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HomeMy WebLinkAboutR-2230AState of North Carolina IVA Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources T4*01 I"' Division of Environmental Management James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary ® E N A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director July 1, 1994 MEMORANDUM To:. Melba McGee ; Through: John Dorney_ V t-A y ?4 Monica Swihart From: Eric Galamb Subject: FONSI for NC 210 Widening From Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties State Project DOT No. 8.1441501, TIP #R-2230A EHNR # 94-0950, DEM WQ # 10645 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 of waters of the state including wetlands. . The document states that 4.8 acres of wetlands will be impacted. A. DEM still recommends that DOT apply for an Individual Certification/Permit for the entire project since there are two locations that are below headwaters and thus need an Individual Certification, DOT is reminded that endorsement of an FONSI by DEM would not preclude the denial of a 401 Certification upon application if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to Eric Galamb (733- 1786) in DEM's Water Quality Planning Branch. nc21 O.fon P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 FAX 919-733-2496 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper Y Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties F. A. Project M - 5373(3) State Project 8.1441501 T. I. P. # R-2230 A ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Finding of No Significant Impact 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) 3 -2:3 -7+ q/, Date H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager r Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT 31 to ? Nicho KA-Di vis L. Graf,_ P. E. Administrator, FHWA vr, Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties F. A. Project M - 5373(3) State Project 8.1441501 T. I. P. # R-2230 A ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION Finding of No Significant Impact Document Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By: William oo win Jr. Project Planning Engineer Robert P. Hanson, P.E. Project Planning Unit Head r ?/. 4??) ? Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT Mot/ Z4 SE AL 17282 • °°•FRT S P. ?P?`•• ?1 Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties F. A. Project M - 5373(3) State Project 8.1441501 T. I. P. # R-2230 A I. TYPE OF ACTION This is a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Administrative Action, 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 analysis 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 Highways, proposes to improve NC 210 from Holland Drive, in Spring Lake, to Ray Road (SR 1121), north of the Cumberland-Harnett county line. The existing two and three lane facility will be widened to a five lane curb and gutter facility, with a new wider bridge over the Lower Little River. This 3.9 mile project has an estimated cost of $8,300,000 (including $6,600,000 for construction and $1,700,000 for right of way). This project is included in the 1994-2000 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP cost estimate for this project is $7,720,000 (including $6,600,000 for construction and $1,120,000 for right of way). III. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS A. Action Required by Other Agencies A predischarge notification will be issued for the replacement of the bridge over the Lower Little River as required by 33 CFR 330.7. The crossing at Jumping Run Creek may require a predischarge notification as well. When final wetlands delineation and hydrological designs are complete; NCDOT will include this crossing in the predischarge notification, if so warranted. Other minor wetland impacts will also be noted in this predischarge notification. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will evaluate the proposed crossing to determine the need for an individual permit. 2 B. Protection of Habitat for the Endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has concurred with the NCDOT that this project will not adversely affect the Federally endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker (RCW). The USFWS has placed no special restrictions on the construction of this project. NCDOT will continue to make every effort to minimize the amount of RCW habitat affected by this project. C. Wetland Impacts and Best Management Practices NCDOT will mitigate for the project related loss of jurisdictional wetland by the restoration and/or enhancement of a similar amount of wetland in the project vicinity. A complete mitigation plan will be developed in coordination with the COE and other agencies during the permit process after the final project design is complete. Impacts to wetlands in the project vicinity will be avoided and/or minimized to the extent practicable. This project has been designed to keep unavoidable wetlands impacts to a minimum. NCDOT Best Management Practices will be implemented and properly maintained throughout project construction. IV. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION A. Circulation of the Environmental Assessment The Environmental Assessment for this project was approved by the FHWA on August 28, 1992. The following federal, state, and local agencies and officials were provided copies of the Environmental Assessment and asked for their comments on the project: * U. S. Army Corps of Engineers U. S. Environmental Protection Agency * U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service * 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, * N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission Region M Council of Governments Cumberland County Commissioners The Mayor of Spring Lake & Natural Resources Asterisks (*) indicate agencies from which written responses were received. Substantive comments are discussed in the following section and copies of the agencies' comments are included in the appendix of this report. The Environmental Assessment was also made available to the public. 3 B. Comments Received on the Environmental Assessment The following is a summary of the comments received from federal, state, and local agencies with responses where appropriate: Federal Agencies 1. U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) Comment: "The proposed project is sited in Cumberland and Harnett Counties, which participate in the Federal Flood Insurance Program. The proposed improvements have planned crossings of Little River and Jumping Run Creek in Cumberland County. ... We suggest that you coordinate with Cumberland County for compliance with their flood plain ordinance and possible revision to their flood insurance maps and report." Response: As stated in the Environmental Assessment, the proposed widening will be designed to have minimal impact on the flood plains of the Little River and Jumping Run Creek. No revisions to Cumberland County's flood insurance maps should be required. After further hydraulic design, Cumberland County will be contacted to verify that no flood insurance map revisions will be required. Comment: "The width of encroachment into wetlands at each crossing was not provided. Stating that impacts "are based on a 100' ROW" does not provide enough information to verify that a crossing qualifies for a particular Nationwide Permit." Response: Estimating wetland impacts on 100 feet of right of way is intended to provide an upper value for the anticipated impact area at each wetland site. The acreages presented in Table 3 of the EA are based on preliminary design information. Final project design may indicate that the actual impact areas are smaller. Permit applications will be based on the final project design. Comment: "... the proposed crossings at Little River and Jumping Run Creek are located below the headwaters... Individual Department of the Army authorization may be required for impacts to wetlands at these two sites." 4 Response: Permit needs for this project will be reviewed after further design. If required, NCDOT will apply for individual permits for these two crossings. Comment: "The Environmental Assessment should provide detailed information on how impacts to Little River and adjacent wetlands were determined." Response: Identification of wetlands and boundary determinations were made in accordance with the rules outlined in the 1989 Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands. Comment: "Concurrence must be obtained from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that no impacts to federally protected species or their habitat will occur if Department of the Army permits are granted." Response: Further coordination with the USFWS and additional habitat analysis has led the USFWS to concur with the NCDOT's finding that this project will not adversely affect Federally endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker (see Appendix, page A-3). Comment: "Onsite mitigation options should be explored and a mitigation plan provided to this office prior to permit application." Response: Onsite mitigation will be explored as the primary method of mitigation for wetland impacts on the project. A number of possible mitigation sites have been identified during field investigations. A complete mitigation plan will be developed and submitted to the COE prior to permit application. 5 2. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Comment: "The foraging habitat analysis does not consider overlap among foraging ranges of the several colonies in the project vicinity. Response: A new complete habitat analysis for the proposed project was commissioned by the NCDOT. This analysis was performed by Dr. J. H. Carter and Associates and considered overlap of foraging ranges. The analysis was submitted to the USFWS on January 13, 1994. The appendix to this report includes a letter from the USFWS stating their concurrence with the findings of that analysis. This project will not adversely affect the Federally endangered RCW. Comment: "Information available to this office indicates that at least one other active red-cockaded woodpecker cluster occurs in the vicinity but was not recorded and considered in the surveys." Response: The above referenced habitat analysis did not reveal any additional colonies in the immediate project area. No additional colonies are currently located within a 0.5 mile radius of habitat affected by this project. State Agencies 1. NC Wildlife Resources Commission Comment: " the project will still impact nearly five acres of wetland habitat. ... the quality of aquatic habitat in the study area is relatively high, supporting numerous sport fish species. Siltation impacts from highway construction could significantly reduce the fisheries potential of affected habitat. Response: Of the estimated 4.8 acres of wetland impacts for the project, three acres will be at the site of the proposed bridge over the Little River. In an effort to reduce wetland impacts and to preserve the existing alignment on NC 210, the bridge will be replaced at the site of the existing bridge. Staged construction will be used to allow the existing bridge to serve as a detour bridge during construction. The remaining 1.8 acres of impact are divided among 13 other sites along the project. NCDOT has minimized wetland impacts to the extent practicable. All applicable Best Management Practices will be implemented and strictly maintained throughout construction of the proposed project in an effort to minimize siltation of affected wetland areas and aquatic habitat. 2. Comment: " the NCWRC recommends that the NCDOT include all wetland impacts from the project under a single 404 permit. To the extent possible, mitigation for wetland loss should involve restoration and enhancement of previously degraded wetlands in the project area." Response: The NCDOT will mitigate for anticipated impacts to wetland(s) where Individual permit(s) will be required, since the project is a widening of an existing facility mitigation for cumulative acreage from multiple Nationwide sites will not be required. This is in accordance with a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the COE. . Mitigation for unavoidable wetland losses will be proposed in the permit application and will likely include such measures as restoration and/or enhancement of previously degraded wetlands in the project area. Comment: "While the EA states that project impacts to RCW foraging habitat will be minimal, the NCWRC recommends that these habitat areas be avoided to the extent possible during construction. Placement of easements, spoil, and other project related clearing should be actively minimized in RCW foraging habitat. Response: DOT will make every effort to minimize all construction activities in the foraging habitat area for the RCW on this project. NC Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Comment: "NCDOT is requested to discuss thoroughly a mass-transit alternative to widening the existing road." Response: The City of Fayetteville, the Town of Spring Lake, and the North Carolina Department of Transportation have adopted a thoroughfare plan designed to provide Fayetteville and the surrounding area with an efficient transportation network. The thoroughfare plan includes both highway improvements and transit service. The widening of NC 210 with project R-2230A is a part of that thoroughfare plan. Bus service is not currently provided for the NC 210 corridor. Fayetteville's existing transit system has a ridership of 1%-2% of the estimated daily internal trips generated by the city. A conservative estimate of 5% reduction in automobile trips by implementing bus service in the project corridor would still result in an average daily traffic (ADT) of 12,000 vehicles per day in 1995 and 20,000 vehicles per day in 2015. These traffic volumes still warrant the proposed improvements. As stated in the Environmental Assessment, providing some form of public transportation would not be a feasible alternative to improving the subject roadway. Public transportation is not a viable substitute for widening NC 210. Public bus transportation would be a likely supplement to improving the existing facility, thus extending the useful life of the upgraded facility. Comment: "DEM recommends DOT apply for an Individual Permit for the entire project." Response: See response to similar comment from NCWRC on page 6. C. Public Hearing Comments A combined corridor/design public hearing for this project was held on July 22, 1993 at VFW Post No. 9103 in Harnett County. Approximately 75 citizens and 10 NCDOT personnel attended this hearing. The following comments are typical of those raised by the public at the public hearing. Comment: Approximately five citizens way acquisition or compensation property improvements. raised questions about right of for the displacement of specific Response: Each property owner will be visited individually by a right of way appraiser as part of the acquisition process. During these visits any specific questions about compensation or property improvements will be answered. 8 Comment: About four citizens raised questions about existing drainage problems or proposed drainage treatments. Such as "Are the ditches going to be put back in that are on the side of the road?" Response: Existing shoulder ditches will not be required after the project is completed. The proposed improvements include curb and gutter which will handle this drainage function. Any questions that could be answered at the hearing by DOT design staff were addressed there. Any identified drainage problems were noted and will be considered in the final project design. Comment: "Once this project starts, how long is this area going to be torn up?" Response: Construction should take about two years to complete. Comment: "Anybody thought about the integration of the loop that is projected to come into 210?" (TIP Project R-2629) Response: This project has been coordinated with project R-2629. An interchange is currently proposed at NC 210 on project R-2629. The proposed five lane section, on NC 210, can easily be bridged to construct this interchange. Comment: "Is there a proposed speed limit?" Response: The existing speed limit is 45 miles per hour (mph). This project has been designed to allow a continued 45 mph speed limit. Comment: "...I live right at the intersection of Manchester Road and NC 210. I propose that we put a stoplight there. There have been so many accidents there." Response: Study of accident data and traffic projections available at this time do not indicate a need for a signal at this intersection as part of this project. This intersection can be studied after the project is completed to determine if the situation has changed. V. REVISIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT A. Right of Way Page 1, Right of Way: Further review of existing documentation revealed that the existing right of way width at the north end of the project is 60 feet, symmetrical about the center line of existing NC 210, from SR 1451 (Manchester Road) to SR 1121 (Ray Road). Existing right of way is 100 feet in width along the remainder of the project. B. Geodetic Markers Page 2, Geodetic Markers: Further evaluati Environment, Health, and Natural Resources to geodetic markers likely to be impacted by the markers are located along the project and may construction. The NC Geodetic Survey will be construction. C. Intersection Treatment on led the NC Department of revise the estimate of project. Three geodetic be impacted by project contacted prior to Page 6, Proposed Intersection Treatment: After further evaluation the realignment of Samual Drive has been included as part of this project. Samual Drive will be realigned to intersect NC 210 opposite SR 1620 (McCormick Road), eliminating an off-set intersection. This will reduce conflicts between vehicles attempting left turns into the two roads. VI. ONLY PRACTICABLE ALTERNATIVE FINDING Executive Order 11990 (23 CFR 771.125(a)(1)) states that federal agencies shall avoid direct or indirect support of new construction in wetlands wherever there is a practicable alternative. As described in the Environmental Assessment, the subject project will impact approximately 4.8 acres of wetland. No practicable alternative to this wetland taking exists because: 10 1. The no-build alternative would not relieve the growing traffic congestion along this section of NC 210. This would only increase the safety risks to and trip times for the traveling public. 2. Other possible alignments would involve greater wetland impacts, since such alignments would involve a new location crossing of the Lower Little River. Other alignments would also have a greater impacts on habitat for the Red-cockaded woodpecker, a federally protected species known to live in the project area. NCDOT has incorporated with this project all practicable measures to minimize harm to wetlands because NCDOT will: 1. Mitigate for the project related loss of jurisdictional wetland by the restoration and/or enhancement of a similar amount of wetland in the project vicinity. A complete mitigation plan will be developed in coordination with the COE and other agencies during the permit process after the final project design is complete. 2. Use applicable best management practices in the construction of this project to ensure that the minimum amount of wetland practicable will be impacted. Based on the above considerations, it is determined that there is no practicable alternative to this proposed construction in wetlands and that the proposed action includes all practicable measures to minimize harm to wetlands which may result from such use. VII. FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT Based upon 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 this 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. 11 Additional Informational Additional information concerning the project and Finding of No Significant Impact 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 919-856-4346 H. Franklin Vick, P. E. Manager, Planning and Environmental Branch N. C. Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Telephone 919-733-3141 WTG/plr APPENDIX Agency Comments on the Environmental Assessment \EµT OF ¦ PSF« •=?? ?yF TAI?o? e? United States Department of the Interior AME y O 7 9 FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE RCH s \a°9 Raleigh Field Office ¦ Post Office Box 33726 Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726 November 23, 1992 Mr. L.J. Ward, P.E. Manager, Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways Department of Transportation PO Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Attention: William T. Goodwin Jr. Dear Mr. Ward: This responds to your October 19, 1992, request for comments on the environmental assessment prepared for Spring Lake, NC 210 improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road, Cumberland and Harnett Counties, North CarolinA (T.I.P. number R-2230A). The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) offers the following recommendations in accordance with the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.), and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543). The Service has reviewed the environmental assessment -or this project and finds that it adequately addresses environmental impacts, except in its analysis of impacts to the red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis), a Federally-listed, endangered species. The Service cannot concur at this time with the ---conclusion on page 25 that "minimal impact to the species is anticipated." The Service does not concur with your conclusion because: O The foraging habitat analysis does not consider overlap among foraging ranges of the several colonies in the project vicinity. o Information available to this office indicates that at least one other active red-cockaded woodpecker cluster occurs in the vicinity but was not recorded and considered in the surveys. A-1 "We.can discuss these issues in greater detail if you wish to meet with the Service. The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. If you have any questions, please contact Debbie Mignogno, Endangered Species Coordinator, or David Dell, Permits Coordinator for this office (919/856-4520). Sincerely, bv't"- &-a L.K. Mike Gantt Supervisor r A-2 United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Ecological Services Post Office Box 33726 Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726 March 15, 1994 Mr. H. Frank Vick P.E, Manager Planning and Environmental Branch State of North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Vick: ¦ TAKES¦v? PRIDE IN AMERICA?? El IrtAA 1 7 1994 '(fir ?. E•Ilt ?l•i •1 L• ',Y,:, The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has reviewed your January 13, 1994, biological assessment for the Federally-listed endangered red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) (RCW) in the study area of R-2230; Improvements to NC Highway 210, from Holland Drive, 3.9 miles to Ray Road (SR 1121) ; Spring Lake, Cumberland and Harnett Counties, North Carolina (Federal Aid Project RS-3274(3), State Project No. 6.441037). The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has designated the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) as the non-Federal representative to conduct informal consultations and prepare biological assessments on Federally-listed species. However, FHWA is responsible for furnishing guidance and supervision as well as independently reviewing and evaluating the scope and contents of the biological assessments. The ultimate responsibility for compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C.1531-1543)(Act), remains with FHWA. The project proposal involves widening the existing 2 and 3 lane highway. to a 5 lane curb ard.getter section, and widening the bridge over the Lower Little River. The proposed right-of-way width for this project is 100 feet, inclusive of. the existing highway. The paved section will be 64 feet wide with approximately 20 feet on either side cleared for the road expansion. The proposed project will pass through the foraging habitat of one group of RCWs. Service guidelines for evaluating potential impacts to RCWs from proposed actions define foraging habitat as a one-half mile radius from the RCW cluster center. The one-half mile radius foraging circle for this group is overlapped by 4 other active RCW foraging circles (Figure 1). The proposed highway widening project will directly impact the foraging area of RCW cluster "A". The foraging analysis, however, indicates sufficient post project foraging A-3 substrate remaining to satisfy the RCW group's foraging requirements pursuant to current Service guidelines. Therefore, the Service concurs with your assessment that the proposed project will not adversely affect the Federally endangered RCW. In view of this, we believe the requirements of Section 7 of the Act are fulfilled. However, obligation under Section 7 of the Act must be reconsidered if: (1) new information reveals impacts of this identified action that may affect listed species in a manner not previously considered; (2) this action is subsequently modified in a manner which was not considered in this review;.or (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat determined that may be affected by the identified action. Due to the cumulative impact of Federal, State and private developmental activity occurring in and around the Fort Bragg and Fayetteville areas, the service is concerned about the long-termed viability of the Sandhills RCW population. Additionally, NCDOT along with FHWA has several proposed construction projects in this area (i.e., X-2, NC-87 and Fayetteville Outer Loop). The Service recommends future Section 7 consultations, in the vicinity of the Fort Bragg/Fayetteville area, include an integrated highway/RCW master plan with the recovery of the RCW as a key objective. To further assist Federal agency's in meeting their responsibilities under the Act, we recommend that future biological reports regarding endangered species not requiring the preparation of an environmental impact statement contain the following: 1. A description of the 2. A description of the by the action; 3. A review of the lite: 4. A description of any that may be affected action to be considered; specific area that may be affected rature and other information; listed species or critical habitat by the action; 5. An analysis of the "effects of the action", as define by -CFR 402.02, on. the species and habitat including consideration of direct, indirect, cumulative effects, and the results of any related studies; 6. A description of the manner in which the action may affect any listed species or critical habitat; 7. Summary of evaluation criteria used as a measurement of potential effects; and 8. Determination statement based on evaluation criteria. The Service appreciat#s your continuing efforts and shared commitment to the recovery and long-term conservation of Federally A-4 listed species. If you have any questions, please contact Ray Johnson at (919) 856-4520. Sincerely L.K. Mike Gantt Supervisor cc: Mr. Roy C. Shelton Operations Engineer Federal Highway Administration 310 New Bern Avenue, Suite 410 Raleigh, North Carolina 27601 A-5 M I Jv l , ow 1 t 1 --?-- 13.1 A 367 A81 371 1'3 2 um FORT BRAGG MILIT4RY RESERVATION FIGURE 1: A NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH RED - COCKADED WOODPECKER FORAGING HABITAT CIRCLES CUMBERLAND COUNTY R-2230 A-b DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS P.O. BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890 November 30, 1992 W REPLY REFER W Planning Division Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways North Carolina Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh. "forth Carolina 27011-5201 Dear Mr. Ward: 71 DEC 0 2 1992 ?? OfVfSlG?1 pF ?'? ?4' a , HIG?:.a,AYS aQ? This is in response to your letter of October 19, 1992, requesting our comments on the "Environmental Assessment for Federal Aid Project: Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121), Cumberland-Harnett Counties, F. A. Project RS-3274(3), State Project 8.1441501, T.I.P. :R-2230A" (Regulatory Branch Action I.D. No. 199300571). Our comments, from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) perspective, involve impacts to COE projects, flood plains, and other environmental aspects, primarily waters and wetlands. The proposed improvements do not cross any COE-constructed flood control or navigation projects. The proposed project is sited in Cumberland and Harnett Counties, which participate in the Federal Flood Insurance Program. The proposed improvements have planned crossings of Little River and Jumping. Run Creek in Cumberland County. Little River has been studied by detailed methods with the 100-year flood elevations determined and a floodway defined. The 100-year flood plain of Jumping Run Creek has been mapped using approximate methods. We suggest that you coordinate with Cumberland County for compliance with their flood plain ordinance and possible, revision to their flood insurance maps and report. Our Wilmington Regulatory Office has reviewed the above- mentioned project and offers the following comments. a. The width of encroachment into wetlands at each crossing - was not provided. Stating that impacts "are based on a 100' ROW" does not provide enough information to verify that a crossing qualifies for a particular Nationwide Permit. A-7 -2- b. Pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Regulatory Program, Title 33, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 330.6, published in the Federal Register on November 22, 1991, authorization was provided for discharges of dredged or fill material into headwaters and isolated waters. We have determined that the proposed crossings at Little River and Jumping Run Creek are located below the headwaters of these two waterbodies and, therefore, Nationwide Permit No. 26 does not apply for wetland fills associated with these crossings. Individual Department of the Army authorization may be required for impacts to wetlands at these two sites. c. The Environmental Assessment should provide detailed information on how impacts to Little River and adjacent wetlands were determined. d. Concurrence must be obtained from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that no impacts to federally protected species or their habitat will occur if Department of the Army permits are granted. e. Onsite mitigation options should be explored and a mitigation plan provided to.this office prior to permit issuance. Mr. Scott McLendon is the point-of-contact for processing your Department of the Army permit for the proposed project. Should you have questions concerning the permit, please contact Mr. McLendon at (919) 251-4725. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If , we can be of further assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us. Sincerely,; Lawtench. Saunder'9 CH O, P ,fanning Division A-8 N'ORTH'CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE ' D l5 lh ?I ' DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION 116 WEST JONES STREET 12-02-92 `LL RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 603-8003 "OJECT MANAGEM t -- r INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COMMENTS 1i 1992 f MAILED TO: FROM: NC DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION MRS. CHRYS BAGGETT CALVIN LEGGETT DIRECTOR PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT BRANCH N C STATE CLEARINGHOUSE HIGHWAY BLDG/INTER-OFFICE PROJECT DESCRIPTION: ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO NC 2107 FROM HOLLAND DRIVE TO RAY ROAD (SR 11213 IN SPRING LAKE, NC (TIP #R-2230A) SAI NO 93E42200259 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 1S SUBMITTED: ( ) NO COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED ( X) COMMENTS ATTACHED SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE (919) 733-0499. C.C. REGION M A-9 w. STAle e State of North Carolina .Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary MEMORANDUM Douglas G. Lewis Director Planning and Assessment TO: Chrys Baggett FROM: Melba McGee bL-."`-' Project Review Coordinator RE: EA for the Proposed Improvements to NC 210 from Holland Drive to Ray Road, Cumberland/Harnett Counties, 93-0259 DATE: November 301 1992 The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources has reviewed the environmental assessment for the proposed improvements to NC 210, Spring Lake, from Holland Dr. to Ray Rd.(SR1121) in Cumberland-Harnett counties, TIP Y R=2230A. We ask that you continue to work with our agencies to thoroughly answer their concerns in the final document and that every effort be made to avoid and minimize environmental impacts during the final design and construction stages. Thank you for your continuing cooperation toward our mutual goals. MM: bb Attachments cc: David Foster P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611.7687 Tclephone 919.7336376 An Eoual Ov?rtuni ?• ?.ffirmad?r .aC:ion Ftnnln.rr A-10 i ' RE.. North Caroliiza Wildlife Resources Commission 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 Environm t, Health, & Natural Resources FROM: (,,,Dennis Stewart, Manager Habitat Conservation Program Date: November 17, 1992 SUBJECT: Administrative Action - Environmental Assessment (EA) for NC 210 Improvements from Holland Drive to Ray Road, Cumberland/Harnett Counties, North Carolina, TIP No. R-2230A, SCH Project No. 93- 0259. The N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) has completed a review of the proposed project and possible impacts on existing wildlife and fishery resources in the study area. Our comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332 (2)(C)), and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). The N. C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to widen 3.9 miles of NC 210 and replace an existing bridge over the Lower Little River. In previous scoping comments, (Fred A. Harris, November-8-,--1990), the NCWRC requested that information on fish and wildlife populations, listed species, and aquatic and wetland habitats be included in the document. We also requested that wetland sites in the project area be mapped, and that construction impacts on wetland areas be described and mitigation measures proposed. The NCWRC appreciates that project impacts have been reduced by the use of existing right-of-way for the proposed highway improvements. However, the project will still impact nearly five acres of wetland habitat. As mentioned in the EA (p. 19), the quality of aquatic habitat in the study area is relatively high, supporting numerous sport A-11 Memo Page 2 November 17, 1992 fish species. Siltation impacts from highway construction could significantly reduce the fisheries potential of affected habitat. Loss of upland habitat along the project corridor may affect state- and federally listed species, particularly red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW). While wetland mitigation is mentioned in the EA, the number of wetland sites for which mitigation will occur is not specified. Since an individual 404 permit is likely to be required for the project, the NCWRC recommends that the NCDOT include all wetland impacts from the project under a single 404 permit. To the extent possible, mitigation for wetland loss should involve restoration and enhancement of previously degraded wetlands in the project area.. off-site mitigation areas, if needed, should be identified within the Cape Fear River basin. Hydrologic crossing structures and roadway approaches should be designed to minimize wetland encroachment, -and Best Management Practices should be strictly followed during construction activities in these areas. While surveys were not conducted for state listed species, the likelihood of impacts on many of these species may be-reduced by avoiding or minimizing loss of wetland and aquatic habitat. While the EA (pp. 24-25) states that project impacts to RCW foraging habitat will be minimal, the NCWRC recommends 'that these habitat areas be avoided to the extent possible during construction. Placement of easements, spoil, and other project related clearing should be actively minimized in RCW foraging habitat. The RCW Foraging Habitat Study (Appendix A) has been forwarded to NCWRC endangered species biological staff. If subsequent review of project impacts- on RCW habitat is warranted, the NCDOT should coordinate such review with the NCWRC and other agencies. . Thank you for the ongoing. opportunity to provide input to planning stages for this project. If we can further assist your office, please call David Yow, Highway Project Coordinator, at (919) 528-9887. DLS/DLY cc: Thomas Padgett, District 4 Wildlife Biologist Keith Ashley, District 4 Fisheries Biologist Randy Wilson, Nongame/Endangered Species Program Mgr. David Yow, Highway Project Coordinator A-12. :i E-5 L o ,1092 State of North Carolina Department of En?ironment, Health, and Natural . Source- a Division of Land Resources v eve ?;'•?? -nes G. Martin, Governor PROJECT REVIEW COMMENTS dWn W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary z Project Number: t ' :: ? . ••=> County: C -• %! %c-?"L,^,?•?> ,j Director Project Name: c c T5' Geodetic Survev This project will impact. 3 geodetic survey markers. N.C. Geodetic Survey should be contacted prior to construction at P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, N.C. 27611 (919) 733-3836. 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) For more information contact the Geodetic Survey office at (9 (F-9) 733-3836': 7 2- Reviewer Date 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 Environmen' al Polio-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 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 (919) 733-4574. Reviewer Date P.O. Box 27687 • Raleigh. N.C. 27611-7687 • Telephone (919) 733-3833 An Equal Opporruniry Affirmative Action Employer A-13 y ? State of North Carolina = Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management 512 North Salisbury Street - Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 James G. Mardn, Governor A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E. William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary November 16, 1992 Acting Director MEMORANDUM To: Monica SwihartW4.'""??6?-? u r ?? CLU.t? i uQ, GLu2Q5?55 y?cLt?? Through: John Dorne?? O From: Eric Galamb Subject: . Proposed NC 210 Widening From Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties State Project DOT No. 8.1441501, TIP #R-2230A EHNR # 93-0259, DEM WQ # 7331 The Water Quality Section of the Division of Environmental Management requests that the following topics be discussed in the Final EA document: A. NCDOT is requested to discuss thoroughly a mass-transit alternative to widening the existing road. B. Will borrow or waste locations be in wetlands? If so, the contractor will be required to obtain a 401 Water Quality Certification. C. DEM recommends that DOT apply for an Individual Permit for the entire project. This would expedite th-e permitting process since Nationwide Permit 14 requires writtel,-concurrence. D. Please ensure that sediment and erosion control measures are not placed in wetlands. Please be aware that 401 Certification may be denied if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. nc210.ea cc: Eric Galamb Asheville Fayette: iiic 704/2;1.6205 919/4E6-:5,11 P.C uoz RE-CIWIAL OFFICES Mooresville Raleigh; Was`:neon i:mington Wms•o.:•S&;err. 704/663-1699 919/571-700 9iS.-5.6451 ;•395-390 n 9i9iS9: 7007 Pollution Prevention 11 s Z9535. Raleigh. Nortli Caroli._ ='S2G-0535 7:1c?honc::•'=_.7015 An E.^,ual opportunity Action =:.?iova: A-14 DIVISI02+ OF PARKS AND RECREATION .4ovember 16, 1992 ?y Memorandum ?- 1 TO: Melba-McGee FROM: Stephen Hall SUBJECT: EA -- NC 210 Improvements, Spring Lake REFERENCE: 93-0259 The assessment of the potential biological impacts of this project appear to be reasonably complete, although the vegetative survey conducted in January (p. 15) was probably done too early to have identified all the species potentially present in the study area. The analysis of probable impacts to the colony of the federally- endangered red-cockaded woodpecker (Pi.coides borealis) is also quite detailed. However, it only considers the present situation and does not allow for additional losses elsewhere within the foraging range or potential restoration of the habitat within the area that will be lost due to the project. We assume that the US Fish and Wildlife Service has been consulted about the possible need for mitigation and we will defer to their judgement in this regard. A-15 ?d Sri o? State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 James G. Martin, Governor A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E. William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary November 16, 1992 Acting Director MEMORANDUM To: Monica Swihart Through: John Dorne), From: Eric Galamb Subject: Proposed NC 210 Widening From Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties State Project DOT No. 8.1441501, TIP #R-2230A EHNR # 93-0259, DEM WQ # 7331 The Water Quality Section of the Division of Environmental Management requests that the following topics be discussed in the Final EA document: A. NCDOT is requested to discuss thoroughly a mass-transit alternative to widening the existing road. B. Will borrow or waste locations be in wetlands? If so, the contractor will be required to obtain a 401 Water Quality Certification. C. DEM recommends that DOT apply for an Individual Permit for the entire project. This would expedite the permitting process since Nationwide Permit 14 requires written concurrence. D. Please ensure that sediment and erosion control measures are not placed in wetlands. Please be aware that 401 Certification may be denied if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. nc210.ea cc: Eric Galamb REGIONAL OFFICES Asheville Fayetteville Mooresville Raleigh Washington Wilmington Winston-Salem 704/251-6208 919/486-1541 7 04/663 -1699 919/571-4700 919/946-6481 919/395-3900 919/896-7007 Pollution Prevention Pays P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 An Fqual Opportunity Afl-irnlative Action Employer Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Planning and Assessment El Project located in 7th floor library Project.Review Form Project Number: County: Date: Date Response Du (firm deadline): This project is being reviewed as indicated below: Regional Office/Phone ? Asheville Fayetteville Mooresville ? Raleigh ? Washington ? Wilmington ? Winston-Salem Manager Sign-Off/Region: Regional Office Area All R/O Areas it ater roundwater and Quality Engineer t ecreational Consultant ? Coastal Management Consultant ? Ottrers--- >sr?, , ...OCT 29 j99"? . Date: Response (check all applicable) In-House Review ? Soil and Water ? Coastal Management ? Water Resources VWildlife -lb.'?'J' ?Ou7 Forest Resources Land Resources Parks and Recreation Environmental Management ? Marine Fisheries Water Planning Environmental Health Solid Waste Managemen ? Radiation Protection ? David Foster ?Other (specify) In-House Reviewer/Agency: 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 Division of Planning and Assessment by Due Date shown. P$-104 Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties F. A. Project RS - 3274(3) State Project 8.1441501 T. I. P. # R-2230A f 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) f. ate L. J. Ward, P. E., Manager 11- Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT F? ?Z Date r ..1 rll 1 .7 L. UI UI , f . L.. vi on Administrator, FHWA Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties F. A. Project RS - 3274(3) State Project 8.1441501 T. I. P. # R-2230A ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Document Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By: Wi 11 iam T. Goodwin Jr. Project Planning Engineer Linwood Stone Urban Project Planning Engineer, Unit Head Franklin Vick, P. E., Assistant Manager Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE SUMMARY i I. BASIS FOR PROPOSED ACTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 A. Existing Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1. Length of Studied Section . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 2. Functional Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 3. Existing Cross Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 4. Right of Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 5. Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 6. Structures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 7. Intersecting Roads and Type ofControl . . . . . . 2 8. Access Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 9. Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 10. Geodetic Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 11. Bicycle Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 12. School Buses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 B. Traffic Volumes and Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2. C. Transportation Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 D. Accident Record. . . . ? 3 E. Benefit to State, Region, and Community. 4 II. DES CRIPTION OF PROPOSED PROJECT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 A. General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 B. Historical Resume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 C. Recommended Improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 1. Length of Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2. Project Termini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 3. Proposed Typical Section. . . . . . 5 4. Proposed Right of Way and Access Control . . . . . 5 5. Required Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 6. Design Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 7. Permits . . . . . . . . . . 6 8. Proposed Intersection Treatment . . . . . . . . . 6 III. ALT ERNATIVES CONSIDERED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 A. Recommended Alternative. . . . . . . . . 6 B. Other Widening Alternatives and Detour Structure . . . 7 C. Public Transportation Alternative. . . . . . . . . . . 7 D. "No-Build" Alternative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 IV. SOC IAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS . . . . . . . . 8 A. Land Use Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 e TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) PAGE 1. Status of Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 2. Existing Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3. Existing Zoning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 4. Future Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . 10 5. Project Compatibility with Local Plans . . . . . . 10 B. Soc ial and Economic Characteristic . . . . . . . . . . 10 1. Neighborhood Characteristic . . . . . . . . . . . 10 2. Economic Factors. ,. . . . . . . . . . . 11 3. Public Facilities and Services. . . . . . . . 11 4. Probable Impacts of the Proposed Action . . . . . 11 a. Relocation Impacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 b. Social Impacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 C. Cultural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 1. Architectural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 2. Archaeological Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 D. Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 1. Plant Communities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 a. Uplands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 b. Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 C. Plant Community Impacts . . . . . . . . . . . 17 2. Wildlife . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 3. Soils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 4. Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 5. Jurisdictional Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 a. b. 6. Pr a. b. Permi is . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Mitigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 otected Species . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Federally-protected Species. . . . . . . . . 23 State-Protected Species. . . . . . . . . . . 26 E. Floodplain Involvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 F. Highway Traffic Noise Analysis . . . . . . . . . . 28 G. Air Quality Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . 34 H. Construction Impacts . . . . . . . . . . . 36 I. Contaminated Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 J. Farmland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Tables and Figures Appendix A - Foraging Habitat Survey Appendix B - Correspondence Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties F. A. Project RS - 3274(3) State Project 8.1441501 T. I. P. # R-2230A SUMMARY 1. Description of Action The North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of Highways, proposes to improve NC 210 from Holland Drive, in Spring Lake, to Ray Road (SR 1121), north of the Cumberland-Harnett county line. (See Figure 1 for project location.) The existing two and three lane facility is to be widened to a five lane curb and gutter facility, with a new wider bridge over the Lower Little River. This 3.9 mile project has an estimated cost of $ 8,200,000 (including $6,500,000 for construction and $1,700,000 for right of way). 2. Summary of Environmental Impacts The proposed project will have a positive impact.on the Spring Lake area by providing better access and safer travel for part of the NC 210 corridor between Spring Lake and Lillington. Approximately 3 residences and 2 businesses will be relocated by the proposed project. It is anticipated 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. No recreational facilities or sites eligible for the National Register of Historic Places will be involved. Sixty-three residences and 6 businesses are predicted to experience traffic noise level increases approaching or in excess of the FHWA noise abatement criteria (see Section IV.F.) However, no receptors are predicted to experience a substantial increase in noise level. Air quality will not be reduced by the proposed improvements. 3. Alternatives Considered Due to the nature of this project, the widening of an existing roadway, alternative alignments are not feasible or practicable. Due to the traffic and development characteristics of this route, only a five lane curb and gutter section was studied. A number of different widening strategies were considered in an attempt to determine which would have the least impact on the environment and adjacent properties. A symmetrical widening alternate and two different asymmetrical widening alternates were considered. The "do-nothing" alternative was considered and rejected, due to the traffic and safety benefits provided by the proposed improvements. 4. 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. Fish and Wildlife Service U. S. Geological Survey *U. S. Soil Conservation Service *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. Wildlife Resources Commission Region M Council of Governments Cumberland County Commissioners The Mayor of Spring Lake Asterisks (*) indicate agencies from which written responses were received. Those comments are included in the appendix of this report. 5. Action Required by Other Agencies All stream crossings, except the Lower Little River crossing, will meet the criteria for Nationwide #26 or #14 permits. The Lower Little River crossing will require a predischarge notification to be sent to the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers for their evaluation of the proposed crossing to determine the need for an individual permit. 6. 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 919-856-4346 L. J. Ward, P. E. Manager, Planning and Environmental Branch N. C. Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Telephone 919-733-3141 Spring Lake, NC 210 Improvements, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121) Cumberland-Harnett Counties F. A. Project RS - 3274(3) State Project 8.1441501 T. I. P. # R-2230A I. BASIS FOR PROPOSED ACTION A. Existing Conditions 1. Length of Studied Section The studied portion of NC 210 is 3.9 miles in length. 2. Functional Classification NC 210 is classified as an Urban Minor Arterial in the Statewide Functional Classification System. 3. Existing Cross Section The cross section of the studied portion of NC 210 varies. The first several hundred feet are a five lane curb and gutter section. Actual construction begins at the point where the cross section tapers to a three lane shoulder section. The three lane, 40-foot pavement, shoulder section extends for a distance of about 0.75 mile. This section has a 12 foot travel lane in each direction, a 12 foot center left turn lane, and a two foot paved shoulder on each side. Total usable shoulder width for this section is eight feet. From the end of the three lane section northward the existing cross section consists of a two lane, 24 foot pavement, shoulder section. This section consists of two 10 foot travel lanes with a two foot paved shoulder on each side. A 10 foot center left turn lane is provided where needed. Total usable shoudler width for this section is also eight feet. 4. Right of Way The existing right-of-way is 100 feet in width. It is symmetrical about the centerline of the existing roadway. 5. Alignment The existing horizontal roadway alignment contains no curves greater than 3 degrees and the vertical grade does not exceed 3 percent at any location along the project. 2 6. Structures Bridge No. 49 over the Lower Little River has a sufficiency rating of 50.4. This bridge, which is 28 feet wide and approximately 240 feet long, will be replaced. Structure No. 69, a single concrete arch culvert over Jumping Run Creek, has a sufficiency rating of 87.5. This culvert has a span of 44 feet, a rise of 17 feet 4 inches, and a length of 37 feet 9 inches. It will be retained and extended. 7. Intersecting Roads and Type of Control The following State Roads intersect NC 210 within the project limits; SR 1620, SR 1601, SR 1678, SR 1451, SR 1600, SR 1151, SR 1121, and SR 2051. All of these intersections are at-grade, and all but SR 1451 and SR 1121/SR 2051 are stop sign controlled. Both of these intersections are signalized. 8. Access Control No control of access exists, and none is planned for the project. 9. Utilities Water, sewer, electric, and telephone lines are located along the project. 10. Geodetic Markers Two geodetic markers are located along the project and will be impacted by the construction. The North Carolina Geodetic Survey will be contacted prior to construction. 11. Bicycle Facilities NC 210 is not part of the Bicycling Highway System. There does not appear to be any exceptional level of bicycle traffic on the roadway; therefore, no special provisions need to be made for bicycle traffic. 12. School Buses A total of 5 school buses use the studied section of NC 210 daily during the school year. B. Traffic Volumes and Capacity The estimated traffic volumes for the studied facility are as follows (see also Figure 3): . 1995 Average Daily Traffic = high 17600 vpd low 13400 vpd 3 2015 Average Daily Traffic = high 30000 vpd low 22500 vpd (vehicles per day) Truck Tractor Semi-Trailer (TTST) = 19. of ADT Dual Tired Vehicles (Dual) = 3% of ADT The Design Hourly Volume (DHV) is estimated to be 10% of the ADT. NC 210 is a major highway connecting Lillington and Spring Lake. A considerable amount of traffic is added to the flow on NC 210 at SR 1121 (Ray Road), almost doubling the total traffic at this point. For this reason, SR 1121 was chosen as the northern terminal for the subject project. From SR 1121 southward traffic gradually increases to the maximum levels indicated above. Due to the urban nature of development in the vicinity of this project, intersection levels of service will control the overall level of service of the facility. Currently, all unsignalized intersections along the project are operating at level of service B or better. Both signalized intersections are also operating at level of service B. C. Transportation Planning NC 210 is designated as a Major Thoroughfare on the Fayetteville Urban Area Thoroughfare Plan. The five lane proposed cross section for NC 210 is in conformance with the thoroughfare plan, and construction of this project will be a step in the implementation of the thoroughfare plan. D. Accident Record A total of 144 reported accidents including 3 fatalities occurred on the studied portion of NC 210 during the period between March 1, 1989 and February 29, 1992. Forty-six accidents involved vehicles that were in rear-end collisions, 33 involved vehicles making left turns and an additional 31 involved vehicles that ran off the roadway. The total accident rate for the studied section of NC 210 is 250.7 accidents per 100 million vehicle miles (ACC/100 MVM). The statewide average total accident rate for similar facilities from January 1, 1989 to December 31, 1991 was 275.3 ACC/100MVM. Due to the medium to high density development along the studied portion of NC 210, rear-end collisions will continue to be a problem in the future unless provisions are made to handle projected traffic volumes. The proposed improvements, two travel lanes in each direction and a continuous center turn lane, will reduce the potential for this type of accident. The center turn lane will provide motorists with a place to stop and wait for a gap in opposing traffic before making a left turn without having to stop in a travel lane. The 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. 4 E. Benefits to State, Region, and Community The widening of this portion of NC 210 will provide safer and more efficient access to Spring Lake, Fayetteville, Fort Bragg Military Base and Pope Air Force Base. 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 Descriation The North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division of Highways proposes to improve NC 210 from Holland Drive, in Spring Lake, to Ray Road (SR 1121), north of the Cumberland-Harnett county line. (See Figure 1 for project location.) The existing two and three lane facility is to be widened to a five lane curb and gutter facility, with a new wider bridge over the Lower Little River. This 3.9 mile project has an estimated cost of $8,200,000 (including $6,500,000 for construction and $1,700,000 for right of way). B. Historical Resume This project is included in the 1992-1998 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Originally, R-2230 was to include improvements to NC 210 from Spring Lake to Lillington, a distance of 17.8 miles. Subsequently, this project designated R-2230A. A was selected for federal funding. Other improvements to NC 210 north of this project will be made in the future using state funds. The TIP has allocated $1,070,000 for right of way acquisition and $4,550,000 for construction of this project (R-2230A). The total allotment of funds for R-2230 in the 1992-1998 TIP is $11,425,000 including $350,000 spent in prior years, $4,100,000 for right of way acquisition, and $6,975,000 for construction. C. Recommended Improvements 1. Length of Project The studied portion of NC 210 is 3.9 miles in length. 2. Project Termini The project's southern terminus is the end of the existing five lane curb and gutter section just north of Holland Drive in Spring Lake. The project's northern terminus is just north of SR 1121 (Ray Road) in Harnett County. 5 3. Proposed Typical Section The proposed typical section is a five lane curb and gutter section. This section is to have a width of 64 feet from face of curb to face of curb (see Figure 4). 4. Proposed Right of Way Width and Access Control The proposed right of way width for this project is 100 feet primarily symmetrical about the centerline of the existing facility. Exceptions include the following locations where the centerline will be shifted to reduce impacts to adjacent properties.(See Section III. A., for further discussion of these exceptions.) These shifts in alignment may require the acquisition of additional right of way. 1) In the area of the SR 1601 intersection, the centerline will be shifted west approximately 14 feet. 2) In the area of the bridge over the Lower Little River, the centerline will be shifted east approximately 18 feet to facilitate the staged replacement of the existing bridge. 3) In the area of the SR 1121/SR 2051 intersection, at the north end of the project, the centerline will be shifted west approximately 14 feet. No control of access to abutting properties is proposed for this project. 5. Required Structures Bridge No. 49 over the Lower Little River will be replaced with a wider structure. This new structure will be 80 feet wide and approximately 240 feet in length. This replacement will be accomplished in two stages. First, the existing structure will continue to carry traffic while the eastern lanes of the new bridge are constructed just east of the existing structure. Then, traffic will be shifted to the new structure so that the existing structure can be removed and the western section of the new structure built in its place. The arch culvert over Jumping Run Creek, structure number 69, will be retained and extended approximately 20 feet on each end so that the proposed cross section can be accommodated. 6. 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 and the rolling terrain along the project. The speed limit is expected to be 45 miles per hour. 6 7. Permits A predischarge notification is required for the bridge over the Lower Little River. This will alert the US Army Corps of Engineers so that they may determine the need for an Individual Section 404 permit for this structure. It is anticipated that the Nationwide Section 404 permit provisions of 33 CFR 330.5 (a) (26) are applicable in other areas. The conditions and best management practices described in the provisions of 330.5(b) and 330.6 will be followed. 8. Proposed Intersection Treatment All roadway intersections will be at-grade and stop sign controlled, with the exception of SR 1601 (Chapel Hill Road) and SR 1121 (Ray Road)/SR 2051 (Raynor Road) which will remain signalized. The signal controls at these intersections will be revised to accommodate the new traffic patterns. SR 1601 will be realigned to intersect NC 210 opposite the northern most entrance to the Cedarwood Shopping Center. This realignment will eliminate a poor angle of intersection between NC 210 and existing SR 1601. The traffic signal at the existing intersection will be moved to the new intersection. The entrance to the shopping center at the existing SR 1601 intersection will remain open, but will no longer be signalized. All existing pavement on SR 1601 not needed to provide access to residences will be removed. SR 1451 (Manchester Road) will be realigned to intersect NC 210 at a safer, more efficient angle. This new intersection will be approximately 900 feet to the south of the existing intersection. Portions of existing SR 1451 not needed to provide access to residences will be removed. III. ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED A. Recommended Alternative The recommended alternative consists of widening the studied portion of NC 210 to a five lane curb and gutter section. This curb and gutter section will be 64 feet from face of curb to face of curb. This five lane section will provide two travel lanes in each direction and a continuous center left turn lane. The proposed roadway is to be widened symmetrically about the centerline of the existing roadway throughout most of the project. Exceptions to this symmetrical widening include a short section in the area of the SR 1601 intersection, a section at the bridge over the Lower Little River, and a short section at the north end of the project in the area of the intersection of SR 1121/SR 2051. 7 The section of asymmetrical widening in the area of the SR 1601 intersection will move the proposed centerline approximately 14 feet to the west to reduce any adverse impacts to the parking facilities for the Cedarwood Shopping Center. This shift will also reduce impacts to a Precision Tune auto repair facility adjacent to the shopping center. Shifting the proposed centerline approximately 18 feet to the east in the vicinity of the bridge over the Lower Little River will aid in the staged construction of the proposed replacement structure. Using the existing bridge to maintain traffic while the eastern section of the proposed structure is constructed will eliminate the need for a detour structure. After the eastern section of the new bridge is complete, traffic can be shifted to it allowing the existing bridge to be removed and replaced by the western section of the new bridge. The area of asymmetrical widening at the north end of the project will shift the proposed centerline approximately 14 feet west reducing impacts to several residences located on the east side of the existing facility. Other improvements include realigning SR 1601 and SR 1451 to intersect NC 210 at more acceptable angles to provide safer traffic movement between these facilities. SR 1601 will be realigned to intersect NC 210 opposite the northern most entrance to Cedarwood Shopping Center. The existing traffic signal will be shifted north to the proposed intersection. Any part of existing SR 1601 not needed to provide access will be removed. SR 1451 will be realigned to intersect NC 210 approximately 900 feet south of its current intersection. Portions of existing SR 1451 not needed to provide access will also be removed. See figure 2 for aerial views of these intersections. B. Other Widening Alternatives and Detour Structure In addition to the recommended improvements, consideration was given to widening the entire roadway symmetrically about the centerline of the existing facility. This alternative would also require the construction of a detour structure to replace the existing bridge over the Lower Little River. This alternative would also necessitate the relocation of three additional businesses and would considerably increase the right of way cost due to increases in proximity damages to several residences. x In addition to the proposed cross section, consideration was given to a four lane facility. This cross section was rejected due to the capacity deficiencies caused by left turning vehicles and the additional risk of rear-end collisions caused by vehicles turning left from the inside travel lane. Improving the entire facility to a three lane facility would also fail to provide the needed traffic carrying capacity. C. Public Transportation Alternative While a considerable portion of the traffic on NC 210 is local traffic, residential densities are low enough that providing some form of public transportation would not be a feasible alternative to improving the 8 subject roadway. Public transportation is not a viable substitute for widening NC 210. Public bus transportation would be a likely supplement to improving the existing facility, thus extending the useful life of the upgraded facility. D. "No-Build" Alternative If the "no-build" alternative were chosen, it would have a considerable negative impact on transportation in the Spring Lake area. NC 210 is a highly congested facility at present, especially during peak periods. With the projected increases in traffic the service provided by the existing facility would deteriorate even more. Increased congestion would lead to higher operating costs and increased 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. Status of Planning The proposed improvement is located in the planning and zoning jurisdictions of Cumberland County, the Town of Spring Lake, and Harnett County. Spring Lake enforces its zoning ordinance only within its municipal limits (See Figure 5). Cumberland County's most recent Land Use Plan was adopted in 1971 and updated in 1974. The County is currently developing a draft, county-wide Comprehensive Plan. An Economic Potential Study of Downtown Spring Lake was prepared by the Cumberland County Joint Planning Board in 1979. Harnett County adopted its Land Use Plan in 1976, and approved an update in 1987. 2. Existino Conditions Spring Lake is located adjacent to Pope Air Force Base and the Fort Bragg Military Reservation. As such, it is home to many military personnel and their families. Accordingly, the population is somewhat transitory. The land uses found adjacent to NC 210 in Harnett County are typical of those in areas of transition from rural character and use to more urban development. Land uses along NC 210 in Harnett County are mixed, with residential uses located next to commercial and light industrial uses. Much of the land remains undeveloped. Convenience-type businesses are located at the intersection of NC 210 and SR 1121. South of the intersection, linear residential development exists on the east side of the roadway. More commercial 9 land uses, including service stations and convenience stores, occur on the west side. Residential subdivisions are accessed from NC 210 on the east side of the roadway. The backyards of some homes "front" on the roadway. Near Jumping Run Creek, south of the Cumberland County line, the land is undeveloped and wooded. Development is sparse between Jumping Run Creek and the Little River. Some businesses located in this area include a junkyard, automotive repair, tire sales, and thrift shops. The land use takes on a more suburban character inside the Spring Lake municipal limits. The Cedarwood Shopping Center is located on the east side at the intersection of NC 210 and SR 1601 (Chapel Hill Road). It is a neighborhood shopping center with a grocery store, pharmacy, and small specialty shops. Some space in the shopping center is vacant. Other land uses in Spring Lake along NC 210 include a funeral home, churches, retailers, restaurants, and private residences. The Mae Rudd Williams School is located south of the intersection of Holland Drive and NC 210, outside the proposed project limits. 3. Existing Zoning The Town of Spring Lake exercises zoning authority within its municipal limits. The predominant zoning classification located along NC 210 in Spring Lake is the Planned Commercial District C(P). This classification designates areas for use by retail developments. C(P) districts are located in the vicinity of the project's southern terminus at Holland Drive north of Lake Park Drive, and on the eastern side of the roadway south of Chapel Hill Road to the northern municipal limits. A large Residential District (R-10) accommodates an existing subdivision on the western side of NC 210, accessed by Samuel Drive. Smaller Spring Lake zoning districts are scattered along the roadway. These are dominated by commercial and residential districts accommodating varying development densities. One Office and Institutional District (0&I) is located at the intersection of NC 210 and North Fifth Street. Cumberland County is responsible for zoning enforcement north of the Spring Lake municipal limits. Most County zoning districts located along NC 210 are residential. R-10 Residential District is the most common, which permits single family development on lots 10,000 square feet or more in size. R-10 districts are located in the area of the Little River and adjacent to the Spring Lake municipal limits. Other residential districts adjacent to the roadway include the Rural Residential (RR) classification, which permits only low density development, and R-6 and R-6A Residential Districts, which permit a mix of mobile homes, single family, and multifamily development. 10 Several relatively small commercial districts most accommodating existing businesses occur along NC 210 north of Spring Lake. The most common commercial district is the C-3, Heavy Commercial classifica- tion, which permits a wide array of business, service, recreational, and office uses. Other Cumberland County commercial districts along NC 210 include the C-1, Local Business Districts and C(P) Planned Commercial Districts. 4. Future Land Use According to the most recent Cumberland County Land Use Plan Map, most of the land adjacent to NC 210 is designated for low density residential development (2 to 7.5 dwelling units/acre). Medium density residential development (7.5 to -15 dwelling units/acre) is planned near the intersection of NC 210 and NC 87-24. A commercial node is also indicated for the intersection. A neighborhood shopping center is planned for the west side-of NC 210, south of the Little River. Medium density residential development is to surround the designated neighborhood shopping center. The land use of the east side of NC 210, north of the Little River is expected to remain rural. The Harnett County Land Use Plan indicates that the land adjacent to and east of NC 210 is expected to remain rural. Residential development is expected west of NC 210 near the Cumberland County line. 5. Project Compatibility with Local Plans Land uses along NC 210 are mixed, with a combination of commercial, residential, and office uses. This land use configuration requires direct access from NC 210 to almost every parcel. As the proposed widening will improve traffic flow in the area by facilitating turning movements to the adjacent land, the project is compatible with local plans. B. Social and Economic Environment 1. Neighborhood Characteristic Cumberland County is located in the southeastern section of the state and is bounded by Sampson, Bladen, Robeson, Hoke, Moore, and Harnett Counties. According to the U. S. Population Census Data for 1990, Cumberland County has a population of 274,566. Spring Lake is situated just north of the city of Fayetteville. It is also contiguous to the Fort Bragg Military Base and Pope Air Force Base. According to the 1990 census, Spring Lake has a population of 7,524. In the vicinity of the project's southern terminus at Holland Drive the population density is relatively high. This urban setting is a mixture of residential and commercial development, including the 11 Cedarwood Shopping Center. Moving north along the project this urban. sprawl gives way to highway type commercial establishments intermixed with suburban residential development and undeveloped land. By the north end of the project, at SR 1121 (Ray Road) development has changed to a more rural character. 2. Economic Factors At the end of December 1990, Cumberland County had 94,630 persons in the labor force. Out of this total 89,720 persons were employed. This left an unemployed total of 5,360 or 5.7 percent. Employment in the town of Spring Lake and the surrounding area is enhanced by the proximity of the Fort Bragg Military Base and Pope Air Force Base. The proposed action will increase the accessibility of these facilities to commuters using NC 210 to reach their jobs. It is anticipated that after the proposed improvements are made to the existing facility, increased commercial and residential development will take place along the proposed facility. This should enhance the local tax base. A few businesses located in close proximity to the existing facility may have to be relocated to provide adequate room for the proposed facility. 3. Public Facilities and Services Public Facilities along the proposed project consist of Fire Station Number 14, Little River Baptist Church, V. F. W. Post 4542 N. C. Ladies Auxiliary, United Pentecostal Holiness Church, and Adcock Funeral Home. These facilities appear to be far enough back from the existing roadway so they will not be impacted by the proposed action. 4. Probable Impacts of the Proposed Action a. Relocation Impacts Relocation of 3 families and 2 businesses will be unavoidable where homes and businesses are located in close proximity to the existing facility. A few others will suffer from proximity damage due to the proposed improvements. These relocations are not expected to cause a breakup of a community, nor the disruption of services. It is anticipated that adequate 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. 12 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 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. 13 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 rent a, 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 or adequate 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 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. 14 b. Social Impacts The proposed action will have a positive impact on the community as a whole. Such positive impacts will include: increased safety for the motoring public, and improved visibility and accessibility for various businesses and services along the proposed facility. Since Spring Lake serves as a bedroom community for military and civilian personnel of the local. Military Bases, the proposed improvements will increase their efficiency in getting to and from their destinations. The proposed action will not be cohesion, and it will not interfere public facilities or services. C. Cultural Resources 1. Architectural Resources a disruption to community with the accessibility of 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. A comprehensive reconnaissance level survey of the area surrounding the project corridor was conducted. All roads in the survey area were driven to delineate an appropriate Area of Potential Effect (APE), record worthy properties over 50 years of age, and determine the presence of properties listed in or potentially eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The appropriate APE determined for this project is a narrow corridor on either side of the existing road basically running behind the properties directly facing present NC 210 in developed areas and along contour and tree lines in the wooded areas and open fields (See Figure II). The APE is characterized by rather regular spaced buildings fronting NC 210 interspersed with thickly wooded areas and open fields. Clumps of intensive development, most commonly mobile home parks and assisted housing, are located at either end of the project. No properties 50 years old or older nor any properties listed in or eligible for the National Register were found in the Area of Potential Effect. Overhills, a potentially eligible National Register property consisting of approximately 15,000 acres is located to the west of this project and the Fort Bragg Military Reservation is located to the east. Neither of these properties will be affected either physically or visually by the improvements to this section of NC 210. A buffer of new development effectively shields Overhills from the project. Wooded areas and modern development separate the project from Fort Bragg. Therefore no further compliance activities associated with either Section 106 or the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended or with Section 4(f) of-the Department of Transportation Act of 1966 are appropriate. 15 2. Archaeological Resources Since this project is to widen an existing facility in an urban setting, the possibility of undiscovered, undisturbed archaeological sites is slight. A number of other archaeological surveys in the area have shown a scarcity of significant sites. NCDOT requested a ruling from the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) as to the need for an archaeological survey for this project. The SHPO responded by letter dated May 17, 1990 stating that: "Based on the information at hand, we concur with the assessment that potentially significant archaeological sites will not be affected by the proposed project. Therefore, we do not recommend that an archaeological survey be conducted in connection with this project". The SHPO's entire response is included in the appendix of this report. D. Natural Resources A field survey was conducted January 20, 1991 to identify-vegetative communities, wildlife species and other natural resources contained within the study area. Vegetative communities and wildlife were inventoried along the 3.9 mile alignment. Wetlands were identified using methods in the 1987 "Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands". In-house preparatory work was done prior to the field investigation. The Cumberland County soil survey, the hydric soils lists for Cumberland and Harnett Counties, and United States Geological Survey (USGS) Manchester N.C. quadrangle map were studied to identify potential wetland sites. Harnett County does not have a published survey, but pertinent soil maps were obtained from the Soil Conservation Service (SCS). "Classifi- cations and Water Quality Standards Assigned to the Waters of the Cape Fear River Basin" (N.C. Dept. of Environment, Health and Natural Resources - NCDEHNR) was reviewed to determine classifications for drainages crossed in the study area. The N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) were consulted to determine if any protected flora or fauna occur in the project area. In addition, aerial photographs and other resources were used to identify potential habitat. 1. Plant Communities Seven plant communities were identified in the study area. Upland plant communities are comprised of Man-dominated Areas, Xeric Sandhill Scrub, Mesic Pine Flatwoods and Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest. Wetland plant communities include Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest, wet Pine flatwoods and Sand and Mudbar Communities. a. U lands Man-dominated Areas Man-dominated lands are areas where man's structures or activities prevent natural plant succession. Maintained highway rights of way,and residential and commercial development 16 physically prevent natural plant succession. Maintained shoulder slopes, grounds and lawns support turf (Festuca sp.) as the dominant vegetative component complemented with landscape ornamentals. Mowing is frequently associated with these areas. Agricultural lands are areas currently managed for agriculture, including fields under cultivation, fields temporarily fallow and staging areas associated with farming. This community is scattered throughout the project area. Corn, tobacco, soybeans, small grains and forage crops are commonly grown. Because of routine management practices associated with farming, this community is considered to retain only isolated remnants of its native character, providing little of its initial value as wildlife habitat. Fields allowed to lay fallow host a proliferation of herbaceous plants, both native and invading weedy species. Tall goldenrod (Solidago canadensis var. scabra), dog-fennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), fall panic grass (Panicum dichotomiflorum) and hairy crabgrass (Digitaria cil' iaris) occur within the fields and along field edges. Xeric Sandhill Scrub Xeric Sandhill Scrub communities occur on coarse, deep, infertile sands on upland ridgetops and slopes in the project area. Here, they typically grade into wet pine flatwoods. They are excessively drained and are low diversity communities, supporting an open canopy of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) with an open to dense understory of turkey oak ( uercus laevis). Wire grass (Aristida stricta) is the dominant herb, with patches of trailing arbutus (Epigaea repens) encountered occasionally. Mesic Pine Flatwoods Mesic pine flatwoods in the study area are sites that are neither excessively drained nor have a significant seasonal high water table. Longleaf and loblolly pines (Pinus taeda) share a fairly closed canopy. Dense understory is comprised of southern red oak ( uercus falcata), water oak ( uercus nigra), sweetgum Liquidambar styraciflua) and scattered red maple (Acer rubrum). Patches of wire grass and braken fern (Pteridium a ui inum dominate in places. A vigorous vine layer omposedlow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) and green-briers (Smilax rotundifolia and S. bona-nox). Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest Loblolly pine, sometimes scattered with longleaf pine, shares an open to closed canopy with a variety of hardwood species. Prevalent are willow oak ( uercus p hellos), post oak (Q. stellata), southern red oak and hickories (Carya allida and C. tomentosa). Dogwood (Cornus florida) is frequently seen in the understory, as are blueberries ()(accinium spp.), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera) and horse sugar (Symplocos tintoria). Braken fern and pip is ssewa (Chimaphila maculata) are notable herbaceous species. Muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia), yellow jessamine and greenbrier form the vine stratum. 17 b. Wetlands Wet Pine Flatwoods Wet pine flatwoods occur on sandy sediments, typically grading into.xeric sandhill shrub communities in the project area. An open to closed canopy consists of loblolly and longleaf pine. Redbay (Persea borbonia), sweet bay (Magnolia virginiana), sassafras (Sassafrabidum), wax myrtle and blueberries are important understory components. Inkberry (Ilex lg abra) forms dense thickets in some areas. Wild azalea (Rhododendron nudiflorum) is encountered frequently. Cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea), braken fern, and cane (Arundinaria gigantea) form the herbaceous layer. Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest Mixed pine/hardwood forests are the most prevalent wetland community in the project area. Loblolly pine, river birch (Betula ni ra), water oak, tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) ann sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) form the canopy. American elm (Ulmus americana) is an important component at Jumping Run Creek. Sweet bay, red maple, and fetter bush (Lyonia sp.), interspersed with thickets of dewberry (Rebus trivial7s) form the understory. Witches grass (Dichanthelium sco arium) and cane. form the herbaceous stratum. Greenbrier Smilax laurifolia) and yellow jessamine are common vines. Sand and Mudbar Community Large expanses of sand and mud deposits are prevalent in and adjacent to wetland site #13 (see figure B1). These areas are disturbed by flooding, sediment input and deposition from the adjacent stream channel. Because of these community dynamics, the system does not support a forest canopy. The vegetational structure is composed of a dense herbaceous layer interspersed with a few scattered shrubs and trees. Typical herbs and shrubs include wool grass (Scirpus c erinus), soft rush (Juncus effusus) witches grass Aster Aster spp.), thoroughwort (Eupatorium spp.), slender spikerush (Chasmanthium laxum), climbing hempweed (Mikania scandens), tear thumb (Po ygonum teretifolium) and black willow (Salix njM). A few trees such as cypress (Taxodium distichum), river birch and willow oak occur along the fringes of the channel. C. Plant Community Impacts The future widening will eliminate strips of plant communities. This will result in direct loss of plant species from clearing operations, soil compaction, and soil erosion. Filling and sedimentation of wetlands may alter drainage or hydrologic continuities. Large tracts of swamp are contiguous 18 to wet pine and wet mixed pine/hardwood sites. Indirect impacts to these adjacent communities may occur during construction activities. Acreage impacts to each community are summarized in Table below. Calculations are based on 100 feet of right-of-way. Table 1. ANTICIPATED PLANT COMMUNITY IMPACTS PLANT COMMUNITY Uplands Man-dominated Areas Xeric Sandhill Scrub Mesic Pine Flatwoods Mixed Pine/Hardwood Wetlands Wet Pine Flatwoods Mixed Pine/Hardwood Mud and Sandbar Community ESTIMATED IMPACTS 14.2 1.9 .9 2.3 Upland Total 19.3 Acres 0.4 4.2 0.2 Wetland Total 4.8 Acres 2. Wildlife The diversity of wetland communities provide a variety of opportunities for wildlife. Of special interest are the wetland forests. Such forests act as natural corridors for the passage of mammals because they extend for many miles in uninterrupted strips. They also serve as refuges for mammals forced from more disturbed upland sites. Such mammals as beaver (Castor canadensis), mink (Mustela vison), muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus), and raccoons (Procyon lotor) inhabit these wetlands sites. Wetland communities are valuable habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Pine woods treefrog (Hyla femoralis), spring peeper (Hyla crucifer), bullfrog (Rana catesbeian dwarf salamander (Eur cea quadridiqitata), southern dusky sa amander (Desmognathus auricu atus), eastern musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus), spotted turtle (( lemmys utg tats), yellowbel y slider (Chrysem ss scri ta), ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus), rat snake (Ela he obsoleta) and cottonmouth (A kistrodon iscivorus_) are but a few o the reptiles and amphibians likely to be f? ound in the bottomlands and wet pine forests of the area. 19 Wetland communities are valuable habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Pine woods treefrog (Hyla femoralis), spring peeper (Hyla crucifer), bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana), dwarf salamander (Eur cea quadridigitata), southern dusky salamander (Desmognathus auricu atus), eastern musk turtle (Sternotherus odoratus), spotted turtle (Clemmys uttata), yellowbelly slider (Chrysemys scripta), ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus), rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta) and cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) are but a few of the reptiles and amphibians likely to be found in the bottomlands and wet pine forests of the area. Personal communication with fisheries biologist Keith Ashley of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) revealed that there is a spotted bass (Micropterus punctulatus) stocking program underway in the Little River. The Little River is a fall line stream with a rock and cobble substrate, which is a preferred habitat for this species. Other common fish inhabitants of area streams include the redear sunfish (Le omis microlophus), redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus), bluegill (Le om-is macrochirus), a few largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and chain pickerel (Esox niger). It is in the old-field habitats that many species of small mammals are most common. As agricultural fields are left fallow, they become vegetated with annual and perennial weeds. This provides food and cover for eastern moles (Scalopus aquaticus), eastern harvest mice (Reithrodontomys humilis), hispid cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus) and eastern cottontails (Sylvilagus floridanus). Pine forests of the area support a sizable white-tail deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) population. Bird life is rich in these areas. The red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) is a common inhabitant, as is the pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus ileatus), yellow-bellied sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius), eastern ebird (Sialia sialis), Carolina wren IThryothorus ludovicianus), pine warbler (Dendroica almarum) and rufous- sided towhee (Pi ilo fuscus). Wildlife Impacts Loss of wildlife habitat are serious impacts that will occur from the proposed widening of NC 210. Creation of a "highway barrier" can affect both short-term migrations (diurnal, nocturnal, diel) and long term migrations (seasonal) of animal populations, depending on individual species requirements for food, water and cover. Also, animal migration may be interrupted due to vehicular noise, and road-kills will decrease numbers of individuals of vulnerable species. Aquatic species will be particularly affected. Dredging, filling, pile-driving operations, slope stabilization and land clearing are construction activities that may result in the direct loss of benthic organisms and an increase in silt load in wetland environments. Motile benthic macroinvertebrates are better able to avoid impacts, and will have a faster recovery rate from siltation than those species that are filter feeders and relatively immoblile. The removal of benthic organisms reduces the potential food supply for vertebrate and aquatic organisms. 20 Siltation has many adverse impacts on fish-and benthos, such as: decreases the depth of light penetration, inhibits plant and algal growth, clogs the filtration apparatus of filter-feeding benthos and the gills of fish, buries benthi c organisms on the bottom cutting them off from a food source, modifies preferred benthic substrate and spoils downstream spawning beds for fish. 3. Soils The following soil series are located within the project area: Blaney loamy sand, 8 to 15 percent slope, Gilead loamy sand, 8 to 15 percent slope, Altavista fine sandy loam, 0 to 3 percent slope, Roanoke and Wahee loams, Wickham fine sandy loam, 1 to 6 percent slope, Tarboro loamy sand, 0 to 6 percent slope, Chewacla loam, Vancluse-Gilead loamy sand, 15 to 25 percent slope, Blaney loamy sand, 2 to 8 percent slope, Dothan loamy sand, 0 to 2 percent slope and Candor sand, 1 to 8 percent slope. Small streams in the project area are associated with Blaney loamy sands and Gilead loamy sands. A perched water table is frequently above the brittle subsoils. In addition, numerous seepage areas occupy these soils. Extensive areas of xeric sandhill scrub are associated with Candor sands and Dothan loamy sands. These areas typically grade into wet pine flatwoods; where Blaney loamy sands predominate. Most of the commercial and residential development is located on Wickham fine sandy loam, a well drained soil with hydric inclusions of Roanoke. Table 2. HYDRIC AND NONHYDRIC SOIL SERIES IN STUDY AREA SOIL SERIES CLASSIFICATION HYDRIC INCLUSION Blaney loamy sand Dothan loamy sand Candor sand Roanoke and Wahee loam Wickham fine sandy loam Tarboro loamy sand Altavista fine sandy loam Dogue fine sandy loam Chewacla loam Vancluse-Gilead loamy sand Non-hydric Non-hydric Non-hydric Hydric (Roanoke) Non-hydric Non-hydric Non-hydric Non-hydric Non-hydric Non-hydric Roanoke Roanoke 21 4. Water Resources The study area falls within the confines of the Cape Fear River basin. The proposed project will cross the surface waters of Jumping Run Creek and the Little River. Jumping Run Creek has a "best usage" classification of C as designated by N.C. Division of Environmental Management (NC-DEM). Class C designates waters suitable for secondary recreation, aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife and agriculture. The Little River has a "best usage" classification of WS-III. This indicates that it is a water supply segment with no categorical restrictions on watershed development or discharges and is suitable for all Class C uses. Seven unnamed tributaries to be crossed are associated with the Little River. As stated in 15 NCAC 2B .0301.(i) (1), any stream which is not named in the schedule of stream classifications carries the same classifi- cation as that assigned to the stream segment to which it is a tributary. 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 use of benthic macroinvertebrates. These organisms are sensitive to very subtle changes in water quality. Taxa richness in the Little River near Manchester declined sharply between 1984 and 1986 and the bioclassification was changed from Good to Fair. Water Resource Impacts Nine drainages in the study area will receive probable impacts from the subject project. These 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 dud to the channelization of streams; alterations of water level due to interruptions or.additions to surficial and/or groundwater flow; changes in light incidence due to the removal of vegetative cover. 5. Jurisdictional Wetlands Wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3. The US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) takes jurisdiction over the discharge of dredged or fill material into these wetlands as authorized by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. x These wetland communities were identified in the project corridor (Figure B1) on the basis of low soil chroma values, hydrophytic vegetation and the presence of hydrology or hydrological indicators, such as stained, matted vegetation, high water marks on trees, buttressed tree bases and surface roots. Most of the wetlands in the area are associated with streams and are disturbed communities. For example, what was once bottomland hardwood forest, is now, mixed/pine hardwood and pine forest due to selective cutting and clear cutting of hardwoods. 22 Table 3. ESTIMATED WETLAND ACREAGE IMPACTS, BY SITE Site# Plant Community 1 Mixed Pine/Hardwood 2 " 3 " 4 " 5 " 6 Pine Forest 7 „ 8 Mixed Pine/Hardwood 9 IN 10 " 11 IN 12 IN 13 Sand and Mudbar 14 Mixed Pine/Hardwood Estimated Impacts 0.2 0.1 0.1 3.0 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.1 Total Acres 4.8 a. 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". Based upon site location and estimated acreage involved, it is anticipated that most impacts could be authorized by a Nationwide #26 permit. However, an Individual 404 permit may be required due to the size of wetland site #4. State water quality certification is required for permits which may result in any discharge into waters of the United States. Final judgement concerning specific permit requirements is reserved for the COE. Nationwide permit #26 [33 CFR 330.5 (a) (26)] generally authorizes discharges of dredge or fill material in wetlands located above the headwaters (flow less than 5 cubic feet per second) of non-tidal rivers, streams and their lakes and impoundments including adjacent wetlands. In general, a nationwide permit applies above headwaters if less than one acre of water and/or wetland is being filled. Authorization also applies to "isolated waters" not part of a surface tributary system. Nationwide permits are valid only if the conditions applicable to them are met as outlined in [33 CFR 330.5 (b)] and [33 CFR 330.6 (a)]. 23 As indicated above, a permit is required for work in waters of the United States and their adjacent wetlands. If one to 10 acres of wetlands are being filled, as in site #4, a predischarge notification is required in accordance with [33 CFR 330.7]. Final determination as to whether an individual permit will be required rests with the COE. b. Mitigation Compensatory mitigation is not likely to be required under a Nationwide #26 permit according to the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the COE. Final discretionary authority in these matters rests with the COE. Compensatory mitigation is required for actions covered by Individual Section 404 permits. In an effort to minimize wetland impacts the structure over the Little River will be replaced in the same location as the existing structure. While this will not eliminate wetland impacts at Site #4, impacts will be less than if the bridge were built on new location. On-site mitigation opportunities will be considered first, with several potential mitigation sites having been identified. A less desirable option is to mitigate acreage by debiting the North Carolina Department of Transportation Company Swamp Mitigation Bank, as outlined in an agreement between the USFWS, North Carolina Nature Conservancy, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and NCDOT. 6. Protected Species a. Federally-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. Scoping comments received from the USFWS report several federally Endangered species known to occur in Cumberland and Harnett Counties (See Table 4). In addition, several Candidate (formerly Status Review) species may occur in the area. These are species not legally protected under the Endangered Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. 24 A brief description and habitat requirements for the above listed species are summarized below. Red-cockaded Woodpecker (E) The red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) was once a common bird in the mature pine forests of the Southeast. It lived from east Texas to Florida and north to Missouri, Kentucky and Maryland. Today, its range and population have been reduced through loss of habitat. Forty-one North Carolina counties are known to currently support active RCW colonies. These are largely restricted to the upper, middle and lower coastal plains. The red-cockaded woodpecker has specific nesting and foraging habitat requirements. Nesting habitat consists of pine or pine-hardwood (50 percent or more pine) stands over 60 years of age. Available foraging habitat is defined as pine and pine-hardwood stands (50 percent or more pine) over 30 years of age contiguous to and within 0.5 miles of the colony centroid. The 0.5 mile radius from the colony centroid represents the foraging range of clans and may encompass areas outside of the project area. Suitable nesting and foraging habitat was identified within 0.5 mile of NC 210 and it was determined that clearing for roadway expansion would eliminate strips of this habitat. The next step was to determine if RCW colonies were present. A colony site must be contiguous with foraging habitat. Nonforaging habitat 10 acres or larger in size and 330 feet or greater in width would make adjacent foraging habitat noncontiguous. Subsequent surveys, by a team of two NCDOT biologists, were conducted by walking north-south line transects spaced 50 to 100 yards apart (depending on midstory density). These surveys were conducted during March and April 1991. Surveys for colony sites resulted in the discovery of a single, active tree representing a previously undocumented active colony (Colony A), approximately 1300 feet east of NC 210 and contiguous with identified foraging habitat likely to be impacted. Active colonies have been documented on the adjacent Fort Bragg Military Reservation by the NCNHP, but no record exists for Colony A. With the RCW present in the study area, a quantitative assessment of anticipated impacts to the colony was necessary. A foraging habitat analysis was conducted to determine the quantity of foraging substrate (See Appendix A). In summary, this study showed that approximately 10,929 square feet of pine basal area and 8,798 pine stems >10 inches dbh will remain for the exclusive use of this colony (Colony A). This exceeds the minimum values of 8,490 pine basal area and 6,350 pine stems >10 inches dbh recommended in the RCW recovery plan. The clearing necessary for roadway expansion will have only minimal impact on 25 the locally abundant foraging habitat currently used by Colony A. For this reason, minimal impact to the species is anticipated. Pondberry (E) This deciduous shrub is a member of the aromatic laurel family. It's leaves have a distinct sassafras odor when crushed. Mature leaf blades are oblong-elliptic, oval or lance-ovate, and are pubescent on both sides. Yellow flowers in umbel-like clusters appear in early spring, before the leaves. Bright red drupes mature in the fall. Pondberry is found in a variety of wetland habitats, from boggy margins of cypress-gum ponds, open bogs, sandy sinks and swamps. Wetland acreage present in the project corridor highlighted the possibility that pondberry could be present. A plant by plant survey by a NCDOT biologist was conducted in wetland habitats within the right of way; March 24, 1991. Pondberry was not present in the impact zone. The subject project will have no impact on this species. Rough-leaved Loosestrife (E) This species generally occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins on wet, poorly drained, peaty soils, on seasonally saturated sands and on shallow, organic soils overlaying sands. Field observations reveal no suitable habitat for this plant. The subject project will have no impact on this species. Cape Fear Shiner (E) The Cape Fear Shiner is endemic to the Cape Fear drainage in NC and is currently known from three populations in Randolph, Moore, Lee and Chatham Counties. Historically it is known from the Cape Fear River, Parkers Creek and Kenneth Creek in Harnett County, but recent, extensive surveys conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have failed to recollect it. No stream crossings were encountered in Harnett County. This eliminates the possibility of the occurrence of the Cape Fear Shiner in the project area. The subject project will have no impact on this species. b. State-Protected Species 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. 26 the Cape Fear River, Parkers Creek and Kenneth Creek in Harnett County, but recent, extensive surveys conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have failed to recollect it. No stream crossings were encountered in Harnett County. This eliminates the possibility of the occurrence of the Cape Fear Shiner in the project area. The subject project will have no impact on this species. b. State-Protected Species 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 North Carolina Natural Heritage Program database reports no state protected species within the immediate project area. However, documentation exists for the red-cockaded woodpecker and the sandhills pixie moss on the adjacent Fort Bragg Military Reservation. The USFWS provided information on several Status Review (SR) species that occur in Cumberland and Harnett Counties that may occur in the project corridor. The following state designations for these species are provided in Table 5. One species, the Pine barrens tree frog H la andersonii) is listed as a Status Review species by the USFWS, but does not have a state protection designation. Table 5. STATE-PROTECTED SPECIES Cumberland/Harnett Counties SCIENTIFIC NAME Aimophila aestivalis Elliptio marsupiobesa Semotilus lumbee Calamovi fa brevipilis Ptero ossas is ecristata Hexasty is ewisii Kalmia cuneata Nestronia umbellula Pyxidanthera barbulata var. brevifolia Rhexia aristosa Soli ago verna COMMON NAME STATUS/RANK Bachman's sparrow (C) SC/S3 Cape Fear spike (C) T/S1 Sandhills chub (C) SC/S3 Riverbank sand grass (H) E/S1 False coco (C) E/SX Lewis' heartleaf (H) C/S3 White wicky (C) E-SC/S2 Nestronia (H) T/S3 Wells Pixie-moss (H) E/S2 Awned meadow beauty (C) T/S2 Spring flowering goldenrod(H) E/S2 27 Carex barrattii Ilex amelanchier Parnassia caroliniana Rudbeckia heliopsidis Eupatorium resinosum Barratt's sedge (H) E/SH Sarvis holly (H) C/S2 Carolina grass-of-parnassus (H) E/C2 Sun-facing coneflower (H) T/C2 Resinous thoroughwort (H) E/C2 Note: C and H denote Cumberland and Harnett Counties NC Rank Designations: S1 = Critically imperiled in NC because of extreme rarity (5 or fewer occurrences), or because of some factor making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from NC; S2 = Imperiled in North Carolina because of rarity (6 to 20 occurrences); S3 = Rare or uncommon in NC (21 to 100 occurrences; SX = apparently extirpated from North Carolina; SH = of historical occurence in North Carolina, perhaps not having been verified in the past 20 years, and suspected to still be extant; E-SC = An endangered plant which requires population monitoring, but which may be collected and sold under specific regulations. Suitable habitat requirements for these species are summarized below. No surveys were conducted for the species or suitable habitat. Bachman's Sparrow Habitat: open long-leaf pine forests, old fields (Breeding season only) Cape Fear Spike Habitat: muddy, loose, sandy substrates below log jams. Is only known from the Cape Fear River in Cumberland and Bladen Counties. Sandhills Chub Habitat: small to medium-sized, slow-flowing creeks with sand and gravel bottoms and sparse vegetation. Restricted to the Carolina Sandhills region in the Lumber River system (Peedee drainage) and in adjacent tributaries of the Yadkin and Cape Fear drainage. Riverbank Sandgrass Habitat: savannahs, sandhill seeps False Coco Habitat: pinelands Lewis' Heartleaf Habitat: forests, pocosin edges White Wicky Habitat: Nestronia Habitat: pocosins upland forests 28 Well's pixie moss Habitat: sandhills Awned Meadow Beauty Habitat: limesink ponds, clay-based Carolina bays Spring Flowering Goldenrod Habitat: dry pinelands Barratt's Sedge Habitat: bogs, open wet areas Sarvis Holly Habitat: blackwater swamps and riverbanks, clay-based Carolina bays Carolina Grass-of-Parnassus Habitat: Wet savannas Sun-facing Coneflower Habitat: moist pine flatwoods and woodland borders Resinous thoroughwort Habitat: seepage bogs, beaver ponds, pondshores, shrub swamps E. Floodplain Involvement Both Cumberland and Harnett Counties are participants in the National Flood Insurance Regular program in which a detailed study for the Little River has been completed. The proposed widening will not have an impact on the floodplain of the Little River or Jumping Run Creek. The terrain in the vicinity of the project is fairly rolling with natural draws and streams located such that the proposed project can be drained without difficulty. Since this project is the widening of an existing roadway, no 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. F. Highway Traffic Noise Analysis This analysis was performed to determine the effect of the proposed project on noise levels in the immediate project area. This investigation includes an inventory of existing noise sensitive land uses and a field survey of ambient (existing) noise levels in the study area. It also includes a comparison of the predicted noise levels and the ambient noise levels to determine if traffic noise impacts can be expected resulting 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 29 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. Characteristics of Noise Noise is basically defined as unwanted sound. It is emitted from many sources including airplanes, factories, railroads, power generation plants, and highway vehicles. Highway noise, or traffic noise, is usually a composite of noises from engine exhaust, drive train, and tire-roadway interaction. 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 scale approximates the frequency response of the human ear by placing most emphasis on the frequency range of 1,000 to 6,000 Hertz. Because the A-weighted scale closely describes the response of the human ear to sound, it is used almost exclusively in vehicle noise measurements. Sound levels measured using A-weighting 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 things: 1) the amount and nature of the intruding noise, 2) the relationship between the background noise and the intruding noise, and 3) the type of activity occurring where the noise is heard. In considering the first of these three factors, it is important to note that individuals have different hearing sensitivity to noise. Loud noises bother some more than others and some individuals become aroused to anger if an unwanted noise persists. The time patterns of noise also enter into an individuals judgement of whether or not a noise is objectionable. For example, noises occurring during sleeping hours are usually considered to be much more objectionable than the same noises in the daytime. With regard to the second factor, individuals tend to judge the annoyance of an unwanted noise in terms of its relationship to noise from other sources (background noise). The blowing of a car horn at night when background noise levels are approximately 45 dBA would generally be much more objectionable than the blowing of a car horn in the afternoon when background noises might be 55 dBA. 30 The third factor is related to the interference of noise with activities of individuals. In a 60 dBA environment, normal conversation would be possible while sleep might be difficult. Work activities requiring high levels of concentration may be interrupted by loud noises while activities requiring manual effort may not be interrupted to the same degree. Over a period of time, individuals tend to accept the noises which intrude into their lives, particularly if the noises occur at predicted intervals and are expected. Attempts have been made to regulate many of these types of noises including airplane noises, factory noise, railroad noise, and highway traffic noise. In relation to highway traffic noise, methods of analysis and control have developed rapidly over the past few years. Sound pressure levels in this report are referred to as Leq(h). 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. Noise Abatement Criteria In order to determine that highway noise levels are or are not compatible with various land uses, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has developed noise abatement criteria and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways. These abatement criteria and procedures are set forth in the aforementioned Federal reference (Title 23 CFR Part 772). Ambient Noise Levels Ambient noise is that which results from the natural and mechanical sources and human activity, and is considered to be usually present in a particular area. The purpose of this noise level information is to quantify the existing acoustic environment and to provide a base for assessing the impact of noise levels for residences and other noise sensitive receptors. Ambient noise measurements were taken along the project at representative locations using a GenRad 1988 Precision Integrating Sound-Level Meter and Analyzer. The noise levels were recorded for a 20-minute period during anticipated peak traffic noise periods. Traffic counts were taken at each measurement site during the sampling periods and differences in the measured noise levels are attributed to variations in site conditions and traffic volumes. The field study revealed that existing traffic noise levels are uniform along the NC 210 corridor. A typical ambient measurement site would be the location on NC 210 about 1.0 mile north of SR 1601, where noise levels, measured at 50 feet from the center of the near lane of travel, were about 65 dBA. This value is representative of those measured at other locations along the project. 31 The existing roadway and traffic conditions were used with the most current traffic noise prediction model in order to calculate existing noise levels for comparison with noise levels actually measured. The modeled existing noise levels were within 1.7 to 2.9 dBA of the measured noise levels for all of the locations for which noise measurements were obtained. Differences between measured and modeled dBA levels can be attributed to the bunching or platooning of vehicles, low traffic volumes, and actual vehicle speeds versus the computer's evenly-spaced vehicles and single vehicle speed. Procedure for Predicting Future Noise Levels The prediction of highway traffic noise is a complicated procedure. In general, the traffic situation is composed of a large number of variables which describe different cars driving at different speeds through a continual changing highway configuration and surrounding terrain. Obviously, to assess the problem certain assumptions and simplifications must be made. 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). The BCR (Barrier Cost Reduction) procedure is based upon the FHWA Highway Traffic Noise Prediction Model (FHWA-RD-77-108). The BCR traffic noise prediction model uses the number and type of vehicles on the planned roadway, their speeds, the physical characteristics of the road (curves, hills, depressed, elevated, etc.), receptor location and height, and, if applicable, barrier type, barrier ground elevation, and barrier top elevation. In this regard, it is to be noted that only preliminary alignment was available for use in this noise analysis. The proposed project consists of widening the existing roadway to a five lane, 64 foot, curb and gutter section. Only those existing natural or man-made barriers were included. The roadway sections and proposed intersections were assumed to be flat and at-grade. Thus, this analysis represents "worst- case" topographic conditions. The noise predictions made in this report are highway-related noise predictions for the traffic conditions during the year being analyzed. This computerized model was utilized to enable the determination of the number of land uses (by type) which, during the peak hour in the design year 2011, would be exposed to noise levels approaching or exceeding the FHWA noise abatement criteria and those land uses predicted to expect a substantial noise increase. The basic approach was to select receptor locations such as 25, 50, 1009 200, 4009 800, and 1600 feet from the center of the near traffic lane (adaptable to both sides of the roadway). The location of these receptors were determined by the change in projected traffic volumes along the proposed project. The result of this procedure was a grid of receptor points along the project. Using this grid, noise levels were calculated for each identified receptor. 32 Over the entire project some 63 residences and 6 businesses are predicted to experience noise impacts by approaching or exceeding the noise abatement criteria. No receptors are predicted to experience a substantial increase in traffic noise levels. Predicted noise level increases for this project range from +5 to +8 dBA. When real-life noises are heard, it i's possible to barely detect level changes of 2-3 dBA. A 5 dBA change is more readily noticeable. A 10 dBA change is judged by most people as a doubling or a halving of the loudness of the sound. Traffic Noise Impact Analysis/Abatement Measures 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 value), or [b] substantially exceed the existing noise levels. Consideration for noise abatement measures must be given to receptors which fall in either category. Highway Alignment An abatement measure such as alteration of the proposed alignment is normally a reasonable abatement measure along areas of relocation. However, on most widening projects, shifting the highway alignment is not reasonable or feasible from a planning and design standpoint. Alignment selection involves the horizontal or vertical orientation of the proposed improvements in such a way as to minimize impacts and costs. This 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. The existing alignment already accomplishes this goal in the most reasonable and feasible manner. Changes in the vertical alignment impacts of certain highway facilities. not reasonable or feasible and would be involves at-grade intersections and no can be effective in limiting noise However, this mitigation measure is too costly for this project, which control of access. Traffic System Management Measures Traffic system management measures which limit vehicle type, speed, volume and time of operations can often be effective noise abatement measures. For this project, however, 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. Noise Barriers Physical measures to abate anticipated traffic noise levels can often 33 be applied with a'measurable degree of success by the application of solid mass, attenuable measures to effectively defract, absorb, and reflect highway traffic noise emissions. Solid mass, attenuable measures may include earthen berms or artificial abatement walls. 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 from the barrier would normally require a barrier 400 feet long. An access opening of 40 feet (10 percent of the area) would limit its noise reduction to approximately 4 dBA (FUNDAMENTAL AND ABATEMENT OF HIGHWAY TRAFFIC NOISE, Report No. FHWA-HHI-HEV-73-7976-1, USDOT, chapter 5, section 3.2, page 5-27). 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 their case. Based on past project experience, isolated receptors generally require noise barriers which are too costly because of the length and height required for a reasonable noise level reduction. For this reason, no isolated receptors were analyzed in detail for this report. Based on the above factors, no physical abatement measures are feasible and none are recommended for this project. "No Build" Alternative The traffic noise impacts for the "no build" alternative were also considered. Level of service C ("worst case") traffic volumes with future truck traffic projections were applied to the existing two-lane highway configuration. Future no build traffic noise levels were then computed. If the project is not undertaken, 10 residences would likely become impacted by approaching or exceeding the FHWA NAC. Furthermore, noise levels would increase on the order of 2-4 dBA. This small increase to the present noise level would be barely noticeable to the people working and living in the area. In addition, no traffic noise impacts would result from substantial increases. 34 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 reports are required for this project. G. Air Quality Analysis Air pollution is the result of industrial emissions and emissions from internal combustion engines. The impact resulting from the construction of a new highway or the improvement of an existing highway can range from aggravating existing air pollution problems to improving the ambient air conditions. Motor vehicles are known to emit carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NO), hydrocarbons (HC), particulate matter, sulfur dioxide (S02), and lead (Pb) (listed in order of decreasing emission rate). The primary pollutant emitted from automobiles is carbon monoxide. Automobiles are considered to be the major source of CO in the project area. For these reasons, most of the analyses presented are concerned with determining expected carbon monoxide levels in the vicinity of the project. 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 component is due to CO emissions from cars operating on highways in the near vicinity (i.e., distances within 100 meters) of the receptor location. The background component is due to CO emissions from cars operating on streets further from the receptor location. In this study, the local component was determined using line source computer modeling and the background component was determined by the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR) These two concentration components were determined separately, then added together to determine the ambient CO concentration for comparison to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Automobiles are generally 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. It is the ozone and nitrogen dioxide that are of concern and not the precursor hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide. 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 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 hydro 35 carbons, not individual streets and highways. The emissions of all sources in an urban area mix together in the atmosphere, and in the presence of sunlight, the mixture reacts to form ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and other photochemical oxidants. The best example of this type of air pollution is the smog which forms in Los Angeles, California. Automobiles are not generally regarded as significant sources of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. Nationwide, highway sources account for less than seven percent of particulate matter emissions and less than two percent of sulfur dioxide emissions. Particulate matter and sulfur dioxide emissions are predominantly the result of non-highway sources (e.g., industrial, commercial, and agricultural). Because emissions of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide from cars 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. Automobiles emit lead as a result of burning gasoline containing tetraethyl lead which is added by refineries to increase the octane rating of the fuel. Newer cars with catalytic converters burn unleaded gasoline eliminating lead emissions. Also, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has required the reduction in the lead content of leaded gasolines. The overall average lead content of gasoline in 1974 was 2 grams per gallon. By 1989, this composite average had dropped to 0.01 gram per gallon. 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. Because of these reasons, it is not expected that traffic on the proposed project will cause the NAAQS for lead to be exceeded. 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 receptors 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 meteorological parameters. The traffic volumes are based on the annual average daily traffic projections. The modeling analysis was performed for a "worst case" condition using winds blowing parallel to the roadway. Carbon monoxide vehicle emission factors were calculated for the design year 2011 and for ten years prior (2001) using the EPA publication "Mobile Source Emission Factors" and the MOBILE4 mobile source emissions computer model. 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 areas. 36 The receptor affected by "worst case" air quality conditions resulting from the proposed widening of NC 210 is a business location in the northeast corner of the intersection of NC 210 and SR 1121. Air quality conditions at this receptor were also analyzed for the no build alternate. The predicted 2001 and 2011 one hour average CO concentrations for the proposed widening and the no build alternate are as follows: 1-Hour CO Concentration "Worst Case" (ppm) Alternate Receptor 2001 2011 Build 5-lane curb-and-gutter Business, NE 3.1 3.0 Corner of NC 210 and SR 1121 No Build 2-lane roadway Business, NE 3.1 3.0 Corner of NC 210 and SR 1121 Comparison of the predicted CO concentrations with the NAAQS (maximum permitted for 1-hour averaging period = 35 ppm; 8-hour averaging period = 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. The results also show that building the project will maintain good air quality conditions in the area. The project is located within the Sandhills Air Quality Control Region. The ambient air quality for Cumberland and Harnett Counties has been determined to be in compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Since this project is located in an area where the State Implementation Plan (SIP) does not contain any transportation control measures, the conformity procedures of 23 CFR 770 do not apply to this project. H. 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 210 will experience brief periods of disruption during construction. Telephone, water, sewer and electric services are available in the area. The Department of Transportation will hold a preconstruction conference between the Department, the Contractor, representatives of the involved utility companies, and pertinent local officials. Methods to coordinate utility adjustments will be discussed at this conference. 37 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 done 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 burning will be done at the greatest distance practicable from dwellings and not when atmospheric conditions are such as to create a hazard to the public. Burning will be performed under constant surveillance. Measures will be taken in allaying the dust generated by construction when the control of dust is necessary for the protection and comfort of motorists or area residents. 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 particularly from paving operations and from the earth moving equipment during grading operations. Overall, construction noise impacts are expected to be minimal since, for the most part, the project traverses developed areas of low-density. In some areas, construction noise impacts would be expected to be more substantial 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 38 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. I. Contaminated Properties A reconnaissance survey of the study area identified 7 active facilities with potential for underground storage tanks (UST) or hazardous materials involvement. 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 Cumberland, Harnett Oil and Gas Company is located in the southwest quadrant of SR 1600 and NC 210 has three 8,000 gallon USTs on the premises. These USTs are located approximately 50 feet from the existing centerline of NC 210. These tanks were installed in August 1990 and are constructed of double-walled fiberglass reinforced plastic. The four monitoring wells, which surround these corrosion resistant tanks, function as a method of leak detection for the UST system. These USTs are in compliance with current UST regulations. Therefore, a low risk for soil and/or ground water contamination is_anticipated at this location. Site Number 2 Quick Stop #36 is located approximately 0.30 mile south of the intersection of SR 1600 and NC 210. The three USTs on the premises are, registered with the DEM/Groundwater Section. According to their records, these tanks were installed May 6, 1985 and are constructed of steel with a FRP coating. The USTs at this facility are located approximately 60 feet from the existing centerline of NC 210. These USTs will not be disturbed by the proposed project. Site Number 3 Scotchman Stores #138 is located near the intersection of SR 1451 and NC 210. There are five USTs on the premises that are constructed of steel and surrounded by monitoring wells. These tanks are registered with the DEM/Groundwater Section. All available information suggests that there has not been a release of petroleum hydrocarbon from this facility. This UST system is in compliance with current UST regulations. Therefore, a low risk for soil and/or ground water contamination is anticipated at this location. These tanks are located approximately 36 feet from the existing centerline of NC 210. Site Number 4 C & H Foodstore is located approximately 0.10 mile north of the intersection of SR 1680 and NC 210. There are five USTs on the premises that were installed approximately 2 years ago. The USTs at this facility are constructed of steel and have cathodic protection. In addition to the corrosion protection feature of these tanks, monitoring wells also 39 surround the USTs. Since regulations, a low risk anticipated. These tanks existing centerline of NC Site Number 5 this system is in compliance with current UST for soil and/or groundwater contamination is are located approximately 52 feet from the 210. 210 Foodmart is located near the intersection of NC 210 and SR 1680. The three gasoline USTs at this facility were installed March 29, 1977 and are registered with the DEM/Groundwater Section. According to their records, each of these tanks is constructed of steel and has a respective capacity of 6,000 gallons. The USTs at this facility are located approximately 60 feet from the existing centerline of NC 210. These USTs will not be disturbed by the proposed project. Site Number 6 Brown Auto Paint and Body Shop/Baker's Performance is located just south of the Lower Little River bridge. A field inspection of the facility indicated that acceptable housekeeping practices are utilized for the disposal of hazardous materials. Contaminated soils and/or groundwater are not anticipated at this location. Site Number 7 Short Stop Foodmarts (Amoco) #56 is located near the intersection of NC 210 and SR 1620. The four USTs at this facility are registered with the DEM/Groundwater Section. According to the DEM records, all but one of the tanks were installed on April 13, 1976. Their records also indicate that each tanks is constructed of steel and has a respective capacity of 6,000 gallons. The USTs at this facility are located approximately 62 feet from the existing centerline of NC 210. These USTs will not be disturbed by the proposed project. A files search of the Division conducted to determine whether any potentially contaminated sites are review of these files, none of the Counties were identified within the J. Farmland of Solid Waste Management was also known unregulated dumps or other within the project corridor. After known sites in Cumberland and Harnett corridor. The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all Federal agencies and their representatives to consider the impact on prime farmland of all construction and land acquisition projects. In compliance with the Act, the US Soil Conservation Service (SCS) was asked to determine the existence of any prime or important farmland in the vicinity of the project. The SCS indicated that due to the existing and planned urban development along the roadway, the project will not affect farmland soils, as defined by the Act. 40 V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION On October 19, 1990 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. Fish and Wildlife Service U. S. Geological Survey *U. S. Soil Conservation Service *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. Wildlife Resources Commission Region M Council of Governments Cumberland County Commissioners The Mayor of Spring Lake Asterisks (*) indicate agencies from which written responses were received. Those comments are included in the appendix of this report. On November 13, 1990 an Informational Workshop was held in Spring Lake to obtain public comments and suggestions on the project. 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'`v?-? ..:-?-.: '•t. max, ? `?a,.'?? ?? ? ???? ? ?r NC 210 FROM HOLLAND DRIVE TO SR 1121 (Ray Road) 1995/2015 ADT IN HUNDREDS 74 126 11 5 SR 1121 18 8 SR 2051 • 91 73 2 15 151 121 3 23 Harnett Co. ------- ---------- Cumberland Co. ----- -------- 134 ------ --------- -------- 225 7 SR 1451 11 26 19 46 34 145 242 2 SR 1678 3 TTST - 1% DUAL - 2% 9 7 DHV - 10% 15 12 DIR - 60% 150 251 5 SR 1601 8 27 23 51 41 173 295 3 5 SR 1620 6 9 10 15 176 300 Holland Drive Only Major Intersections Shown Not To Scale Figure 3 Z O 1 V LU rr ULI 1 rD V 0 Z cr V W Z J I E m m -A I L r E co ? 0 U is 0? N V U io N N T N r N r N r N T It LIJ cr- a T T E N ' c 1 1 ' BEGIN PROJECT SPRING LAKE POP. 6,273 RESERVATION NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF f TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH SPRING LAKE TOWN LIMITS CUMBERLAND COUNTY R-2230 0 mile 1/2 FIG. 5 ((( :11 - - l + L' Sa \? n7??`?? l C - r• ens n ?f\_ ' ? \ ? . ? a': ?„? ,? ?a?ar4tl!'+ty` ?r I llbl.l l .I. h! 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I ? ? • pJ 1 w ? ? tl ~ ?Z I _4 ` S 13 ?l i'' r '? /• i A,• /g0 O n = ?a lO P / NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH r Wetland Sites J NC 210 •r ?• Cumberland/Harnett Counties R-2230 ?? ,. .?h_ ? _ f ?':, ~??{. ?' ?i. ' ` .??''ti;..• ? ;, Figure B:1 TABLE N2 NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA) Activity Category Leq(h) Description of Activity Category A 57 Lands on which serenity and quiet are of (Exterior) 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. B 67 Picnic areas, recreation areas, playgrounds, (Exterior) active sports areas, parks, residences, motels, hotels, schools, churches, libraries, and hospitals. C 72 Developed lands, properties, or activities (Exterior) not included in Categories A or B above. D -- Undeveloped lands E 52 Residences, motels, hotels, public meeting (Interior) rooms, schools, churches, libraries, hospitals, and auditoriums. Source: Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations (CRF) 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: N. C. Dept. of Transportation Noise Abatement Guidelines TABLE N4 FHWA NOISE ABATEMENT CRITER!" SUMMARY Spring Lake, Improvements to NC 210, Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121), Cumberland-Harnett Counties, Federal-Aid Project RS-3214(3), State Project 6,441037, R-2230 Maximum Predicted Contour Approximate Number of Impacted Leq Noise Levels' Distances' Receptors According to (dBA) (Maximum) Title 23 CFP, Part 772 Section 50' 100' 200' 72 dBA 67 dBA A B C D E Holland Drive to SR 1601 SR 1601 to SR 1451 SR 1451 to SR 1121 (Harnett County) 71 67 61 45' 105' 71 fit 61_, 40' 100' 69 65 59 26' 77' 0 4 2 0 0 0 32 4 0 0 0 27 0 0 0 TOTAL 0 63 6 0 0 1501, 100' and 200' distances are measured from the center of nearest travel lane. 212 dBA and 67 dBA contour distances are measured from center of proposed roadway. TABLE N5 TRAFFIC NOISE LEVEL INCREASE SUMMARY Spring Lake, Improvements to NC 210, Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121), Cumberland-Harnett Counties, Federal-Aid Project RS -3214( 3), State Project 6,441037, R-2230 Receptor Exterior Noise Level Increases Substantial Noise Level Section <=0 1-2 3-4 5-6 7-8 9-10 11-12 13-14 15-16 17-18 19-20'21-22 23-24 >=25 Increases' Holland Drive to SR 1601 0 0 0 2 24 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 SR 1601 to SR 1451 0 0 0 69 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 SR 1451 to SR 1121 0 0 0 55 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 0 0 0 126 74 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 'As defined in Table N2. Appendix A APPENDIX A NC 210 Cumberland County TIP # R-2230 State Project Number 6.441037 Red-cockaded Woodpecker Foraging Habitat Survey North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning and Environmental Branch Environmental Unit Cynthia Bell, Wildlife Ecologist May, 1991 INTRODUCTION The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to widen NC 210 from Holland Drive in Cumberland County to SR 1121 in Harnett County. The existing two to three lane facility is to be widened to a five lane, 64-foot curb and gutter section. The project corridor lies within a rural area with scattered residential, commercial, agricultural and undeveloped properties bordering the roadway. Portions of the Fort Bragg Military Reservation are located approximately one half mile to the east of NC 210. During the course of federally protected species surveys conducted as part of the Environmental Assessment for this project, pine-dominated habitat, potentially suitable for the Federally Endangered red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis) (RCW), was observed. This necessitated a colony survey of one-half mile to both sides of the proposed impact area. A single, active cavity tree representing a previously undocumented colony was found approximately 1300 feet east of NC 210 on a privately owned parcel. Four additional cavity trees, observed within this half mile study area, were previously documented by Fort Bragg wildlife biologists. These trees are associated with colonies located on Fort Bragg and are currently monitored and managed by Fort Bragg biologists. This report details efforts to characterize and quantify anticipated impacts to a colony's foraging habitat by the proposed highway construction. METHODOLOGY Foraging habitat survey methodology followed the Guidelines for Preparation of Biological Assessments and Evaluations for the Red-cockaded Woodpecker (USFWS, 1989). Ground truthing and sampling efforts were conducted during March and April of 1991. Cavity trees observed during colony surveys were mapped on a V=500' scale aerial photograph. Locations and activity status records of cavity trees monitored by Fort Bragg were obtained from base staff biologists. These records include recent (fall 1990) data since Fort Bragg maintains an ongoing monitoring and management program on the military reservation. Cavity tree locations on Fort Bragg were verified empirically and noted on the above-referenced aerial. This consultation confirmed that the newly discovered cavity tree was isolated from the closest cavity tree by over 1700 feet. This single tree is currently the sole active representative of Colony A. A foraging circle of one half mile radius was drawn around this cavity tree to delineate the potential foraging range of this colony (Colony A). Similarly, foraging circles were drawn around the centroids of the four Fort Bragg colonies (Colonies 131, 367, 371 and 132) whose foraging circles overlap Circle A. Only the centroid of Colony A was located within one half mile of the proposed impact area. Although individual trees in the Fort Bragg colonies were within one half mile of the proposed construction, the centroids of these colonies were in excess of one half mile east of the project. Thus, a foraging habitat survey was conducted only for Colony A. A-2 Vegetative cover types were identified on the aerial photograph, followed by ground-truthing of tree stands. Specific pine and pine-hardwood habitat types were isolated in order to define stands of generally uniform type and quality. Stands of suitable foraging habitat contiguous to Colony A were selected for sampling. This included pine- dominated (50 percent or more pine) stands 30 years of age or older, and isolated from other suitable habitat by less than 330 feet. The densities of mid-story and under-story vegetation were not used as determining factors in this foraging habitat classification. Eight north-south transect lines were drawn at 660 foot intervals in Circle A. Plots were situated at 330 foot intervals on each transect line. In the field, data.were recorded at every other plot in suitable habitat. All plots occurring in unsuitable habitat were omitted. Additional plots were placed in suitable habitat in order to average one plot per 660 feet on each compass line. Forty-nine plots were included in the survey effort. Ground truthing and sampling efforts were conducted during March and April of 1991. Further ground-truthing was accomplished during field surveys. When a plot fell in an isolated area of unsuitable habitat, this area was drawn on the aerial and removed from consideration as foraging habitat. In these cases, plot locations were adjusted to the nearest suitable habitat. Each 66 foot square (1/10 acre) plot was flagged and labeled. Information recorded at each plot included basal area, number and diameter of pine trees greater than or equal to ten inches diameter at breast height (dbh), and qualitative notes on canopy, mid-and under-story composition and density. Stands which averaged greater than 60 feet of pine basal area per acre and 24 or more pines >10"dbh were identified as "well-stocked", as defined in the USFWS Red-cockaded Woodpecker Recovery Plan. The average ages of pine trees >10"dbh in the well-stocked stands were derived by increment boring of representative pines in plots falling in these stands. A representative tree was selected for each of these plots by finding the median dbh of all trees >10" dbh in each plot. Acreages of stands were determined through use of a dot grid overlay. Plot data were averaged for each stand. Stands were divided into sections according to overlap areas with other colonies. Information for each section was obtained by multiplying its acreage by the average number of pine stems >10"dbh/acre and basal area/acre. In overlap areas, this product was divided by the number of colonies involved. Similarly, acreages of 60+ year-old stands and well-stocked stands were equally apportioned among the five colonies. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The attached map illustrates the location of Circle A in relation to NC 210 and the foraging circles of the Fort Bragg colonies. Foraging habitat types occurring within Circle A included xeric sandhill scrub (224.93 acres), mesic pine flatwoods (11.05 acres), mixed pine/hardwood uplands (4.86 acres), mesic pine flatwoods (112.32 acres), and mixed pine/hardwood wetlands (20.90 acres). A-3 Colony A (single cavity tree) occurs within a longleaf pine/turkey oak-stand of approximately 60.84 acres. This stand is contiguous with wet pine flatwoods bordering NC 210. These results show the amount of foraging habitat currently available to Colony A, assuming equal division of habitat occurring in overlap areas. Within the 502 acres located in the half mile foraging range, approximately 370.62 acres are suitable for foraging. This foraging habitat provides approximately 11,167 square feet of pine basal area and 8,907 pine stems >10"dbh. The red-cockaded woodpecker recovery plan calls for 8,490 square feet of pine basal area and 6,350 pine stems >10" dbh. Under the existing (pre-project) conditions, surpluses of 2677 square feet of basal area and 2557 pine stems >10" dbh are available. Approximately 210.16 acres of the existing foraging habitat would be considered well-stocked, with about 99.98 acres of this apportioned to Colony A. The recovery plan stipulates 125 well-stocked acres per colony. It is likely that the deficit in well-stocked acres is compensated by the fact that the quality of the well-stocked habitat exceeds the stocking values stated in the recovery plan. The well- stocked areas located in Circle A average 72.55 square feet of pine basal area per acre and 51 pines >10" dbh per acre, as compared to the quantities of 60 square feet of pine basal area per acre and 24 or more pines >10"dbh per acre suggested in the recovery plan. Projected construction impacts would require deforestation of 6.02 acres of foraging habitat in Circle A, based upon a proposed right-of-way width of 100 feet. About 2.23 acres of this area is currently developed or is otherwise unsuitable as red-cockaded woodpecker foraging habitat. The remaining 3.79 acres is suitable foraging habitat and is used exclusively by Colony A. Loss of this foraging habitat would leave 370.62 acres of foraging habitat contiguous to and within one half mile of the colony site. The remaining (post-project) habitat would provide approximately 10,929 square feet of basal area and 8798 pine stems >10" dbh to Colony A. These figures represent 129% and 138% of the suggested basal area and dbh values, respectively. Approximately 2.39 acres of well-stocked foraging habitat is to be cleared, leaving Colony A with 97.59 acres. Again, the deficit in well-stocked acreage is compensated by the site-specific habitat quality. The age criteria suggested in the recovery plan can also be applied to Colony A. Well-stocked stands within the foraging circle will provide approximately 77.58 acres over 60 years old to Colony A, after overlap areas are divided among colonies. Thus, potential nest trees are available for colony expansion. Without extended field observations and banding of the red-cockaded woodpeckers occurring locally, it is possible only to speculate on the behavior of birds utilizing Circle A. Thus, it is not known how many birds are present in Colony A, or how extensively they may be inter-acting with overlapping colonies. The activity status of Colony A was confirmed during plot sampling. A red-cockaded woodpecker was observed sitting just inside the cavity while a second bird foraged on an adjacent pine. Around fifteen minutes later, the site was revisited and two birds were observed A-4 foraging within 100 yards of the cavity tree. Throughout the foraging surveys, red-cockaded woodpeckers were heard and/or seen on several occasions within areas exclusive to Circle A and in the overlap areas. It is possible that more than one clan was observed. In summary, the proposed construction will not involve the taking of any existing cavity trees or any trees within the 200 foot buffer zone. The clearing necessary for roadway expansion will have only minimal impact on the locally abundant foraging habitat currently used by Colony A. Since all trees within the longleaf pine/turkey oak stand containing the colony are to be preserved, Colony A is not likely to be adversely affected by the proposed project. Given the considerable distance between the proposed impact area and the colony site, no special limitations on construction times or equipment noise levels should be necessary. A-5 app Z- fO Z C. N n A °o s 0 N 14 s tm 0 H i c? H r H 1-3 ;U 1•C [r! En L=7 7d C ? H H .008 .17 $ O 10 .13.03.10 b V I. OA ob >` Ic IS n? co m D Tm -O 00 a OM C: 0 aid z o z 0 xr•c x M?v xox In D m F- o C o 90 w z 0° o zx?r01 ° 0> mooz -jO ?*zo z M- a o ai a ?m0 J N H z 1 9 .j r o Y H W N 1 .37 ; 06 -IOUNDA t1?? ?\y / i8 - a? . / V ° g ::f:ty?• ?::E: . '.b? i ?I z i a I -. I Ug. ? 's I IN I? YO s i 'P N N N 61 '0 E ?, I N W J a ` I J W ` i v -4 col .08 :l\ i Appendix B IN REPLY REFER TO DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS P.O. BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890 November 28, 1990 Planning Division Poole Distrib s t0: Dvdeck Vick O'Quinn Net;mam Pre a , __._ 6ruton Shu(}et"-- tJortvcod Dav"- Elliott Mcdlin= Web j TeweilElmore Spnnger Grimes Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways North Carolina Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Ward: We have reviewed your letter of October 19, information for "Spring Lake, Improvements to NC Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121), Cumberland-Harnett Aid Project RS-3274(3); State Project 6.441037, the following comments. X414" 1990, requesting 210, from Holland Counties, Federal- R-2230" and offer Little River and Jumping Run Creek are both crossed by this proposal. In order to comply with the local flood plain management regulations and the Flood Insurance Program, the hydraulic structures on these streams should be designed so as not to cause an increase in the 100-year-frequency flood elevations. 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 in waters of the United States or any adjacent and/or isolated wetlands in conjunction with this project, including disposal of construction debris. Under our mitigation policy, impacts to wetlands should first be avoided or minimized. We will then consider compensation or mitigation for unavoidable impacts. When final plans are completed, including the extent and location of any work within waters of the United States and wetlands, our Regulatory Branch would appreciate the opportunity to review these plans for a project-specific determination of Department of the Army permit requirements. Should you have any questions, please contact Mr. Jeff Richter, Regulatory Branch, at (919) 251-4636. EAT Oo United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE v ^ a Raleigh Field Office " Post Office Box 33726 ?,..a Raleigh, North -Carolina 27636-3726 Mr. L. J. Ward, Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways N 11 .C. Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 October 24, 1990 wz? I C\ o i? 65 y v 0 ;.4 TIC, .a 0 O_ O ,VCH Subject: Scoping Comments for improvements to NC 210, from Holland Drive, in Spring Lake, to Ray Road (SR 1121), Cumberland and Harnett Counties; Federal-Aid Project RS-3274(3), State Project 6.441037, R-2230. Dear Mr. Ward: This responds to your letter of October 19, 1990, requesting comments on the proposed project. These comments'are provided in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is particularly concerned about potential impacts of the proposed project upon stream ecosystems and associated wetlands within the study corridor. At least three stream and/or wetland crossings are present in the study corridor. Special care should be exercised in the design and implementation of all stream crossing structures. The enclosed pages identify the Federally-listed endangered (E) and/or threatened (T) and/or species proposed for listing as endangered (PE) or threatened (PT) which may occur in the proposed project corridor. If the proposed project will be removing pines greater than or equal to 30 years of age in pine or pine/hardwood habitat, surveys should be conducted for active red-cockaded woodpecker cavity trees in appropriate habitat within a 1/2 mile radius of project boundaries. If red-cockaded woodpeckers are observed within the project area or active cavity trees found, the project has the potential to adversely affect the red-cockaded woodpecker and you should contact this office for further information. The Service's review of any environmental document would be greatly facilitated if it contained the following information: 1) A description of the fishery and wildlife resources within existing and required additional right-of-way and any areas, such as borrow areas, which may be affected directly or indirectly by the proposed improvements. 2) Acreage of branches, creeks, streams, rivers or wetlands to be filled. Wetlands affected by the proposed project should be mapped in accordance with the Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands. 3) Linear feet of any water courses relocated. 4) Acreage of upland habitats, by cover type, which would be eliminated. 5) Techniques which will be employed for designing and constructing any relocated stream channels or for creating replacement wetlands. 6) Mitigation measures which will be employed to avoid, eliminate, reduce or compensate for habitat value losses associated with any of the proposed improvements. 7) assessments of the expected secondary and cumulative impacts of the proposed project on fish and wildlife resources. We appreciate the opportunity to provide these comments to you and encourage your consideration of them. Please continue to advise us of the progress of this project. Sincerely yours, j j L4Q- .6a%AItL L.K. Mike Gantt Supervisor Enclosures REVISED APRIL 5, 1990 Cumberland County Red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) - E Pondberry (Lindera melissifolia) - E Rough-leaved loosestrife (Lysimachia asperulaefolia) - E There are species which, although not now listed or officially proposed for listing as endangered or threatened, are under status review by the Service. "Status Review" (SR) species are not legally protected under the Act, and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as threatened or endangered. We are providing the below list of status review species which may occur within the project area for the purpose of giving you advance notification. These species may be listed in the future, at which time they will be protected under the Act. In the meantime, we would appreciate anything you might do for them. Bachman's sparrow (Aimophila aestivalis) - SR Pine barren's treefrog (Hsla andersonii) - SR Cape Fear spike pearly mussel (Elliptio marsupiobesa) - SR Riverbank sand grass (Calamovilfa brevipilis) - SR False coco (Pteroglossaspis ecristata) - Lewis' heartleaf (Hexastz-1is lewisii) - SR Sandhills chub (Semotilus lumbee) - SR White-wicky (Kalmia cuneata) - SR Nestronia (Nestronia umbellula) - SR Well's pixie-moss (Pyxidanthera barbulata var. brevifolia) - SR Awned meadowbeauty (Rhexia aristosa) - SR Spring-flowering goldenrod (Solidago verna) - SR REVISED APRIL 5, 1990 Harnett County Red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) - E Small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides) - E Cape Fear shiner (Notropis mekistocholas) - E (Neal's Creek) There are species which, although not now listed or officially proposed for listing as endangered or threatened, are under status review by the Service. "Status Review" (SR) species are not legally protected under the Act, and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as threatened or endangered. We are providing the below list of status review species which may occur within the project area for the purpose of giving you advance notification. These species may be listed in the future, at which time they will be protected under the Act. In the meantime, we would appreciate anything you might do for them. Riverbank sand grass (Calamovilfa brevipilis) - SR Barratt's sedge (Carexbarrattii) - SR Lewis' heartleaf (Hexastylis lewisii) - SR Sarvis holly (Ilex amelanchier) - SR Nestronia (Nestronia umbellula) - SR Carolina grass-of-parnassus (Parnassia caroliniana) - SR Well's pixie-moss (Pyxidanthera barbulata var brevifolia) - SR . Sun-facing coneflower (Rudbeckia heliopsidis) - SR Spring-flowering goldenrod (Soli o versa) - SR Pine barrens treefrog (Hyla andersoni) - SR Resinous thoroughwort (Eupatorium resinosum) - SR Long-tailed shrew (Sorex dispar) - SR 4405 Bland Road, Suite 205 United States Soil Raleigh, NC 27609 ?a Department of Conservation Telephone: (919) 790-290 Agriculture Sevce 5 October 23, 1990 Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch N. C. Department of Transportation P. 0. Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 Re: Spring Lake, Improvements to NC 210, from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 1121), Cumberland-Harnett Counties, Federal-Aid Project RS-3274(3), State Project 6.441037, R-2230 Dear Mr. Ward: This is in response to your request for Important Farmland Information on State Project R-2230. This project will not affect any farmland as defined by "Farmland Protection Policy Act." This is due to the urban setting. Sincerely. Stag C,bnsey*atik(nist cc: John M. Ray, Jr. It, GEI 4z* O .? OCT 2 6 1990 r DIVISION OF 2,L HIGHWAYS G'4 RESEARG? The Sol conservation suvice is an agency of the v Department of Agriculhw M208- MAR 1 u 1991 t:_ DIVISION OF HIGHLVAY.ss INTERG¢ NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION 116 NEST JONES STREET RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 27611 NMENTAL REVIEW COMMENTS MAILED TO ma"""r FROM NC DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION MRS. CHRYS BAGGETT BILL GOODWIN DIRECTOR HIGHWAY BUILDING N C STATE CLEARINGHOUSE RALE IGH- INTER-OFFICE PROJECT DESCRIPTION SCOPING SPRING LAKE IMPROVEMENTS TO NC 210 FROM HOLLAND DR TO RAY ROAD ISR 1121) R-2230 SA I NO 91E 422002 83 PROGRAM TITLE - SCOPI NG THE ABOVE PROJECT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE NORTH CAROLINA INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS. AS A RESULT OF THE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED ( ) NO COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED ( X ) COMMENTS ATTACHED SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE (919) 733-0499. C.C. REGION M ,. STATr S 1' State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor Douglas G. Lewis William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Director Planning and Assessment MEMORANDUM DEC 1990 RECEIVED SE,.Ra E7oA OfFtC1: C. TO: Chrys Baggett ?- State Clearinghouse FROM: Melba McGee-p--"' Project Review Coordinator RE: Scoping for the Proposed Widening of NC 210 from Holland Drive to Ray Road in Cumberland and Harnett County DATE : November 30, 1990 The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed document. Comments from our divisions have been attached for consideration. Thank you for the opportunity to respond. attachments cc: David Foster P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611.7687 Telephone 919733.6376 An Fn „I nn..n -in. Aik, vi- A-inn F-1- its State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Division of Forest Resources 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Griffiths Forestry Center 2411 Garner Road Clayton, North Carolina 27520 November 2, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee Environmental Assessment Unit , / FROM: Don H. Robbins n? Staff Forester pJ'/? Dec 19 99 ? C CF, DOA ? Harry F. Layman Director SUBJECT: EA Scoping for the Proposed Widening of NC 210 from Holland Drive to Ray Road in Cumberland and Harnett County PROJECT #91-0283 DUE DATE 11-23-90 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 widening for the possible right-of-way purchases for the project: 1. The number of total woodland acres that would be taken out of timber production as a result of new right-of-way purchases. 2. The acres breakdown of this woodland concerning present conditions and/or timber types such as clear-cut areas, young growing timber, ' and fully stocked stands of very productive timber within the new right-of-way purchases for disturbed and undisturbed portions. 3. The site indexes of the forest soils that would be involved within the proposed right-of-way, so as to be able to determine the productivity of these forest soils in the area. 4. The number of woodland acres that would affect any watersheds in the area, if the woodland was removed. , P.O Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-7687 Telephone 919-733-2162 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer Melba McGee PROJECT #91-0283 Page 2 5. The impact both present and future to any greenways within the area of the proposed project. 6. With woodland involved, it is hoped that the timber could be merchandised and sold to lessen the need for piling and burning of debris during right-of-way construction. Provisions should be indicated in the EA that the contractor will make all efforts to salvage any merchantable timber to permit construction, once the contractor takes charge of the right-of-way. 7. The provisions that the contractor will take during the construction phase to prevent erosion, sedimentation and construction damage to the remaining standing trees outside of the right-of-way boundary and construction limits. Trees outside of construction limits need to be protected from construction activities such as-- a. Skinning of tree trunks from heavy equipment operations. b. Exposure and injury to feeder roots from heavy equipment operations, c. Placing of fill dirt around the base of trees which would have a smothering affect which could eventually cause tree mortality. d. Accidentally spilling of petroleum products near the base of trees which could cause mortality. We would hope that the widening would have the least impact to forest and related resources in that area. DHR: la pc: Warren Boyette - CO County Ranger Joe Johnson - Cumberland County File E174 9 North Carolina Wilcllife Resources Corru 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3* UED 1990 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director REDT-1VED a -WQE AAW A nFFICE MEMORANDUM c' TO: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment Dept. of Environment, Health & Natural Resources FROM: Fred A. Harris. Chief -- a. 4V4? Division of Boating and Inland Fisheries DATE: November 8, 1990 SUBJECT: NCDOT: Improvements to NC 210, Spring Lake, Cumberland and Harnett Counties., N.C. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) has reviewed the project description. Our comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act (G.S. 113A-1 et seq., as amended; 1 NCAC 25) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.). We are especially concerned about potential adverse impacts to the Little River, tributary streams, and associated wetlands within the project corridor. The WRC requests that the following information be provided in the environmental assessment of the proposed improvements to NC 210. 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. 2. Description of stream and wetland habitat types within the project corridor. 3. Project map identifying wetland areas. Memo Page 2 November 8, 1990 4. Description*of project activities that-will occur in wetlands, including fill activities, and any alteration to stream channels. 5. Any measures proposed to avoid or reduce impacts of the project or to mitigate for unavoidable habitat losses. Thank you for the opportunity to comment during the planning stage of this project. FAH/lp cc: Mr. Kent Nelson J. ? . .?? X23456 I I. DEC 1990 State of North Carolina fous%'%?,? Department of Environment l , Health, and Natural Reso 512 North Salisbury Street WRaleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor John N. Moms William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary November 27, 1990 Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melba. McGee FROM: John Sutherlan SUBJECT: 91-0283, Improvements to NC 210, Cumberland-Harnett Counties We have the following comments on the above project: 1. At stream and wetland crossings, utilize bridges whenever possible to minimize habitat losses and floodplain encroachment. 2. Minimize the loss of timber and prime farmland. 3. Provide vegetation buffers when highway passes close to residential areas. 4. Mitigate the loss of wetlands and forests. 5. Minimize the use of curb and gutter; maximize the use of porous pavement and grass swales. 6. Involve local landowners in gathering data on impacts; be flexible on location of alternatives - adjust them to meet local concerns. 7. At bridge crossings of navigable rivers, e.g. Little River, work with local governments to provide public access if such access is needed. . 8. Outside of the Town of Spring Lake, provide left hand turn lanes only at major road crossings; otherwise have a four-lane highway with a vegetated median. P.O Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-7687 Telephone 919.733.4064 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources DMsion of Land Resources James G. Martin, Governor 4 6 Charles H. Gardner William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Z X89 Director DEC 1990 N KOE1VED MEMORANDUM ' S( MARYS Of ,r 001 Date: November 5, 1990 F??j,, a\t??? To: Melba McGee From: Gary Thompson Subject: 91-0283, Cumberland-Harnett Counties, Spring Lake, N.C., Improvements to NC 210, from Holland Dr. to Ray Road (SR 1121), Federal Aid Project RS-3274(3) State Project No. 6.441037, TIP No. R-2230 We have reviewed the.above referenced project and find that 2 geodetic survey markers will be impacted. The N.C. Geodetic Survey should be contacted at P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, N.C. 27611, (919) 733-3836 prior to construction. Intentional destruction of a geodetic monument is a violation of N.C. General Statute 102-4. GWT/ajs cc: Joe Creech, NCDOT 01! t °q? ii _i7l P.O. Box 27687 • Raleigh, N.C. 27611-7687 • Telephone (919) 733-3833 An Equal Opportunity A lmative Action Employer i State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Reviewing Office: INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS Project Number: (f Due Date: After review of this project it has been determined that the EHNR permit(s) indicated must be obtained in order for this project to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding these permits should be -addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of the form All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office. Normal Process Time PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit) ? Permit to construct & operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award of 30 days facilities, sewer system extensions, & sewer . construction contracts On-site Inspection. Post-application systems not discharging into state surface waters. technical conference usual (90 days) NPDES • permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application 180 days before begin activity. On-site inspection. 90.120 days ? permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities Pre-application conference usual. Additionally, obtain permit to discharging into state surface waters. construct wastewater treatment facility-granted after NPDES. Reply (NIA time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPDES permit-whichever is later. ? Water Use Permit Pre-application technical conference usually necessary 30 days (NIA) ? Well Construction Permit N/A 7 days (15 days) Application copy must be served on each riparian property owner. 55 days ? Dredge and Fill Permit On-site Inspection. Pre-application conference usual. Filling may require Easement to Fill from N.C. Department of (90 days) Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. ? Permit to*construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement 60 days facilities and/or Emission Sources NIA (90 days) ?.: ® Any open burning associated with subject proposal I must be n compliance with 15 NCAC 20.0520. 1:3 See comments reference asbestos ` 30 days on back of form. NIA (90 da s) y ? Complex Source Permit required under. 15 NCAC 2D.0800. ? The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erdsion 3 sedimentation control plan ill b w e required If one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality Sect.) at least 30 days before begin activity. (J The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the referrenced Local Ordinance: On-site Inspection usual, Surety bond filed with EHNR as shown: Any area mined greater than one acre must be permlted. : 'AFFECTED LAND AREA AMOUNT OF BOND 30 days Mining Permit. Less than 5 acres S 2,500 5 but less than 10 acres 5,000 10 but less than 25 acres 12,500 (60 days) 25 or more acres 5,000 ? North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources if permit 1 day exceeds 4 days (NIA) Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit - 22 On-site inspection by N.D. Division Forest Resources required "if more 1 day ? counties in coastal N.C. with organic soils than live acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections (NIA) should be requested at least ten days before actual burn is planned." ? Oil Refining Facilities N/A 90.120 days (N/A) If permit required, application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant must hire N.C. qualified engineer to: prepare plans, 30 days insoect.construction. certifv construction is according. to EHNR,approv- Norma, ocess Time PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statuto,y time limit) Fife surely bond of $5,000 with EHNR running to Stale of N.C. 10 days ? Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well conditional that any well opened by drill operator shall, upon (NIA) abandonment, be plugged according to EHNR rules and regulations. ? Geophysical Exploration Permit Application filed with EHNR at least 10 days prior to issue of permit 10 days Application by letter. No standard application form. (NIA) ? Stale Lakes Construction Permit Application fee based on structure size is charged. Must Include 15.20 days descriptions b drawings of structure 8 proof of ownership (NIA) of riparian property. ED 60 days 401 Water Quality Certification NIA (130 days) ? 55 days CAMA Permit for MAJOR development $10.00 fee must accompany application. (180 days) ? 22 days CAMA Permit for MINOR development 210.00 fee must accompany application (60 days) ? Several geodetic monuments are located in or near the project area. If any monuments need to be moved or destroyed, please notify: N C G i 7687 i d S B R C . . eo et c urvey, ox 2 gh, N. , ale . 27611 Abandonment of any wells, if required, must be In accordance with Title 15, Subchapter 2C.0100. * Other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority): Renovations of structures containing asbestos material and demolitions of both non-asbestos containing structures and asbestos containing structures must be in accordance with NCAC 2D.0525 which requires notifications and removal prior to demolition. Should subject project propose any major in-stream construction, it will be necessary for this project to demonstrate compliance with Section 401 and Section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act. reviewer signature f agency date Z54 5REGIONAL OFFI CES ? Asheville Regional Office b? ?`9 ? Fayetteville Regional Office 59 Woodfin Place ll NC 288 1 j DEC 1990 i Suite 714 Wachovia Building Ashevi e, 0 Fayetteville, NC 28301 (704) 251-6208 ro RECEIVE D (919) 486.1541 ? Mooreeville Regional Office w CTAD?ACE ? Raleigh Regional Office 919 North Main Street N. Box 27687 Mooresville, NC 28115 (704) 663.1699 Raleigh, NC 27611.7687 (919) 733.2314 ? Washington Regional Office ? Wilmington Regional Office 1424 Carolina Avenue 7225 Wrightsville Avenue Washington, NC 27889 Wilmington, NC 28403 (919) 9466481 (919) 2564161 ? Winston-Salem Regional Office 8003 Silas Creek Parkway Extension Nr 771na Project Name DEPART10C 07, ENVIR0RIM, HEALTH Project Number AND NATURAL RESOURCES 0 DIVISION OF :NVIROMMqrAL HEALTH County Inter-Agency Project Review Response Type of Project The following are our cam?ents on the above referenced subject. The appl icant should be advised that plans and specifications for all water system improvements must be approved by the Division of Enriroameatal Health prior to the award of a contract or the initiation of construction (as required by 10 NCAC 10D .0900 et. seq.). For information, contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919) 733-2460. Several water lines possibly are located in the path of an adjacent to the proposed project. Due to a possible rupture during construction, the contractor should contact the appropriate water system officials to specify a work schedule. The proposed project will be constructed near water resources which are used for drinking. Precautions should be taken to prevent contamination of the waters' hed and stream by oil or other harmful substances. Additional information is available by contacting the Public Water Supply Section at (919) 733-2321. Back flow preveators should be installed on all incoming potable water lines. Additional information is available uy _ontacting the Public Water Supply Section at (919) 733-2321. This project will be classified as a commmity public water supply and must comply with state and federal drinking water monitoring requirements. For more information the applicant should contact the Public Water Supply Section, (919) 733-2321. If this project is constructed as proposed, we will rid closure of feet of adjacent canters to the harvest of shellfish. For information regarding the shellfish sanitation program, the applicant should contact the Shellfish Sanitation Branch (919) 726-6827. The applicant should be advised to contact the local health department regarding their requirements for septic tank installations (as required under 10 NCAC 10A .1900 et. seq. anc/a sanitary facilities requirements for this project if applicable. For information concerning septic tank and other on-site. waste disposal methods, contact the Ou-site Sewage Branch at (919) 733-2895. The applicant should be advised that prior to the removal or demolition of dilapidated structures, an extensive rodent control project may be necessary in order to prevent the migration of the rodents to adjacent areas. For information concerning rodent control, contact the local health department or the Public Health Pest Management Section (919) 733-6407. The spoil disposal area(s) proposed for this project may produce a mosquito breeding problem. • For informaiion concerning appropriate mosquito control measures, the applicant should contact the Public Health Pest Management Section at (919) 733-6407. ????123456? DFC 1890 0 naJ=,? `r ETA cnCj `,?? ie?slle State of North Carolina Y'l 91 L?°'?? .yettev Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources 100res Division of Parks and Recreation "'w'A 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 W asn James G. Martin, Governor November 29, 1990 Dr. Philip K. McKnel I William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Directc 3 W iln DWil MEi!SORANDUM TO: Melba McGee Ma FROM: Susan Regier!qn SUBJECT: Scoping - NC 210 Improvements, Cumberland County REFERENCE: 91-0283 Our Natural Heritage Program has checked their database and found records for the red-cockaded woodpecker in the vicinity of the project. The red-cockaded woodpecker is a federally endangered species and the Department of Transportation is obligated by the Federal Endangered Species Act to protect it. If any woodlands are to be disturbed by this project a biologist knowledgeable of the red-cockaded woodpecker needs to check the area for active colony sites and/or forage habitat and appropriate mitigation measures need to be taken. There are known active colony sites within one half mile of the project. Sedimentation control measures need to be taken during the bridge replacement at the Lower Little River to protect the water quality of the river. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this project. S/13 „a St/1Tg° North Carolina Department of Crime Control and Public Safety James G. Martin, Governor Division of Emergency Management Joseph W. Dean, Secretary 116 W. Jones St., Raleigh, N. C. 27603-1335 (919) 733-3867 October 29, 1990 MEMORANDUM To: N.C. State Clearinghouse, Department of Administration From: J. Russell Ca rZ_Division of Emergency Management, NFIP Section Subject: Intergovernmental Review ----------------------------------------------------- Re: State # N.C. 91-E-4220-0283 N.C. DOT - Spring Lake improvements to NC 210 from Holland Dr. to Ray Rd. (Sr 1121). For information purposes, the Commission is advised that on July 249 19909 Governor Martin signed Executive Order 123, a Uniform Floodplain Management Policy, which must be followed for development on any site. C An Equal Opprrunity I Affirmative Action Employer North Carolina Department of James G. Martin, .Governor Patric Dorsey, Secretary May. 17, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: ^J j Resources Division of Archives and History William S. Price, Jr., Director L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Research Branch Division of Highways Department of Transportation David Brook, Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer / NC 210 Improvements, #6.441037, Cumberland and Harnett Counties, ER 90-8176 Thank you for your letter of April 23, 1990, concerning the above project. Based upon the information at hand, we concur with.the assessment that potentially significant archaeological sites will not be affected by the proposed project. Therefore, we do not recommend that an archaeological survey 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 CPR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. ' DB:slw 109 EastJones Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2807 R E L-O C A T I ON RC PORT North Carolina Department of Transportation X E.I.S. __CORRIDOR _^DESIGN RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROJECT: 6.441037 COUNTY: Harnett- umb rland - Alternate of Alternate I.D. NO., R-2230 F.A. PROJECT: RS-3274(3) DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: Spring Lake improvements to NC 210 from Holland Drive to Ray Road (SR 112t) ESTIMATED DISPLACEES INCOME LEVEL Type of 'Displacee Owners Tenants Total Minor- ities 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Individuals families 1 2 3 3 0 2 1 0 0 Businesses 2 0 2 1 VALUE OF DWELLING DSS DWELLINGS AVAILABLE Farms ( Owners Tenants For Sale For Ren t Non-Pro Fit 0-20M 0 $ 0-150 0 0-20M -10 $ 0-150 2 ANSWER ALL QUEST IONS 20-40M 0 150-250 2 20-40M 30 150-250 5 YES NO EXPLAIN ALL "YES" ANSWERS 40-70M 1 250-400 . 0 40-70M 100 250-400 20 f X 1. Will special relocation i 70-100 0 400-600 0 70-100 200 400-600 100 X serv ces be necessary 2. Will schools or churches be affected by displacement 100 UP 0 600 UP 0 100 UP 100 600.UP 50 - 3. Will business services still b il b TOTAL 1 2 440 177 e ava a le after project 4. Will any business be dis- REMARKS (Respond by Number) i placed. If so, indicate size X type, estimated number of 3. Fayetteville has all kinds of businesses. - employees, minorities, etc. r - - X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage 4. (a) Brown's Auto Paint - 5-7 employees. 1/3 minority. X 6. Source for available hous- i li (b) Scotchman's Conv. Store - 5-7 employees. ng ( st) 1/2 minority. i X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed 6. MLS listing. X S. Should Last Resort Housing b i i i E A e cons dered 9. Are there large, disabled, B. Last resort housing may be needed for tenants. ld l e er y, etc. families Sn F ANS E OR DESIGN W R THESE A 10. Will public housing be d nee ed for project 11. Is public housing avail- bl a e I 12. Is it felt there will be ad- ? equate DDS housing available d i l ur ng re ocation period 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financial - means 14. Are suitable business sites il bl ava a e (list source) 15. Number months estimated to romp e RELOCATION Y 6-11-91 Relocation Agent Date Approved / Date Form 15.4 Revised 5/90 Original & 1 Copy: State Relocation Agent 2 Copy: Area Relocation File