section for the most part, with left-turn
lanes provided in areas of development/conestion.
*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.
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July 20, 1993
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Plljanning and Assessment
FROM: Monica Swihart", Water Quality Planning
SUBJECT: Project Review #93-0996; Scoping Comments - NC DOT
Proposed Improvements to NC 18, From NC 268-A to SR 1002,
North Wilkesboro, Wilkes County, R-2517
The Water Quality Section of the Division of Environmental
Management requests that the following topics be discussed in the
environmental documents prepared on the subject project:
A. Identify the streams potentially impacted by the project. The
stream classifications should be current.
B. Identify the linear feet of stream channelizations/
relocations. If the original stream banks were vegetated, it
is requested that the channelized/relocated stream banks be
revegetated.
C. Number of stream crossings.
D. Will permanent spill catch basins be utilized? DEM requests
that these catch basins be placed at all water supply stream
crossings. Identify the responsible party for maintenance.
E. Identify the stormwater controls (permanent and temporary) to
be employed.
F. Please ensure that Sediment and erosion and control measures
are not placed in wetlands.
Melba McGee
July 20, 1993
Page 2
G. Wetland Impacts
1) Identify the federal manual used for identifying and
delineating jurisdictional wetlands.
2) Have wetlands been avoided as much as possible?
3) Have wetland impacts been minimized?
4) Discuss wetland impacts by plant communities affected.
5) Discuss the quality of wetlands impacted.
6) Summarize the total wetland impacts.
7) List the 401 General Certification numbers requested from
DEM.
H. Will borrow locations be in wetlands? Borrow/waste areas
should avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practicable.
Prior to approval of any>borrow/waste site in a wetland, the
contractor shall obtain a 401 Certification from DEM.
I. Did NCDOT utilize the existing road alignments as much as
possible? Why not (if applicable)?
J. Please provide a detailed discussion for mass-transit as an
option.
K. To what extent can traffic congestion management techniques
alleviate the traffic problems in the study area?
L. Please provide a conceptual mitigation plan to help the
environmental review. The mitigation plan may state the
following:
1. Compensatory mitigation will be considered only after
wetland impacts have been avoided and minimized to the
maximum extent possible.
2. On-site, in-kind mitigation is the preferred method of
mitigation. In-kind mitigation within the same watershed
is preferred over out-of-kind mitigation.
3. Mitigation should be in the following order:
restoration, creation, enhancement, and lastly banking.
Written concurrence of 401 Water Quality Certification may be
required for this project. Applications requesting coverage under
our General Certification 14 or General Permit 31 will require
written concurrence. Please be aware that 401 Certification may be
denied if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to
the maximum extent practicable.
9711er.mem
cc: Eric Galamb
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DATE
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6 GI ICA
ACTION
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL
?
NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS OR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:

O U ?j
MEMO TO FILE: 1 4 199
WETLANDS GROUp
FROM: Ted Devens, P WATER UALlTYSECTl01
SUBJECT: Minutes of Scoping Meeting for R-2517
DATE: June 8, 1993
At 9:00 am on June 8, 1993, a scoping meeting was held for
project R-2517 in the P&E conference room. In attendance were:
Ted Devens
Wade Hoke
Wally Bowman
Carl McCann
Lisa Privette
Sid Autry
John Taylor
Tim Hayes
Don Sellers
David Hinnant
Felix Davila
Paul Koch
Jack Matthews
Danny Rogers
Eric Galamb
Planning and Environmental
Division 11 Engineer
Division 11
Division 11
Traffic Control
Location & Surveys
Roadway Design
Roadway Design
Right-of-Way
Right-of-Way (Utilities)
FHWA
Statewide Planning
Photogrammetry
Program Development
DEHNR - Dept. of Environmental. Mgt.
These minutes are augmented by the informational handout
provided during the scoping meeting.
The project was introduced as the widening of NC; 18 from NC
268-A to SR 1002 in the North Wilkesboro vicinity. The 1990
feasibility study was discussed. TIP Estimates are reflective of
the feasibility study's recommendation to widen to 4--lanes with
center left-turn lanes at several locations.
A short video was shown to orient meeting attendees to the
project.
No bicycle accommodations are necessary.
After project introduction, the meeting was turned over to
Wade Hoke for his recommendations. Mr. Hoke prefers to see a. 5--
lane curb and gutter section. He mentioned that it has been
arranged to plan the project as a Division Design and. Construct
project. He prefers the 5-lane section due to the high density of
businesses in the area. Due to the high volume of truck traffic,
it was agreed that 12-foot lanes are preferred. One or two
horizontal curves may require "flattening."
Mr. Hoke discussed changing project termini on the north and
south ends. An additional northbound lane is desired on NC 18 for
300-400 feet south of the intersection with NC 268-A, from Finley
Avenue to NC 268-A. On the north end of the project, it is

desired for the future outside northbound lane to provide a
continuous right-turn flow onto SR 1002 (Mountain View Rd). The
inside northbound lane will continue as a through lane. As
southbound NC 18 approaches the intersection of SR 1002, a
southbound left-turn lane already exists. However, two southbound
through lanes will be required, such that a taper from one
southbound through lane to two southbound through lanes will be
needed for several hundred feet. The taper is anticipated to
begin approximately adjacent to the Lowe's supermarket.
Widening is expected to proceed asymmetrically, to avoid
potential hazardous waste (UST) sites and expensive right-of-way
complications. The side of widening may transition from side to
side.
No sidewalks are recommended.
The current PMSS schedule is acceptable to all. Mr. Hoke may
request to move-up the letting date. Don Sellers mentioned that
due to the density of development, Right-of-Way Branch will
require all of its allotted time on the current schedule.
No parks will be affected.
SHPO had called-in comments earlier. There exists a low
probability of an archaeological site. Therefore, an
archaeological survey is not required as long as NCDOT widens
along existing alignment. Asymmetrical widening is acceptable, as
long as widening does not deviate to new location. SHPO does not
have a comprehensive survey of the North Wilkesboro area. There
are no National Register or State Study List properties in the
vicinity. However, an NCDOT architectural-historic survey will be
required.
Sid Autrey of Location & Surveys mentioned that the Hilltop
Novelties store appears to be a "suspect historic" property.
Several gasoline stations are very close to existing NC 18.
At least two of the sites are abandoned - all have underground
storage tanks. Ted Devens will attempt to have the geotechnical
unit survey the area as soon as possible, to enable consideration
of these sites in the initial determination of alignment.
Noise impacts are expected due to the close proximity of
homes to the highway.
Wildlife Resources (DEHNR) had called-in comments earlier.
There is little wildlife that will be disturbed with the widening.
Wildlife Resources has little interest in the project.
Eric Galamb of the Department of Environmental Management
(DEHNR) requested hydrospill catch basins in the vicinity of
NationsBank and Hardees, on the west side of NC 18. This measure
is to protect Hoopers Branch from spills of hazardous substances.
J F
Hoopers Branch is a direct tributary to the Yadkin River., which
contributes to the Kerr Scott Reservoir. According to Mfr. Csalamb,
this section of Hoopers Branch is in the "critical area" of the
water supply reservoir, and is classified as WS II.
Danny Rogers of Program Development does not oppose the 5-
lane idea, even though the cost is approximately $2 million more
expensive than the feasibility study recommendations. He
recommended studying a both a 59-foot and a 64-foot curb and
gutter section. Program Development will need new cost estimates.
A discussion evolved around utility needs. NationsBank has
an underground vault adjacent to NC 18, and other utility
conflicts are evident. One or two pumping stations will also be
affected. It is anticipated that an 8-foot berm will be required
on both sides of the roadway.
Felix Davila of FHWA agreed that a 5-lane section is
preferred, and reiterated historic and environmental concerns.
A four-lane section will not be considered in the project
study.
N. C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
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ACTION
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS ,R YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:
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STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT, JR DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
June 21, 1993
SAM HUNT
SECRETARY
MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Eric Galamb
DEM - DEHNR, 6th Floor
FROM: L. J. Ward, P. E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
SUBJECT: NC 18, From NC 268-A to SR 1002, North Wilkesboro, Wilkes
County, R-2517
The Planning and Environmental Branch of the Division of Highways has
begun studying the proposed improvements to NC 18. The project is included
in the 1993-1999 North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program and is
scheduled for right of way in fiscal year 1995 and construction in fiscal
year 1997.
It is anticipated that NC 18 will be widened to a 5-lane curb and gutter
section which is either 59 or 64 feet from curb-face to curb-face, with
8-foot berms. An additional northbound lane is desired on NC 18, from Finley
Avenue (located 400 feet south of NC 268A) to NC 268A. On the north end of
the project, an additional southbound lane is anticipated, tapering from 400
feet north of SR 1002, to SR 1002. Widening will occur asymmetrically with
side-to-side transitions. Approximately 80 feet of right-of-way (plus
easements) will be required.
We would appreciate any information you might have that would be helpful
in evaluating potential environmental impacts of the project. If applicable,
please identify any permits or approvals which may be required by your
agency. Your comments will be used in the preparation of a federally funded
Environmental Assessment. This document will be prepared in accordance with
the National Environmental Policy Act. It is desirable that your agency
respond by August 4, 1993 so that your comments can be used in the
preparation of this document.
If you have any questions concerning the project, please contact Ted
Devens, P. E., Project Planning Engineer, of this Branch at [phone].
LJW/plr
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NOTICE OF A CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL, WORKSHOP
ON THE WIDENING OF NC 18 TO A MULTI-LANE ROADWAY
FROM NC 268-A TO SR 1002 IN NORTH WILKESBORO
Project 8.1761201 R-2517 Wilkes County
A citizens informational workshop will be held on
Tuesday, September 21, 1993, at the North Carolina Department
of Transportation's Equipment Office Conference Room located
on Highway 115 south of the Yadkin River in North Wilkesboro,
North Carolina. This will be an informal open house workshop
held between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Those
wishing to attend may do so at their convenience during these
hours.
The purpose of this informational workshop is to present
information, answer questions and receive comments during the
early design stages of the proposed widening of NC 18. The
proposed project consists of converting NC 18 to a multi-lane
roadway.
Representatives of the Department of Transportation will
be available to discuss the proposed project with those
attending. Anyone desiring additional information about the
workshop may contact Mr. Ted Devens, N. C. Department of
Transportation, Planning and Environmental Branch,
P. O. Box 25201, Raleigh, NC 27611 or by telephone at
[phone].
NCDOT will provide reasonable accommodations, auxiliary
aids, and services for any qualified disabled person
interested in attending the workshop. To request this
assistance you may call Mr. Devens at the above number
p2 later than seven days prior to the date of the workshop.
1[j?AUG ?_2 6 1993