R-2852 R-2584

??--
- -s µPO L?c?n -- - --- -- --?
P- (r

MA 1-6Z 11?JV, jllc?) 6--L,

ar??
17Y
74?
Conwa Faison's Jackson Garysburg "
Old
Tavern

o z T U-) z ? cn z rn p ? cn cn z
0 ° 0 0
C
-4- c a 4 CL C . ? o ca. C C g a-
t
N r r(DD v z rD rD v (D rD a Lj
ny (D
v
=r
=r

=
-z (
D
-t ° ° 1 --1 ° (-cD (D o N (D o
:3 v v
?- v v a ? v v =)
a
00
03
00
W
°
W
<
1
1<
X
g

"a
<
X
o
x

v

v

-a

'
X

eD
u) ? (A o (n M rt Cu Ln ? O u)
rt N N E
(n (n U) =1 v N o v U) (f) o 0 v Ln (n Le) =3
N r-+ O cn N lfl at
03
o

?t oo v v ? ao ? o ? ? ? 0 ? cn v, u, w (D
ao
+ ? rn o ; o o w -A,
N
1- N N 00 i--? N 00 C) p 1-+ O .p -p N 00

M
(D

_
D
G LA

V

0)

00

0 f--.

W

1--

( 1-+

(rn

(rn ?-.
N N

-
1- ?
, a
0 19 U1 O O O r Ul (D

(D 03
o =
ON F-` N O V N N W O
0%

O

O

N
CD
rt

-n

V V w '-` w U, Ln m 00 m 00 0) p -p w E - a
m -01 Ln V N -A V I--` M Un 1-? Co m F-? lD N 1-y A 'I-1
o b U9 Cn f ., V ?-+ W O ?-+ N W -0 V -P -p (?D
V U 1 -P F-` ?] M CO M to lD O Ln lfl N M 0

n

I

1-' N -p N O O O N N 1V ?-+ O W 11

n,
(D

H
(n v, W O U I N t-j O .p a1 I" W F-+ r O W n (D
r
?
V C) Ili O N lt?, (n lo PQ e i-+ (n N V V W r
"?
V Co W O Co .p (n M UI O O U1 O 0) M to N (D
n
n
EL
n ?
0
A. Z
4?1 U'1 N hj 0) .p -P W -P -P O O -P W W W CA( D O

n
0
1-+ Fi ?-? F-+ 1-+ O O O O O O O O N N N O V?1

- ? -(A- -Eft ? -6*r -? ? ? -(A- -(? -611-
0
Ul U7 -06 Ij 00 -p U, N U, U1 U7 -4 W W W N 1--
N . 1 00 k D rn (n O m W (n N 00 (n ? o V D 00
V 0) N N O M )-- U-1 ?o "D N ? t-+ m Ln N n rt
0 0 0 O 0 0 0 0 CD O O CD 0 O C) O O o
0 0 0 O 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 O O O O rt =

0
0
0
O
O
0
0
0
b
C)
O
O
O
O nn
e-F
0 0 0 O 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 O O O O
c
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 O O O O O O O O o

m c
y c?
(b
a
43
O 3
n' o
o` 3
N "v
1 ?
m
(D
N
n
4
o'
ru
O
O
O
Q
O

N
cn
Co
N
Ln
Co
-A
v
s1
(D
a
rt
3C
m .?
? 'r
r ?
O ?
N /?- -
c°n
! R-2582/R-2584 Concurrence Point 2 March 10, 2005
Slide Presentation

f R-2582/R-2584 Concurrence Point 2
Slide Presentation
March 10, 2005
f arpt , g? Widen on Existing
-.-Alternative
I ?
1

R-2582/R-2584 Concurrence Point 2
Slide Presentation
March 10, 2005
R

LL) A- VWLI
z6lbl&-k IT2tA t

R-2582/R-2584 Concurrence Point 2
Slide Presentation
March 10, 2005

_.
1-11
4

R-2582/R-2584 Concurrence Point 2
Slide Presentation
?C
C
i
-m?

i
CPL-
March 10, 2005

5
R-2582/R-2584 Concurrence Point 2 March 10, 2005
Slide Presentation
s„a STATF°
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
e6?" b?
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION '-)y
MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYr P
GOVERNOR SE 0
February 10, 2005
MEMORANDUM TO: R-2582/R-2584 Merger Team
FROM: Beth Smyre
Project DevelopmeEm
SUBJECT: Widening of US 158 from East of Weldon to the
Murfreesboro Bypass, Halifax and Northampton Counties,
Federal Aid Project NHF-158(7), WBS No. 34472, T.I.P.
Nos. R-2582/R-2584
A concurrence meeting for the subject project has been scheduled for Thursday,
March 10, 2005. The meeting will be held in the Board Room in the Transportation
Building, 1 South Wilmington St., Raleigh. The purpose of this meeting is both to update
the merger team on the project as well as to present information on the current Detailed
Study Alternatives for Concurrence Point 2.
The members of the merger team are listed below. If anyone feels they have
been listed incorrectly, or if an agency does not wish to participate in the merger
team for this project, please notify me in writing of this decision.
The information packet is enclosed. Please review this material prior to the
meeting. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at [phone]
ext. 333 or [e-mail]. Please RSVP if you will not be attending.
R-2582/R-2584 Merger Team
Bill Biddlecome, US Army Corps of Engineers
Travis Wilson, NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Nikki Thompson, NC Division of Water Quality
Ron Lucas, Federal Highway Administration
Chris Militscher, US Environmental Protection Agency
Gary Jordan, US Fish & Wildlife Service
Sarah McBride, State Historic Preservation Office
Ron Sechler, National Marine Fisheries Service
Sara Winslow, NC Division of Marine Fisheries
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
NEPA/ 404 Merger Team Meeting
TIP Project Nos. R-2582/R-2584
Federal Project No. NHF-158(7)
WBS No. 34472
US 158 from East of Weldon to the Murfreesboro Bypass;
Widen to multi-lanes.
Halifax and Northampton Counties
March 10, 2005
Transportation Building Board Room
Purpose of Meeting:
The purpose of this meeting is to provide information to the NEPA/ 404
Merger Team in order to reach concurrence on Point 2 (Detailed Study
Alternatives Carried Forward (DSA)) for TIP Project R-2582/R-2584.
Agenda for Meeting:
Project Description and Status
Discussion of Alternatives
Comments and Questions
Project Development Engineer: Beth Smyre
[phone] x.333
[e-mail]
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
I. Introduction
A. Project Description
TIP Projects R-2582/R-2584 involve the widening of US 158 to a multi-
lane facility from east of Weldon to the Murfreesboro Bypass. Project R-2582 is
described in the approved 2004-2010 Transportation Improvement Program
(TIP) as widening US 158 to multi-lanes with a bypass of Jackson on new
location; project R-2584 is listed as widening US 158 with a bypass of Conway on
new location. The total length of the project is currently listed at 31.7 miles, but
the exact length will vary depending upon the final alternatives selected. The
project begins east of the existing US 158 one-way pair in Weldon. The eastern
terminus is the Murfreesboro Bypass (Figure 1).
US 158 is currently a two-lane highway, ranging between 24 and 28 feet
in width along the majority of Northampton County. There is no access control
along the current section, as evidenced by numerous driveways and small streets
that intersect the project. All intersections are at-grade crossings. Between the
towns of Garysburg, Jackson, and Conway, as well as the Faison's Old Tavern
community, US 158 passes multiple agricultural fields and wooded areas. The
next section of US 158 east of the project corridor is the Murfreesboro Bypass, a
four-lane divided facility traveling south of the town of Murfreesboro. This facility
has partially controlled access, with access only allowed at limited intersecting
streets.
According to the 2004-2010 TIP, right-of-way acquisition for the first
section of the project, R-2582A, is scheduled to begin in state fiscal year 2008,
with construction to begin in state fiscal year 2010. Construction of the
remaining sections is scheduled for a post-year letting. The current estimated
total cost is approximately $111,725,000.
B. Project Work to Date
Purpose and Need
The last merger team meeting for this project was held on February 9,
2000. At this meeting, the merger team agreed to the project's purpose and
need. The purpose of the project is to:
• Improve traffic flow and level of service (LOS) on this section of
US 158;
• Improve safety along US 158; and
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
• Improve access to existing and future industry.
According to the Purpose and Need Report presented to the merger team
in 2000, the purpose of the project is based upon the gradual deterioration of
the existing facility as well as the current safety hazards along the project. The
current facility has a fatal accident rate that is twice the statewide average for
similar US routes. If no improvements are made to the facility, the level of
service (LOS) on the section of US 158 between Weldon and US 301 is expected
to deteriorate to LOS E by the year 2010, with other sections deteriorating to
LOS D or LOS E by the design year 2025. Existing industrial development in
neighboring counties and expected economic growth in the northeast corner of
the state was also cited as a need for the project.
Citizens Informational Workshops
A series of public workshops was held at various sites in Northampton
County on April 4, 9, and 11, 2002. At this time, NCDOT had developed three
alternatives for each of the four project sections: widen US 158 on its existing
location, or bypass each section either north or south of the current facility. Over
300 citizens attended these workshops, with many attendees in support of the
proposed project. Many of the opinions expressed included concerns over
properties that would be affected by the project, including historic sites and
cemeteries along the existing highway. Several residents of Jackson expressed
an interest in using the Old Jackson Bypass Road as an alternative.
Following the 2002 workshops and subsequent discussions with local
officials, NCDOT reevaluated the project's alternatives. Two bypass alternatives,
both north of Jackson, were added to those already developed. In addition, the
existing southern Conway bypass was shifted to account for the neighboring
Georgia-Pacific property. An additional workshop was then held on July 12, 2004,
in Jackson; this workshop was geared toward the Jackson community to present
the two new Jackson bypass alternatives that had not been previously presented.
Over 150 people attended this workshop, with participants expressing a range of
opinions of the project. Many attendees were concerned about the amount of
property, especially farm properties, that would be lost as a result of
construction. Many participants merely wanted to know when they could expect
to see construction begin.
2
N
Cf)
M
O
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
II. Project Alternatives
A. No-Build, Mass Transit Alternatives
No-Build Alternative
The No-Build Alternative would forego any improvements to existing roads
with the exception of routine maintenance. No new segment would be
constructed, and no roadway or intersection improvements would be performed.
The No-Build Alternative would avoid any adverse environmental impacts,
in that no wetlands, streams, historic properties, or other cultural and natural
resources would be directly impacted. However, as discussed the Purpose and
Need Report, US 158 is will have a deteriorating LOS by the design year 2025. As
traffic along the project increases, accidents and other safety concerns will
persist and deter future development along the corridor.
The No-Build Alternative was eliminated because it does not meet the
transportation goals of the State of North Carolina, the transportation needs of
the region, or the objectives of the project. However, the No-Build Alternative
does provide a basis for comparing the adverse impacts and benefits of the study
alternatives.
Transportation System Management Alternatives
Transportation Systems Management (TSM) improvements involve
increasing the available capacity of the facility within the existing right-of-way
with minimum capital expenditures and without reconstructing the facility. Items
such as the addition of turn lanes, striping, signing, signalization, and minor
rearignments are examples of TSM physical improvements. Traffic law
enforcement, speed restrictions, access control, and signal timing changes are
examples of TSM operational improvements. These types of improvements were
considered and some elements, such as access control measures, will be
incorporated into the recommendations, but TSM improvements alone would not
meet the stated purpose of the project. Therefore, the TSM Alternative was not
considered a reasonable and feasible alternative and was eliminated from further
consideration.
Mass Transit Alternatives
There is no existing mass transit in Northampton County due to lack of
demand, low-density development, and low population density. The study area is
primarily rural, with the exception of the Garysburg, Jackson, and Conway
downtown areas. Additionally, US 158 carries a large proportion of through traffic
4
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
with relatively high truck percentages, which is not conducive to local mass
transit. Based on these factors, the Mass Transit Alternative was eliminated from
consideration because it would not effectively address the purpose of and need
for the proposed project.
B. Construction Alternatives
In developing alternatives, the project was divided into four sections
corresponding with the four main populated segments of the project: Garysburg,
Jackson, Faison's Old Tavern, and Conway. Both widening and new location
alternatives have been developed for each section. Each new location alternative
has a 1000-foot wide study corridor, while the widening alternatives have a 400-
foot wide study corridor.
NCDOT is proposing a four-lane facility with a 46-foot wide grassy median
for the length of the project. The median-divided typical section is consistent
with the existing Murfreesboro Bypass at the eastern end of the project. NCDOT
proposes full control of access for any new location segments, with interchanges
planned at most major intersecting NC and US routes. Partial access control is
proposed for all of the widening alternatives.
Garysburg
The Garysburg alternatives include the section of US 158 between the
project's starting point east of Weldon to the east side of Garysburg at the
US 158 intersection with Old Jackson Bypass Road. An alternative project start
point has also been developed and would only be used if one of the bypass
alternatives is selected. This alternate starting point involves relocating US 158
onto existing NC 46 at its intersection with I-95, approximately one exit north of
the existing US 158 exit. Figure 2 shows the study corridors for each of the
Garysburg alternatives.
1. Widen on Existing: This alternative would leave the project start east of
the one-way street pair in Weldon and widen US 158 on its existing
location through Garysburg. This alternative would require an additional
bridge crossing the Roanoke River for the new set of lanes; this bridge is
currently planned on the north side of the existing bridge crossing. No
interchanges are planned with this alternative.
2. Garysburg Northern Bvpass: This bypass begins at the NC 46/ I-95
intersection and extends along existing NC 46 until its intersection with US
301 north of town. The bypass would then proceed on new location
around Garysburg until it rejoins US 158 east of town. A grade separation
5
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
is proposed for the intersection with US 301, and an interchange is
proposed for the reconnection of the bypass with existing US 158 east of
town. This alternative would also include two railroad crossings.
3. Garysbura Southern Bypass 1: This bypass begins at the NC 46/ I-95
intersection and extends along existing NC 46 until just west of
Garysburg. The bypass then proceeds on new location south of
Garysburg, until it rejoins US 158 east of town (at the same location as
the proposed Northern Bypass). An interchange is proposed for the
reconnection of the bypass with existing US 158 east of town. This
alternative would also involve two railroad crossings.
4. Garysburg Southern Bypass 2: This bypass follows the same path as
Southern Bypass 1 alternative, but extends farther south after it crosses
existing US 158/US 301 south of town. This alternative reconnects with US
158 east of town at the intersection of US 158 and Old Jackson Bypass
Road (SR 1311). An interchange is proposed for the reconnection with
existing US 158 east of town. This alternative also involves two railroad
crossings.
Tahle i- Garvshura Alternatives
Alternative Len t4_ mi. Construction Cost
Widen on Existing 3.58 $18,200,000
Northern Bypass 5.02 $29,500,000
Southern Bypass 1 5.34 $37,600,000
Southern Bypass 2 5.44 $39,100,000

x
71- . IL -1
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
Jackson
The Jackson section of the project extends from east of Garysburg (at the
intersection of US 158 and Old Jackson Bypass Road) to east of Jackson; the
eastern end of this section corresponds to the split between projects R-2582 and
R-2584. Figures 3-5 show the study corridors for the Jackson alternatives.
1. Widen on Existing: This alternative would widen existing US 158,
continuing through downtown Jackson to the east side of town. No
interchanges are included in the design of this alternative.
2. Old Jackson Bypass: This alternative would widen the existing Jackson
Bypass Road (SR 1311) for use as a bypass. Two sections of the existing
road would be straightened, thus putting the bypass on short sections of
new location. No interchanges are included in this alternative.
3. Extended Northern Jackson Bypass: This bypass follows US 158 on
existing location for a short segment, then proceeds on new location north
of Jackson through its reconnection east of Mt. Carmel Road (SR 1333).
The bypass would intersect NC 305 just south of Pleasant Grove Road
.(SR 1314), with an interchange planned at that intersection as well as at
both ends of the bypass.
4. Northern Jackson Bypass: This bypass follows existing US 158 until just
west of Jackson and extends north of town on new location. The bypass
reconnects with US 158 east of Mt. Carmel Road (SR 1333). An
interchange is planned at the intersection with NC 305 as well as at both
ends of the bypass.
5. Southern Jackson Bypass: This bypass follows existing US 158 until just
west of Jackson and extends south of town on new location. The bypass
reconnects with US 158 just east of NC 305. Interchanges are planned for
both ends of the bypass.
Tahlp 7_ larkSnn Alternatives
Alternative Length mi. Construction Cost
Widen on Existing 11.20 $35,100,000
Old Jackson Bypass 10.61 $48,200,000
Extended Northern Bypass 9.41 $52,900,000
Northern Bypass 11.00 $55,900,000
Southern Bypass 11.60 $53,500,000
8

S
ar
s
?r
t
a -
1
??4 y]
.T44 .TY
, It,
of ? ay.z i?j;
11 t ,
TTp
0.4

Y

y
4 t
n _ r
IVt r

Ad
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
Faison's Old Tavern
The Faison"s Old Tavern alternatives extend from the R-2582/R-2584
division through just west of the town of Conway. Figure 6 shows the study
corridors for the Faison's Old Tavern alternatives.
1. Widen on Existing: This alternative would widen US 158 on its existing
location through just west of Conway. No interchanges are planned with
this alternative.
2. Faison's Old Tavern Northern Bypass: This alternative proceeds on new
location from just east of Old Jackson Bypass Road to west of Conway
near Zion Church. Interchanges are planned at both ends of the new
location section of this alternative, and a grade separation is planned for
the intersection with Galatia Road (SR 1344).
3. Faison's Old Tavern Southern Bypass: This bypass extends on new
location from west of the Old Jackson Bypass Road intersection to west of
Zion Church. Interchanges are planned at both ends of the new location
section of this alternative (at the connections to US 158); a grade
separation is planned for the intersection with NCHS Road (SR 1505).
4. Faison's Old Tavern Northern Bypass & Conway Northern Bypass: This
alternative would connect the proposed Northern Bypass with the
proposed Conway Northern Bypass and extends through the end of the
project. Interchanges are proposed for both ends of the bypass section as
well as for the intersection with NC 35 north of Conway, and there is also
one railroad crossing within this alternative.
Tahlp '; Faignn's nlri Tavern Alternatives
Alternative Length (mi.) Construction Cost
Widen on Existing 8.38 $26,100,000
Northern Bypass 9.02 $50,600,000
Southern Bypass 8.01 $45,000,000
Northern Bypass of
Faison's Old Tavern &
Conway 15.88 $86,200,000
12
1
i
.i.
x?e.

ss

41
I

II ? r -
>a
,145- s;,
.ar ,

7,• 3' vM1 <. - 1. - 7 V
' - ?.. I,
?}y???
:
1

,

r •?

ilk*
u
}

• 1
bf
e

f
tfi

h
r '
1' s
r
L ,

.
y ?

. ?s 51..
=I
Cl
?..

Ak
?s 1

R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
Conway
The Conway alternatives extend from west of town (just east of Zion
Church) through the end of the project. Included in each of these alternatives is
a segment of US 158 at the end of the project that will be widened on its
existing location. Figure 7 shows the study corridors for the Conway alternatives.
1. Widen on Existing: This alternative would widen US 158 on its existing
location through Conway. No interchanges are planned with this
alternative; there is one railroad crossing in downtown Conway.
2. Northern Conway Bypass: This alternative begins on new location east of
Zion Church Road (SR 1500) and reconnects with existing US 158 east of
Gilmer Ricks Road (SR 1543). Interchanges are proposed at both ends of
the new location section as well as the intersection with NC 35 north of
town. There is also one railroad crossing.
3. Southern Conway Bypass 1: This alternative begins on new location east
of Zion Church Road (SR 1500) and, after passing south of town, curves
north to cross over the existing facility before reconnecting with US 158
.east of Gilmer Ricks Road (SR 1543). An interchange is planned for the
western end of the new location section as well as at the intersections
with NC 35 and the 900 crossing of US 158. There is one railroad crossing
associated with this alternative.
4. Southern Conway Bypass 2: This bypass follows most of the same
alignment as the other southern bypass alternative; however, it proceeds
east to reconnect with existing US 158 at Ashley's Grove Road (SR 1536).
Interchanges are planned at both ends of the new location section as well
as the intersection with NC 35. There is also one railroad crossing
associated with this alternative.
Tahlp & C'nnwav Alternatives
Alter-native Len th' mi. Construction Cost
Widen on Existing 7.09 $19,200,000
Northern Bypass 7.62 $48,100,000
Southern Bypass 1 8.62 $54,600,000
Southern Bypass 2 7.81
00 000
$52,7
14

f w 1- :: .
1
nf . ?
Y
_

? µ x
CF ,
? ?
r>
t t- ? L
A
fi
2r
doo m

'o x
®?®
i
m - ,I
O
a
?
mx-1o(D
r?zm
I I M 00® 0
0:1
O
?Q
O I
0 -1'
TO
® O
N
WAN
?O®0
n p ?-Ln
- O (D
K °

?4S yy

-
R-2582/R-2584 Detailed Study Alternatives
March 10, 2005
III. Preliminary Impacts Assessment
Table 5 provides a preliminary comparison of potential impacts. Data for the
table was compiled from the latest aerial photography for the project. The data
in the table is based on a 200-foot right-of-way corridor situated over the
centerline for each alternative. All of the estimates provided in the table will be
refined throughout the study as the level of design is increased. The following
are the assumptions used in estimating the total impacts:
Relocations- Residential and business relocations were based on whether all or
part of the building fell within the 200-foot corridor. Businesses and residences
were determined based on current property information.
Farm Impacts- Impacts to farm properties for each alternative were
determined by land types shown on aerial photography. It is unknown how many
of the farms shown are currently active.
Historic Properties- Impacts to historic properties are based on a Phase II
Historic Architectural survey conducted throughout the project study area.
Boundaries of both National Register listed and eligible properties are based on
information provided in this report.
Wetlands- Wetland impacts are based on National Wetland Inventory (NWI)
mapping. Every attempt has been made to avoid large wetland areas.
Streams- The study area is characterized by relatively flat terrain with multiple
streams. Locations of potential stream crossings were determined from aerial
photography as well as GIS information. Every attempt has been made in the
development of the preliminary alternatives to avoid streams; where necessary,
crossings will be placed at 90-degree angles.
16
A y°M
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTNMNT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
March 10, 2005
MEMORANDUM TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT: Widening of US 158 from East of Weldon to the
Murfreesboro Bypass, Halifax/Northampton Counties,
Federal Aid Project NHF-158(7), State Project 8.T101401,
WBS Element 34472.1.1, T.I.P. Project Nos.
R-2582/R-2584
Summary of Public and Local Officials' Comments
Please find attached to this memo copies of documents pertaining to comments
from both the public and local officials in regards to TIP Projects R-2582/R-2584. The
following documents are attached:
• Summary of public comments from the Citizens Informational Workshop
held on July 12, 2004;
• Memo summarizing the comments received at Citizens Informational
Workshops held in April, 2002;
• November 2, 2004 letter from the Town of Jackson stating a preference for
the Extended Northern Bypass Alternative;
• December 18, 2002 letter from Northampton County Board of
Commissioners offering comments on the project;
• December 12, 2002 letter from the Town of Jackson detailing concerns
regarding the project alternatives; and
• October 22, 2002 letter from the Town of Weldon stating a preference for the
alternative of widening US 158 on existing location through Garysburg.
R-2582/R-2584 Merger Team
Beth Smyre 6'W'
Project DevelopmenE gmeer
LYNDO TIPPETT
SECRETARY
If there are any questions or comments regarding the attached documents, please
feel free to contact me at [phone] ext. 333 or at bs=[e-mail].
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.DOT.ORG
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
'ifizens _bill) KM14iPOA I wl rl SA DP
/'rj) M, 101201©111gL9na
Alternative Comments For Comments Against
Garysburg
Northern Bypass Impacts to farmland.
This alignment should be shifted farther
north so that it avoids homes and farmlands
in northern Garysburg.
NC 46 already receives a lot of traffic
Would impact fewer homes in Garysburg heading to Lake Gaston, so it should be
Widen on existing and would help the growth of Weldon. widened.
Southern Bypass Impacts to farmland.
Jackson
Would promote economic growth for the Would shut down Jackson by pulling
Old Jackson Bypass area since it is farther from the town. business away from town.
There are so many curves on this road that it
would cause too much shifting from side to
side.
Waste of effort, because it would likely need
to be completely rebuilt anyway.
Lines up well with the Faison's Old Tavern
southern bypass. Would be able to use more
of the existing US 158 east and west of
Jackson (fewer houses in these sections) Slightly longer route than Old Jackson
Extended Northern Bypass than with the Old Jackson Bypass. Bypass.
Promotes economic growth for the area by
being farther out of town; also has the least
5

amount of wetlands to cross and would .
impact the least amount of cultivated
property.
Provides the best route and still uses a lot of
existing US 158.
Allows for more use of the existing US 158 in
Northern Bypass areas where there are few homes. Adds some traveling distance.
Proximity to Jackson elementary school.
Widen on existing
Makes the most use of existing US 158
Southern Bypass outside of Jackson. Adds traveling distance and some curves.
Fewer impacts to the town and to farmland. Close to Jackson Elementary School.

Faison's Old Tavern
There are more houses on this route than in
the southern bypass corridor. There are also
at least two cemeteries. This route would
also take out a lot of farmland and leave
many backfields with no access. This would
also be the longest travel distance of all the
Northern Bypass Fewest number of homes affected. options.

This route has several cemeteries and would
take traffic further from the high school.
Property owners are opposed to this due to
loss of farmland.
This alternate would split farmland parcels;
would have to provide access to property on
both sides.
More swampland in this area.
Widen on existing Significant impacts to property owners.
There are cemeteries along this section of
US 158.
Many houses would be taken out. There are
also several cemeteries along this route.
Most direct route. This hits far less open land
than the other two, and there are fewer
houses. It would also provide easy access to
Southern Bypass central high school. Significant impacts to farmlands.
Best access to high school; uses more of
existing US 158 highway. Several wetlands in corridor.
This alternate is farther south; though it
misses wetlands, it takes much more
Fewer impacts to houses and to farmland. farmland than before.
Landowner opposed to this alternate
because the interchange near the high
school would take land.
Conway
Crosses wetlands, the town's sewage area,
and would make it further for trucks from
Georgia Pacific (main economic resource) to
Northern Bypass Would impact fewer people. travel.
Several of the homes on the north side of US Will completely damage the growth of
158 where this ties in on the east side are Conway; the town's irrigation system will be
vacant. curtailed.
This route would split farmland; would have
to provide access to split parcels.
More wetlands and streams in this corridor.
Note several cemeteries in this corridor.
Widen on existing Note several cemeteries in this corridor.
Note, between Conway and project end,
there is a water line south of existing US
158.
The alternate with the sharp curve bisects
Southern Bypass Southern route looks best. farmland.
Least disruptive option- it would affect the
least number of homes, and it is a straighter Some of the farmland in this corridor has
route, making it safer. been in the family for a long time.
Seems to be less disruptive.
Georgia-Pacific traffic can exit without going
through town.
Fewer impacts to the town and to farmland.
Of the two southern alternates, use the
straighter route of the two; it takes fewer
homes.
Involves fewer homes and looks better for
Georgia-Pacific.
To: Doug Jeremiah, Project Development and Environmental Analysis
From: Judith Brimage, Project Development and Environment Analysis
Date: April 15, 2002
Re: April 4, 9`h and 11`h Citizens Informational Workshops on T.I.P R-2582 & R-2584
Widening of US 158 to multi-lanes east of Weldon to the Murfreeboro bypass
Northampton County.
April 4, 2002 Citizens Informational Workshop - Garysburg Elementary School, Hwy 46 W.
Garysburg, NC
Thursday April 4, 2002 an Informational Citizen Workshop held at the gymnasium of Garysburg
Elementary school, Hwy 46 West, Garysburg. The purpose of this and the following workshops are to
present information, answer questions and receive comments regarding this project. The project consists of
widening the existing two-lane section of US 158 from a two-lane facility to a four-lane facility with a
divided median. Bypasses on new location of Garysburg, Jackson and Conway are being studied as part of
this project.
Most residents that attended the workshop lived off Hwy 46. The majority or 98% of the attendees were in
support of the project. In hope this would further economic development in the area, increase property
value, bring better jobs and to help reduce traffic congestion on this road.
• One citizen was in support of the widening of Hwy. 158 due to traffic pile-ups on I-95. This would
help in back-ups if there were an accident on 1-95 and traffic spilled over onto Hwy: 301 in Weldon.
He mentioned this project would take a portion of his front yard. Yet, he is still in favor of having this
project instead of viewing the congestion and pollution on this highway by cars and trucks.
• One major concern voiced by the residents was the impact of the children in the area. This particular
end of the project will affect several residents on this road. This resident wanted to know what
safeguards will be enforced for the children in the area.
• Several people wanted to know why does NCDOT always go around their neighborhood instead of
allowing the their road (Hwy. 158) to be widen.
• Several citizens had concerns for the current condition of the roads. One woman expressed concerns
of hydroplaning below posted speed when there is rain on the road. She really wants to see the road
evened out.
April 9, 2002 Citizens Informational Workshop - J. W. Faison Administration Building, 9495 NC
305 Hwy, Jackson, NC
Tuesday April 9, 2002 the second part of this Informational Workshop held in the J.W. Faison
Administration Building for the citizens of Jackson. As previously stated the citizens of this area favored
this project.
• The majority of the citizens are in favor of the Northern bypass
• Several people were more in favor of the former proposal of the "Jackson Bypass" that was presented
in 1995. Again, this favored the northern route.
• Several citizens would have preferred an "informal presentation" to explain the project and the maps,
then leisurely look at the maps and then direct their questions to the NCDOT representatives.
• A few people misunderstood the informational flyers delivered. They thought the workshop started at
4:00 ending at 7:00 p.m. Therefore, I several people did not attend thinking they would have been
extremely late coming after a normal workday 9-5 p.m.
• There was raised concern for the vast amount of historic property leading back to the Civil War, also
for the numerous amount of cemetery in area and along Hwy 158.
April 11, 2002 Citizens Informational Workshop - Cafeteria of Conway Middle School, Hwy 158
East, Conway, NC
Thursday April 11, 2002 the final part of this Informational Workshop was in the cafeteria of Conway
Middle School for the citizens of Conway. The citizens of this area again favored this project, but had a
few concerns. A couple of people left their names and numbers for further comments if necessary.
• Several people wanted the road widen, but all the way to "Winton" in Hertford County.
• Due to the large turnout, there were around 200 participants in attendance, an informal presentation of
the project and introduction of NCDOT representatives would have been helpful according to
attendees.
• Again, there was more comments given over the abundance of cemeteries in the area. One man stated
the map for Jackson only showed one when there should have been at least two sited on the map.
• There were several concerns about the multi-signal lights on the Murfreeboro bypass. Mr. Stacy
Futrell [phone] of the area stated " There are 3 to 4 lights in a 2 mile area, resulting in too
many accidents from large trucks that can't stop from cars entering from side the roads. Cars entering
from these roads cause the signal light to trip, resulting in accidents. Also, there are several accidents
on Spring Ave." He feels there should be a small access road from each end of the bypass to help cars
enter in traffic.
• Mr. Jim Hedgepeth [phone] of Conway states "If you widen the two lanes 2ft more with wide
ghoulders this would help the flow of traffic". He states an example would be in Franklin, Virginia Isle
of Wight County, Hwy 258. Also Hwy. 258 from Murfreeboro to Woodland is another example of a
"nice wide road."
Observations
Overall, the meetings were successful. The facilities were adequate for the format of an informational
workshop. The building in Jackson and Conway the walls were not long enough to mount both aerials.
The maps could have been a little more readable for the everyday citizen. A legend would have helped.
Due to the magnitude of this project, a brief yet informal presentation before each meeting would have
helped explained the process of this project to the citizens. It would have been easier to understand if the
wording on the fliers were adjusted to read differently, ex. " You may drop in anytime between the hours
of 4:00 p.m. to 7:00p.m. for an informal presentation of this project. We would like to receive comments
and to answer any questions you may have for this proposed project."
T101ban of 1achson
P. O. Box 614
?IJarksnn, Cr 7,8 45
[phone]
November 2, 2004
Ms. Beth Smyre, Project Development Engineer
Project Development & Enviromental Analysis Branch
North Carolina Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
RE: Proposed Widening of U.S. Highway 158
TIP Project R-2582
Northampton County
Dear Ms. Smyre:
Thank you for meeting with the town representatives on October 13, 2004.
After you left this meeting, our Board of Commissioners unanimously
adopted a resolution in favor of the extended northern bypass alternative.
In addition, and as we discussed with you, the intersection of the
new highway and NC Highway 305, some two miles north of Jackson, must be
of an "overpass" design. This is for matters of public safety.
Contact me if you have any questions or if we can be of any further assistance
to you and your staff.
e y truly yours,
n F. McKellar
Mayor
0?f 1?? r
ve -• ,
OFFICE OF THE
COUNTY MANAGER
Northampton County
"A GREAT PLACE TO RAISE FAMILIES, PROFITS AND EXPECTATIONS-
P. O. BOX 808
JACKSON, N.C. 27845
PHONE [phone]
FAX [phone]
0"_?CEiV
December 18, 2002
Mr. Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph. D.
Environmental Management Director
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548
d -0
NY S,0N OF
?Tqt N
A
Subject: US-158 Multi-Lane Project, TIP Projects R-2582 and R-2584.
Dear Mr. Thorpe:
This correspondence is in response to your letter of October 17, 2002, regarding the US-158 Multi-Lane
Project, more specifically TIP Projects R-2582 and R-2584. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
First, as you know, projects R-2582 and R-2584 have been a part of the intrastate corridor plans of this state
since the inception of the intrastate corridor concept. However, planning, design, right-of-way and
construction activities for these projects have consistently been delayed. These delays have caused substantial
planning difficulties at the local level in both the public and private sectors and we are experiencing some very
real hardships as a consequence. Please know that we will do whatever we can to facilitate development of
these much needed highway improvement projects in Northampton County, and we ask that you contact us
if we can be of assistance in any way. Likewise, we appreciate the work you and your colleagues with the
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) are doing to move these projects forward, and ask
that you continue doing whatever you can to bring these projects to fruition.
Secondly, particular to your letter of October 17, 2002, and other discussions with NCDOT staff, we offer
the following comments and requests for your further consideration.
Northampton County is a predominantly rural county and the great majority of the land in the county
laying along the various proposed alternates for R-2582 and R-2584 is used for agricultural purposes.
The use of these lands is fairly equally divided between row-crop cultivation and plantation timber.
Varying levels of some type of agricultural activity (cultivation, planting, thinning, harvest, etc.) on
these properties is fairly regular and has largely gone unchanged for decades. We are unaware of any
of these properties which have been identified as having any special significance as being
environmentally sensitive or as protective habitat. From that perspective, we believe the potential
environmental project impact would be quite minimal.
Mr. Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph. D.
North Carolina Department of Transportation
December 18, 2002
Page 2
2. Northampton County strongly supports the alternate to begin construction of project R-2582 at the
current Interstate 95 and NC-46 interchange. This alternate would avoid a costly and potentially
environmentally challenging crossing of the Roanoke River with minor disruption of existing
development.
3. The various proposed alternates for R-2582 and R-2584 would largely impact lands which are
undeveloped with little for impact on existing development, except, potentially, in the vicinity of
the towns of Garysburg, Jackson and Conway and the Faison Old Taven community between
Jackson and Conway. We request that the multi-lane road be designed to by-pass rather than bisect
these communities so as to minimize relocation and disruption of existing development.
4. Although Northampton County is largely rural, the primary highways in the county carry a
substantial amount of through traffic. Particularly, there is heavy truck traffic on US-301, NC-305
and NC-35. We request that the US-158 multi-lane facility include full grade separation
interchanges where intersecting with these three (3) primary highways.'_.'_ 5. We are pleased and grateful that project R-2582 has been scheduled-fof' both right-of-way and
construction. Yet, we request that the both right-of-way (currently scheduled for FY 2006) and
construction (currently scheduled for FY 2008) for this project be accelerated by one year if at all
possible.
6. If the complexity of the R-2582 project warrants, and if this might expedite construction, we request
that strong consideration be given to separating and accelerating the portion of the project extending
from the Interstate 95 and NC-46 interchange to US-301 south of the Town of Garysburg. We are
currently grappling with many hot button development issues along this highway segment and are
faced with making many land-use, infrastructure and capital investment decisions which will acutely
impact the pattern of development in that area. Expediting this portion of the project will greatly
enhance our ability to make good, sound land-use and development decisions in this portion of the
county.
7. R-2584 is also very important to this county and Hertford County. There is currently a troubling
traffic bottleneck in the Town of Conway. Largely this results from a high volume of truck traffic
along US-158 and NC-35; the convergence of that traffic in the Town of Conway; the US-158
crossing of the NCVA rail line in the Town of Conway; industrial and commercial development in
Hertford County which has generated additional traffic westbound along US-158 through
Northampton County to Interstate 95; and, increased use of US-158 as a preferred route for those
traveling between Interstate 95 and the Outer Banks. We ask that construction of R-2584 be
scheduled as soon as possible.
Mr. Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph. D.
North Carolina Department of Transportation
December 18, 2002
Page 3
Finally, in anticipation of the US-158 project, Northampton county has enacted proactive access management
tools which, we believe, will substantially enhance our ability to ensure highway safety, minimize potentially
negative impacts from development along the US-158 corridor and carefully guide development which might
occur along that highway corridor. Our intent is to provide sound access management while avoiding costs
and further delays which might result from the project being designed as a fully controlled access facility. For
example, for any parcel of land on record as of December 8, 2002, our subdivision ordinance permits only
one street or driveway from that parcel to intersect with any major thoroughfare (further defined to be a multi-
lane facility).
Again, we appreciate the opportunity to offer comment regarding projects R-2582 and R-2584. We hope our
comments are constructive and helpful. Please let us know if you desire further information regarding any
of these comments or if we can be of assistance to you in any way.
We are very grateful to you and your associates for the work you are doing on our behalf and in service to the
people of this state. Locally, those who work with the North Carolina Department of Transportation have
done a remarkable job of assisting county residents, solving problems, working with us and helping in so many
ways to make this a better community in which to live and work. Thank you for that devoted service.
With best regards, sincerely,

J114
Virginia D. Spruill
Chairwoman, Northampton County Board of Commissioners
C: North Carolina Representative Howard Hunter
North Carolina Senator-Elect Robert Holloman
Mr. Stan M. White, North Carolina Board of Transportation, Division One
Mr. Don Conner, Division Engineer, Division One, NCDOT

C` ofun of 31arks.o"
P. O. Box 614
Jurkson, XI CIT 27845
[phone]
December 12, 2002
Mr. Doug Jeremiah, Project Development Engineer
N. C. Department of Transportation
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N. C. 276994548
RE: Proposed Widening of U. S. Highway 158
TIP Project R-2582
Northampton County
Dear Mr. Jeremiah:
This is to follow up on your letter to our Town Clerk, Judy Harrison, dated October 3,
2002. Understandably, our Board of Commissioners is concerned about the location of
this four-lane highway. There have been concerns raised in the community. It seems too
close to town. It feels too close.
When I wrote you on July 30 our Board was responding to what we thought were the
only alternatives: northern-shallow, southern-shallow and middle-of-town. If these are
the only choices, then the northern-shallow route is our preference. So the July 30 letter
is still good, as far as it goes.
However, now we understand DOT is considering other alternatives.
Our Board has discussed this several times and the consensus is the new highway should
be located farther north of town, at least beyond the "county complex" on N. C. Highway
305, some 1.5 miles north of our corporate limits. The reasons for this are integrity, and
safety.
Inte t . Jackson is a government center, the county seat of Northampton. Our biggest
business is government and its many public services. This is our identity. This is what
defines us. Over the past twenty-five years many of the county offices have relocated or
expanded into the area of the county complex, including social services, health
department, agricultural services, public works department, and a new 911 emergency
operations center. The DOT maintenance facilities have been there for years. Heck, we
even vote there!
Mr. Doug Jeremiah, Project Development Engineer
December 12, 2002
Page Two
In addition, a veritable medical complex has arisen: doctors offices, pharmacy, dental
office, mental health, ambulance services, and a rest home and retirement center.
We consider this area a part of Jackson, a part of our police and fire protection
jurisdiction, and we don't want to be separated from it.
Safety. Putting a major highway between the town and the county complex will create a
dangerous driving hazard. There are some 330 employees in the offices mentioned
above, with an untold number of citizens and patients and family members who drive
there for the services and care offered. And they drive back into Jackson for meals, for
gas, for shopping, and for business purposes - the county manager and finance office are
located in town; the courthouse and bank and post office are located in town. There is a
constant flow of traffic. Even with traffic signals at this new highway there will be
automobile accidents, and needless injuries and deaths. The congestion makes this
inevitable. It's already risky, particularly at 8:30 in the mornings and 5:00 in the
afternoons when the county employees are going and coming from work `and it will only
become worse with the faster traffic of a four-lane highway.
Good conscience and public duty require that this risk be avoided.
So, our position is that the new highway should be located north of the county complex,
and we hope you will take our concerns into consideration.
Please contact me if you have questions or if we can be of any assistance to you and your
staff.
F uly yours,
McKellar
Mayor
G. W. (JOHNNY) DRAPER, JR.
MAYOR
NEAL C. PHILLIPS
TOWN ADMINISTRATOR
LINDA W. GRIFFIN
CLERK
KAY TRIPP
TAX COLLECTOR
'Tattin 11f elbran
109 WASHINGTON AVENUE
P.O. BOX 551
ATLDON, N.C. 27S90
PH. 52.536.4336
October 22, 2002
Mr. Doug Jeremiah, Project Development Engineer
NC Department of Transportation
Project Development and Environmental Analysis
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-1548
Dear Mr. Jeremiah:
COMMISSIONER:
DOCK M. BROWN
EUGENE B. GRANT, JR.
MICHAEL D. HARGROVE
JULIA M. MEACHAM
MARTHA B. THORNE
We have reviewed the proposals for widening US-158 from East of Weldon to the Murfreesboro
Bypass (projects R-2582 and R-2584).
The alternate to Weldon NC-46 from I-95 to Garysburg is not acceptable to the Town of
Weldon. Completely bypassing Weldon would have a devastating effect on the economy of the
town, which is already an economically distressed area. The area from the Roanoke River to
Garysburg has very little development and could be widened at a minimal cost and
environmental impact.
The Town highly recommends that US-158 be widened from the Roanoke River as shown on the
original proposal.
Sincerely,
TO F WELD
G. hnny) Draper, J .
Mayor
cc: Governor Mike Easley
US Senator John Edwards
Senator Frank Ballance
Senator A.B. Swindell
Representative John Hall
Representative Howard Hunter