R-4060

NEPA/404 Merger Team Meeting
TIP Project No. R-4060
Federal Aid Project STP-268(4)
WBS Element 34605.1.1
US 21, Sparta Western Loop, Sparta
SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21
Two lane roadway on new location
Wednesday September 15, 2004 at 10:00 a.m.
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Board Room
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
Purpose of this Meeting:
WETLANDS 1401 GROUP
AUG 3 0 ?_004
WATER QUALITY SECTION
The purpose of this meeting is to submit engineering and environmental
information to the project merger team in order to attain Concurrence Point 1,
Purpose and Need.
Meeting Agenda:
I. Purpose of Today's Meeting
II. Project Description
III. Purpose and Need Statement
IV. Existing Highway and Land Use Conditions
V. Existing (2003) Traffic and Level of Service
VI. Design Year (2030) Forecasted and Traffic and LOS
VII. Summary
Project Development Engineer: Richard L. Brewer, P. E.
[phone] ext. 242
rbrewera,dot. state. nc. us
CONCURRENCE POINT #1 -
PURPOSE AND NEED
US 21, SPARTA WESTERN LOOP
ALLEGHANY COUNTY
TIP PROJECT R-4060
Federal Aid Project STP-268(4)
WBS 34605.1.1
?r rn
Purpose of Today's Meeting
The purpose of today's meeting is to exchange information relating to the
purpose and need of TIP Project R-4060. The goal of this meeting is to obtain
written concurrence on purpose and need. Any discussion relating to corridors
and alternatives should not take place at today's meeting, but will be handled in
future team meetings.
Project Description
TIP Project R-4060 is listed in the 2004-2010 Transportation
Improvement Program. The description is: US 21, Sparta Western Loop,
Sparta, SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21; two lanes on new location.
Figure 1 shows the project vicinity.
Purpose and Need Statement
This project is needed to extend and complete the Sparta Western Loop.
The purpose of the project is to provide a roadway link between Grandview
Drive and US 21, therefore completing the Sparta Western Loop.
Existing Highway and Land Use Conditions
US 21 runs north-south across Alleghany County and passes through
Sparta. NC 18 is another state route running across the county and passing
through the central business district of Sparta. Grandview Drive (SR 1172), the
project's western terminus, runs north-south. These routes are all two-lane
facilities that have sporadic three-lane sections to facilitate left-turning traffic.
Existing land use adjoining US 21 and Grandview Drive is a mixture of
residential, commercial and industrial.
Existing (2003) Traffic and Level of Service
Existing (2003) average daily traffic (ADT) on Grandview Drive ranges from
2,200 vehicles per day (vpd) to 3,400 vpd. US 21 east of Grandview Drive
carries 10,600 vpd.
Mainline capacity calculations show US 21 operates at level of service
(LOS) D and Grandview Drive at LOS B during the evening peak traffic period.
The capacity of the corridor or its busiest intersection is defined as LOS E.
Currently these roadways operate below capacity.
2
Design Year (2030) Forecasted Traffic and Level of Service
The design year for this project is 2030. Forecasted ADT with the project
in place is as follows:
Roadway 2030 Traffic
Volume LOS
Sparta Western Loo (project) 8,800 v pd E
Grandview Drive 4,400 v pd D
US 21 north of the project 13,800 v pd D
US 21 south of the project 17 600 v pd E
LOS E signifies the capacity of these roadways. The proposed Sparta
Western Loop and US 21 south of the project are the area roadways forecasted
to operate at capacity by 2030. Therefore, this project will provide an extended
period of time when area roadways will function at or below capacity.
Summary
The proposed project will extend and complete the Sparta Western Loop
and provide a roadway connection benefitting the local system. Without the
project, the loop's effectiveness of carrying bypass traffic would be diminished.
The traffic demand would be directed along Grandview Drive and US 21 east of
Sparta, making these existing roads more congested and perhaps less safe.

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NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT
OF TRANSPORTATION
G DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND
` ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH
PROJECT VICINITY MAP
US 2I, SPART A WESTERN LOOP
ALLEGHANY COUNTY
FIGURE I
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CONCURRENCE POINT *1 -
PURPOSE AND NEED
US 21, SPARTA WESTERN LOOP
ALLEGHANY COUNTY
TIP PROJECT R-4o6o
Federal Aid Project STP-268(4)
WBS 34605.1.1
NEPA/404 Merger Team Meeting
TIP Project No. R-4o6o
Federal Aid Project STP-268(4)
WBS Element 34605.1.1
US 21, Sparta Western Loop, Sparta
SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21;
Two-lane roadway on new location.
September 15, 2004
Transportation Building
Board Room
Purpose of this Meeting:
The purpose of this meeting is to submit engineering and environmental
information to the project merger team and attain Concurrence Point 1, Purpose and
Need and a defined area of study.
Meeting Agenda:
1. Purpose of Today's Meeting
II. Project Description
III. Purpose and Need Statement
IV. Existing Highway and Land Use Conditions
V. Existing (2003) Traffic and Level of Service
VI. Design Year (2030) Forecasted Traffic and LOS
VII. Summary
VIII. Open floor discussion / approval of Purpose and Need & defined Area of
Study
Project Development Engineer: Richard L. Brewer, P. E.
[phone] ext. 242
rbrewer P dot. state. nc.us
I. Purpose of Today's Meeting
The purpose of this meeting is to submit engineering and environmental
information to the project merger team and attain Concurrence Point 1, Purpose and
Need, and a defined study area.
II. Project Description
TIP Project R-4o6o is listed in the 2004-201o Transportation Improvement
Program. The description is US 21, Sparta Western Loop, Sparta, SR 1172 (Grandview
Drive) to US 21; two lanes on new location. Figure 1 shows the project vicinity.
III. Purpose and Need Statement
This project is needed to reduce traffic in the downtown area of Sparta. The
purpose of the project is to provide a roadway link between Grandview Drive and US 21,
therefore completing the Sparta Western Loop.
IV. Existing. Highway and Land Use Conditions
US 21 runs north-south across Alleghany County and passes through the central
business district (CBD) of Sparta. NC 18 is a state primary route traversing the county
east to west, also passing through the Sparta CBD. Grandview Drive (SR 1172), the
project's western terminus, runs north-south. The completed Sparta Western Loop now
ends at Grandview Drive. These routes are two-lane facilities that have intermittent left
turn lanes.
Existing land use along Grandview Drive and US 21 is a blend of residential,
commercial and industrial. A large manufacturing operation, Bristol Compressors, is
located at the corner of the Sparia Western Loop and Grandview Drive.
V. Existing (2003) Traffic and Level of Service
Please refer to Figure 2, showing existing (2003) average daily traffic (ADT) in the
project area. Mainline capacity calculations show US 21 operates at level of service (LOS)
D and Grandview Drive at LOS B during the evening peak traffic period. {The capacity of
a corridor or intersection is defined as LOS E}. These roadways now operate satisfactorily
below their capacity.
VI. Design Year (2030) Forecasted Traffic and Level of Service
The design year for this project is 2030, meaning the proposed improvements of
this project will sufficiently serve travel demands until that year. Forecasted ADT with
the completed loop in place is as follows:

Roadway 2030
Forecasted
Traffic Volume
LOS
Sparta Western Loo (project) 8 8oo d E
Sparta Western Loo (completed) 8, oo d E
Grandview Drive ,400 d D
US 21 north of the project 1 ,8oo v_Qd D
US 21 south of the project 17,60o d E
ICP V4.
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LOS E signifies the capacity of these roadways. The proposed Sparta Western
Loop (the part to be built by this project and the section already completed) and US 21
south of the project are predicted to operate at capacity by 2030. Therefore, building
this project will create an extended period when area roadways will function at or below
capacity.
VII. Summary
Currently, all traffic uses Main Street (US 21) as the primary thoroughfare,
thereby creating high traffic volumes and congestion in downtown Sparta. The
proposed project will extend and complete the Sparta Western Loop and provide a
connection benefiting the local highway system. By completing the loop, a more
pedestrian-friendly and safer downtown environment will be created. These conditions
will assist in Sparta's downtown revitalization efforts.
If this project were not constructed, the incomplete loop would diminish the
effectiveness of carrying traffic around Sparta. For motorists coming from or bound for
the south via US 21, the incomplete loop would force traffic along South Main Street and
Grandview Drive (through downtown), making these roads more congested.
VIII. Open floor discussion / approval of Purpose and Need & defined Area
of Study
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February 16, 2004
MEMORANDUM
TO: Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator ?U( )
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for US 21, Sparta, Western Loop from SR 1172 (Grandview
Drive) to US 21; Alleghany County, State Project 8.1701301, F.A. Project STP-21(10),
TIP Project R-4060, State Clearinghouse Project 04-0179.
In reply to your correspondence dated January 13, 2004 (received January 20, 2004) in which you
requested comments for the referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project indicates that the
following water resources in Hydrologic Unit 050703 will be impacted:
Stream (Index) Water Quality Classification
¦ Little River (10-9) C trout
¦ Bledsoe Creek (10-9-7) C trout
The project proposes a two-lane roadway on new location. The purpose and need for the project have not
been disclosed. The length of the proposed project is unknown; it is also unknown how this project fits
into local or state transportation planning.
NC Division of Water Quality believes this project should go through the Merger/Concurrence Process
and has the following comments:
Environmental Documentation
¦ The environmental document should provide a detailed and itemized presentation of the proposed
impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. There should be a discussion on
mitigation plans for unavoidable impacts. If mitigation is required, it is preferable to present a
conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental documentation. While the
NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be practical, it should be noted that for projects
requiring mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to issuance of a 401
Water Quality Certification.
Planning and Design Issues
¦ Flowing in a northeasterly direction, the Little River and its tributaries (including Brush Creek
and Glade Creek) drain the Town of Sparta. The lower portion of the Little River is considered
High Quality Waters (HQW). It has been recommended that more of the Little River be
considered for reclassification as HQW. According to the New River Basinwide Water Quality
Plan (DWQ 2000), the negative change in Bledsoe Creek from Good (1993) to the low end of
Good-Fair (1998), is a reflection of increased impacts from urban development in and around the
Town of Sparta.
¦ Increased development in and around the Town of Sparta and damage to riparian vegetation has
degraded water quality in Bledsoe Creek. The stream receives very little shade and bank erosion
and sedimentation impacts are evident. It is recommended that urban stormwater impacts to
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/
IUldei r. Ca5iey, UUvw[Jur
William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis
R-4060 Scoping Letter
February 16, 2004
Bledsoe Creek be addressed to prevent further degradation of water quality in the biologically
viable portions of this stream.
Growth management within the next five years will be necessary, especially along highway
corridors, in order to protect or improve water quality in this sub-basin. Growth management can
be defined as the application of strategies and practices that help achieve sustainable development
in harmony with the conservation of environmental qualities and features of an area. On a local
level, growth management often involves planning and development review requirements that are
designed to maintain or improve water quality.
The stormwater management plan should be designed to pre-treat runoff from the roadway before
reaching the streams. Velocities at the outlets should be designed to prevent scour and
streambank erosion.
¦ Onsite wetland delineation shall be performed prior to application for §401 Certification.
Wetland and stream impacts should be avoided to the maximum extent practical. If this is not
possible, alternatives that minimize wetland impacts should be chosen. In accordance with the
NCDWQ Wetlands Rules { 15A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)1, mitigation will be required for impacts
of greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation becomes
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values.
In accordance with the NCDWQ Wetlands Rules { 15A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3)), the NC Wetland
Restoration Program (NCWRP) may be available for use as stream mitigation.
Construction Issues
¦ It is recommended that the Department of Transportation, take special care when constructing and
maintaining (including mowing) roads along streams in the New River basin. The lack of
riparian vegetation and streambank erosion is well-documented and will lead to increased
instream habitat degradation if these problems remain unchecked. Vegetation along streams
should remain as undisturbed as possible when conducting these construction and maintenance
activities.
Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. Sediment should be
removed from any water pumped from behind a cofferdam before the water is returned to the
stream.
¦ Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigation
will be required if wetlands or waters are impacted by waste or borrow.
¦ Impacts due to utility relocations from the project may require compensatory mitigation.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Cynthia Van Der Wiele at [phone].
pc: Chris Militscher, USEPA
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Marla Chambers, NCWRC
Richard Brewer, NCDOT PDEA
File Copy
2
? NNATF «??ny, uU„nIIIV,
O 9 William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
`ot pG North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
] Division of Water Quality
O
January 26, 2004
MEMORANDUM
TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator
NCDENR Office of Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator Cud t't')
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for US 21, Sparta, Western Loop from SR 1172 (Grandview
Drive) to US 21; Alleghany County, State Project 8.1701301, F.A. Project STP-21(10),
TIP Project R-4060, State Clearinghouse Project 04-0179.
In reply to your correspondence dated January 13, 2004 (received January 20, 2004) in which you
requested comments for the referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project indicates that the
following water resources in Hydrologic Unit 050703 will be impacted:
Stream (Index) Water Quality Classification
¦ Little River (10-9) C trout
¦ Bledsoe Creek (10-9-7) C trout
The project proposes a two-lane roadway on new location. The purpose and need for the project have not
been disclosed. The length of the proposed project is unknown; it is also unknown how this project fits
into local or state transportation planning.
NC Division of Water Quality believes this project should go through the Merger/Concurrence Process
and has the following comments:
Environmental Documentation
¦ The environmental document should provide a detailed and itemized presentation of the proposed
impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. There should be a discussion on
mitigation plans for unavoidable impacts. If mitigation is required, it is preferable to present a
conceptual (if not ffnali`zed) mitigation plan with the environmental documentation. While the
NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be practical, it should be noted that for projects
requiring mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to issuance of a 401
Water Quality Certification.
Planning and Design Issues
¦ Flowing in a northeasterly direction, the Little River and its tributaries (including Brush Creek
and Glade Creek) drain the Town of Sparta. The lower portion of the Little River is considered
High Quality Waters (HQW). It has been recommended that more of the Little River be
considered for reclassification as HQW. According to the New River Basinwide Water Quality
Plan (DWQ 2000), the negative change in Bledsoe Creek from Good (1993) to the low end of
Good-Fair (1998), is a reflection of increased impacts from urban development in and around the
Town of Sparta.
¦ Increased development in and around the Town of Sparta and damage to riparian vegetation has
degraded water quality in Bledsoe Creek. The stream receives very little shade and bank erosion
and sedimentation impacts are evident. It is recommended that urban stormwater impacts to
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), hftp://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis
R-4060 Scoping Letter
January 26, 2004
Bledsoe Creek be addressed to prevent further degradation of water quality in the biologically
viable portions of this stream.
Growth management within the next five years will be necessary, especially along highway
corridors, in order to protect or improve water quality in this sub-basin. Growth management can
be defined as the application of strategies and practices that help achieve sustainable development
in harmony with the conservation of environmental qualities and features of an area. On a local
level, growth management often involves planning and development review requirements that are
designed to maintain or improve water quality.
The stormwater management plan should be designed to pre-treat runoff from the roadway before
reaching the streams. Velocities at the outlets should be designed to prevent scour and
streambank erosion.
¦ Onsite wetland delineation shall be performed prior to application for §401 Certification.
Wetland and stream impacts should be avoided to the maximum extent practical. If this is not
possible, alternatives that minimize wetland impacts should be chosen. In accordance with the
NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)), mitigation will be required for impacts
of greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation becomes
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values.
In accordance with the NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3)), the NC Wetland
Restoration Program (NCWRP) may be available for use as stream mitigation.
Construction Issues
¦ It is recommended that the Department of Transportation, take special care when constructing and
maintaining (including mowing) roads along streams in the New River basin. The lack of
riparian vegetation and streambank erosion is well-documented and will lead to increased
instream habitat degradation if these problems remain unchecked. Vegetation along streams
should remain as undisturbed as possible when conducting these construction and maintenance
activities.
Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. Sediment should be
removed from any water pumped from behind a cofferdam before the water is returned to the
stream.
¦ Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigation
will be required if wetlands or waters are impacted by waste or borrow.
¦ Impacts due to utility relocations from the project may require compensatory mitigation.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Cynthia Van Der Wiele at [phone].
pc: Chris Militscher, USEPA
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Marla Chambers, NCWRC
Gregory J. Thorpe, NCDOT PDEA
File Copy
2
Ms. Cynthia Van der Wiele
Division of Water Quality/Wetlands
FROM-
M -
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? REP. NO. OR ROOM, BLDG.
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te
4 4, r
C Pp?A
ACTION
? NOTE AND FILE ? PER OUR CONVERSATION .
? NOTE AND RETURN TO ME ? PER YOUR REQUEST
? RETURN WITH MORE DETAILS ? FOR YOUR APPROVAL
? NOTE AND SEE ME ABOUT THIS ? FOR YOUR INFORMATION
? PLEASE ANSWER ? FOR YOUR COMMENTS
? PREPARE REPLY FOR MY SIGNATURE ? SIGNATURE
? TAKE APPROPRIATE ACTION ? INVESTIGATE AND REPORT
COMMENTS:
WETLANDS 1401 GROUP
FEB 1. 2 2004
WATER QUALITY SECTION
a.* AA r a
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVERNOR
February 4, 2004
MEMORANDUM TO:
FROM:
Ms. Cynthia Van der Wiele
Division of Water Quality/NN
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Di
Project Development and En
1AIRIANDS / 401, ('
FEB Y 2 2004
vuAr :h00AUTY SECTION
LYNDO TIPPETT
$F.CRE"FARY
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for US 21, Sparta Western Loop,
Alleghany County, SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21,
F. A. Project #8.1701301, TIP #R-4060
Attached for your review and comments are the scoping sheets for the subject project
(see attached map for project location). The purpose of these sheets and the related review
procedure is to have an early "meeting of the minds" as to the scope of work that should be
performed and thereby enable us to better implement the project. A scoping meeting for this
project is scheduled for March 4, 2004 at 2:30 PM at in the Project Development and
Environmental Analysis Branch Conference Room (Room 470). You may provide us with your
comments at the meeting or mail them to us prior to that date.
Thank you for your assistance in this part of our planning process. If there are any
questions about the meeting or the scoping sheets, please call Richard Brewer, Project
Development Engineer, at 733-7844, Ext. 242. Please include the TIP Project Number in all
correspondence and comments.
GJT/plr
Attachment
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
TIP # R-4060
PROJECT # 8.1701301
WBS Element # 34605.1.1
Meeting Date: 03/04/04
Revision Date:
Project Development Stage
? Programming
® Planning
? Design
F.A. PROJECT # STP-21(10)
DIVISION: 11 COUNTY: Alleghany
ROUTE: Sparta Western Loop
FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION: Major collector ?
LENGTH: 0.700 miles
PURPOSE OF PROJECT:
1. To facilitate traffic bypassing the CBD of Sparta, by completing the Western
Loop.
2. To reduce congestion on US 21.
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT (INCLUDING SPECIFIC LIMITS) AND MAJOR
ELEMENTS OF WORK:
Construct a two-lane roadway on new location, beginning at the intersection of SR
1172 (Grandview Dr.) and the completed Sparta Western Loop (SR 1206) and
ending at US 21 (S. Main St.), east of the Little River.
TYPE OF ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT TO BE PREPARED:
Environmental Assessment
PROJECT SCHEDULE:
EA: February 2005
FONSI: October 2005
R/W: September 2007
LET: September 2008
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
DESIGN CRITERIA
TYPE OF ACCESS CONTROL: Full ? Partial ® None ?
NUMBER OF: Interchanges 0 Grade Separations 0 Stream Crossings 2
TYPICAL SECTION OF PROPOSED ROADWAY: 2-lane shoulder section.
DESIGN STANDARDS APPLICABLE: AASHTO ® 3R?
Current Year 2003 w/ Loo Design Year 2025
ADT v d 4600 8800
TTST % 2 2
DUAL % 5 5
DHV % 10 10
CURRENT COST ESTIMATE:
Construction Cost ......................................
Right of Way Cost (TIP) .................................
Total Cost ........................................................
TIP COST ESTIMATE:
.............................$ 5,100,000
.............................$ 900,000
............................ $ 6,0002000
Construction ................................................................................. $ 5,200,000
Right of Way ........................... $ 900,000
Total TIP Cost .............................................................................. $ 6,100,000
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
LIST ANY SPECIAL FEATURES, SUCH AS RAILROAD INVOLVEMENT, WHICH
COULD AFFECT COST OR SCHEDULE OF PROJECT:
ITEMS REQUIRED (X) COMMENTS COST
T,_..-3 rr._, n.., n"too
Zs ttluaM;U vain vi ..,. ..?...•_?_••?•
Pavement: -2 -5 1) Z
Surface ..................................................................................... $
Base .$

.......................................
Milling & Recycling •••• ••••••••••••••$
Turnouts ....... ............------ -........................................................ $
Removal •$
Shoulders:

.....................................................................$
Paved ...................
.................................................................................... $
Earthen
.
Earthwork .........................................$
................................................... 965 S
Fine Grading ..... ...................................................................................$ ?65y.
Subsurface Items ................................................... ..............................$
Sub grade and Stabilization ..........................
oo. o
Draina a List an s ecial items ........................................................$ l ?? ooo. p
Sub-Drainage .......................................................................................$
Structures Width x Length
Bridge Rehabilitation x .................... $
New Bride x 3 ,,u' $ 6? 5. oo ?. ,
New Bridge x ...................$
New Bridge x ....................$
Widen Bride x ••••••••••••.•••••••$
Remove Bridge x ......•......... $
? New Culvert I Size Lcn4"th ... ??? ............
Culvert Extension .... ................................................................
.
Retaining Walls .......................................................................$
Noise Walls .............................................................................$
Other Misc. Structures .............................................................$
C oiicrcte Curb & GLItter ......................................................................

! Concrete Sidewalk ...............................................................................$
........ ...........................-___ ._._
Guardrail
'-?-

? .....
- - - - -- -
Fencing: T: W.W. ? and/or L. E] ..........................................-............$
- --
Erosion Control . •......

-
L v'
- --
.
.............
.........................................
--`b
in
[
d

.................
.....
.
.
scal
..
,an
g .........
U?.21 ..... .......... ........ .. .. ........$
$
..............._:...._.......................
........................
_
............................
? -- ........ ....... .....__._._._ ._ ..... ........____ ....__ _.._......
PROJECT SCOPING SHEET
/'1111 11 lTl TTC1
rncT
IT EMS REQUIRED X ?vivuvir,iN 1

...............................................................
Lighting • $
Traffic Control ................................................................................... $ 2 5 gcoo. CD
Si nin :

............................................................
New • $
Upgraded ............................................................................... $
Traffic Signals:

......................................................................................
New $ NSioo?
Revised .................................................................................. $
$
RR Signals:

C ker..,..5 ?,.bb;.?5 ?5,

d MSc. b<Mob ??S'/, Shy 1Z??6?lo,c?

r (y:? 'k Mob, 1y t L /?_ C

_4, 6BG cow. a

CONSTRUCTION Subtotal ......................................... 5). 10 0 n 0 c
Right of Way:
EXISTING RIGHT OF WAY WIDTH: N/A
WILL EX1S'HN6 RIGHT OF WAY CONTAIN IMPROVEMENTS? N/A
Y' ? No ?
?

-11 s
New Right of Way Necded: Width
71-asements: Type Width
............ $
? Utilities: ......................................... ... I ...............................................
R161IT OF WAY SUhtot'll :................. ...................................................$
E S"PIMA"TED PROJECTCOS7f: $
Preliminary Estimate
. -4060 .
Sparta Western Loop (Alt.3)
f New Loc.fm.SRi 172 to US21 Length=0.7 miles
section 2 lane shldr.section w/2' P.S.
and 6' soil shldrs.
Prepared. B.y:.Nidal.Albadawi,PE 12118/03 Updated
Requested By: Ray McIntyre, PE 12/18/03
County: ALLEGHENY

Line
Item
Des
Sec No.
Description
Clearing & Grubbing
Quantity
5
Unit
ACR
Price
$ 15,000.00
50
3
Amount
$ 75,000.00
50
965
389
$ 1
Unclassified Excavation 397,133 CY .
$ .
,
,
Drainage 0.7 MI $ 190,000.00
00
2 $ 133.000.00
854
00
$ 32
Fine Grading 16,427 SY .
$
00
36 .
,
452
00
$ 43
2" 1-2 1,207 TN .
$ .
,
00
36 00
292
$ 68
3„ H 1,897 TN $
. .
,
00
14 00
796
$ 96
10" ABC 6.914 TN .
S .
,
00
235 770
00
$ 42
Asphalt Cement 182 TN .
$
00
$ 5 .
,
00
600
$ 61
Subgrade Stabilization 12.320 SY .
00
500
6 .
.
00 '
55
500
Erosion Control
I'Iicrmo and :Markers 9
0.7 ACR
MI .
,
$
$ 15,000.00 .
.
S 10.500.00
00
000
15 $ 15
00
000
Traffic Control I LS .
.
$ .
.
Left Turn Lane I L5 S 30.000.00 $ 30,000.00
00
12 000
00
$ 42
Guardrail 3.500 LF .
$ .
,
00
300
1 UU
600
S 21
Anchors 12 EA .
.
$ .
,
Widen US21 for turn lanes l LS $ 45.000.00 $ 45,000.00
00
000
45 00
000
$ 45
New Traffic Signal @ US21 EA .
.
$ .
,

New KCBC (cu Bledsoe Creek 220 LF $ 530.00 S 132.000.00
l(cu8x8-220'L-45'FH-90 Deg.
New Br.@ Little River
0.000
i
S 75.00
S o,5.000.00
30'W x 300'L

00
640
S 128
Msc. & Mob. (15% Str's) I LS .
.
Msc. & Mob. (55% Rdwy) I I.S $ l,' 1o.430.,u
%r , i i onn nn
t-onirrci 1 ()..............................
E.& C. I 1 5 ",;,) .................................... .
Construction (*()St .........................................
M N?0,000.00
i

x.100.000.00
THE ABOVE SCOPING INFORMATION HAS BEEN REVIEWED AND APPROVED
BY:
INIT DATE INIT. DATE
Highway Design Board of Tran. Member
Roadway Board of Tran. Member
Structure Dir. Plan. & Prog.
Design Services Dep. Admin. -Preconst.
Geotechnical Chief Engineer-Oper.
Hydraulics Secondary Roads Off.
Loc. & Surveys Construction Branch
Photogrammetry Roadside Environmental
Prel. Est. Engr. Maintenance Branch
PD&EA Bridge Maintenance
Right of Way Statewide Planning
R/W Utilities Division Engineer
Traffic Engineering Bicycle Coordinator
Project Management Program Development
County Manager FHWA
City/Municipality Dept. of Cult. Res.
Other Dept. of EH&NR _
Other Others -
Scoping Sheet for local officials will be sent to Division Engineer for handling.
IF YOU ARE NOT IN AGREEMENT WITH PROPOSED PROJECT OR SCOPING,
NOTE YOUR PROPOSED REVISIONS BELOW AND INITIAL, AND DATE, AFTER
COMMENTS.
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INCII North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 0
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator
Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DENR
FROM: Marla Chambers, Highway Projects Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program, NCWRC
DATE: February 3, 2004
SUBJECT: Scoping review of NCDOT's proposed construction of a portion of the US 21
Sparta Western Loop, from SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21, Alleghany
County. TIP No. R-4060.
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is requesting comments from the
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) regarding impacts to fish and
wildlife resources resulting from the subject project. Staff biologists have reviewed the
information provided and have the following preliminary comments. These comments are
provided in accordance with the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C.
4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C.
661-667d).
The NCDOT proposes to construct a two-lane roadway, US 21, on new location from SR
1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21 on the south side of Sparta. The project is of part of the
Sparta Western Loop and will cross Little River, Class C Trout waters, and likely other waters of
the state. Little River and several nearby streams are Hatchery Supported Designated Public
Mountain Trout Waters. Several rare fish species have been found in the Little River, including
the sharpnose darter (Percina oxyrhynchus), state Special Concern, Kanawha darter (Etheostoma
kanawhae), state Significantly Rare (SR) and tonguetied minnow (Exoglossum laurae), state SR.
There is also concern for the possible presence of the green floater (Lasmigona subviridis), a
Federal Species of Concern and state Endangered mussel.
A moratorium prohibiting in-stream work and land disturbance within the 25-foot trout
buffer is expected from October 15 to April 15. We recommend fish and mussel surveys for rare
Mailing Address: Division of Inland Fisheries • 1721 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-1721
Telephone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
US 21, Sparta Western Loop Segment
Little River, Alleghany Co. 2 February 3, 2004
and listed species be conducted in the immediate project area and 200 m downstream, at a
minimum.
In addition, to help facilitate document preparation and the review process, our general
information needs are outlined below:
Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a listing of
federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concern species. Potential
borrow areas to be used for project construction should be included in the inventories. A
listing of designated plant species can be developed through consultation with the
following programs:
The Natural Heritage Program
N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation
1615 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N. C. 27699-1615
[phone]
and,
NCDA Plant Conservation Program
P. O. Box 27647
Raleigh, N. C. 27611
[phone]
2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the project. If applicable, include the
linear feet of stream that will be channelized or relocated.
Cover type maps showing wetland acreage impacted by the project. Wetland acreage
should include all project-related areas that may undergo hydrologic change as a result of
ditching, other drainage, or filling for project construction. Wetland identification may
be accomplished through coordination with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE). If the USACE is not consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be
identified and criteria listed.
4. Cover type maps showing acreage of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the proposed
project. Potential borrow sites and waste areas should be included.
5. Show the extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or fragmentation of
wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands).
6. Include the mitigation plan for avoiding, minimizing or compensating for direct and
indirect degradation in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses.
7. Address the overall environmental effects of the project construction and quantify the
contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation.
i
US 21, Sparta Western Loop Segment
Little River, Alleghany Co. 3 February 3, 2004
8. Provide a discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources, which will result from
secondary development, facilitated by the improved road access.
9. If construction of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, municipal, or private
development projects, a description of these projects should be included in the
environmental document, and all project sponsors should be identified.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early planning stages of this project.
If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at [phone].
cc: Marella Buncick, USFWS
Cynthia Van Der Wiele, NCDWQ
Sarah McRae, NCNHP
4A09
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 0
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator
Office of Legislative and Intergovern mental Affairs, DENR
FROM: Marla Chambers, Highway Projects Coordinator
Habitat Conservation Program, NCWRC
DATE: February 3, 2004
SUBJECT: Scoping review of NCDOT's proposed construction of a portion of the US 21
Sparta Western Loop, from SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21, Alleghany
County. TIP No. R-4060.
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is requesting comments from the
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) regarding impacts to fish and
wildlife resources resulting from the subject project. Staff biologists have reviewed the
information provided and have the following preliminary comments. These comments are
provided in accordance with the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C.
4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C.
661-667d).
The NCDOT proposes to construct a two-lane roadway, US 21, on new location from SR
1172 (Grandview Drive) to US 21 on the south side of Sparta. The project is of part of the
Sparta Western Loop and will cross Little River, Class C Trout waters, and likely other waters of
the state. Little River and several nearby streams are Hatchery Supported Designated Public
Mountain Trout Waters. Several rare fish species have been found in the Little River, including
the sharpnose darter (Percina oxyrhynchus), state Special Concern, Kanawha darter (Etheostoma
kanawhae), state Significantly Rare (SR) and tonguetied minnow (Exoglossum laurae), state SR.
There is also concern for the possible presence of the green floater (La.smigona subviridis), a
Federal Species of Concern and state Endangered mussel.
A moratorium prohibiting in-stream work and land disturbance within the 25-foot trout
buffer is expected from October 15 to April 15. We recommend fish and mussel surveys for rare
Mailing Address: Division of Inland Fisheries • 1721 Mail Service Center • Raleigh, NC 27699-1721
Telephone: [phone] Fax: [phone]
US 21, Sparta Western Loop Segment
Little River, Alleghany Co. 2 February 3, 2004
and listed species be conducted in the immediate project area and 200 m downstream, at a
minimum.
In addition, to help facilitate document preparation and the review process, our general
information needs are outlined below:
1. Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a listing of
federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concern species. Potential
borrow areas to be used for project construction should be included in the inventories. A
listing of designated plant species can be developed through consultation with the
following programs:
The Natural Heritage Program
N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation
1615 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N. C. 27699-1615
[phone]
and,
NCDA Plant Conservation Program
P. O. Box 27647
Raleigh, N. C. 27611
[phone]
2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the project. If applicable, include the
linear feet of stream that will be channelized or relocated.
3. Cover type maps showing wetland acreage impacted by the project. Wetland acreage
should include all project-related areas that may undergo hydrologic change as a result of
ditching, other drainage, or filling for project construction. Wetland identification may
be accomplished through coordination with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USAGE). If the USACE is not consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be
identified and criteria listed.
4. Cover type maps showing acreage of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the proposed
project. Potential borrow sites and waste areas should be included.
5. Show the extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or fragmentation of
wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands).
6. Include the mitigation plan for avoiding, minimizing or compensating for direct and
indirect degradation in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses.
7. Address the overall environmental effects of the project construction and quantify the
contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation.
A4
US 21, Sparta Western Loop Segment
Little River, Alleghany Co. 3 February 3, 2004
8. Provide a discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources, which will result from
secondary development, facilitated by the improved road access.
9. If construction of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, municipal, or private
development projects, a description of these projects should be included in the
environmental document, and all project sponsors should be identified.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early planning stages of this project.
If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact me at [phone].
cc: Marella Buncick, USFWS
Cynthia Van Der Wiele, NCDWQ
Sarah McRae, NCNHP
gN"00 w
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA k '?2 Z 1 )1-
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
MICHAEL F. EASLEY LYNDo TIPPETT
GOVERNOR SECRETARY
December 29, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Mrs. Chrys Baggett, Director
State Clearinghouse
Department of Administration
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental
US 21, Sparta, Western Loop from SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to
US 21; Alleghany County, WBS 34605.1.1, State Project
8.170130 1, Federal-Aid Project STP-21(10), TIP Project R-4060
The Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch has begun studying the
proposed improvements to TIP Project R-4060. The project is included in the 2004-2010 North
Caroiina Transportation Improvement Program and is scheduled for right of way in fiscal year
2007 and construction in fiscal year 2008.
This project proposes a two-lane roadway on new location. The new road will be part of
the Sparta Western Loop.
We would appreciate any information you might have that would be helpful in evaluating
potential environmental impacts of the project. If applicable, please identify any permits or
approvals which cnay be required by your agency. Your comments will be used in the
preparation of a federally funded Environmental Assessment. This document will be prepared in
accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act. It is desirable that your agency respond
by February 6, 2004 so that your comments can be used in the preparation of this document.
If you have any questions concerning the project, please contact Richard L. Brewer, P. E.,
Project Development Engineer, of this Branch at [phone], Ext. 242. Please include the
TIP Project Number in all correspondence and comments.
GJT/plr
Attachment
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1546 (MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG
LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
10
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9 William G. Ross Jr., Secretary
`O? pG North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Cq Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director
Division of Water Quality
o -?
January 26, 2004
MEMORANDUM
TO: Richard L. Brewer, P.E., Project Development Engineer
NCDOT Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch
FROM: Cynthia F. Van Der Wiele, NCDOT Coordinator 0i(A(_.'J
SUBJECT: Review of Scoping Sheets for US 21, Sparta, Western Loop from SR 1172 (Grandview
Drive) to US 21; Alleghany County, State Project 8.1701301, F.A. Project STP-21(10),
TIP Project R-4060.
In reply to your correspondence dated December 29, 2003 (received January 7, 2004) in which you
requested comments for the referenced project, preliminary analysis of the project indicates that the
following water resources in Hydrologic Unit 050703 will be impacted:
Stream (Index) Water Quality Classification
¦ Little River (10-9) C trout
¦ Bledsoe Creek (10-9-7) C trout
The project proposes a two-lane roadway on new location. The purpose and need for the project have not
been disclosed. The length of the proposed project is unknown; it is also unknown how this project fits
into local or state transportation planning.
NC Division of Water Quality believes this project should go through the Merger/Concurrence Process
and has the following comments:
Environmental Documentation
¦ The environmental document should provide a detailed and itemized presentation of the proposed
impacts to wetlands and streams with corresponding mapping. There should be a discussion on
mitigation plans for unavoidable impacts. If mitigation is required, it is preferable to present a
conceptual (if not finalized) mitigation plan with the environmental documentation. While the
NCDWQ realizes that this may not always be practical, it should be noted that for projects
requiring mitigation, appropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to issuance of a 401
Water Quality Certification.
Planning and Design Issues
¦ Flowing in a northeasterly direction, the Little River and its tributaries (including Brush Creek
and Glade Creek) drain the Town of Sparta. The lower portion of the Little River is considered
High Quality Waters (HQW). It has been recommended that more of the Little River be
considered for reclassification as HQW. According to the New River Basinwide Water Quality
Plan (DWQ 2000), the negative change in Bledsoe Creek from Good (1993) to the low end of
Good-Fair (1998), is a reflection of increased impacts from urban development in and around the
Town of Sparta.
¦ Increased development in and around the Town of Sparta and damage to riparian vegetation has
degraded water quality in Bledsoe Creek. The stream receives very little shade and bank erosion
and sedimentation impacts are evident. It is recommended that urban stormwater impacts to
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, 401 Wetlands Certification Unit,
1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1650 (Mailing Address)
2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27604-2260 (Location)
919-733-1786 (phone), 919-733-6893 (fax), hftp://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/ncwetlands/
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis
R-4060 Scoping Letter
January 26, 2004
Bledsoe Creek be addressed to prevent further degradation of water quality in the biologically
viable portions of this stream.
Growth management within the next five years will be necessary, especially along highway
corridors, in order to protect or improve water quality in this sub-basin. Growth management can
be defined as the application of strategies and practices that help achieve sustainable development
in harmony with the conservation of environmental qualities and features of an area. On a local
level, growth management often involves planning and development review requirements that are
designed to maintain or improve water quality.
The stormwater management plan should be designed to pre-treat runoff from the roadway before
reaching the streams. Velocities at the outlets should be designed to prevent scour and
streambank erosion.
¦ Onsite wetland delineation shall be performed prior to application for §401 Certification.
Wetland and stream impacts should be avoided to the maximum extent practical. If this is not
possible, alternatives that minimize wetland impacts should be chosen. In accordance with the
NCDWQ Wetlands Rules 115A NCAC 2H.0506(b)(6)}, mitigation will be required for impacts
of greater than 150 linear feet to any single perennial stream. In the event that mitigation becomes
required, the mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values.
In accordance with the NCDWQ Wetlands Rules { 15A NCAC 2H.0506 (h)(3)}, the NC Wetland
Restoration Program (NCWRP) may be available for use as stream mitigation.
Construction Issues
¦ It is recommended that the Department of Transportation, take special care when constructing and
maintaining (including mowing) roads along streams in the New River basin. The lack of
riparian vegetation and streambank erosion is well-documented and will lead to increased
instream habitat degradation if these problems remain unchecked. Vegetation along streams
should remain as undisturbed as possible when conducting these construction and maintenance
activities.
Sediment and erosion control measures should not be placed in wetlands. Sediment should be
removed from any water pumped from behind a cofferdam before the water is returned to the
stream.
¦ Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigation
will be required if wetlands or waters are impacted by waste or borrow.
¦ Impacts due to utility relocations from the project may require compensatory mitigation.
Thank you for requesting our input at this time. The DOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water
Quality Certification requires that appropriate measures be instituted to ensure that water quality
standards are met and designated uses are not degraded or lost. If you have any questions or require
additional information, please contact Cynthia Van Der Wiele at [phone].
pc: Chris Militscher, USEPA
Marella Buncick, USFWS
Marla Chambers, NCWRC
Gregory J. Thorpe, NCDOT PDEA
File Copy
2

0?=..
MICHAEL F. EASLEY
GOVIIRNOR
December 29, 2003
MEMORANDUM TO:
FROM:
Ms Cynthia Van der Wiele
Division of Water Quality/Wetlands
Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D., Director
Project Development and Environmental

0\! "w ll i

LYNDo TIPPETT
SECRETARY
SUBJECT: US 21, Sparta, Western Loop from SR 1172 (Grandview Drive) to
US 21; Alleghany County, WBS 34605.1.1, State Project
8.170130 1, Federal-Aid Project STP-21(10), TIP Project R-4060
The Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch has begun studying the
proposed improvements to TIP Project R-4060. The project is included in the 2004-2010 North
Carolina Transportation Improvement Program and is scheduled for right of way in fiscal year
2007 and construction in fiscal year 2008.
This project proposes a two-lane roadway on new location. The new road will be part of
the Sparta Western Loop.
We would appreciate any information you might have that would be helpful in evaluating
potential environmental impacts of the project. If applicable, please identify any permits or
approvals which may be required by your agency. Your comments will be used in the
preparation of a federally funded Environmental Assessment. This document will be prepared in
accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act. 1; is desirable that your agency respond
by February x-2004 so that your comments can be used in the preparation of this document.
If you have any questions concerning the project, please contact Richard L. Brewer, P. E.,
Project Development Engineer, of this Branch at [phone], Ext. 242. Please include the
TIP Project Number in all correspondence and comments.
GJT/plr
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
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Attachment
MAILING ADDRESS:
NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
RALEIGH NC 27699-1548
TELEPHONE: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG
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LOCATION:
TRANSPORTATION BUILDING
1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET
RALEIGH NC
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