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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19950232 Ver 1_Complete File_19950306X ^r - State of North Carolina Department of Environment, LT."? Health and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management A&14 70)A James B. Hunt, Jr_ Governor p E H N F1 Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary A, Preston Howard, Jr„ P.E„ Director July 31, 1995 MEMORANDUM To: Melba McGee Through: John Dorne Monica Swihart From: Eric Galamb? Subject: FONSI for NC 21 Robeson County State Project DOT No. 8.1461601, TIP # U-2415 EHNR # 95-0942, DEM WQ # 10991 The subject document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of Environmental Management is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities which impact of waters of the state including wetlands. The subject project as proposed would impact up to 0.3 acres of wetlands. Please be advised that this review of the FONSI by DEM does not preclude the denial of a 401 Certification upon application if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to Eric Galamb in DEM's Environmental Sciences Branch at 733-1786. nc211.fon P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 FAX 919-733-2496 An Equal opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper J. ! . • Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources ? Project located in 7th floor library Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental'Aiia1:7.7, Project Review Form ) /)GJGj Project Number: County Date: Date Response Due (firm deadline): ?- `i?Z 1, -E? Ts' 1 -71 / This project is being reviewed as indicated below: C 1 " I„ _ 1 U 3 .51' Regional Office/Phone Regional Office Area In-House Review ? Asheville ? All R/O Areas ? Soil and Water ? Marine Fisheries Fayetteville 'Air ?coastalManagement ?WaterPlanning ater El Water Resources El Environmental Health ? Mooresville ' Groundwater Wildlife ? Solid Waste Management ? Raleigh eLand Quality Engineer ? Forest Resources ? Radiation Protection ? Washington ? Recreational Consultant ? Land Resources ? David Foster ? Coastal Management Consultant ? Parks and Recreation ? ijae? F) CoIY) ? Wilmington ? Others r; rnvironmental Management El Winston-Salem PWS Monica Swihart JUL ? Iyyc Manager Sign-Off/Region: Date: In-House Reviewer/Agency: Response (check all applicable) Regional Office response to be compiled and completed by Regional Manager ? No objection to project as proposed ? No Comment ? Insufficient information to complete review ? Approve ? Permit(s) needed (permit files have been checked) ? Recommended for further development with recommendations for strengthening (comments attached) ? Recommended for further development if specific & substantive changes incorporated by funding agency (comments attached/authority(ies) cited) In-House Reviewer complete individual response. ? Not recommended for further development for reasons stated in attached comments (authority(ies) cited) ? Applicant has been contacted ? Applicant has not been contacted ? Project Controversial (comments attached) ? Consistency Statement needed (comments attached) ? Consistency Statement not needed ? Full EIS must be required under the provisions of NEPA and SEPA ? Other (specify and attach comments) RETURN TO: Melba McGee Ps 104 Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs r NC 211 (Roberts Avenue) From East of Rowland Avenue to East of King's Cross Road Lumberton, Robeson County Federal Aid Project No. M-7761(2) State Project No. 8.1461601 T.I.P. No. U-2415 ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT U. S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and N. C. Department of Transportation Submitted pursuant to 42 U. S. C. 4332(2)(C) Date H. Franklin Vick, P. E. Manager, Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT Date r R, Nlcn? s L. brat, F. L. ivision Administrator, FHWA . NC 211 (Roberts Avenue) From East of Rowland Avenue to East of King's Cross Road Lumberton, Robeson County Federal Aid Project No. M-7761(2) State Project No. 8.1461601 T.I.P. No. U-2415 FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT May, 1995 Documentation Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By: 0001119110"00, •`' CARP '•• S o W. Ron Elmore, P. E. SEAL Project Planning Engineer 1400a Ju a A. Hun ins, P. E. P ject Planning Unit Head Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Planning and Environmental Branch . TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE I. TYPE OF ACTION ........................................... 1 II. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS ................................ 1 III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION ....................... 2 A. NC 211 Widening ................................... 2 B. Service Road Realignment ............................ 3 C. Structures .......................................... 3 1. Bridge No. 102 Over I-95 ....................... 3 2. Drainage Structures ............................ 4 D. Interchange Loops and Ramps ......................... 4 E. Cost Estimates ...................................... 5 IV. COORDINATION AND COMMENTS ................................ 5 A. Circulation of the Environmental Assessment .... .... .... ............... 5 B. Comments Received on the Environmental Assessment ..................................... 5 C. Public Hearing ....................................... 8 V. REVISIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ................ 8 VI. WETLAND FINDING .......................................... 9 VII. FLOODPLAIN FINDING ....................................... 9 VIII. BASIS FOR FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ............... 10 FIGURES Figure 1 - Vicinity Map APPENDIX Comments Received From Review Agencies on the Environmental Assessment .......................... A-1 Public Hearing News Release ............................... A-11 Special Project Commitments Impacts on wetlands will be minimized through the use of Best Management Practices during project construction. Approximately 0.3 acre of shrub-scrub, vegetated canals, and swamp forest wetland communities will be impacted. It is anticipated the proposed improvements can be performed under a Department of the Army Nationwide Permit for minor road crossing fills in accordance with 33 CFR 330.5(a)(14). Under the 1989 Memorandum of Agreement between the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, compensatory mitigation is not required where Nationwide permits are authorized. Final discretionary authority in these matters lies with the Corps of Engineers. A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management Section 401 Water Quality General Certification will also be required prior to the issue of a nationwide permit. The City of Lumberton has requested a sidewalk on the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95. A five-foot sidewalk will be constructed along the north side of the bridge. w FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT Prepared by the Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways North Carolina Department of Transportation in consultation with the Federal Highway Administration I. TYPE OF ACTION This is a Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) administrative action, Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). The FHWA has determined this project will not have any significant impact on the human environment. This FONSI is based on the Environmental Assessment, which has been independently evaluated by the FHWA and determined to adequately and accurately discuss the environmental issues and impacts of the proposed project. The Environmental Assessment provides sufficient evidence and analysis for determining that an Environmental Impact Statement is not required. The FHWA takes full responsibility for the accuracy, scope, and content of the Environmental Assessment. II. ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS Impacts on wetlands will be minimized through the use of Best Management Practices during project construction. Approximately 0.3 acre of shrub-scrub, vegetated canals, and swamp forest wetland communities will be impacted. It is anticipated the proposed improvements can be performed under a Department of the Army Nationwide Permit for minor road crossing fills in accordance with 33 CFR 330.5(a)(14). Under the 1989 Memorandum of Agreement between the Environmental Protection Agency and the Corps of Engineers, compensatory mitigation is not required where Nationwide permits are authorized. Final discretionary authority in these matters lies with the Corps of Engineers. A North Carolina Division of Environmental Management Section 401 Water Quality General Certification will also be required prior to the issue of a nationwide permit. The City of Lumberton has requested a sidewalk on the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95. A five-foot sidewalk will be constructed along the north side of the bridge. 2 III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION A. NC 211 Widening NC 211 (Roberts Avenue) will be widened to provide a six-lane facility from approximately 800 feet east of Rowland Avenue to approximately 500 feet east King's Cross Road, a distance of approximately 0.7 mile (see Figure 1). From the relocated Kahn Drive (SR 1792)/K-Mart entrance intersection to the northbound I-95 interchange ramp terminals, the existing 5-lane roadway will be widened to a 6-lane curb and gutter roadway (76 feet face to face of curbs). From the northbound I-95 ramp terminal to the southbound I-95 ramp terminal, including the new structure over I-95, a 6-lane curb and gutter roadway (90-feet face-to-face of curbs) will be constructed. This clear roadway width is needed in order to provide sufficient clearance for maintaining traffic on NC 211 during phase construction of the new bridge. Two through lanes and a right turn lane (which will provide free flow access to the loops) will be provided for each travel direction. The middle 12 feet of this roadway will be a paint-striped median to prevent left turns onto the northbound and southbound I-95 entrance ramps. A 5-foot sidewalk will be constructed along the north side of the new bridge. A six-lane cross section with 72 feet of pavement and 10-foot useable shoulders (2 feet of which will be paved) will be constructed from the southbound I-95 ramp terminal to just west of the relocated Dawn Drive (SR 1791)/Lackey Road (SR 1586) intersection. From west of the relocated Dawn Drive/Lackey Road intersection to approximately 500 feet east of Kings Cross Road, the 6-lane roadway will transition to tie into the existing 2-lane roadway. From the relocated Kahn Drive/K-Mart entrance intersection to the I-95 north bound ramp terminal, the widening along NC 211 will be along the south side of the existing roadway. This south side widening will eliminate the need for additional right of way, since the existing 150- foot right of way is offset with 100 feet south and 50 feet north of the existing roadway centerline. Between the northbound and southbound I-95 ramp terminal, the widening will be symmetrical. From the southbound I-95 ramp terminal to east of King's Cross Road, the widening will be along the south side of NC 211 to avoid impacts to French Park, a city-owned recreational facility located on the north side of NC 211. This south-side widening will eliminate the need for additional right of way, since the existing 100-foot right of way in the vicinity of French Park is offset with 70 feet south and 30 feet north of the existing roadway centerline. B. Service Road Realignment Two-way ramps created by ramp/service road intersections currently exist in the northeast, southeast, and northwest quadrants of the I-95/NC 211 interchange. These service roads will be realigned to intersect directly with NC 211, thereby eliminating the existing connections with the interchange ramps. The realignments will convert the ramps to standard one-way operation and lessen driver confusion and the likelihood of accidents, thereby improving safety. Kahn Drive (SR 1792 in the northeast quadrant) will be realigned along the front of the K-Mart property to tie into NC 211 at the existing traffic signal for the K-mart entrance. The relocated section of Kahn Drive will basically be a 3-lane curb and gutter roadway (37 feet face to face of curbs). This will provide for an 11-foot lane for each direction of travel and an 11-foot center turn lane. The roadway will be widened to five lanes with curb and gutter (64 feet face to face of curbs) at the NC 211 intersection. This five-lane roadway will provide for a separate right turn lane and double left turn lanes onto NC 211. This will also allow double left turns from eastbound NC 211 into relocated Kahn Drive. Capuano Road (SR 1590 in the southeast quadrant) will be realigned to tie into Rowland Avenue approximately 250 feet south of the NC 211/Rowland Avenue intersection. The relocated section of Capuano Road will be a 2-lane curb and gutter roadway (28 feet of face to face of curbs). Dawn Drive (SR 1791 in the northwest quadrant) will be realigned to tie into NC 211 opposite Lackey Street. The relocated section of Dawn Drive will be a 3-lane curb and gutter roadway (37 feet face to face of curbs). This will provide an 11-foot lane in each travel direction and an 11-foot center turn lane. No realignment of Lackey Street (SR 1586 in the southwest quadrant) is proposed. C. Structures 1. Bridge No. 102 Over I-95 The existing bridge (Bridge No. 102) carrying NC 211 over I-95 will be replaced because the widening and rehabilitation of the existing bridge would result in insufficient vertical clearance over I-95. A clear roadway width of 90 feet is to be provided on the new bridge to allow sufficient clearance for maintaining traffic on NC 211 during phase construction of the new bridge and to accommodate the proposed six-lane cross section between the I-95 ramp terminals. Two through lanes and a right turn lane (which will provide free flow access to the loops) will be provided for each travel direction. The middle 12 feet of this roadway will be a paint-striped median to prevent left turns onto the northbound and southbound I-95 entrance ramps. A 5-foot sidewalk will be constructed along the north side of the new bridge. The new bridge is to provide a minimum vertical clearance of 16 feet and 6 inches over I-95. 4 The new bridge will be approximately 292 feet in length to accommodate the anticipated future widening of I-95 to six lanes. The NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program does not include the widening of I-95 at this time. 2. Drainage Structures Three bridges on NC 211 just west of I-95 were replaced with reinforced concrete box culverts (RCBC) in 1988 under TIP Project No. B-1340. These culverts (Culvert No. 95 at Fivemile Branch and Culvert Nos. 83 and 60 at Saddletree Swamp) were constructed so future south side widening to a multilane facility could occur. Only Culvert No. 95 (a triple-barrel, 14' x 9', RCBC) on Fivemile Branch, is involved with this project, and no further extension of this 132-foot long culvert is required for the widening of NC 211, as recommended in this report. No improvements to Dawn Drive, I-95, or Kahn Drive are recommended in the vicinity of where Fivemile Branch is crossed by I-95 (approximately 0.3 mile north of the NC 211 bridge); therefore, no extension of the double-barrel, 10' x 8', RCBC's carrying Fivemile Branch under Dawn Drive (Culvert No. 449) and Kahn Drive (Culvert No. 448 is required. However between Dawn Drive (Culvert No. 449) and I-95 (Culvert No. 150) and between I-95 and Kahn Drive (Culvert No. 448), there are two sections of open channel along Fivemile Branch approximately 30 feet each in length . As a safety measure, Culvert No. 150 will be extended to enclose these areas of open channel. A double-barrel, 8' x 6', RCBC approximately 280 feet long also carries Meadow Branch under Dawn Drive, I-95, and Kahn Drive just north of the beginning of the taper for the deceleration lane for the southbound I-95 exit ramp. No extension of this culvert is proposed. 0. Interchange Loops and Ramps Due to the large number of vehicles accessing I-95 from NC 211, one-lane loops are proposed in the northwest and southeast quadrants of the interchange. This will eliminate left turns from NC 211 onto I-95 and will facilitate traffic movement in the area. Due to the addition of the loops, the I-95 ramp terminals in these quadrants must be relocated. The ramp terminals in the northwest quadrant will be relocated approximately 200 feet west of their existing location, and the exit ramp will be widened to two lanes at the terminal to provide for a double left turn onto NC 211. The ramp terminals in the southeast quadrant will be relocated approximately 120 feet east of their existing location, and the exit ramp will be widened to three lanes at the terminal to provide for double right turns onto NC 211. The deceleration lanes for the existing I-95 exit ramps in the northwest and southeast quadrants of the interchange will be lengthened to enhance the safety of motorists exiting I-95. Acceleration lanes for the new loops will be added along I-95 under the bridge. E. Cost Estimates The 1995-2001 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) calls for widening the existing roadway to a multilane facility, revising the I-95/NC 211 interchange, and replacing and widening the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95. Right of way acquisition is scheduled to begin in federal fiscal year 1995, and construction is scheduled to begin in federal fiscal year 1996. The estimated total cost of the project is $5,180,000, including $1,230,000 for right of way and $3,950,000 for construction. The TIP includes a total funding of $5,180,000 for the project. IV. COORDINATION AND COMMENTS A. Circulation of the Environmental Assessment The Environmental Assessment was approved by the Division of Highways and the FHWA on October 31, 1994. The approved Environmental Assessment was circulated to the following federal, state, and local agencies for review and comments. An asterisk (*) indicates a response was received from that agency. Copies of the correspondence received are included in the Appendix of this document. U. S. Department of Wilmingtoi *U. S. Department of Service U. S. Environmental *N. C. Department of N. C. Department of N. C. Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers - i District the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Protection Agency Administration, State Clearinghouse Agriculture Cultural Resources, Division of Archives and History *N. C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources *Division of Environmental Management *Division of Land Resources *Fayetteville Regional Office *Wildlife Resources Commission N. C. Department of Human Resources N. C. Department of Public Instruction Cape Fear Council of Governments Robeson County Commissioners, Chairperson Mayor of Lumberton B. Comments Received on the Environmental Assessment Written comments on the Environmental Assessment were received from five (5) agencies. The following are excerpts of the substantive comments with responses, where appropriate: 6 1. N. C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources NCDEHNR , Division of Environmental Management Comment: "...The subject project may impact 0.3 acres of waters including wetlands...DOT is reminded that endorsement of an EA would not preclude the denial of a 401 Certification upon application if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable..." Response: Since the project basically involves the widening of an existing facility and the replacement of an existing bridge, realignment alternatives to completely avoid wetland involvement are not practicable. The relocation of Dawn Road (SR 1791), in particular, has been designed so the existing culvert carrying Meadow Branch under I-95 will not need to be extended, thus minimizing impacts to wetlands in this area. The impacts on wetlands will also be minimized through the use of Best Management Practices during the design and construction of the project. 2. NCDEHNR, Division of Land Resources Comment: ..This project will have no impact on geodetic survey markers..." Response: As a Special Project Commitment in the EA for this project, NCDOT committed to contact the North Carolina Geodetic Survey prior to construction regarding the relocation of survey markers. Since no survey markers will impacted, the North Carolina Geodetic survey will not be contacted. Comment: "...The erosion and sedimentation plan required for this project should be prepared by the Department of Transportation under the erosion control program delegation to the Division of Highways from the North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission..." Response: The Division of Highways has developed an Erosion and Sedimentation Program which has been approved by the North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission. 3. NCDEHNR, Fayetteville Regional Office Comment: "...Notification of the proper regional office is requested if "orphan" underground storage tanks (LISTS) are discovered during any excavation operation..." Response: The proper officials will be notified if any underground storage tanks are impacted by the project. 4. 5. NCDEHNR, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Comment: "...The EA provided adequate information regarding impacts to plant and animal communities along the proposed project. The greatest jurisdictional wetland impact will occur to a man-made canal, a total of 0.2 acres ...At this time we will concur with the EA for this project. However, we request that NCDOT continue efforts to minimize wetland impacts. Strict enforcement of Best Management Practices will help minimize wetland impacts and protect off-site resources..." Response: See previous response to NCDEHNR, Division of Environmental Management. U. S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service Comment: "...The EA...considers various alternatives to the proposed plan ...The Service considers the discussion of alternatives to be adequate..." "...The EA states ...that estimated impacts to biotic communities equals 9.8 acres, of which 9.5 acres are disturbed, man-dominated areas. Approximately 0.3 acres of wetlands would be impacted, of which 0.2 acres are drainage ditches along the existing road. These ditches would be restored as part of the proposed project. The other 0.1 acre of wetlands consists of shrub-scrub and swamp forest communities along Five Mile Branch. Impacts on these wetlands would be minimized by the use of best management practices during construction ...The Service is pleased with these measures to minimize adverse impacts to wetlands in the project area..." Response: No response necessary. Comment: "...The EA... states that no stream rechannelization is anticipated and that any such action, if required, would be coordinated with the Service. The Service recommends that the NCDOT employ all feasible design features and construction techniques to avoid any stream alterations..." Response: There is no stream rechannel ization anticipated as a result of this project. The relocation of Dawn Road (SR 1791), in particular, has been designed to avoid impacts to Meadow Branch. Comment: "...Two Federally-endangered species are known to occur in Robeson County. These are the red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) and Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii). The EA states ...that there is no suitable habitat for either species in the project area. The EA...states that the project would not affect these species. Based on the information in the EA, we concur that the project is not likely to adversely affect 8 Federally-listed endangered or threatened species under the jurisdiction of the Service. Therefore, the requirements of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act...have been satisfied.." Response: NCDOT will notify the Fish and Wildlife Service if there is any change in the impacts to Federally-listed endangered or threatened species as a result of this project. C. Public Hearing Following circulation of the Environmental Assessment, an open-forum, combined location and design public hearing was held in Lumberton on March 30, 1995 (see page A-11 in the Appendix for a copy of the public hearing notice). All of the questions and comments of those in attendance were adequately answered at the hearing. Three written comments were received and answered in the official commenting period following the hearing. Information on the public hearing is on file with the Division of Highways. V. REVISIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT A sixth lane will be constructed along the north side of NC 211 between the relocated Kahn Drive (SR 1792)/K-Mart entrance and the northbound I-95 entrance ramp. This will remove the motorists wanting to access the northbound I-95 entrance ramp and southbound I-95 entrance loop from the through traffic on NC 211. A sixth lane will also be constructed along the south side of NC 211, from west of the relocated Dawn Drive (SR 1791)/Lackey Drive (SR 1586) intersection to the I-95 southbound entrance ramp. This will remove the motorists wanting to access the I-95 southbound entrance ramp and northbound entrance loop from the through traffic on NC 211. These improvements to the design will be contained within the existing right of way. The intersection on NC 211 at relocated Dawn Drive/Lackey Drive will be signalized. This signal, the three existing signals along the project (I-95 southbound ramp terminals, I-95 northbound ramp terminals, and relocated Kahn Drive/K-mart entrance), and the three existing signals along NC 211 immediately east of the project (Elm Street, Walnut Street, and Fayetteville Road) will be connected in a coordinated closed loop signal system. This will allow for more efficient traffic flow along NC 211. In addition, a second left turn lane will be provided from eastbound NC 211 into the relocated Kahn Drive/K-mart entrance. Fivemile Branch is carried under Dawn Drive, I-95, and Kahn Drive by Culvert Nos. 449, 150, and 448, respectively, each consisting of a double-barrel, 10' x 8', RCBC. Between Dawn Drive (Culvert No. 449) and I-95 (Culvert No. 150) and between I-95 and Kahn Drive (Culvert No. 448), there are two sections of open channel along Fivemile Branch approximately 30 feet each in length. As a safety measure, Culvert No. 150 will be extended to connect with Culvert Nos. 448 and 449 in order to enclose these areas of open channel. 9 As requested by the City of Lumberton, a five-foot sidewalk will be constructed along the north side of the NC 211 bridge over I-95. VI. WETLAND FINDING Executive Order 11990, "Protection of Wetlands," established a national policy to avoid, to the extent possible, adverse impacts on wetlands and to avoid direct or indirect support of new construction wherever there is a practicable alternative. The project will impact approximately 0.3 acre of shrub- scrub, vegetated canals, and swamp forest wetlands. Since the project basically involves the widening of an existing facility and the replacement of an existing bridge, realignment alternatives to completely avoid wetland involvement is not practicable. The relocation of Dawn Road, in particular, has been designed so the existing culvert carrying Meadow Branch under I-95 will not need to be extended, thus minimizing impacts to wetlands in this area. The impacts on wetlands will also be minimized through the use of Best Management Practices during the design and construction of the project. An effective erosion and sedimentation control program will be required of the contractor. It is determined there is no practicable alternative to the proposed new construction in wetlands, and the proposed action includes all practical measures to minimize harm to wetlands which may result from such use. VII. FLOODPLAIN FINDING Executive Order 11988, "Floodplain Management," and DOT Order 5650.2, "Floodplain Management and Protection," were established to avoid adverse impacts due to the occupancy and alteration of the 100-year floodplain unless that location is the only practical alternative. It is required that every effort be made to minimize the potential risks to human safety and property and to minimize negative effects on natural and beneficial floodplain value. This project will be designed to comply with these orders and with North Carolina Executive Order 123, "Uniform Floodplain Management Policy." The widening of NC 211 and the replacement of the existing bridge will not require the extension of existing reinforced concrete box culverts at Saddletree Swamp, Fivemile Branch (on NC 211), or Meadow Branch. As previously discussed, Culvert No. 150, which carries Fivemile Branch under I-95, will be extended to connect with Culvert Nos. 448 and 449 in order to enclose two 30-foot long segments of open channel. A National Flood Insurance Program detailed floodway study for Fivemile Branch was completed and has been in effect since 1989. Fivemile Branch is a tributary of Saddletree Swamp, and Saddletree Swamp is a tributary of the Lumber River. The detailed flood study has indicated the culverts on NC 211 for carrying Fivemile Branch and Saddletree Swamp are 10 inundated with the backwater from the Lumber River during the 50-year flood. The proposed widening and improvements will not have a significant adverse effect on the floodplain. Therefore, in accordance with these orders, the project will not create a significant floodplain encroachment. VIII. BASIS FOR FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT Based upon a study of the impacts of the proposed project as documented in the Environmental Assessment, and upon comments from federal, state, and local agencies, it is the finding of the North Carolina Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration the project will not have a significant impact upon the quality of the human or natural environment. The project is not controversial from an environmental standpoint. No significant impacts on natural, ecological, cultural, or scenic resources are expected. Adequate replacement property will be available for the one business which will be relocated. No significant impact on air or water quality or on ambient noise levels is expected. The project is consistent with local plans and will not divide or disrupt a community. The project will have no effect on any historic properties listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. No known Section 4(f) properties will be impacted by the project. The proposed improvements will have no effect on federally-listed threatened or endangered species. In view of the above, it has been determined a Finding of No Significant Impact is applicable for this project. An Environmental Impact Statement or further environmental analysis will not be required. RE/tp Z O U Z 0 W O w E. ll.l IL A. ? iN kl .B! a: IIJ .;> it () f, yr) y,gVL? cn mcv j fn III ? ..1 F A a 1 nr Q ? (11 w Z () Ci "I F4 0 IL 0 CI d F J7 (1C 6 LL 7 fl: I-- Q 0 I FAQata4 C11L1 L Cl I.I.I (•? "? Ill LIl rr <) 31 OI APPENDIX 120 05-02-95 - PROJECT MA AGEMENT MAILED TO NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION 116 WEST JONES STREET RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 27603-8003 CG' ( o n,5 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COMMENTS 5 ' FROM R, N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION WHIT WEBB PROGRAM DEV. BRANCH TRANSPORTATION BLDG-/INTER-OFF MRS. CHRYS BAGGETT DIRECTOR N C STATE CLEARINGHOUSE ?CEIlje Q`.. ` Q PROJECT DESCRIPTION ENV. ASSESS. - PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO NC 2111 FROM R MAY 0 8 1995 AVENUE TO WEST OF KINGvS CROSS ROAD IN LUMBERTON (TI #U-24 11 ?--? 2 DIVISION OF SAI NO 95E422007312 PROd(ikM TITLE - ENV. ASSESS. HIGHWAYS ONNIE? THE ABOVE PROJECT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE NORTH CAROLINA INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS. AS A RESULT OF THE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED ( ) NO COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED ( X ) COMMENTS ATTACHED SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONSy PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE (919) 733-7232• C.C. REGION N rF7 C Ni MAY 41995 u c A.- 1 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Legislative & Intergovernmental Affairs James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary Henry M. Lancaster ll, Director MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: RE : DATE: e?? DEHNR Chrys Baggett Melba McGee [p? 95-0712 NC 211 Widening, Robeson County April 26, 1995 The Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed project. The attached comments are for the applicant's consideration. Thank you for the opportunity to review. attachments A-2 r t P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 2761 1-7687 Telephone 919-733-4984 An Ecucl Oppcrtunity Atfirmctive Action Ernp!cyer 50°6 recycled! 10 c ;:osr-consumer cccer 04121/95 16:37 $919 733 9959 NC DER WQ ENVSCI Q002 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources Division of Environmental Management James B. Hunt, Jr.. Governor Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director April 21, 1995 MEMORANDUM & IF!WA 14 roA ED FE HNF=t To: Melba McGee . l Through: John Domgt ?;' Monica Swihartw From: Eric Galambe Subject: EA for NC 211 Widening Robeson County TIP #U-2415 1461601 8 te Project DOT No St , . . a EHNR # 95-0712, DEM WO # 10916 The subject document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of Environmental Management is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities which impact of waters of the state including wetlands. The subject project may impact 0.3 acres of waters including wetlands. DOT is reminded that endorsement of an EA by DEM would not preclude the denial of a 401 Certification upon application if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to Eric Galamb in DEM's Environmental Sciences Branch at 733-1786. nc211 wid.ea A-3 P.O. Box 29535. Rdelgh, North CQoilna 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 FAX 919-733-2496 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employor 5M recycled/ 10%past-conaurner paper State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resourc Division of Land Resources James G. Martin, Govemor PROJECT REVIEW CON24ENTS William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary Project Number: qs 6'7 ( L County: eQt?5 4?r5'?V/L- AP R 5 1995 _N ?arrlnAr Project Name: Geodetic Survey This project will impact geodetic survey markers. N.C. Geodetic Survey should be'contacted prior to construction at P.O. Box* 27687, .Raleigh, N.C. 27611 (919) 733-3836. Intentional destruction of a geodetic monument is a violation of N.C. General Statute 102-4. This project will have no impact on geodetic survey markers. Other (comments attached) For more information contact the Geodetic Survey office at (919) 733-3836. Reviewer Date Erosion and Sedimentation Control No comment i This project will require approval of an erosion and sedimentation control plan prior to beginning any land-disturbing activity if more than one (1) acre will be disturbed. If an environmental document is required to satisfy Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements, the document must be submitted as part of the erosion and sedimentation control plan. If any portion of the project is located within a High Quality Water Zone (HQW), as classified by the Division of Environmental Management, increased design standards for sediment and erosion control will apply. V" The erosion and sedimentation control plan required for this project should be prepared by the Department of Transportation under the erosion control program delegation to the Division of Highways from the North Carolina Sedimentation Control Commission. Other (comments attached) For more information contact the Land Quality Section at (919) 733-4574. ?1a? C,CJ? A-4 Reviewer Date P.O. Box 27687 - Melgh, N.C. 27611-7687 - Telephone (919) 733-3833 An Equal Opportunlty AlFrmatNe Action Employer State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS Reviewing Office: Project Number. U Due Date: C7,5_-,0 7/ 1/- eP/- • ?;E After review of this project it has been determined that the EHNR permit(s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in order for this project to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of the form. All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office. Normal Process Time PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit) Permit to construct b operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award of 30 days facilities, sewer system extensions, S sewer construction contracts On-site inspection. Post-application systems not discharging into state surface waters. technical conference usual (90 days) IPDES • permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application 180 dayq before begin activity. On-site inspection. 90.120 days permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities Pre-application conference usual. Additionally. obtain permit to discharging into state surface waters, construct wastewater treatment facility-granted after NPDES. Reply (N/A) time. 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPDES permit-whichever is later. Water Use Permit Pre-application technical conference usually necessary 30 days (NIA) Well Construction Permit Complete application must be received and permit issued 7 days - pnor to the installation of a well. (15 days) Application copy must be served on each adjacent riparian property 55 days Dredge and Fill Permit owner. On-site inspection. Pre-application conference usual. Filling may require Easement to Fill from N.C. Department of (90 days) Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement 60 days J facilities and/or Emission Sources as per 15A NCAC 21H.06 N/A (90 days) Any open burning associated with subject proposal must be in compliance with 15A NCAC 2D.0520. Demolition or renovations of structures containing asbestos material must be in compliance with 15A 60 days NCAC 20.0525 which requires notification and removal NIA prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos Control Group 919.733.0820. 190 da s) Complex Source Permit required under 15A NCAC 2D.0800. y _ The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion & sedimentatio control plan will be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. Plan filed with proper Regional Office (Land Quality Sect.) at least 30 20 days lays before be innin activity A fee of $30 for the first acre and 520.00 for each additional acre or art must accompany the plan (30 davs) The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the referrenced Local Ordinance: (30 days) On-site inspection usual. Surety bond filed with EHNR. Bond amount Mining Permit varies with type mine and number of acres of affected land Any area 30 days mined greater than one acre must be permited The appropriate bond (60 daysl must be received before the permit can be issued. J North Carolina Burning permit On-site inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources if permit 1 day exceeds a days (N/A) Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit • 22 On-site inspection by N.D. Division Forest Resources required "if more 1 day _ counties in coastal N.C. with organic soils than five acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections (N/A) should be requested at least ten days before actual burn is planned.' 90.120 days - Oil Refining Facilities A-5 NIA (N/A) If permit required. application 60 days before begin construction. Applicant must hire N C. qualified engineer to' prepare plans. 30 days Dam Safety Permit inspect construction. certify construction is according to EHNR aoprov ed plans. May also require permit under mosquito control program. And (60 days) a 404 permit from Corps of Engineers. An inspection of site is neces- sary to verify Hazard Classification. A minimum fee of 5200.00 must ac. company the application An additional processing fee based on a percentage or the total project cost will be required upon completion Ccrinnuec on revere PERMITS ?I Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well ?I Geophysical Exploration Permit ?I Slate Lakes Construction Permit 401 Water ouality Certification ? CAMA Permit for MAJOR development Normal Process Time SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit) File surety bond of 55,000 with EHNR running to State of N.C. conditional that any well opened by drill operator shall, upon abandonment, be plugged according to EHNR rules and regulations. 10 days (NIA) Application filed with EHNR at least 10 days prior to Issue of permit Application by letter. No standard application form. 10 da s y (NIA) Application fee based on structure size is charged. Must include descriptions & drawings of structure & proof of ownership of riparian property. 15.20 days (NIA) 60 days NIA (130 days) t $250.00 fee must accompany application 55 days (150 days) ? CAMA Permit for MINOR development 22 days $50.00 fee must accompany application (25 days) ? Several geodetic monuments are located in or near the project area. If any monuments need to be moved or destroyed. please notify: N.C. Geodetic Survey, Box 27687, Raleigh, N.C. 27611 Abandonment of any wells. if required, must be in accordance with Title 15A, Subchapter 2C.0100. ( Notification of the proper regional office is requested if "orphan" underground storage tanks (LISTS) are discovered during any excavation operation. u?? Compliance with 15A NCAC 2H.1000 (Coastal Slormwater Rules) is required. 45 days • (N/A) Other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority): REG Questions regarding these permits should be add e edA Oh s to t e Regional Office marked below ? Asheville Regional Office . 59 Woodfin Place Fayetteville Regional Office Asheville, NC 28801 Suite 714 Wachovia Building (704) 251.6208 Fayetteville, NC 28301 (919) 486.1541 ? Mooresville Regional Office 919 ? Raleigh Re ional Offi North Main Street, P.O. Box 950 Mooresville. NC 28115 g ce 3800 Barrett Drive, Suite 101 (704) 663.1699 Raleigh, 27609 (919) 733.23 2314 ? Washington Regional Office A-6 1424 C ? Wilmington Regional Offi arolina Avenue Washington, NC 27889 ce 127 Cardinal Drive Extension (919) 946.6481 Wilmington, NC 28405 (919) 395.3900 ? Winston-Salem Regtanat Office 8025 North Point Blvd. Suite 100 Winston-Salem, NC 27106 (919) 8967007 ® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melba Mcgee Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs FROM: David Cox, Highway Project Coo ator Habitat Conservation Program DATE: April 17, 1995 SUBJECT: North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Environmental Assessment (EA) for NC 211, from east of Rowland Avenue to east of King's Cross Road, Robeson County, North Carolina. TIP No. U-2415, SCH Project No. 95-0712. Staff biologists with the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission have reviewed the subject EA and are familiar with habitat values in the project area. The purpose of this review was to assess project impacts to fish and wildlife resources. Our comments are provided in accordance with certain 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). NCDOT proposes to widen NC 211 in Lumberton to a five- to six-lane facility in the area of the I-95 interchange. The replacement of the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95, adding loops and realigning service roads are also elements of the proposed improvements. Total project length is approximately 0.7 miles. Wetland impacts resulting from the proposed improvements will be approximately 0.3 acres. The EA provided adequate information regarding impacts to plant and animal communities along the proposed project. The greatest jurisdictional wetland impact will occur to a man-made canal, a total of 0.2 acres. At this time we will concur with the EA for this project. However, we request that NCDOT continue efforts to minimize wetland impacts. Strict enforcement of Best Management Practices will help minimize wetland impacts and protect off-site resources. A Memorandum 2 April 17, 1995 Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this EA. If we can be of any further assistance please call me at (919) 528-9886. cc: Keith Ashley, District 4 Fisheries Biologist Thomas Padgett, District 4 Wildlife Biologist Randy Wilson, NG/ES Program Manager David Dell, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Raleigh A-8 tae, United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Ecological Services Post Office Box 33726 Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726 May 23, 1995 Mr. H. Franklin Vick Planning and Environmental Branch N.C. Division of Highways P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611 Dear Mr. Vick: TAU? J AMMEERKA? Y A] 0000 ?t_ E MAY 2 4 1995 2 DIVISICN OF HIGHWAYS ?RONME?? This responds to your letter of July 28, 1994 requesting comments from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) on the Administrative Action and Environmental Assessment (EA) for the NC 211 Project, Robeson County, North Carolina, TIP No. U-2415. This report is provided in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 661-667e) and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531- 1543). The EA states that the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to widen the existing roadway to a multilane facility, modify the existing I-95/NC 211 interchange, and replace and widen the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95. The length of improvements to NC 211 would be approximately 0.7 miles. Approximately 4.5 acres of additional right-of-way would be required for changes to the interchange. Some service roads near the interchange would be realigned. The EA (pp. 11-12) considers various alternatives to the proposed plan. Since the project entails improvements to existing facilities, the range of possible built alternatives is limited. The Service considers the discussion of alternatives to be adequate. The EA states (p. 16) that estimated impacts to biotic communities equals 9.8 acres, of which 9.5 acres are disturbed, man-dominated areas. Approximately 0.3 a, rod c f nal n.-7r "':".1'i t. cta_d _1 :'1t.?., .., :; i':i- - --as aic dralI:dge ditches along they existing road. These ditches would be restored as part of the proposed project. The other 0.1 acre of wetlands consists of shrub-scrub and swamp forest communities along Five Mile Branch. Impacts on these wetlands would be minimized by the use of best management practices during construction. The Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan established by the Division of Highways in cooperation with the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources would be followed during construction. The Service is pleased with these measures to minimize adverse impacts to wetlands in the project area. The EA (p. 29) states that no stream rechannelization is anticipated and that any such action, if required, would be coordinated with the Service. The Service recommends that the NCDOT employ all feasible design features and construction techniques to avoid any stream alterations. Two Federally-endangered species are known to occur in Robeson County. These are the red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) and Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii). The EA states (p. 17) that there is no suitable habitat for A-9 either species in the project area. The EA notes that there was an "ecological survey" for the project, and states that the project would not affect these species. Based on the information in the EA, we concur that the project is not likely to adversely affect Federally-listed endangered or threatened species under the jurisdiction of the Service. Therefore, the requirements of Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (op. cit.) have been satisfied. However, obligations under Section 7 of the Act must be reconsidered if (1) new information reveals impacts of this identified action that may affect listed species or critical habitat in a manner not previously considered, (2) this action is subsequently modified in a manner which was not considered in this biological assessment., or (3) a new species is listed or critical habitat determined that may be affected by the identified action. The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. Please continue to advise us of the progress of this project, including your official determination of the impacts of this project. If our office can supply any additional information or clarification, please contact Howard Hall, the biologist reviewing this project, at 919-856-4520 (ext. 27). Sincerely yours, /?/ Tom Augsp er Acting Supervisor A-10 NOTICE OF AN OPEN HOUSE PUBLIC HEARING FOR PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO THREE I-95 INTERCHANGES IN LUMBERTON: US 301 - SR 1997 NC 211 (ROBERTS ROAD) NC 72/NC 711 (COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE) Project 8.1461401 I-2305B Robeson County 8.1461601 U-2415 8.1461701 U-2416 The North Carolina Department of Transportation will hold the above open house public hearing on Thursday, March 30, 1995 between the hours of 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the Gilbert Carroll Middle School Cafeteria located at 300 Bailey Road in Lumberton. Interested individuals may attend this hearing at their convenience between the above stated hours. Division of Highways personnel will be available to provide information, answer questions, and take comments regarding these projects. The following I-95 interchange improvements are proposed: US 301/SR 1997 - Widen Southbound Lumber River Bridge; Relocate Service Road Connectors to US 301 Thereby Eliminating Two-Way Ramps; Improve Northbound and Southbound Ramps. NC 211 - Widen NC 211 to a Multi-Lane Roadway from McMillan Avenue to Lackey Street; Replace and Widen Bridge Over I-95; Add Loops in NW and SE Quadrants; Realign Service Roads. NC 72/NC 711 - Widen NC 72/NC 711 to a Multi-Lane Roadway from the NC 72/NC 711 Intersection to NC 72 (West 5th Street); Replace Lumber River Bridge; Replace Bridge Over I-95; Realign Service Roads. Additional right of way and the relocation of two businesses - one at NC 211 and one at NC 72/NC 711 - will be required for these projects. Maps setting forth the location and design and copies of the Environmental Documents are available for public review in the North Carolina Department of Transportation's District Office located on NC 711 - approximately one mile from NC 72 - in Lumberton. NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services for disabled persons who wish to participate in the hearing. To receive special services or additional project information, please call Mr. L. L. Hendricks, P. 0. Box 25201, Raleigh, NC 27611 or telephone (919) 250-4092. A-11 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources ?Y • Division of Environmental Management James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor Jonathan B, Howes, Secretary E H N F11 A. Preston Howard, Jr., RE., Director April 21, 1995 MEMORANDUM To: Melba McGee Through: John Dor r6yp Monica Swihart From: Eric Galambp Subject: EA for NC 211 Widening Robeson County State Project DOT No. 8.1461601, TIP #U-2415 EHNR # 95-0712, DEM WO # 10916 The subject document has been reviewed by this office. The Division of Environmental Management is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities which impact of waters of the state including wetlands. The subject project may impact 0.3 acres of waters including wetlands. DOT is reminded that endorsement of an EA by DEM would not preclude the denial of a 401 Certification upon application if wetland impacts have not been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent practicable. Questions regarding the 401 Certification should be directed to Eric Galamb in DEM's Environmental Sciences Branch at 733-1786. nc211 wid.ea P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone 919-733-7015 FAX 919-733-2496 An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer 50% recycled/ 10% post-consumer paper * I Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Office of Legislative and Irttergovernrn(• ttrt-A-n,?irs -? Project located in 7th floor library Project Review Form Project Number < Oun Dale Date Response Due firm deadline): -0)f - This project is being reviewed as indicated below Regional Office/Phone Regional Office Area In-House Review ? Asheville Fayetteville Mooresville ? Raleigh ? Washington L] Wilmington ? Winston-Salem Manager Sign-Off/Region: Response (check all applicable) Date: 1 Marine Fisheries Water Planning *nvironmental Health I-.-)Solid Waste Management I !Radiation Protection [J David Foster I iOther (specify) In-House Reviewer/Agency: Regional Office response to be compiled and completed by Regional Manager ? No objection to project as proposed ? No Comment ? Insufficient information to complete review ? Approve ? Permit(s) needed (permit files have been checked) ? Recommended for further development with recommendations for strengthening (comments attached) C7 Recommended for further development if specific & substantive changes incorporated by funding agency (comments attached/authority(ies) cited) In-House Reviewer complete individual response. ? Not recommended for further development for reasons stated in attached comments (authority(ies) cited) ? Applicant has been contacted ?Applicant has not been contacted u Project Controversial (comments attached) Consistency Statement needed (comments attached) U Consistency Statement not needed Full EIS must be required under the provisions of NEPA and SEPA U Other (specify and attach comments) Melba McGee I I All R/O Areas IvA i r 4lI Water Groundwater VI-and Quality Engineer C_l Recreational Consultant ( i Coastal Management Consultant I -!Others PWS ISoil and Water ]Coastal Management I-_I Water Resources Vwildlife crest Resources and Resources ,,_? arks and Recreation thEnvironmental Management - Monica Swihart Ps 104 Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs -4 -W 1 .1 i NC 211'(Roberts Avenue) From East of Rowland Avenue to East of King's Cross Road Lumberton, Robeson County F. A. Project No. M-7761(2) State Project No. 8.1461601 T.I.P. No. U-2415 Administrative Action Environmental Assessment U. S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and N. C. Department of Transportation Submitted pursuant to 42 U. S. C. 4332(2)(C) 12? Dater H. Franklin Vic F, P. E. Manager, Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT Da a Nic s L. ra ?G F°K Divi on Administrator, FHWA NC 211'(Roberts Avenue) From East of Rowland Avenue to East of King's Cross Road Lumberton, Robeson County F. A. Project No. M-7161(2) State Project No. 8.1461601 T.I.P. No. U-2415 Environmental Assessment October, 1994 Documentation Prepared in Planning and Environmental Branch By: et/. aY(, ao,,? d10 .31 W. Ron Elmore, P. E. Project Planning Engineer &Y-ov? J Wil on Stroud Pr t Planning Unit Head Lubin V. Prevatt, P. E., Assistant Manager Planning and Em?Troi ? a-} Branch •%".141.,#111,.,,. L\H.?AROI/' •. ??.••EESSINp'••. 4 :QO i SE AL 114058 r % ?FR,R11E`?,p•,? _ Summary Environmental Assessment Prepared by the Planning and Environmental Branch of the North Carolina Department of Transportation in consultation with the Federal Highway Administration 1. Type of Action This is a Federal Highway Administration Action, Environmental Assessment. 2. Additional Information The following persons can be contacted for additional information concerning this proposal and statement: Mr. Nicholas L. Graf, P. E. Division Administrator, FHWA 310 New Bern Avenue, Suite 410 Raleigh, North Carolina 27601 Telephone (919) 856-4346 Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch N. C. Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Telephone (919) 733-7842 3. Summary of Special Project Commitments The North Carolina Geodetic Survey will be contacted prior to construction regarding the relocation of survey markers along the project. Impacts on wetlands will be minimized through the use of best management practices during project construction. The City of Lumberton has requested a sidewalk on the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95. The need for sidewalks along the project will be considered during the final design of the project. 4. Actions Required bv Other Agencies It is anticipated the proposed improvements can be performed under a Department of the Army Nationwide Permit for minor road crossing fills in accordance with 33 CFR 330.5 (a) (.. 5. Description of Action T? f. Transportation proposes to widen on "v x`=n"''ilcility to improve traffp fl.sOance; safety along NC 211 in the vicinity of the I-96 Replacing and widening the existing bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95, adding loops in the northwest and southeast quadrants of the I-95/NC 211 interchange, and realigning service roads in three of the four quadrants (to eliminate the existing interchange ramp/service road intersections) are also included in the project. The project begins west of the McMillan Avenue intersection and ends west of the Lackey Street (SR 1586) intersection, a distance of approximately 0.7 mile. 6. Summary of Beneficial and Adverse Environmental Impacts The proposed highway improvements will result in more efficient vehicle operation and reduced travel times, resulting in road user cost savings. Traffic safety will be enhanced. Access to homes, businesses, and public facilities in the project area will be improved. Approximately 4.5 acres of additional right of way will be required. One motel will be relocated as a result of the project. No farmland, as defined by the Farmland Protection Policy Act, will be affected by the project. A 444414` of wetlands will be filled as a result of tllf 'act vities. 7. Alternatives Considered a. Recommended improvement - Widen NC 211 to a five- to six-lane facility, replace and widen the NC 211 bridge over I-95, and upgrade the I-95/NC 211 interchange. b. Postponement of proposed action. C. "Do nothing" alternative. d. Alternate modes of transportation. 8. Federal, State, and Local Agencies Contacted at the Beginning of this StT - - - - U. S. Environmental Protection Agency U. S. Department of Agriculture - Soil Conservation Service U. S. Department of the Army - Wilmington District Corps of Engineers U. S. Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service U. S. Geological Survey N. C. Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse N. C. Department of Cultural Resources - Division of Archives and History N. C. Department of Human Resources - Division of Health Services N. C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources -Environmental Assessment Section N. C. Department of Public Instruction - Division of School Planning Lumber River Council of Governments Robeson County Commissioners Mayor of Lumberton 9. Basis for Environmental Assessment On the basis of planning and environmental studies, it is concluded this project will not have a significant detrimental effect on the quality of the human environment. The proposed project will cause no significant changes in route classification and land use and is not controversial in nature. The project has been reviewed by federal, state, and local agencies, and no objections have been raised. No major objections to the project were voiced at the public meeting held in Lumberton. For these reasons, it is concluded that an Environmental Assessment is applicable for the project. TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE I. NEED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT ............................ A. General Description of Project ..................... 1 B. Project Status and Historical Resume ................ 1 _ C. Existing Conditions ................................. 1 1. Length of Roadway Section Studied .............. 1 2. Route Classification ........................... 1 3. Existing Cross Section ......................... 1 4. Existing Right of Way .......................... 2 5. Degree of Utility Conflict ..................... 2 6. Speed Limit ................................. 2 7. Access Control ................................. 2 8. Bridges . ................................. 2 9. Drainage Structures ............................ 2 10. Traffic Data ................................... 3 11. Horizontal and Vertical Curvature .............. 3 12. Intersection Treatment ......................... 3 13. Service Roads ... . ... ...................... 3 14. Degree of Roadside Interference ................ 3 15. Railroad Crossings ............................. 3 16. School Bus Data ................................ 4 17. Sidewalks ...................................... 4 D. Capacity Analysis ................................... 4 E. Accident Analysis ................................... 6 F. Project Terminals ................................... 6 G. Thoroughfare Plan .. ....... ... .......... 7 H. Benefits to the State, Region, and Community ........ 7 II. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS .................................... A. NC 211 Widening ..................................... 7 B. Service Road Realignment ............................ 7 C. Structures .......................................... 8 1. Bridge over I-95 ............................... 8 2. Drainage Structures ............................ 8 D. Interchange Loops and Ramps ......................... 9 E. Design Speed ....................................... 9 F. Access Control ...................................... 9 G. Right of Way ....................................... 9 H. Proposed Design Exceptions .......................... 10 I. Special Permits Required ............................ 10 J. Changes in the State Highway System ................. 10 K. Multiple Use of Space ............................... 10 L. Bikeways ............................................ 10 TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont'd) PAGE III. IV. M. Sidewalk ............................................ 10 N. Airports .......................................... 10 0. Cost Estimates ...................................... 10 P. Other Proposed Highway Improvements ................. 11 ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION ...................... 11 A. Recommended Improvements ....................... 11 B. Postponement of Proposed Action ..................... 11 C. "Do Nothing" Alternative ....................... 12 D. Alternate Modes of Transportation ................... 12 SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS .............. 12 A. Social Effects ...................................... 12 1. Land Use ....................................... 12 a. Existing Land Use ......................... 12 b. Existing Zoning ........................... 13 C. Proposed Land Use ... . .. ........... 13 d. Project Compatibility with Local Plans ..................................... 13 2. Neighborhood Characteristics ................... 13 3. Relocatees ................................ 13 4. Public Facilities ............................ 14 5. Historic and Cultural Resources ................ 14 a. Architectural/Historical Resources ........ 14 b. Archaeological Resources .................. 14 B. Economic Effects ............... ............. 14 C. Environmental Effects ............................... 15 1. Biological Resources ........................... 15 a. Plant Life ................................ 15 b. Wildlife ........... .................... 17 C. Federally-Listed Species .. ......... 17 d. Federal Candidate/State Protected Species ................................... 18 2. Soils ..... ... .... ........................... 19 3. Jurisdictional Wetlands ........................ 19 4. Permits ... . .... .......................... 20 5. Flood Hazard Evaluation ........................ 20 i TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont'd) PAGE V. 6 Water Quality .................... .................... 21 . 7. Farmland . .... . ..... ..... 21 8. Highway Traffic Noise/Construction Noise Analysis .... 21 9. Air Quality Analysis ............. .................... 26 10. Stream Modification ............. .................... 29 11. Hazardous Materials ............. .................... 29 12. Geotechnical Impacts ............. .................... 30 13. Construction Impacts ............. .................... 30 COMMENTS AND COORDINATION ............. .................... 32 A. Comments Received ................ .................... 32 B. Public Meeting ................... ................... 32 32 C. Public Hearing ................... .................... 33 TABLES Table 1 - Drainage Structures ................•••••• 2 4 Table 2a - Mainline Capacity Analysis .................... 5 Table 2b - Intersection Capacity Analysis ................. Table 3 - Accident Rates . .. .......................... 6 16 Table 4 - Biotic Community Impacts ....................... 19 Table 5 - Wetland Community Impacts ...................... MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS Figure 1 - Vicinity Map Figure 2 - Photos of Existing Conditions Figure 3 - Projected Traffic Volumes Figure 4 - Lumberton Thoroughfare Plan Figure 5 - Aerial Mo saic Figure 6 - 100-Year Floodplain Limits APPENDIX Relocation Report .... .. ............................ A-1 Division of Highways Relocation Programs .................. A-2 Table N1 - Typical Noise Levels ....................... A-4 Table N2 - Noise Abatement Criteria . .................. A-5 Figure N1 - Ambient Noise Measurement Sites ............... A-6 Table N3 - Ambient Noise Levels .......................... A-7 Table N4 - Leq Traffic Noise Exposures ................... A-8 Table N5 - Noise Abatement Criteria Summary .............. A-9 Table N6 - Traffic Noise Level Increase Summary ......... A-10 Tables Al through A4 - Air Quality Analysis ............... A-11 Comments Received from Review Agencies ................... A-13 Public Meeting Information ............................... A-36 Environmental Assessment Prepared by the Planning and Environmental Branch Division of Highways North Carolina Department of Transportation in consultation with the Federal Highway Administration I. NEED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT A. General Description of Project The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to widen NC 211 (Roberts Avenue) to a five- to six-lane facility from west of McMillan Avenue to west of Lackey Street (SR 1586) and to upgrade the I-95 interchange with NC 211 in Lumberton (see Figure 1). The project is located in Robeson County. B. Project Status and Historical Resume The 1994-2000 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) calls for widening the existing roadway to a multilane facility, revising the I-95/NC 211 interchange, and replacing and widening the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95. Right of way acquisition and construction are scheduled to begin in fiscal years 1994 and 1996, respectively. The TIP includes a total funding of $3,270,000 for the project, including $770,000 for right of way and $2,500,000 for construction. The total cost of the recommended improvements is $5,180,000 which includes $1,230,000 for right of way and 3,950,000 for construction. The estimated cost exceeds the TIP funding by $1,910,000. C. Existing Conditions 1. Length of Roadway Section Studied The length of the studied section of NC 211 is approximately 0.7 mile. 2. Route Classification NC 211 is classified as an Urban Minor Arterial west of I-95 and an Urban Major Arterial east of I-95. 3. Existing Cross Section West of I-95, the existing pavement width along the studied section of NC 211 varies from 22 to 36 feet with 8-foot grassed shoulders along each side of the roadway. A five-lane, 64-foot face to face of curbs with gutter section exists along NC 211 east of I-95. Photos of existing conditions along the project are shown in Figure 2. 2 4. Existing Right of Way The right of way width along NC 211 in the study area varies from 100 to 150 feet. From Kings Cross Road to Fivemile Branch, the existing right of way width is 100 feet (offset 70 feet south of the existing centerline and 30 feet north). From Fivemile Branch to McMillan Avenue, the existing right of way width is 150 feet (offset 100 feet south of the existing centerline and 50 feet north). 5. Degree of Utility Conflict The degree of utility conflict is high with water, gas, sewer, electrical, telephone, and cable television lines located above and below ground along the project. 6. Speed Limit The posted speed limit along the project is 45 mph. 7. Access Control Access to NC 211 is fully controlled within the I-95 interchange area. Outside the interchange area, there is no control of access along NC 211. Access along I-95 is fully controlled. 8. Bridges Bridge No. 102 carries NC 211 over I-95. This bridge was constructed in 1955 and has a sufficiency rating of 60.8 and an estimated remaining life of 10 years. The bridge provides a horizontal clearance of 28 feet (curb to curb) along NC 211 and a vertical clearance of 17 feet, 3 inches over I-95. The bridge is 214 feet in length and provides a horizontal clearance of 45 feet for both the northbound and southbound lanes of I-95. 9. Drainage Structures Reinforced concrete box culverts along NC 211, I-95, and the I-95 service roads in the vicinity of the project are described in Table 1 on page 3. Table 1 DRAINAGE STRUCTURES Route Water Structure Culvert No. Carried Course Description 60 NC 211 Saddletree Swamp 3 @ 13'x 7' 83 NC 211 Saddletree Swamp 2 @ 9'x 5' 95 NC 211 Fivemile Branch 3 @ 14'x 9' 150 I-95 Fivemile Branch 2 @ 10'x 8' 448 SR 1792 Fivemile Branch 2 @ 10'x 8' 449 SR 1791 Fivemile Branch 2 @ 10'x 8' N/A I-95 Meadow Branch 2 @ 10'x 8' 4 3 10. Traffic Data Projected traffic volumes along NC 211 for the year 1995 range from 18,400 vehicles per day (vpd) west of Lackey Street to 37,500 vpd west of McMillan Avenue. Projected traffic volumes for the year 2015 at the same locations range from 28,600 vpd to 62,100 vpd. Truck traffic will comprise approximately 7 percent of these volumes (4 percent duals and 3 percent TTST). The 1995 projected traffic volumes along I-95 range from 40,700 vpd north of NC 211 to 48,000 vpd south of NC 211. The 2015 projected traffic volumes range from 76,500 vpd to 89,400 vpd at the same locations. Truck traffic will comprise approximately 21 percent of these volumes (6 percent duals and 15 percent TTST). Projected traffic volumes, major turning movements, truck data, and design hour data are shown in Figure 3. 11. Horizontal and Vertical Curvature The studied segment of NC 211 is tangent and flat. 12. Intersection Treatment A diamond-type interchange exists at the I-95/NC 211 junction. All other intersections are at-grade. Traffic signals exist on NC 211 at both I-95 ramp terminals and at the K-Mart entrance. All other intersections are stop sign- or yield sign-controlled. 13. Service Roads Service roads in the northwest [Dawn Drive (SR 1791)], northeast [Kahn Drive (SR 1792)], and southeast [Capuano Road (SR 1590)] quadrants of the I-95/NC 211 interchange intersect the I-95 on- and off-ramps. Two-way traffic operation exists along a portion of each of these ramps, resulting in driver confusion, possible conflicts between service road and I-95 ramp traffic, and possible wrong-way movements onto I-95. The service road in the southwest quadrant of the interchange [Lackey Street (SR 1586)] connects with NC 211 approximately 450 feet west of the southbound I-95 ramp terminal. 14 14. Degree of Roadside Interference Roadside interference is moderate west of Fivemile Branch and heavy along the remainder of the project. 15. Railroad Crossings No railroad crossings exist along the project. 4 16. School Bus Data Approximately sixteen school buses travel the studied section of NC 211 two times a day. 17. Sidewalks No sidewalks exists along NC 211 in the project study area or along the adjacent sections of NC 211. D. Capacity Analysis The ability of a highway to accommodate daily and peak period traffic flow is measured by comparing the traffic volumes (V) with the roadway capacity (C) of a section of highway. This VAC comparison or ratio is used to determine the level at which a highway is operating. This measurement is referred to as "level-of-service". The Transportation Research Board (TRB) has defined levels-of-service (LOS) in categories from A to F. LOS A represents ideal, free flow conditions while LOS F represents forced or breakdown flow with stop and go conditions. Generally, highways are designed to operate at LOS C during peak traffic periods. Traffic flow at LOS C is stable but vehicle operation is beginning to be significantly affected by other vehicles in the traffic stream. Mainline capacity analyses were performed for the existing two- to three-lane highway and the proposed five- to six-lane improved facility. The results of these analyses are listed in Table 2a below. Table 2a MAINLINE CAPACITY ANALYSIS Section of NC 211 From relocated Kahn Drive to northbound I-95 ramp terminal Between I-95 ramp terminals From southbound I-95 ramp terminal to relocated Dawn Drive/Lackey Street From relocated Dawn Drive/ Lackey Street to Kings Cross Road Calculated Levels-of-Service Existing Proposed Facility 1995 2015 Facilft 1995 2015 F F D F F F C E E F B E E F B C 16 5 Intersection capacity analyses were performed along NC 211 at the southbound I-95 off-ramp intersection, the northbound I-95 off-ramp intersection, and the relocated Kahn Drive (SR 1792)/K-mart entrance due to the existing traffic signals at these locations and at the Lackey Street (SR 1586)/relocated Dawn Drive (SR 1791) intersection which is not signalized. Capacity analyses were performed for both the existing intersection configurations and the recommended intersection improvements for these intersections. The results of these analyses are shown in Table 2b below. Table 2b INTERSECTION CAPACITY ANALYSIS Calculated Levels-of-Service Existing Proposed Facility Facility 2015 Intersection 1995 2015 1 NC 211/relocated Kahn Drive C F C F NC 211/northbound I-95 off-ramp F F C D NC 211/southbound I-95 off-ramp F F C D NC 211/Lackey Street/ N/A C E relocated Dawn Drive The capacity analysis described above is based upon the projected traffic volumes shown in Figure 2. Those traffic volumes reflect the number of vehicles which would travel NC 211 if there were no traffic deficiencies on the highway network in the area. NC 211 west of the project area is a two-lane facility. in a rural setting. It appears this roadway could be widened to a multi-lane facility to increase its capacity; however, improvements to this section of NC 211 are not currently identified in the NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program. East of the project, NC 211 is a five-lane curb and gutter facility which has recently been widened. Due to development along this section of NC 211, further major widening is not anticipated. NC 211 will not have sufficient traffic handling capability to carry the amount of traffic projected in the year 2015 (59,300 vpd). As a result, the volumes shown in Figure 2 are higher than the volumes that will actually occur. Based on these considerations, constructing sufficient through and turn lanes along NC 211 and intersecting roads so as to provide a more desirable level of service in the design year is not considered to be prudent or probable. The recommended improvements provide capacity improvements and safety enhancements, while at the same time minimizing environments} imWts. 6 The Lumberton Thoroughfare Plan (see Figure 4) includes a proposed Outer Loop from I-95/US 301 interchange north of Lumberton around the eastern and southern segments of the city. When constructed, it is anticipated the Outer Loop will divert traffic from NC 211. E. Accident Analysis A comparison of accident rates along NC 211 and the statewide rates for urban two-lane "NC" routes is shown in Table 3 below. The rates shown for NC 211 were obtained from studies conducted from January 1, 1989 through October 31, 1992. The statewide rates were obtained from studies conducted from 1989 through 1991. Table 3 ACCIDENT RATES (per 100 mTTTi on vee c Te miles) Average Statewide Rate Accident Type Rate along NC 211 for all Urban "NC" Routes All accidents 1074.1 277.1 Fatal 0 1.1 Non-fatal 453.3 108.5 Nighttime 194.7 55.0 Wet conditions 245.0 56.7 No fatalities occurred along the subject segment of NC 211 during the accident study period thus the fatal accident rate is lower than the statewide rate for all urban two-lane "NC" routes. The rates for all other types of accidents were as much as three to four times higher than the corresponding statewide average rates. Thirty-seven (37) percent of the 171 accidents recorded along the project involved rear-end collisions. Twenty-nine (29) percent involved angle collisions, and twenty-one (21) percent involved vehicles making left- or right-hand turns. Approximately sixty-nine (69) percent of the recorded accidents occurred east of I-95 near Rowland Avenue and the northbound I-95 ramp terminal. Service roads intersect both the on- and off-ramps of I-95 on the east side of NC 211. Approximately fourteen (14) percent of the accidents occurred west of I-95 near SR 1586 (Lackey Street) and the southbound I-95 ramp terminal. A service road also intersects the I-95 off-ramp on the west side of NC 211. F. Project Terminals East of McMillan Avenue, NC 211 consists of a five-lane, 64-foot (face-to-face) curb and gutter section. West of Kings Cross Road, NC 211 consists of a two-lane facility with a 24-foot pavement and 10-foot grassed shoulders. 7 G. Thoroughfare Plan NC 211 is identified as a major thoroughfare on the Lumberton Thoroughfare Plan. This plan was adopted by the City of Lumberton and the North Carolina Board of Transportation in 1978. The Lumberton Thoroughfare Plan is shown in Figure 4. H. Benefits to the State, Region, and Community The proposed improvements will allow more efficient vehicle operation and reduced travel times for motorists, resulting in road user cost savings. Traffic safety will be improved by providing additional through and turn lanes along NC 211, by adding loops to facilitate access to I-95, and by eliminating the existing two-way ramp operation in three of the four quadrants of the NC 211/I-95 interchange. Access to homes, businesses, and public facilities near the project will be improved. II. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS A. NC 211 Widening It is recommended NC 211 (Roberts Avenue) be widened to provide a five- to six-lane facility from west of McMillan Avenue to west of Lackey Road (SR 1586), a distance of approximately 0.7 mile (see Figure 5). From the relocated Kahn Drive (SR 1792)/K-Mart entrance intersection to the northbound I-95 interchange ramp terminal, the existing 5- lane, 64-foot (face -to-face) curb and gutter roadway will be retained and resurfaced. From the northbound I-95 ramp terminals to the southbound I-95 ramp terminal, a 6-lane, 90-foot (face-to-face) curb and gutter section will be constructed. This will provide for two through lanes and a right turn lane (which will provide free flow access to the loops) in each direction. The middle 12 feet of this roadway will be paint-striped to prevent left hand turns onto the northbound and southbound I-95 entrance ramps. A five-lane cross section with 60 feet of pavement and 10-foot shoulders (2 feet of which will be paved) is recommended from the southbound I-95 ramp terminal to just west of the Lackey Road (SR 1586)/relocated Dawn Drive (SR 1791) intersection. From west of the Lackey Road/ relocated Dawn Drive intersection to approximately 500 feet east of Kings Cross Road, the 5-lane roadway will transition to the existing 2-lane roadway. South-side widening of NC 211 is to be performed from east of Kings Cross Road to the southbound I-95 ramp terminal to avoid impacts to French Park, a City owned recreational facility located on the north side of NC 211. This south-side widening will also eliminate the need for additional right of way, since the existing 100-foot right of way in the vicinity of French Park is offset 70 feet south of the existing roadway centerline and 30 feet north. B. Service Road Realignment As discussed in Section I. C. 12. Service Roads on page 3 of this report, two-way ramps created by ramp/service a-cTintersections currently exist in the northeast, southeast, and northwest quadrants of the I-95/ NC 211 interchange. These service roads will be realigned to intersect 8 directly with NC 211, thereby eliminating the existing connections with the interchange ramps. The realignments will convert the ramps to standard one-way operation and lessen driver confusion and the likelihood of accidents, thereby improving safety. These proposed realignments are shown on Figure 5. Kahn Drive (SR 1792 - northeast quadrant) is to be realigned along the front of the K-Mart property to tie into NC 211 at the existing signal for the K-mart entrance. The relocated section of Kahn Drive will basically be a 3-lane roadway, 37 feet face to face of curbs with gutter, widening to a 5-lane, 64 feet face to face of curbs with gutter, at the NC 211 intersection. Capuano Road (SR 1590 -southeast quadrant) is to be realigned to tie into Rowland Avenue just south of the NC 211/Rowland Avenue intersection. The relocated section of Capuano Road will be a 2-lane roadway, 28 feet of face to face of curbs with gutter. Dawn Drive (SR 1791 -northwest quadrant) is to be realigned to tie into NC 211 opposite Lackey Street. No realignment of Lackey Street (SR 1586) is proposed. The relocated section of Dawn Drive will be a 3-lane roadway, 37 feet face to face of curbs with gutter. C. Structures 1. Bridge over I-95 It is recommended the existing bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95 be replaced rather than rehabilitated and widened because widening may result in insufficient vertical clearance over I-95. A clear roadway width of 90 feet is to be provided on the new bridge to accommodate the proposed six-lane cross section between the I-95 ramp terminals and to allow sufficient clearance for the phased construction (in order to maintain traffic on NC 211) of the new bridge. The new bridge is to provide a minimum vertical clearance of 16 feet, 6 inches over I-95. The new bridge will be approximately 292 feet in length to accommodate for the future widening of I-95 to six lanes. The NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program does not include the widening of I-95 at this time. 2. Drainage Structures Three bridges on NC 211 just west of I-95 were replaced with reinforced concrete box culverts (RCBC) in 1988 under TIP Project B-1340. These culverts (culvert number 95 at Fivemile Branch and culvert numbers 83 and 60 at Saddletree Swamp) were constructed so as to allow for future widening of NC 211 along the south side to a multilane facility. Only culvert number 95 over Fivemile Branch is involved with this project, and no further extension of this 132-foot long culvert is required for the widening of KC 211 as recommended in this report. No improvements to Dawn Drive, I-95, or Kahn Drive are recommended in the vicinityy of where Fivemile Branch is crossed by I-95; therefore, n?f+dh of the RCBC's carrying Fivemile Branch under those facilities (culvert numbers 150, 449, and 448, respectively) is required. A 2-barrel, 10'x 8', RCBC M feet long also carries Meadow Branch under Dawn Drive, I-95, and Kahn Drive just north of the beginning of the taper for deceleration lane for the southbound I-95 off-ramp. N w nMw of this culvert is a"I?teld . D. Interchange Loops and Ramps Due to the large number of vehicles accessing I-95 from NC 211, one lane loops are proposed in the northwest and southeast quadrants of the interchange. This will eliminate left turns from NC 211 onto I-95 and will facilitate traffic movement in the area. Due to the addition of the loops, the I-95 off-ramp terminals in these quadrants must be relocated. The off-ramp terminal in the northwest quadrant will be relocated approximately 200 feet west of its existing location and will be widened to 2 lanes to provide for a double left turn onto NC 211. The off-ramp terminal in the southeast quadrant will be relocated approximately 120 feet east of its existing location and will be widened to 2 lanes to provide for a double right turn onto NC 211. The acceleration lanes for the existing I-95 on-ramps in the northeast and southwest quadrants of the interchange will be lengthened to enhance the safety of motorists merging onto I-95. E. Design Speed The recommended design speed along NC 211 is 50 mph. F. Access Control Additional access control will be acquired in the northwest, northeast, and southeast quadrants of the interchange to provide full control of access along NC 211 from west of the relocated I-95 northbound off-ramp to the Lackey Street/relocated Dawn Drive intersection. No control of access is proposed elsewhere along NC 211 due to the need to provide access to residences, businesses, and public facilities in the project vicinity. Full control of access will be maintained along I-95 (mainline and ramps). G. Right of Nay No additional right of way will be required to accommodate the proposed widening of NC 211. Approximately 4.5 acres of additional right of way will required to accommodate the loops and off-ramp relocations in the northwest and southeast quadrants and the realignment of service roads in the northeast, southeast, and northwest quadrants of the NC 211/I-95 interchange. 10 H. Proposed Design Exceptions There are no design exceptions anticipated with this project. I. Special Permits Required It is anticipated the proposed improvements will be performed under the Department of the Army Nationwide Permit for minor roadway fills in accordance with 33 CFR 330.5 (a) (x;4. An individual Section 404 Permit will not be required. J. Changes in the State Highway System No changes in the state highway system are anticipated. K. Multiple Use of Space There are no plans to utilize the right of way for any other purposes except public utilities, which will be allowed use of the right of way within certain limitations.. L. Bikeways The need for special accommodations for bicycles along the project has not been identified. M. Sidewalk The City of Lumberton has requested a sidewalk be provided on the bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95 to improve pedestrian access across the interstate (see Appendix page A-34). The City cited substantial pedestrian traffic between the motels and residential neighborhoods located on the east side of I-95 and French Park, various businesses, and a swimming pool located on the west side of I-95. City officials indicated the need for sidewalk is most crucial along the north side of the bridge. Based on information contained in the NCDOT Draft Guidelines For Planning. Pedestrian Facilities, the City of Lumberton has been asked to furnish additional data on the need for a sidewalk. The need for sidewalks along the project will be considered during final design of the project. N. Airports No airports or other aviation facilities are located in the area of potential effect of the project. 0. Cost Estimates Right of Way ................................. $1,230,000 Roadway ..... ... .. . .............. $2,750,000 (Includes NC 211 Widening, Service Road Realignments, and Interchange Improvements) 11 Structure $1,200,000 .................................. (Includes Removal of Existing I-95 Bridge) TOTAL .................................... $5,180,000 P. Other Proposed Highway Improvements The 1994-2000 NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) calls for upgrading I-95 from the south city limits of Lumberton to the I-95/ US 301 interchange north of Lumberton (10.0 miles) under TIP Project I-2305B. This project includes resurfacing I-95, widening the bridge over the Lumber River, right of way fence repair and replacement, drainage improvements, guardrail improvements including installation of median guardrail, and pavement rutting repair. Construction is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 1995. . Construction on a project (TIP Project U-1005) to widen NC 211 (Roberts Avenue) to a multilane curb and gutter facility from NC 72 to SR 1991 (2.4 miles) in Lumberton has recently been completed. III. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION A. Recommended Improvements The recommended improvement consists of the following items: 1. Widen NC 211 to a five- to six-lane facility from west of McMillan Avenue to west of Lackey Street. 2. Replace the existing bridge carrying NC 211 over I-95 (bridge number 102) with a six-lane structure. 3. Add loops in the southeast and northwest quadrants of the interchange. 4. Realign service roads in the northeast, southeast, and northwest quadrants of the NC 211/I-95 interchange (Kahn Drive, Capuano Road, and Dawn Drive, respectively) to eliminate two-way operation of the interchange ramps. B. Postponement of Proposed Action The existing facility is already operating at an undesirable level-of-service, especially during peak traffic periods. Postponement of the project would result in a continuing deterioration of traffic conditions in the future as traffic demand increases. Therefore, this alternative is not recommended. 12 C. "Do Nothing" Alternative Although this alternative would avoid the limited adverse environmental impacts that are anticipated to result from the project, there would be no positive effect on the traffic capacity of the highway or improvements in traffic safety. For these reasons, this alternative is not recommended. D. Alternate Modes of Transportation No alternate mode of transportation is considered to be a practical alternative. Highway transportation is the dominant mode of transportation in the project area, and the project involves widening ar existing highway. IV. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS A. Social Effects 1. Land Use a. Existing Land Use The land immediately adjacent to the service roads in all four quadrants of the NC 211/I-95 interchange has been developed with highway- oriented businesses such as motels, outlet stores, gas stations, and fast-food and other restaurants. Beyond the lands immediately adjacent to the service roads, land use varies from quadrant to quadrant, as described below: Northwest uadrant - This area is wooded and generally undeveloped except for a single-family residential development (Mayfair Subdivision). Southwest Quadrant - This area is dominated by farmland; woodlan exist in the vicinity of Fivemile Branch. Northeast and Southeast Quadrants - This area is dominated by single-family residential development. b. Existing Zoning The project lies within the jurisdiction of the City of Lumberton. The City enforces a Land Use Ordinance, which was adopted in 1985 and last updated in 1990. The Ordinance serves as both the zoning ordinance and the long-range planning tool for the City. Three of the four quadrants of the I-95/NC 211 interchange (northeast, southeast, and northwest) are zoned B-5 Commercial Business Districts. B-5 districts are established to accommodate commercial activities that draw business from and/or 13 provide services to travelers on I-95. The B-5 district extends along the south side of NC 211 throughout the project study area. The southwest quadrant is zoned B-4 Commercial District. This district is a general business district which accommodates the widest range of commercial uses. The land beyond the service road (SR 1792) in the northeast quadrant of the interchange is also zoned B-4 District. C. Proposed Land Use As noted above under Item "b", the City's Land Use Ordinance serves as the long-range planning tool. d. Project Compatibility with Local Plans The proposed improvements will result in the relocation of one business and result in less severe impacts on several others. Vacant land is available in the vicinity of the interchange, making it possible for the owner of the affected business to relocate in the same area, if so desired. The City of Lumberton indicates commercial land uses are expected to continue to dominate the interchange. The proposed improvements will not affect the general land use in the vicinity of the project. 2. Neighborhood Characteristics Development along NC 211 in the project area is primarily commercial; however, a City-owned recreational facility (French Park) is located on the north side of NC 211 between Fivemile Branch and Kings Cross Road. Development along the service roads in the four interchange quadrants is commercial. The areas beyond the service roads in the northeast and southeast quadrants of the interchange are primarily residential. Lands beyond the service road in the southwest quadrant is dominated by farmland, and woodlands exist in the vicinity of Fivemile Branch. Lands beyond the service road in the northwest quadrant is generally undeveloped, except for a residential subdivision to the west. The project will not disrupt community or neighborhood cohesion. 3. Relocatees Due to the relocation of the southbound off-ramp and Dawn Drive in the northwest quadrant of the interchange, the National 9 Inn will be displaced. This 50+ room motel is a minority-owned business, and the owner has made relocation plans. A copy of the Relocation Report is included in the Appendix on page A- 1. Also included in the Appendix on pages A-2 and A-3 is a discussion on the Relocation Programs offered by NCDOT to minimize the inconvenience of relocation. 14 4. Public Facilities French Park, a City-owned recreational facility located on the north side of NC 211 west of I-95, is the only public facility located immediately adjacent to the project. Tanglewood Elementary School and Southeastern General Hospital are located south of the project on Rowland Avenue. The proposed project will not interfere with these public facilities. 5. Historic and Cultural Resources a. Architectural/Historical Resources The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) was contacted early in the project planning process for information on potential historic/architectural resources in the project area. The SHPO was not aware of any structures of historic or architectural importance within the project area, but requested the Division of Highways define and survey the area of potential effect of the project (see memo on page A-20 in the Appendix). NCDOT architectural /historic staff surveyed the area of potential effect of the project. No properties over fifty years old were found; therefore, no properties eligible for the National Register will be affected by the project. The SHPO will be notified by receipt of the Environmental Assessment there are no properties in the APE over fifty years of age. b. Archaeological Resources The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) was contacted early in the project planning process for information on potential archaeological resources in the project area. The SHPO responded there are no known archaeological sites located in the project area and indicated it is unlikely any archaeological resources which may be eligible for the National Register will be affected by the project. The SHPO recommended no archaeological investigation be conducted (see memo on page A-20 in the Appendix). NCDOT archaeological staff performed a brief reconnaissance survey of the project and confirmed the area of potential impact of the project has little or no potential for significant archaeological sites. No archaeological sites eligible for listing in the National Register will be affected by the project. 6. Economic Effects The estimated labor force of Robeson County in June, 1990 was 47,490 persons. Out of that labor force, approximately 44,490 were employed, resultirnq tir an unemployment rate of 6.3 percent. 15 The proposed improvements to NC 211 and the I-95/NC 211 interchange will probably have a positive economic impact in that access to the businesses in the vicinity of the interchange will be improved. It is anticipated access to nearby residences will also be improved. C. Environmental Effects 1. Biological Resources The study area for this project was surveyed in 1990 and 1994 to identify vegetative plant communities and wildlife species and evaluate impacts to biotic communities, jurisdictional wetlands, and protected species. In-house preparatory work was done prior to the field surveys. The Robeson County Soil Survey, the hydric soils list for Robeson County, and the USGS Northwest Lumberton quadrangle map were studied to identify potential wetland sites. Vegetative communities and wildlife were inventoried during the surveys and characterized by ground truthing at specified points within each community. Woo v'land communities were encountered, they were . identified usingq methods in the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Deli neat i fdI I Commercial development, roads, and maintained roadside shoulders and interchange areas dominate the study area. These areas have a suppressed level of vegetative growth due to mowing, spraying, clearing, and other man-initiated activities. Turf and landscaped areas make up the dominant vegetative component, mostly as tall fescue grass Festuca sp.). a. Plant Life Uplands - No natural upland plant communities are present in the urban project setting. Undeveloped upland areas that exist in the project area are the result of fill material being placed in floodplain areas during the construction of NC 211. Little vegetative growth is present in this coarse sandy substrate. Approximately 9.5 acres of this man- dominated plant community will be lost as a result of the project. ib - rea witlaNrd plant communities-were identified in sett am,: shrub-scrub, canals •(ditehes). and swamp fit. The shrub-scrub community exists along Fivemile Branch on the south side of NC 211. Small saplings of tulip poplar Liriodendron tuli ifera red maple Acer rubrum and black willow Sa ix ni ra are intersperse wit a ric herbaceous layer. Typica herbaceous species include Virginia chain-fern Woodwardia aereolata wool-grass Scir us c erinus cattails T a spp.), Ric ar is Richardia Brasi ensis cnotweeds Po onum punctatum and P. ersicaria Lui g_ia alustris, sedges C rus spp.), and-ragweed Artemesia artp!%Ts i o is . A narrow strip of this community (approximately 0.09 acre wi be lost due to project construction. Large tracts of swamp are contiguous to this shrub-scrub community and are adjacent to the 16 project. Indirect impacts on these larger tracts may occur during project construction, but will be minimized through the use of best management practices and stringent erosion control measures. r h, aiiee. of NC 2111 b 110` tb?12 fett in width) a re was constructed when N We letrudted on a fill through the floodplai°n area Two to three feet of standing water was observed in the canal when this ecological survey was conducted. Herbaceous species such as sedges, seedbox ludwi is spp.), knotweeds, soft rush Juncus effusus and various grasses Poa spp. and Setaria spp. were observed in the canal. ely 0.20 acre of th?i4 c~;sty will be lost due to project construction. Thw,?np forest community is located in the northwest quorant of the interchange and is associated with Fivemile Brno..:; Young red maple, tulip poplar, and sweet gum Li uidambar sstt raciflua characterize the canopy and un erstory. The invasive Chinese privit Li ustrum sinense is scattered throughout. Vines such as poison ivy Toxico en ron radicans and catbrier Smilax sp.) are prevalent. The er aceous component is a sent ue to seasonality. Approximately 0`b1tlre e?f this community will be lost due to project c WWtti'on. Impacts - The widening of NC 211 will eliminate portions of roadside shoulders which are comprised of fill material. Impacts resulting from service road realignments and road widening will involve filling vegetated canals (ditches). Relocation of these canals will likely occur. Vegetation will renew itself fairly quickly if not continually maintained. A small portion of swamp may be filled due to the realignment of Dawn Road (SR 1791) in the northwest quadrant of the interchange. Loss of roadside shoulders comprises the greatest loss of community type; however, this will be negated by the creation of additional roadside shoulders. Impacts to natural communities are reflective of the relative abundance of each system present in the study area. Table 4 below summarizes the potential losses which will result from roadway widening and realignment of service roads. Table 4 BIOTIC COMMUNITY IMPACTS COMMUNITY TYPE Man-dominated Shrub-Scrub Vegetated Canals Forest Swamp ESTIMATED IMPACTS IN ACRES 9.5 0.09 0?2 0..01 TOTAL 9.8 17 b. Wildlife Disturbed roadside communities and urban areas provide shelter for opportunistic animal species such as the Norway rat Rattus norve icus white-footed mouse Perom scus leucopus), an ouse mouse Mus musculus . These ro ents are common prey for red-tail haws Buteo amaicensis . Other bird species typical in urban settings are the American robin Turdus mi ratorius mockingbird Mimus of lottos roc dove (Columba ivia and the European starling Sturnus vul aris . The Carolina anole Anolis carolinensis eastern fence lizard Sceloporus undulatus and squirre treefrog H la s uirel a are common repo es and amphibians found in urban areas an other disturbed communities. Wet shrub thickets and canals in the project area provide habitat for the southern cricket frog Acris r llus spring peeper Hyla crucifer southern leopard frog Rana sphenoce hala cottonmouth A kistrodon piscivorus an water snakes Nero is erythrogaster an N. asciata . Relocation of the roadside canals and other construction activities will displace wildlife populations temporarily to surrounding habitats. C. Federally-Listed Species Plants and animals with federal protection statuses of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE), and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Comments received from the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service indicate the red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis and Michaux' poison- sumac Rhus michauxii both wit an En angered status, occur in Robeson County, as o several Status Review species. Files of the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program indicate the American alligator (Alligator mississi iensis a. Threatened due to Similarity in Appearance species, as been sited within several miles of the project area. Suitable habitat for the Red-cockaded Woodpecker consists of pine or mixed pine/hardwood (at least 50 percent pine) stands thirty years of age or older. Suitable habitat of this type does not exist in the project area. Michaux' Poison-Sumac occurs in rocky or sandy open woods. This habitat does not exist in the project area. The American alligator inhabits fresh water swamps, marshes, abandoned rice fields, ponds, lakes, and backwaters of large rivers. Saddletree Swamp and its tributary, Fivemile Branch, provide suitable habitat for this species. Anticipated impacts to these systems are likely to be negligible, since road 18 widening will occur primarily on previously placed fill material. There were no sightings of the American alligator during the ecological survey of the project. d. Federal Candidate/State Protected Species The following Candidate 2 (C2) species are not legally protected under the Endangered Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. C2 species are defined as organisms for which there is some evidence of vulnerability, but data are not sufficient to warrant a listing of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, or Proposed Threatened at this time. Plants or animals with state designations of Endangered (E),. Threatened (T), or Special Concern (SC) are granted protection by the State Endangered Species Act and the NC Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979, administered by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. The following species may potentially occur in the project area. Organisms and their suitable habitat were not surveyed for. FEDERAL CANDIDATE/STATE PROTECTED SPECIES COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME CAT. STATE TA US MAMMALS Rafi que's big-eared bat Plecotus rafinesquii* 2 SC BIRDS BacFinan's sparrow Aimophila aestivalis 2 SC AMPHIBIANS CaroTir-na crawfish frog Rana areolata capito 2 SC PLANTS Ge ro gia leadplant Amorpha ge?org-innaa eor ina* 2 E Sandhills milkvetch Astragalus mi?auxii* 2 - Venus flytrap Dionaea mu?s uu?a- * 2 Wireleaf dropseed SS orobolus teretiflous 2 T Bog spicebush Lin' dera subcoriacea 2 E Carolina bogmint a1-c rrldea carol aiana 2 - Awned meadow-beauty R e-Ti"i aristosa 2 T 19 2. Soils The following native soil series are located within the project area: Bibb soils, Meggett fine sandy loam, Wagram loamy sand, Norfolk loamy sand, and Udorthents (loamy). These soils are described on the next page. Soil Series Classification H dric Inc on Bibb Soils Meggett fine sandy loam Wagram loamy sand Norfolk loamy sand Udorthents (loamy) Hydric - Hydric - Non-Hydric - Non-Hydric - Non-Hydric - Bibb soil is the principal soil type found in the project area. Bibb soil is found in floodplains of natural drainage ways and occupies much of the Saddletree Swamp area. Udorthents (loamy) soil underlies commercial areas and is the second principal soil type in the project area. These soils have variable characteristics and have been altered by man to the extent the original relief and soil profile cannot be recognized. 3. Jurisdictional Wetlands Wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3. The US Army Corps of Engineers (COE) takes jurisdiction over the discharge of dredged or fill material into theses wetlands as authorized by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Jurisdictional wetlands were identified in the project area (sig&.wethods in the Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual . They were identified on the basis of low soil chroma values, hydrophytic vegetation, and the presence of hydrology or hydrological indicators. The following table summarizes the anticipated wetland impacts. Table 5 WETLAND COMMUNITY IMPACTS WETLAND COMMUNITY SITE # ESTIMATED IMPACTS IN ACRES soft * 1 0.09 f ** 2 0.01 *** 3 0.2 TOTAL 0.3 * Palustrine Forested Deciduous Semipermanently Flooded ** Palustrine Shrub-Scrub Deciduous Semipermanently Flooded *** Pa'lastrine Emergent Persistent Permanently Flooded 20 Impacts on jurisdictional wetlands are expected to be minimal. Much of the proposed highway widening will occur on fill material previously placed in wetland areas. Impacts on wetlands will be minimized through the use of best management practices during project construction. The Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan established by the Division of Highways in cooperation with the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources will be followed during construction. 4. Permits In accordance with the provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be required from the COE for the discharge of dredged or fill material into "Waters of the United States" It is anticipated the filling of shrub-scrub, vegetated canals, and swamp forest will be authorized by Nationwide Permit for minor roadway fills in accordance with 33 CFR 330.5 (a) 14). 101{0"t 14 allows for road crossing fills of non-tidal 'Waters of the United States", provided no more than a total of 200 linear feet of the fill for the roadway can occur in special aquatic sites, including wetlands, and the fill placed in waters of the U. S. is limited to a filled area of no more than 1/3 acre. Compensatory mitigation is not required where Nationwide permits or General permits are authorized, according to the 1989 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the COE. Final discretionary authority in these matters lies with the COE. t"I ter Quality Certification administered through the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources will be required. This certificate is issued for any activity which may result in a discharge into waters for which a federal permit is required. 5. Flood Hazard Evaluation Robeson County is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program in which a detailed study for Fivemile Branch was completed and has been in effect since 1989. Fivemile Branch is a tributary of Saddletree Swamp, and Saddletree Swamp is a tributary of the Lumber River. The detailed flood study has indicated the culverts on NC 211 for carrying Fivemile Branch and Saddletree Swamp are inundated with the backwater from the Lumber River during the 50-year flood. See Figure 6 for a copy of the Flood Insurance Rate Map which shows the approximate limits of the 100- year floodway and floodplain for the project area. The proposed widening and improvements will not have a significant adverse effect on the floodplain. The floodplain in the area of the NC 211 crossing is wooded with some commercial development. 21 6. Water Quality Wetree Swamp, a tributary ofthe Lumber River, and Ole #Apqphg a tributary of Saddletree Swamp, are the only streams in the project area. Both have a "best usage" classification otFh'. Class "C" designates waters suitable for secondary recreation, aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, and agriculture. "Sw" indicates swamp waters with characteristics different from other water bodies, such as low velocity, low ph, low dissolved oxygen, and a high organic matter content. 7. Farmland The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires that all federal agencies and their representatives consider the impact of construction projects on farmland. The Soil Conservation Service (SCS) of the U. S. Department of Agriculture was contacted to determine whether Prime, Unique, and/or Important farmland soils will be impacted by the proposed improvements. The SCS indicated no farmland, as defined by the Farmland Protection Policy Act, will be affected (see page A-13 in the Appendix). 8. Highway Traffic Noise/Construction Noise Analysis This analysis was performed to determine the effect of the proposed project on noise levels in the immediate project area. This investigation includes an inventory of existing noise sensitive land uses and a field survey ambient (existing) noise levels in the study area. It also includes a comparison of the predicted noise levels and the ambient noise levels to determine if traffic noise impacts can be expected as a result of the proposed project. Traffic noise impacts are determined from the current procedures for the abatement of highway traffic noise and construction noise, appearing as Part 772 of Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations. If traffic noise impacts are predicted, examination and evaluation of alternative noise abatement measures for reducing or eliminating the noise impacts must be considered. Characteristics of Noise Noise is basically defined as unwanted sound. It is emitted from many sources including airplanes, factories, railroads, power generation plants, and highway vehicles. Highway noise, or traffic noise, is usually a composite of noises form engine exhaust, drive train, and tire-roadway interaction. The magnitude of noise is usually described by its sound pressure. Since the range of sound pressure varies greatly, a logarithmic scale is used to relate sound pressures to some common reference level, usually the decibel (M). Sound pressures described in decibels are called sound pressure levels and are often defined in terms of frequency weighted scales (A, B, C, or D). 22 The A-weighted scale approximates the frequency response of the human ear by placing most emphasis on the frequency range of 1,000 to 6,000 Hertz. Because the A-weighted scale closely describes the response of the human ear to sound, it is used almost exclusively in vehicle noise measurements. Sound levels measured using A-weighting are often expressed as dBA. Throughout this discussion, references will be made to dBA, which means an A-weighted decibel level. Several examples of noise pressure levels in dBA are listed in Table N1 (see Appendix page A-4). Review of Table N1 indicates that most individuals in urbanized areas are exposed to fairly high noise levels from many sources as they go about their daily activities. The degree of disturbance or annoyance of unwanted sound depends essentially on three things: 1) the amount and nature of the intruding noise, 2) the relationship between the background noise and the intruding noise, and 3) the type of activity occurring where the noise is heard. In considering the first of these three factors, it is important to note individuals have different hearing sensitivity to noise. Loud noises bother some more than others, and some individuals become riled if an unwanted noise persists. The time patterns of noise also enter into an individual's judgement of whether or not a noise is offensive. For example, noises occurring during sleeping hours are usually considered to be more repugnant than the same noises in the daytime. With regard to the second factor, individuals tend to judge the annoyance of an unwanted noise in terms of its relationship to noise from other sources (background noise). The blowing of a car horn at night when background noise levels are approximately 45 dBA would generally be more objectionable than the blowing of a car horn in the afternoon when background noises might be 55 dBA. The third factor is related to the interference of noise with activities of individuals. In a 60 dBA environment, normal conversation would be possible while sleep might be difficult. Work activities requiring high levels of concentration may be interrupted by loud noises while activities requiring manual effort may not be interrupted to the same degree. Over a period of time, individuals tend to accept the noises which intrude into their lives, particularly if noises occur at predicted intervals and have become expected. Attempts have been made to regulate many of these types of noises including that from airplanes, factories, railroads, and highways. With respect to highway traffic noise, methods of analysis and control have developed rapidly over the past few years. Sound pressure levels in this analysis are referred to as Leq(h). The Leq, or equivalent sound level, is the level of constant sound which in a given situation and time period has the same energy 23 as does time-varying sound. In other words, the fluctuating sound levels of traffic noise are represented in terms of a steady noise level with the same energy content. Noise Abatement Criteria In order to determine that highway noise levels are or are not compatible with various land uses, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has developed noise abatement criteria and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways. These abatement criteria and procedures are set forth in the aforementioned Federal reference (Title 23 CFR, Part 772). A summary of the noise abatement criteria for various land uses is presented in Table N2 (see Appendix page A-5). Ambient Noise Levels Ambient noise measurements were taken in the vicinity of the project to determine the existing background noise levels. The purpose of this noise level information is to quantify the existing acoustic environment and to provide a base for assessing the impact of noise level increases. The field data is also used to establish ambient noise levels for residences and other noise sensitive receivers in the vicinity of the project. The noise levels were recorded for a 20-minute period during anticipated peak traffic noise periods. Traffic counts were taken at each measurement site during the sampling periods. Differences in the measured noise levels are attributed to variations in site conditions and traffic volumes. the ambient measurement sites and measured exterior Leq noise levels are presented in Figure N1 and Table N3, respectively (see Appendix, pages A-6 and A-7). The existing roadway and traffic conditions were used with the most current traffic noise prediction model in order to calculate existing noise levels for comparison with noise levels actually measured. The calculated existing noise levels were within 2.1 to 4.5 dBA of the measured noise levels for all the locations for which noise measurements were obtained. Differences in dBA levels can be attributed to "bunching" of vehicles (platooning of large trucks on I-95) and actual vehicle speeds versus the computer's "evenly spaced" vehicles and single vehicle speed. Procedure for Predicting Future Noise Levels The prediction of highway traffic noise is a complicated procedure. In general, the traffic situation is composed of a large number of variables which describe different cars driving at different speeds through a continually changing highway configuration and surrounding terrain. Obviously, to assess the problem certain assumptions and simplifications must be made. The procedure used to predict future noise levels in this study was the Noise Barrier Cost Reduction Procedure, STAMINA 2.0 and OPTIMA (revised March, 1983). The BCR (Barrier Cost Reduction) 24 procedure is based upon the FHWA Highway Traffic Noise Prediction Model (FHWA- RD-77-108). The BCR traffic noise prediction model uses the number and type of vehicles on the planned roadway, their speeds, the physical characteristics of the road (curves, hills, depressed, elevated, etc.), receptor location and height, and, if applicable, barrier type, barrier ground elevation, and barrier top elevation. In this regard, it is to be noted only preliminary alignment was available for use in this noise analysis. The proposed project consists of widening NC 211 to a multilane facility, revising the I-95/NC 211 interchange, and replacing the bridge over I-95. NC 211 is to be widened to five lanes (six lanes between the I-95/NC 211 interchange ramp terminals). Only those existing natural or man-made barriers which could be modeled were included. The roadway sections and proposed intersections (with the exception of the I- 95/NC 211 interchange) were assumed to be flat and at- grade. Thus, the analysis represents the worst-case topographic conditions. The noise predictions made in this analysis are highway-related noise predictions for the traffic conditions during the year analyzed. Peak hour design and Level-of-Service (LOS) C volumes were compared, and the volumes resulting in the noisiest conditions were used with proposed posted speed limits. Thus, during all other time periods, the noise levels will be no greater than those predicted in this analysis. The STAMINA 2.0 computer model was utilized to enable the determination of the number of land uses (by type) which, during the peak hour in the design year 2014, would be exposed to noise levels approaching or exceeding the FHWA noise abatement criteria and those land uses predicted to receive a substantial noise increase. The basic approach was to select typical receptor locations at 25, 50, 1009 2009 4009 800, and 1600 feet from the center of the near traffic lane (adaptable to both sides of the roadway). The locations of these typical modeled receptors were established by substantial (greater than or equal to 10%) changes in projected traffic volumes along the proposed project. The result of this procedure is a grid of receptor points along the project. Using this grid, noise levels were calculated for each identified receptor. The Leq traffic noise exposures associated with this project are listed in Table N4 (see Appendix page A-8). Information included in this table consists of listings of all receptors in close proximity to the project, their ambient and predicted noise levels, and the estimated noise level increase for each. The noise abatement criteria summary for the proposed project is listed in Table N5 (see Appendix page A-9). The approximate number of receptors expected to experience traffic noise impacts, either by approaching or exceeding their respective FHWA noise abatement criteria or by substantial increase, are listed for each activity category. No receptors are predicted to experience noise impacts with the construction of this project. 25 Other information included in Table N5 is the maximum extent of the 72 and 67 dBA noise level contours. This information should assist local authorities in exercising land use control over undeveloped lands adjacent to the roadway in their respective local jurisdiction and to prevent further development of incompatible activities and land uses. The traffic noise impacts of this project in terms of increased exterior noise levels are predicted to range between +4 and +7 dBA. Exterior noise level increases are indicated in Table N6 (see Appendix page A-10). When real-life noises are heard, level changes of 2-3 dBA are barely perceptible. A 5 dBA change is more readily noticeable, and a 10 dBA change is judged by most people as a doubling or a halving of the loudness of the sound. Traffic Noise Impact/Abatement Measure Analysis Traffic noise impacts occur when the predicted traffic noise levels either a) approach or exceed the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria (NAC), with approach meaning within 1 dBA, or b) substantially exceed existing noise levels, as defined in the lower portion of Table N2 (see Appendix page A-5). Noise abatement measures must be considered when either of the two preceding conditions exist. Since the project will result in no traffic noise impacts, mitigation measures, including physical noise walls to abate anticipated traffic noise levels, are not necessary and none are recommended for this project. "Do Nothing" Alternative The traffic noise impact for the "Do Nothing", or "No Build", alternative was also studied. If the traffic currently using the network of roads in the project area should double within the next twenty (20) years, the future traffic noise levels would only increase approximately 2-3 dBA. This small increase to the present noise level would be barely noticeable to the people working and living in the area. Construction Noise The major construction elements of this project are expected to be earth removal, hauling, grading, and paving. General construction noise impacts such as temporary speech interference for passersby and those individuals living or working near the project, can be expected particularly from paving operations and from the earth-moving equip- ment during the grading operations. Overall, construction noise impacts are expected to be minimal since construction noise is relatively short in duration and is generally restricted to daytime hours. Furthermore, the transmission loss characteristics of surrounding man-made structures and natural features are believed to be sufficient to moderate the effects of intrusive construction noise. 26 Summary The projected increase in noise levels and associated noise impacts are an unavoidable consequence of roadway widening projects. However, based on these preliminary studies, no traffic noise abatement is necessary. This evaluation completes the highway traffic noise requirements of Title 23 CFR, Part 772, and unless a major project change develops, no additional reports are required for this project. 9. Air Quality Analysis Air pollution originates from various sources. Emissions from industrial activities and internal combustion engines are the most prevalent sources. Other origins of common outdoor air pollution are solid waste disposal and any form of fire. The impact resulting from highway construction ranges from intensifying existing air pollution problems to improving the ambient air conditions. The traffic is the center of concern when determining the impact of a new highway facility or the improvement of an existing highway facility. Motor vehicles emit carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NO), hydrocarbons (HC), particulate matter, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and lead (Pb) (listed in order of decreasing emission rate). Automobiles are considered to be the major source of CO in the project area. For this reason, most of the analysis presented is concerned with determining expected carbon monoxide levels in the vicinity of the project due to traffic flow. In order to determine the ambient CO concentration for the receptor closest to the highway project, two concentration components must be used: local and background. The local concentration is defined as the CO emissions from cars operating on highways in the near vicinity (i. e., distances within 100 meters) of the receptor location. The background concentration is defined by the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR) as "the concentration .of a pollutant at a point that is the result of emissions outside the local vicinity; that is, the concentration at the upwind edge of the local sources." In this study, the local concentration was determined by the NCDOT Traffic Noise/Air Quality Staff using line source computer modeling and the background concentration was obtained from the NCDEHNR. Once the two concentration components were resolved, they were added together to determine the ambient CO concentration for the receptor in question and to compare -to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Automobiles are regarded as sources of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides. Hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide emitted from cars are carried into the atmosphere where they react with sunlight to form ozone and nitrogen dioxide. Area-wide automobile emissions of HC and NO are eapeeted• to decrease in the future due to the continued installation and maintenance of pollution control devices on new 27 cars. Hence, the ambient ozone and nitrogen dioxide levels in the atmosphere should continue to decrease as a result of the improvements on automobile emissions. The photochemical reactions that form ozone and nitrogen dioxide require several hours to occur. For this reason, the peak levels of ozone generally occur 10 to 20 kilometers downwind of the source of the hydrocarbon emissions. Urban areas as a whole are regarded as sources of hydrocarbons, not individual streets and highways. The emissions of all sources in an urban area mix together in the atmosphere, and in the presence of sunlight, the mixture reacts to form ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and other photochemical oxidants. The best example of this type of air pollution is the smog in Los Angeles, California. Automobiles are not regarded as significant sources of particulate matter and sulphur dioxide. Nationwide, highway sources account for less than 7 percent of particulate matter emissions and less than 2 percent of sulphur dioxide emissions. Particulate matter and sulphur dioxide emissions are predominantly the result of non-highway sources (e.g., industrial, commercial, and agricultural). Because emissions of particulate matter and sulphur dioxide from cars are very low, there is no reason to suspect traffic on the project will cause air quality standards for particulate matter and sulphur dioxide to be exceeded. Automobiles without catalytic converters can burn regular gas. The burning of regular gas emits lead as a result of regular gasoline containing tetraethyl lead which is added by refineries to increase the octane rating of the fuel. Newer cars with catalytic converters burn unleaded gasoline eliminating lead emissions. Also, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has required the reduction in the lead content of leaded gasolines. The overall average lead content of gasoline in 1974 was 2 grams per gallon. By 1989, this composite average had dropped to 0.01 grams per gallon. In the future, lead emissions are expected to decrease as more cars us unleaded fuels and as the lead content of leaded gasoline is reduced. The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 make the sale, supply, or transport of leaded gasoline or lead additives unlawful after December 31, 1995. Because of these reasons, it is not expected that traffic on the proposed project will cause the NAAQS for lead to be exceeded. A microscale air quality analysis was performed to determine future CO concentrations resulting from the proposed highway improvements. "CALINE3 - A Versatile Dispersion Model For Predicting Air Pollutant Levels Near Highways and Arterial Streets" was used to predict the CO concentration at the nearest sensitive receptor to the project. 28 Inputs into the mathematical model to estimate hourly CO concentrations consisted of level roadway under normal conditions with predicted traffic volumes, vehicle emission factors, and worst-case meteorological average daily traffic projections. The traffic volume used for the CALINE3 model was the highest volume within the project limits. Carbon monoxide vehicle emission factors were calculated for the year 2000 and 2010 using the EPA publication "Mobile Source Emission Factors" and the MOBILE4 mobile source emissions computer model. The background CO concentration for the project area was estimated to be 2.4 parts per million (ppm). Consultation with the NCDEHNR, Division of Environmental Management, Air Quality Section indicated that an ambient CO concentration of 2.4 ppm is suitable for most suburban areas. The worst-case air quality receptor was determined to be receptor # 6 (R6), a business. The traffic on nearby I-95 contributes to predicted air quality conditions at R6, and computations of each contribution were determined separately then added together to produce this worst-case scenario. The "Do Nothing" alternative was also considered for its effects on air quality in the project area. The "Do Nothing" alternative has identical CO concentrations when compared with the build alternative because the CALINE3 inputs for traffic volume and roadway configuration are the same. Predicted 2000 and 2010 one-hour average CO concentrations for the proposed project and the "Do Nothing" alternative are presented below. ONE-HOUR CARBON MONOXIDE "WORST-CASE" CONCENTRATION (ppm) PROJECT ALTERNATIVE RECEPTOR 2000 2010 Widen to 5- to 6-lane facility R6 (BUS) 3.9 3.8 "Do Nothing" R6 (BUS) 3.9 3.8 Comparison of the predicted CO concentrations with the NAAQS (maximum permitted for 1-hour averaging period = 35 ppm; 8-hour averaging period = 9 ppm) indicates no violation of these standards. Since the results of the worst-case 1-hour CO analysis is less than 9 ppm, it can be concluded that the 8-hour CO level does not exceed the standard. See Tables Al through A4 on pages A-11 and A-12 in the Appendix for input and output data. The CO concentrations displayed in these tables were calculated assuming an initial, or ambient, concentration of 0.0 ppm. The background concentration, in this case 2.4 ppm, was then added to the calculated values to obtain the worst-case total CO concentration expected in the project area. By amlyzing the worst case conditions, it was determined that inputs to the CALINE3 model for the "Do Nothing" alternative were identical to 29 those for the build alternative. Therefore, although Tables Al through A4 indicate a build condition, these inputs also apply to the "Do Nothing" scenario. The project is located with the jurisdiction of air quality of the Fayetteville Regional Office of the NCDEHNR. The ambient air quality for Robeson County has been determined to be in compliance with the NAAQS. This project is not anticipated to create any adverse effect on the air quality of this attainment area. During construction of the proposed project, all materials resulting from clearing and grubbing, demolition, or other operations will be removed from the project, burned, or otherwise disposed of by the contractor. Any burning will be done in accordance with applicable local laws and ordinances and regulations of the North Carolina SIP for air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC 2D.0520. Care will be taken to insure burning will be done at the greatest distance practicable from dwellings and not when atmospheric conditions are such to create a hazard to the public. Burning will only be utilized under constant surveillance. Also during construction, measures will be taken to reduce the dust generated by construction when the control of dust is necessary for the protection and comfort of motorists or area residents. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements for air quality of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments and the NEPA process, and no additional reports are necessary. 10. Stream Modification "Mont" -pal . ation .is, anticipated. If stream rechanneln ation is requ red, it will be coordinated with appr6prs'fas MMIMI resource agencies in compliance with the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 USC et seq.). 11. Hazardous Materials A reconnaissance survey identified four active sites (gas stations) within the project corridor with the potential for underground storage tank (UST) involvement. A subsequent records search of the Division of Environmental Management, Groundwater Section was conducted to determine the status of these tanks. The following information was obtained: Site No. 1 (Exxon Station) - located in southeast quadrant of I-95/ NC 211 interchange. It has 4 currently operating USTs. The tanks are constructed of steel (cathodic protection in place) and were installed April, 1968. Approximately 0.1 acre will be acquired from this property for right of way. Site No. 2 (Amoco Station) - located at the intersection of Rowland Avenue with NC 211. It has 4 currently operating USTs. The tanks are constructed of steel and were installed May, 1978. 30 Site No. 3 (Sunoco Station) - located in northeast quadrant of the interchange. It has 4 currently operating USTs. The tanks are constructed of Steel and were installed May, 1974. Site No. 4 (Texaco Station) - located at the intersection of Kings Cross Road and NC 211. It is estimated to have 5 USTs. All of the tanks at these sites are registered with the Division of Environmental Management, Groundwater Section. The files of the Division of Solid Waste Management were also consulted to determine whether any unregulated dumps or other potentially contaminated properties are within the project corridor. Based on this investigation, no involvement with hazardous materials (other than the underground tanks noted above) is anticipated. 12. Geotechnical Impacts No significant adverse effects on the geological regime of the project corridor is anticipated. The proposed project is located within a floodplain of the Central Coastal Plain region. Elevations within the project corridor vary between 115 and 125 feet above mean sea level. The project area consists of fossiliferous clay and fine-grained sediments of the Pliocene Yorktown Formation and marl and shelly sands of the Tertiary Duplin Formation. Soils within the project corridor are classified as A-2, A-3, A-4, A-6, and A-7 within the AASHTO system. These soils are poorly drained to well- drained within a variable shrink-swell potential. A seasonally high water table of less than 5 feet below the land surface is anticipated for some soils within the project area. It is anticipated the project will be primarily a borrow project, with adequate sources of borrow material located adjacent to the existing corridor. A gas pipeline and several borrow pits are located north of the project. 13. Construction Impacts There are a number of short term environmental impacts normally associated with the construction of highways that will be experienced with the construction of this project. Measures will be taken to mitigate these impacts to the extent possible. All possible measures will be taken to insure that the public's health and safety will not be compromised during the movement of any materials to and from construction sites along the project and that any inconveniences imposed on the public will be kept to a minimum. 31 Solid wastes will be disposed of in strict adherence to the Division of Highway's Standard Specifications for Roads and Structures. The contractor smell--5e required to observe an Ito comply to all laws, ordinances, regulations, orders, and decrees regarding the disposal of solid waste. Solid waste will not be placed into any existing land disposal site which is in violation of state rules and regulations. Waste and debris will be disposed of in areas that are outside of the right of way and provided by the contractor, unless otherwise required by the plans or special provisions or unless disposal within the right of way is permitted by the Engineer. The contractor shall maintain the earth surfaces of all waste areas, both during work and until completion of all seeding and mulching, or other erosion control measures specified, in a manner which will effectively control erosion and siltation. Vegetation from land clearing and other demolition and construction and land clearing materials will be disposed of in accordance with applicable air pollution and solid waste regulations. Before construction is started, a preconstruction conference involving the contractor, pertinent local officials, and the Division of Highways will be held to discuss various construction procedures, including a discussion of precautionary steps to be taken during the time of construction that will minimize damage or rupture to water lines and interruption of water service. Erosion and sedimentation will occur during the construction of this project. For this reason, an erosion control schedule will be devised by the contractor before work is started. The schedule will show the time relationships between phases of work which must be coordinated to reduce erosion and will describe construction practices and temporary erosion control measures which will be used to minimize erosion. In conjunction with the erosion control schedule, the contractor will be required to follow provisions of the plans and specifications which pertain to erosion and siltation. Temporary erosion control measure such as the use of berms, dikes, dams, silt basins, etc. will be used as needed. The general requirements concerning erosion and siltation are covered in article 107-13 of the Standard Specifications for Roads and Structures which is entitled 'Con T ofErosion, i tation and PoTlutio TFe N. C. Division of Highways has also developed an Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program which has been approved by the N. C. Sedimentation Control Commission. This program consists of the rigorous requirements to minimize erosion and sedimentation contained in the Standard Specifications for Roads and Structures. 32 Prior to the approval of any borrow source developed for use on this project, the contractor will obtain a certification from the State Historic Preservation Officer of the State Department of Cultural Resources certifying that the removal of material from the borrow source will have no effect on any known district, site, building, structure, or object that is included or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. A copy of this certification will be furnished to the Engineer prior to performing any work on the proposed borrow source. Borrow pits and all ditches will be drained insofar as possible to alleviate breeding areas for mosquitoes. An extensive rodent control program will be established where structures are to be removed or demolished. V. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION A. Comments Received The project has been coordinated with appropriate federal, state, and local agencies. Comments were received from the following agencies: U. S. Department of Agriculture - Soil Conservation Service U. S. Department of the Army - Wilmington District Corps of Engineers U. S. Department of the Interior - Fish and Wildlife Service N. C. Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse N. C. Department of Cultural Resources - State Historic Preservation Officer N. C. Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources - Planning and Assessment Division, Division of Environmental Health, Division of Land Resources, Forest Resources Division, Fayetteville Regional Office, Wildlife Resources Commission N. C. Department of Public Instruction Lumber River Council of Governments Mayor of Lumberton Lumberton Area Chamber of Commerce Copies of the comments received are included in the Appendix (see pages A-13 through A-35). B. Public Meeting The Division of Highways held an informal, one-to-one public meeting on the project (and on T.I.P. Project U-2416, proposed improvements to NC 72-711 near I-95) November 15, 1990 at the Robeson County Public Library in Lumberton. Representatives of the Fayetteville Division Office and the Planning and Environmental Branch were present to explain the project, receive comments, and answer questions. Approximately twenty- 33 five persons (other than Copies of the news release published before and after pages A-36 through A-40). NCDOT representatives) attended the meeting. advertising the meeting and newspaper articles the meeting are included in the Appendix (see An aerial photograph showing the proposed improvements to NC 211 and the NC 211/I-95 interchange was displayed at the meeting. A handout containing general project information, a vicinity map, and a comment sheet was made available to each participant. Each participant was given the opportunity to review the aerial photograph and ask questions or comment on the project. The majority of those present at the meeting felt the proposed improvements are needed and supported the project. Several persons who travel NC 211 daily cited substantial traffic congestion and lengthy delays in the vicinity of the NC 211/I-95 interchange. Several persons also cited confusion, especially for tourists unfamiliar with the area, created by the two-way operation of three of the four interchange ramps. A representative of the City of Lumberton requested that sidewalk be provided along the new bridge to be built over I-95. The owner of a business near the I-95/NC 211 interchange requested that every effort be made to avoid relocating his business as a result of the project. C. Public Hearin A public hearing will be held following circulation of this report to provide more detailed information on the project to local citizens and to receive additional comments on the project. WRE/plr tlEr 301 6 , Age ?/ f 5 Rea Shannon 5 Z ? To rM m Red Springs eye. O Rennert ax 100 72 IS lu r? 52 Ima I Buie 7 Iw R 6?0- 7 v.s.u IS E A O N 7 yoke 83 ] Rsemon 0 41 10 t ?c /s t 74 501 ] ] Umbe( 00+1' B e11r_ 30 7 Purvi Raynha ] t Ilentori -- ] / Csl'C \ 514 c nab, 74 Iz 12 y 1 eIan `yi 10r/ ?* 7 Fairmont 1 ?.?u 1 3 roct9rvd Q• ppv9-?•/ Orru 2 ? if 211 e END PROJECT i I ? ?IV?M1ti ?i ROBESON COUNTY 1791 11792 O NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH NC 211 FROM EAST OF ROWLAND AVENUE TO EAST OF KING'S CROSS ROAD LUMBERTON, ROBESON COUNTY U-2415 0 mile 1 /4 2/91 FIG. 1 N LO r--1 I N of, u W Z ? O C7 Z w O CD J p d H IY m N LLJ LL 3 O c? F- Z N ?-? W Y 3 O O I- J N 7 Ln ? I N c) LLJ O W '>C7 p F m LL.. 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A x ce rL W d WT O n1 Y? Z' pfd .T H' E 'T yi i M I YE ZC !ONE X m ZONE X --? f Approximate LiMits 100-Year Z"'wrn ZONE X CQNE X X - r BEGIN PROJECT > ., APPROXIMATE LIMITS 100-YEAR FLOODPLAIN oR i ?y v A:? AQOQ? / NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION > DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH _ NC 211 - FROM EAST OF ROWLAND AVENUE TO FAST OF KING'S CROSS ROAD LUMBERTON, ROBESON COUNTY - U-2415 1 FIGURE 6 O APPENDIX R E L-O C A T ION REPORT North Carolina Department of Transportation E.I.S. CORRIDOR _ DESIGN RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROJECT: 8.1461601 COUNTY: Robeson Alternate _1 of 1Alternate I.D. NO.: U-2415 F.A. PROJECT: N/A DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: NC it from West of SR 1586 to East of Rowland Avenue. Lumberton EST IMATED DISPLACEES INCOME LEVEL Type of Displacee Owners Tenants Total Minor- ities 0-15M .15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Individuals Families 0 0 0 0 Businesses 1 0 1 1 VALUE OF DWELLING DSS DWELLINGS AVAILABLE Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 0-20M $ 0-150 0-20M $ 0-150 ANSWER ALL QUEST IONS 20-40M 150-250 20-40M 150-250 YES NO EXPLAIN ALL "YES" ANSWERS 40-70M 250-400 40-70M 250-400 X 1. Will special relocation 70-100 400-600 70-100 400-600 i b X serv ces e necessary 2. Will schools or churches be 100 UP 600 UP 100 UP 600 UP X affected by displacement 3. Will business services still TOTAL X be available after project 4. Will any business be dis- REMARKS (Respond by Number) placed. If so, indicate size type, estimated number of 3. Many other motels are located nearby. t l i iti nor es, e c. emp oyees, m X 5. Will relocation cause a 4. The National 9 Inn is a 50+ room motel. We have h h t i Only uisition of it recently be un advance ac ous ng s or age . q g X 6. Source for available hous- 7 employees (all family members). (li t) i ng s X 7. Will additional housing 14. Motel already has made relocation plans. b d d programs e nee e X 8. Should Last Resort Housing b id d ere e cons X 9. Are there large, disabled, l t f ili ld am er y, e c. es e ANSWER THESE ALSO FOR DESIGN NA 10. Will public housing be t d d f j 1 or pro nee e ec NA 11. Is public housing avail- t NA able 12. Is it felt there will be ad- equate DSS housing available ri d l ti d i on pe o ng re oca ur NA 1 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financial C - tl L means - - • . X 14. Are suitable business sites il ble (list source) ava a 15. Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION 3 '-2 0 A _M_ Simpson A11'g1rnR-r _ 3-17-94, L% - f < . ( '.C s-/ <r-- /Y Relocation Agent T Date Approved Date Form 15.4 Revised 5/90 A-1 Original b 1 Copy: State Relocation Agent 2 Copy: Area Relocation File DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS RELOCATION PROGRAMS It is the policy of the NCDOT to ensure that comparable replacement housing will be available prior to construction of state and federally- assisted projects. Furthermore, the North Carolina Board of Transportation has the following three programs to minimize the inconvenience of relocation: * Relocation Assistance Relocation Moving Payments and * Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Renr Supplement. With the Relocation Assistance Program, experienced NCDOT staff will be available to assist displacees with information such as availability and prices of homes, apartments, or businesses for sale or rent and financing ur other housing programs. The Relocation Moving Payments Program, in general, provides for payment of actual moving expenses encountered in relocation. Where displacement will force an owner or tenant to purchase or rent property of higher cost or to lose a favorable financing arrangement (in cases of ownership), the Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement Program will compensate up to $22,500 t.0 owners who are eligible and qualify and up to $5,250 to tenants who are eligible and qualify. The relocation program for the proposed action will be conducted in accordance with the Federal Uniform Relocation :assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646), and the North Carolina Relocation Assistance Act (GS-133-5 through 133-13). The program is designed to provide assistance to displaced persons in relocating to a replacement site in which to live or do business. At least one relocation officer is assigned to each highway project for this purpose. The relocation officer will determine the needs of displaced families, individuals, businesses, non-profit organizations, and farm operations for relocation assistance advisory services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The NCDOT will schedule its work to allow ample time, prior to displacement, for negotiations and possession of replacement housing which meets decent, safe, and sanitary standards. The displacees are given at least a 90-day written notice after NCDOT purchases the property. Relocation of displaced persons will be offered in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial facilities. Rent and sale prices of replacement property will be within the financial means of the families and individuals displaced and will be reasonably accessible to their places of employment. The relocation officer will also assist owners of displaced businesses, non-profit organizations, and farm operations in searching for and moving to replacement property. All tenant and owner residential occupants who may be displaced will receive an explanation regarding all available options, such as (1) purchase of replacement housing, (2) rental of replacement housing, either private or public, or (3) moving existing owner-occupant housing to another site (if possible). The relocation officer will also supply A-2 information concerning other state and federal programs offering assistance to displaced persons and will provide other advisory services as needed in order to minimize hardships to displaced persons in adjusting to a new location. The Moving Expenses Payments Program is designed to compensate the displacee for the costs of moving personal property from homes, businesses, non-profit organizations, and farm operations acquired for a highway project. Under the Replacement Program for Owners, NCDOT will participate in reasonable incidental purchase payments for replacement dwellings such as attorney's fees, surveys, appraisals, and other closing costs and, if applicable, make a payment for any increased interest expenses for replacement dwellings. Reimbursement to owner-occupants for replacement housing payments, increased interest payments, and incidental purchase expenses may not exceed $22,500 (combined total), except under the Last Resort Housing provision. A displaced tenant may be eligible to receive a payment, not to exceed $5,250, to rent a replacement dwelling or to make a down payment, including incidental expenses, on the purchase of a replacement dwelling. The down payment is based upon what the state determines is required when the rent supplement exceeds $5,250. It is a policy of the state that no person will be displaced by the NCDOT's state or federally-assisted construction projects unless and until comparable replacement housing has been offered or provided for each displacee within a reasonable period of time prior to displacement. No relocation payment received will be considered as income for the purposes of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or for the purposes of determining eligibility or the extent of eligibility of any person for assistance under the Social Security Act or any other federal law. Last Resort Housing is a program used when comparable replacement housing is not available, or when it is unavailable within the displacee's financial means, and the replacement payment exceeds the federal/state legal limitation. The purpose of the program is to allow broad latitudes in methods of implementation by the state so that decent, safe, and sanitary replacement housing can be provided. It is not felt that this program will be necessary for this project, since there appear to be adequate opportunities for relocation within the area. A-3 TABLE Ni HEARING: SOUNDS BOMBARDING US DAILY 140 Shotgun blast, jet 100 ft away at takeoff PAIN Motor test chamber HUMAN EAR PAIN THRESHOLD 130 Firecrackers 120 Severe thunder, pneuzatic jackhammer Hockey cr3wd Amplified rock music UNCOMFORTABLY LOUD 110 Textile loom 100 S?lbway train, elevated train, farm tractor Power lawn mower, newspaper press 90 Hea•iy city traffic, noisy factory LOUD D Diesel truck 40 mph 50 ft. away E 80 Crowded restaurant, garbage disposal C Average factory, vacuuu cleaner I Passenger car 50 mph 50 ft. away HO"ERATE.Y LOUD B TO E Quiet typewriter L 60 Singing birds, window air-conditioner S Quiet automobile Normal conversation, average office QUIET 50 Household refrigerator Quiet office VERY QUIET 40 Average home 30 Dripping faucet Whisper 5 feet away 20 Light rainfall, rustle of leaves AVERAGE PERSON'S THRESHOLD OF HEARING Whisper JUST AUDIBLE 10 0 I THRESHOLD FOR ACUTE HEARING Sources: World Book, Rand McNally Atlas of the Human Body, Encyclopedia Americana, 'Industrial Noise and Hearing Conversation' by J. B. Olishifski and E. R. Harford (Researched by N. Jane Hunt and published in the Chicago Tribune in an illustrated graphic by TO Heinz. A-4 Table N2 NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA) Activity Category Leq(h) A 57 (Exterior) B 61, (Exterior) C 72 (Exterior) Description of Activity Category Lands cn which serenity aid quiet are of extraordinary significance and serve an important public need and where the preservation of those qualities is essential if the area is to continue to serve its intended purpose. Picnic areas, recreation areas, playgrounds, active sports areas, parks, residences, aotels, hotels, schools, churches, libraries, and hospitals. Developed lands, properties, or activities not included in Categories A or 5 above. D -- undeveloped landds E 52 Residences, aotels, hotels, public aeeting reds, schools, churches, libraries, hospitals, and (Interior) auditoriu.s. Source: Title 2: Code cf Federal Regulations (CRF) Fart 772, S. Department c: Transportation, Federal Highway Administration DEFINITION OF SUBSTANTIAL INCREASE Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA) Existing Noise Level Increase in dBA fro; Existing Noise in Leq(h) Levels to future Noise Levels < 50 > 15 > 50 > 10 Source: Worth Carolina Department of Transportation Noise Abatement Guidelines. A-5 LOOON - AdOo FIGURE N2 - AMBIENT MEASUREMENT SITES - NC-211, from Rowland Avenue to Kings Cross Road in Lumberton, Robeson County, State Project # 8.1461601, TIP # U-2415. A-6 TABLE N3 ANBIEXT NOISE LEVELS (Le4) NC-211, ?ROM ROWLAND AVENUE TO KINGS CROSS ROAD IN LUMERTON, ROBESON COMM, NSTATE PROJECT 1 8.1461601, TIP # U-2415 SITE LOCATION NOISE LEVEL DESCRIPTION (dBA) 1 11C-211, 0.13 cilEs W of SR-1586 Grassy Area 65 1 NC-211, 0.06 miles E of Rowland Are Grassy Area 68 3 I-95, 0.13 wiles S of 11C-211 Grassy Area 74' 4 I-95, 0.08 eiles N cif NC-211 Grassy Area 73 ?g => d5A levels were aeasured at 50 feet fro; the center of the nearest lane of traffic. A-7 1?1 TABLE 94 Leq TEAFFIC NOISE EXPOSURES NC-211, FROM ROWLAND AVENUE TO RINGS CROSS ROAD LUMBERTON, ROBESON COUNTY STATE PROJECT 1 8.1461601, TIP 3 U-2415 AMBIENT DIST TO PREDICTED MAY FRED NOISE RECEPTOR RECEPTOR NEAREST ROADWAY NOISE PROPOSED NOISE LEVEL NOISE LEVEL LAND USE CATEGORY ROADWAY DISTANCI LEVEL ROADWAY -L- -Y- LEVEL INCREASE ROWLAND AVENUE to I-9: 1 Business C NC-2I1 1?5' L 60 i9 L 64.5 59.3 65 + 5 2 Business C 1214 ' R 61, 125' L 69.3 55.9 68 + 4 3 Business C " 100' R 65 100' R 10.0 59.4 70 + 5 4 Business C " 230' L 61 230' L 62.5 65.1 67 + 6 I-35 to KINGS CROSS EOAD 5 Business C NC-iil 360' L 52 360' L 55.3 56.8 59 + 7 6 Business C 90' R 63 90' P. 68.6 6515 7C + 7 Business " 140' R 59 140' R 64.9 58.3 65 + 6 8 Business C " 180' L 57 i90' L 62.5 54.5 63 + 6 9 Business C 115' R 6D 115' R 56.1 54.1 66 + 6 10 Business C " 121.' L 60 12.' L - - 66 + 6 11 Park B 150' R 59 150' R - - 64 + 6 12 Business C " 21.14' L 54 235' L - 60 + 6 NOTEg: Distances are from center of eistin or proposed rudxals. All noise levels are hourly A-weighted noise levels. -L- _> Proposed roadway's noise level contribution. -I- _> Noise level from other contributing roadways. * s> T mffte moime impact (23 CFR Part 772). A-8 TABLE N5 MA NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA SUMMARY NC-211, FROM ROWLAND AVENUE TO PINGS CROSS ROAD LUMBBRTON, ROBESON COUNTY STATE PROJECT 1 8.1461601, TIP 1 U-2415 Maxim Predicted Contour Approxiaate Mbar of Iapacted Leq Noise Levels Distances Receptors According to dBA (Naxisua) :'itle 23 CPR Part 772 Description 50' 100' 200' 72 dBA 67 dBA A B C D E ROWLAND AVENUE to 1-45 72 68 62 54' 119' 0 0 0 0 0 I-95 to PINGS CROSS ROAD 70 66 60 31' 36' 0 0 0 0 TOTAL => 0 0 0 0 0 MOTES => 1. 501, 1001, and 200' distances are aeasured frog center of nearest travel lane. 2. 72 dBA and 67 dBA contour distances are aeasured fros center of proposed roadva7. A-9 TABLE N6 TRAFFIC NOISE LEVEL INCREASE SUNNARY NC-211, FROM ROWLAND AVENUE TO RINGS CROSS ROAD, LUMBERTON, ROBESON COUNTY STATE PROJECT 1 3.1461601, TIP if U-2415 RECEPTOR EIT9RI0R NOISE LEVEL INCREASES NOISE LEVEL S E C T I O N INCREASES <1 1 2-3 1 4-5 1 5.7 1 8-9 110-11112-13114-15116-11'18.19120-21;22-23124-251 >25 1> 10 dBA RO'WLAND XiE to 1-95 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 I 0 0 0 I 0 0 i-95 to KINGS CROSS 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 i 0 0 ROAD TO AL i0101319101010101010101010101 c A-10 TABLZ Al CAL:"E3: CALIFORNIA LINE SOURCE C:SPERSICN KODZL - SEPTEHBZR, 1979 VERSION JOB: NC-211 ROBESON CCUII71Y/U-2415 Rl"i": :000 MPH I. SITE VARIABLES U = 1 K/S CLAS : S (E)- VS = 0 C:{/S ATIX _ 60 MINUTES BIG = 5 DEGREES ZO = i0 CH VD = 0 CM/S ANB = 0 F?H KIIH : 400 K TtHP = 29.1 1. II. LINE VARIABLES LINK DESCRI?TION * LINE COORDINATES (H) * LINE LENGTH LINK BIG TYPE yPH 3F H N * I1 Y1 I2 ':4 (K) (DEJ) (G/HI) (K) (K) ......................... '................................ '....................................................... A. NC-ili s (' .,0 00 C 1[30 * 2 00 ?ou A9, 36:0 8.3314 G 24.2 I::. RECEPTOR LOCAT:JNS AND MODEL RESULTS R3CZ??OR : COORDINATES (H) CO E Y ? ; (FFK) ......................... +........................ ------3....... 1. R6 BUS 9G' RIGHT X -27.4 0 1.8 e i., TABLE A2 CALINE3: CALIFORNIA LINE SOURCE DISPERSION KODEL - SEFTEVEEP., 1979 VERSION JOB: NC-:11 ROBESON COUNTY/U-2415 RUN: 2J10 BUILD/45 %PN I. SITE VARIABLES U = 1 M/S CLAS = 5 (E) VS = 0 CK/S ATIX = 60 KINUTES H11H = 400 K ERG = S DEGREES ZO = 10 CH VD = 0 CH/S AHB = C PPM TER? = 29.1 IF II. LINE VARIABLES . LINE DESCRIPTION ? LIVE COORDINATES (M) ' LINE LENGTH LINK ERG TYPE VPH E? H K t 11 Y1 12 Y2 ' (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (K) (M) ......................... :................................ _....................................................... A. NC-211 ' 0 -1000 0 1000 * 2000 36C AG 3650 7.848 0 24.3 III. RECEPTOR LOCATIONS AND MODEL RISUL72 RECEPTOR * COORDINATES (M) ; CO g y * (P?Y) ----------- - -----------1----------------------------....---- i. R6 BUS 90' RIGHT ! -27.4 0 1.8 t 1.1 A-11 w TABLE All CAL3E3: CALIFORNIA LINE SOURC! DISPERSION NOEL - SEPTEMBER, 1979 VERSION JOB: NC-211 ROBESON COUNTY/U-2415 RUIN; 2000 BUILD/55 MPH I. SITE VARIABLES U : 1 M/S CLAS = 5 (E) VS : 0 CH/S ATIM : 60 MINUTES KI%H : 400 K ERG : 5 DEGREES ZI : 10 CH VD : 0 CM/S AMB : Co FPM TEMP : 29.1 OF !I. LINK VARIABLES LINK DESCRIPTION * LINE COORDINATES (K) * LINK LENGTH LINE BRG TYPE VPH EF H W * 11 Y1 %1 Y2 * (M) (-JEG) (G/MI) (11; (i{) ......................... :................................ *....................................................... A. 1-55 * 0 -iCVJ 0 1000 * 2000 360 AG 7490 E.983 0 37.1 III. RECEPTOR LOCATIONS AND MODEL RESULT3 RECEPTOR * CCORDINATES (M) * CO 7 * (PPM) ......................... *.............................. *....... 1. R6 BUS 375' RIGHT * -114.3 0 1.8 * 0.4 TABLE A4 CALINE3: CALIFORNIA LINE SOURC3 DISPERSION MODEL - SEPTEMBER, 1979 VERSION JOB: KC-211 ROBESON COUNTY/U-2415 RUN: 2010 BUILD/55 MPH 1. SITE VARIABLES U : 1 K/S CLAS : 5 (E) VS : 0 CH/S ATIK : 60 MINUTES KITH : 400 N BRG : 5 DEGREES ZO : 10 CM VD = 0 CM/S AMB = 0 FPM TEMP : 29.1 IF II. LINK VARIABLES LINK DESCRIPTION * LINK COORDINATES (K) * LINK LENGTH LINK BRG TYPE VPH BF H N ! tl Y1 12 Y2 * (M) (DEG) (G/MI) (M) (M) ------------------ ..................... *....................................................... A. I-95 * 0 -1000 0 1000 * 2000 360 AG 7490 6.535 0 37.1 III. RECEPTOR LOCATIONS AND MODEL RIMTS RECEPTOR ! COORDINATES (M) * CO * % Y * (PPM) ----......?.._ -?s...--------»----------------*..----- 1. R6 BUS 375' RIGB'f * -114.3 0 1.1 * 0.3 A-12 United States soil DepaMnent of Conservation Agriculture Service Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E. Manager, Planning and Research Branch Department of Transportation P. 0. Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 4405 Bland Road, Suite 205 Raleigh, NC 27609 Telephone: (919) 790-2905 May 22, 1990 P- i~ r . 444 r r2 tS ?SFARCH B?. Re: Proposed Improvement of NC 211, from Rowland Avenue to west of Cross Road, Lumberton, Robeson County, Federal Aid Project No. M-7761(2), State Project No. 8.1461601, T.I.P. No. U-2415 Proposed Improvement of NC 72-711, from west of SR 1539 to SR 2501, Lumberton, Robeson County, Federal Aid Project No. M-7763(1), State Project No. 8.1461701, T.I.P. No. U-2416 Extension of Project Limits, NC 14 from US 29 Business in Reidsville to NC 700/770 in Eden; Rockingham County; State Project No. 6.511014; T.I.P. No. R-2401 Dear Mr. Ward: This is in response to your request for Important Farmland Information for the above projects. The first two projects-U-2415 and U-2416 will not affect any farmland as defined by the Farmland Protection Policy Act. The third project R-2401 was addressed in our March 6, 1990, response to you. Please let us know if you did not receive this information. If not, we will try again to provide the data. Sincerel , *Statons J e ionist cc: Edward L. Holland David R. Hopkins A-13 O The Sob cono~iw Semi" `J b_.O..h,da» Oepwbn" or AWNRA . IN REPLY REFER TO Planning Division DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS P.O. BOX 1890 WILMINGTON, NORTH CAROLINA 28402-1890 June 12, 1990 Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Research Branch Division of Highways North Carolina Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Dear Mr. Ward: M , ? rr y?R???H We have reviewed your letter of May 2, 1990, requesting information for the "Proposed Improvement of NC 211, from Rowland Avenue to west of Rings Cross Road, Lumberton, Robeson County, Federal Aid Project No. M-7761 (2), State Project No. 8.1461601, T.I.P. No. U-2415" and offer the following comments. The proposed project crosses a defined flood plain; therefore, any adverse effects on flood stages should be evaluated and mitigated during project design. Department of the Army permit authorization, pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended, will be required for the discharge of excavated or fill material in waters of the United States or any adjacent and/or isolated wetlands in conjunction with the proposed action, including borrow areas and disposal of construction debris. Specific permit requirements will depend on design of the project, extent of fill work within streams and wetland areas (dimensions, fill amounts, etc.), construction methods, and other factors. Under our mitigation policy, impacts to wetlands should first be avoided or minimized. We will then consider compensation or mitigation for unavoidable impacts. When final plans are completed, including the extent and location of development within waters of the United States and wetlands, our Regulatory Branch would appreciate the opportunity to review these plans for a project-specific determination of Department of the Army permit requirements. Should you have any questions, please contact Mr. Hugh Heine, Regulatory Branch, at (919) 251-4725. A-14 -2- We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of further assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact us. oerely, 0 Lawreno W. unders Chief, a ng Division A-15 W r: -. _ y o ? N O i- United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Raleigh Field Office Post Office Box 33726 Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726 NOW Am? = M May 24, 1990 ?1 t M • , yy???77y??? j :•'? Sir ? ? K?. Mr. L. J. Ward, Manager Planning and Research Branch Division of Highways N.C. Department of Transportation Post Office Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-5201 Subject: Scoping Comments for the Proposed Improvement of NC 211, from Rowland Avenue to West of Kings Cross Road in Robeson County; TIP No. U-2415. Dear Mr. Ward: This responds to your letter of May 2, 1990, requesting comments on the proposed project. These comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661 et seq.) and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is particularly concerned about potential impacts the proposed action may have on endangered/threatened and on stream andwetland resources in the project impact area. The project should be designed to avoid impacts to these resources. The attached page identifies the Federally-listed endangered (E) and/or threatened (T) and/or species proposed for listing as endangered (PE) or threatened (PT) which may occur in the proposed project corridor. If the proposed project will be removing pines greater than or equal to 30 years of age in pine or pine/hardwood habitat, all pine stems greater than or equal to 60 years of age occurring within a 1/2 mile radius surveys of project related clearing should be surveyed for active red-cockaded woodpecker cavities. If red-cockaded woodpeckers are observed within the project area or active cavity trees found, the project has the potential to adversely affect the red-cockaded woodpecker, and you should contact this office for further information. The Service's review of any environmental document would be greatly facilitated if it contained the following information: 1) A description of the fishery and wildlife and required additional right-of-way and areas, which may be affected directly or improvements. resources within existing any areas, such as borrow indirectly by the proposed A-16 2) Acreage of branches, creeks, streams, rivers or wetlands to be filled. Wetlands affected by the proposed project should be mapped in accordance with the Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands. 3) Linear feet of any water courses relocated. 4) Acreage of upland habitats, by cover type, which would be eliminated 5) Techniques which will be employed for designing and constructing any relocated stream channels or for creating replacement wetlands. 6) Mitigation measures which will be employed to avoid, eliminate, reduce or compensate for habitat value losses associated with any of the proposed improvements. 7) Assessments of the expected secondary and cumulative impacts of the proposed project on fish and wildlife resources. We appreciate the opportunity to provide these comments to you and encourage your consideration of them. Please continue to advise us of the progress of this project. Sincerely yours, k Lt-' L.K. Mike Gantt Supervisor Attachments A-17 REVISED SEPTEMBER 11, 1989 Robeson County Red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) - E Michaux' poison-sumac (Rhus michauxii) - E There are species which, although not now listed or officially proposed for listing as endangered or threatened, are under status review by the Service. "Status Review" (SR) species are not legally protected under the Act, and -are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as threatened or endangered. We are providing the below list of status review species which may occur within the project area for the purpose of giving you advance notification. These species may be listed in the future, at which time they will be protected under the Act. In the meantime, we would appreciate anything you might do for them. Sarvis holly (Ilex amelanchier) - SR Wireleaf dropseed (Sporobolus teretifoli us) - SR Bog spicebush (Lindera subcoriacea) - SR Torrey's muhly (Muhlenbergia torreyanna) - SR Awned meadow-beauty (Rhexia aristosa) - SR A-18 NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE FM2 08 05/25/90 DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION 116 WEST JONES STREET RALEIGH NORTH CAROLINA 2 L,- ?47 INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW COMMENTS FS?N 4 1990 v FROM r? t, JA?S Q? MAILED TO r. N.C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION MRS. CHRYS BA ?T,nEPPG L.J. WARD DIRECTOR PLANNING 6 RESEARCH BRANCH N C STATE CLEARINGHOUSE HIGHWAY BLDG./INTER-OFFICE PROJECT DESCRIPTION SCOPING FOR COMMENTS ON IMPACT OF PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO NC 2119 FROM ROWLAND AVENUE TO WEST OF KING CROSS ROAD IN L UMBERTON (T.I.P. U-2415) SAI NO 90E42200889 PROGRAM TITLE - SCOPING THE ABOVE PROJECT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED TO THE NORTH CAROLINA INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS. AS A RESULT OF THE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED ( 1 NO COMMENTS WERE RECEIVED ( X) COMMENTS ATTACHED SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL THIS OFFICE (919) 733-0499. C.C. REGION N A-19 4 wnn- . ?r\ 20j 990 North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources'{ James G. Martin, Governor Patric Dorsey, Secretary June 15, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: FRAM: SUBJECT: -?C is R N Division of Archives an4-° *tqZ William S. Price, Jr., Director L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager Planning and Research Branch Division of Highways Department of Transportation%~-- David Brook, Deputy State n Historic Preservation Office NC 211 from Rowland Avenue to west of Kings Cross Road, U-2415, 8.1461601, M-7761(2), Lumberton, Robeson County, CH 90-E-4220-0889 &,64 We have received notification from the State Clearinghouse concerning the above project. We have conducted a search of our files and are aware of no structures of historical or architectural importance located within the planning area. However, since a comprehensive historical architectural inventory of Robeson County has never been conducted, there may be structures of which we are unaware located within the planning area. Therefore, we recommend that the Department of Transportation staff architectural historian define and survey the area of potential effect of this project. We will comment on this project when we have reviewed the report of this survey. There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based on our present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely that any archaeological resources which may be eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by the project construction. We, therefore, recommend that no archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with this project. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part a00. A-20 109 Fast Jones Street 0 Raleigh, North Caalina 27601-2807 Page Two Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Ms. Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919/733-4763. DB:slw cc: State clearinghouse Barbara Church Wilson Stroud 11 A-21 •.,.R A it." State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary 1990 Douglas G. Lewis mac- 9 Director Planning and Assessment f G :.y MEMORANDUM TO: Chrys Baggett State Clearinghouse FROM: Melba McGee'V" Project Review Coordinator RE: 90-0889 - Improvement of NC 211 in Lumberton, Robeson County DATE: June 1, 1990 The Department of Environment, Health, & Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed project. Comments from our divisions have been attached. Thank you for the opportunity to respond. MM: bb Attachments A-22 N.O. {Pius 27687. Ralewh. North Camlina 27611-7687 Telephtwne 919.733-6376 DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH, County AND NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Inter-Agency Project Review Response 1'v e'""'?""a Project Name 21 s k ?•fs Type of Project Several water lines are located in the path of and adjacent to the proposed project. Due to a possible rupture during construction, the contractor should contact the appropriate water system officials to specify a work schedule. he proposed project will be constructed near water resources which -_/'!l are used for drinking. Precautions should be taken to prevent contamination of the watershed and stream by oil or other harmful substances. Additional information is available by contacting the Public Water Supply Branch at (919) 733-2321. If this project is constructed as proposed, we will recommend closure of feet of adjacent waters to the harvest of shellfish. For informationregarding the shellfish sanitation program, the applicant should contact the Shellfish Sanitation Branch at (919) 726-6827. The spoil disposal area(s) proposed for this project may produce a mosquito breeding problem. ^ For information concerning appropriate F-v-f mosquito control measures, the applicant should contact the Public Health: Pest Management Sec*___. ` " ' -" -5407. The applicant should be advised that prior to the removal or demo- lition of dilapidated structures, an extensive rodent control program may be necessary in order to prevent the migration of the rodents to adjacent areas. For information concerning rodent control, contact the local health department or the Public Health Pest Management Section, (919) 733-6407. The applicant should be advised to contact the local health depart- ment regarding their requirements for septic tank installations (as ? required under 10 NCAC 10A .1900 et. seq.). For information con- cerning septic tank and other on-site waste disposal methods, contact the On-Site Sewage Branch at (919) 733-2895. The applicant should be advised to contact the ? County Health Department regarding the sanitary facilities required for this project. :P - Reviewer Branch Unit at A-23 Project Number Rd- 088 I opes?-- DEHHR 3198 (Revl:.ed 2/90) Division of Environmental Health :%eVlew L/ :. u,.SAIZo State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources Division of Land Resources 512 North Salisbury Street • Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 James G. Martin, Governor William W. Cobey, Jr., Secretary MEMORANDUM Date: May 14, 1990 To: Melba McGee From: Randy Cotten* Thru: Gary Thompson Stephen G. Conrad Director Subject: Robeson County, Lumberton, N.C., Proposed Improvement of NC 211, from Rowland Ave. to West of Kings Cross Road, Federal Aid Project No. M-7761 r"') . .^:t-te Pro,- a .?.,(5 01 TIP No. U-2415 We have reviewed the above referenced project and find that 4-geodetic survey markers will be impacted. The N.C. Geodetic Survey should be contacted at P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, N.C. 27611, (919) 733-21836 prior to construction. Intentional destruction of a geodetic monument is a violation of N.C. General Statute 102-4. GWT/ajs cc: Joe Creech, NCDOT A-24 P.O. Box 27687, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611.7687 Telephone 919-3-3833 Griffiths Forestry Center 2411 Garner Road Clayton, North Carolina 27520 May 15, 1990 MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee Environmental Assessment Unit FROM: Don H. Robbins /?? Staff Forester VP)6l SUBJECT: EA of the Proposed Improvement of NC 211 in Lumberton, Robeson County, North Carolina PROJECT 090-0889 DUE DATE 5-29-90 To better determine the impact, if any, to forestry in the area of the proposed project, the Environmental Assessment should contain the following information concerning the possible right-of-way purchases for the project: 1. The number of total woodland acres that would be taken out of timber production as a result of new right-of-way purchases. 2. The acres breakdown of this woodland concerning present conditions such as clear-cut areas, young growing timber, and fully stocked stands of very productive timber within the new right-of-way purchases for disturbed and undisturbed portions. 3. The site indexes of the forest soils that would be involved within the proposed right-of-way, so as to be able to determine the productivity of these forest soils in the area. 4. The number of woodland acres that would affect any watersheds in the area, if the woodland was removed. A-25 Melba McGee PROJECT 090-0889 Page 2 5. If woodland is involved, it is hoped that the timber could be merchandised and sold to lessen the need for piling and burning of debris during right-of-way construction. Provisions should be indicated in the EA that the contractor will make all efforts to salvage any merchantable timber to permit construction, once the contractor takes charge of the right-of-way. 6. The provisions that the contractor will take during the construction phase to prevent erosion, sedimentation and construction damage to the remaining standing trees outside of the right-of-way boundary and construction limits. DHR: la cc: Fred White File A-26 State of North Carolina Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS Reviewing Office: 4 Project Number: /)n_• n nc>n, Due Date: After review of this project it has been determined that the EHNR permit(s) indicated must be obtained in order for this project to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions reaardina these permits should be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of the form. All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Normal Process Regional Office. Time PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS (statutory time limit) ? Permit to construct 3 operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award of 30 days facilities, sewer system extensions, b sewer construction contracts On-site Inspection. Post•applicatlon systems not discharging Into state surface waters. technical conference usual (90 days) NPDES - permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application 180 days before begin activity. On-site inspection. 90.120 days ? permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities Pre-application conference usual. Additionally, obtain permit to discharging Into state surface waters. construct wastewater treatment faclllty-granted after NPDES. Reply (NIA time, 30 days after receipt of plans or issue of NPDES permit-whichever is later. ? Water Use Permit Pre-application technical conference usually necessary 30 days (NIA) 7 days ? Well Construction Permit NIA (15 days) Application copy must be served on each riparian property owner. 55 days ? Dredge and Fill Permit On-site Inspection. Pre-application conference usual. Filling may require Easement to Fill from N.C. Department of (90 days) Administration and Federal Dredge and Fill Permit. ? Permit to construct b operate Air Pollution Abatement 60 days facilities andlor Emission Sources N/A (90 days) Any open burning associated with subject proposal i t b li i h 15 NCAC 0520 0 n comp mus e ance w t 2 . . See comments reference asbestos 60 days ? on back of form. NIA (90 days) ? Complex Source Permit required under 15 NCAC 2D.0800. ? The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing activity. An erosion d sedimentaticn control plan ti it fil i l P f , n ac v y. wi lan l be required if one or more acres to be disturbed. ed with proper Regional Office (Land Ouality Sect.) at least 30 days be ore _ eg ? The Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be addressed with respect to the referrenced Local Ordinance: • On-site Inspection usual. Surety bond filed with EHNR as shown: Any area mined greater than one acre must be permited. ? AFFECTED LAND AREA AMOUNT OF BOND 30 days Mining Permit Less than 5 acres $ 2,500 5 but less than 10 acres 5,000 10 but less than 25 acres 12,500 (60 days) 25 or more acres 5,000 ? North Carolina Burning permit On-site Inspection by N.C. Division Forest Resources If permit 1 day exceeds 4 days (NIA) Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit • 22 On-site inspection by N.D. Division Forest Resources required "if more 1 day ? counties In coastal N.C. with organic sorts than five acres of ground clearing activities are involved. Inspections (NIA) should be requested at least ten days before actual burn Is planned." ? Oil Refinin Facilities 90.120 days NIA (NIA) g If permit required, .,jplicalion 60 days before begin construction. Applicant must hire N.C. qualified engineer to: prepare plans, 30 days ? Dam Safety Permit A-27 inspect construction, certify construction is according to EHNR approv- ed plans. May also require permit under mosquito control program. An a (N/A) 404 permit from Corps of Engineers. Normal Process Time (s tatutory ti-re PERMITS SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS limit) File surely bond of $5,000 with EHNR running to State of N.C. 10 days ? Permit to drill exploratory oil or gas well conditional that any well opened by drill operator shall, upon (NIA) abandonment, be plugged according to EHNR rules and regulations. ? Geophysical Exploration Permit Application filed with EHNR at least 10 days prior to issue of permit f ti li 10 days (NIA) orm. on ca Application by letter. No standard app Stale Lakes Construction Permit Application fee based on structure size is charged. Must Include 15.20 days ? descriptions &.drawings of structure & proof of ownership (NIA) of riparian property. 60 days ? 401 Water Ouality Certification NIA (130 days) 55 days ? CAMA Permit for MAJOR development $10.00 fee must accompany application (180 days) 22 days ? CAMA Permit for MINOR development $10.00 fee must accompany application (60 days) Several geodetic monuments are located In or near the project area. If any monuments need to be moved or destroyed, please notify: ? N.C. Geodetic Survey, Box 27687, Raleigh, N.C. 27611 Abandonment of any wells, if required, must be in accordance with Title 15, Subchapter 2C.0100. * Other comments (attach additional pages as necessary, being certain to cite comment authority): Renovations of structures containing asbestos material and demolitions of both non-asbestos containing structures and asbestos containing structures must be in accordance with NCAC 2D.0525 which requires notifications and removal prior to demolition. reviewer signature r agency dale REGIONAL OFFICES ? Asheville Regional Office 59 Woodfin Place Asheville, NC 28801 (704) 251.6208 ? Moorseville Regional Office 919 North Main Street Mooresville, NC 28115 (704) 663.1699 ? Washington Regional Office 1424 Carolina Avenue Washington, NC 27889 (919) 946.6481 ? Fayetteville Regional Office Suite 714 Wachovia Building Fayetteville, NC 28301 (919) 466.1541 ? Raleigh Regional Office Box 27687 Raleigh, IVC 27611.7687 ?-I (919) 733.2314 u Wilmington Regional Office 7225 Wrightsville Avenue A-28 Wilmington, NC 28403 (919) 2564161 ? Winston-Salem Regional Office Winston-Salem, NC 27106 {lQ. E'Zj' North Carolina Wildlife Resources - - t-f r i ,' J y 'fn S'> ?i, 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27611, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Melba McGee, Planning and Assessment Dept. of Environment, Health & Natural Resources FROM: W. Don Baker, Program Manager Division of Boating and Inland Fisheries DATE: May 15, 1990 SUBJECT: Environmental Impact of the Proposed Improvement of NC 211, From Rowland Avenue to west of Kings Cross Road, Lumberton, Robeson County. (90-0889) These comments are provided in response to your request of May 2, 1990, for information for input relating to fish and wildlife concerns for the uronosed subject oro-iect. Wildlife Resources Commission review of the environmental document would be greatly facilitated if it contained: 1. A description of fishery and wildlife resources, including habitats, existing within, or impacted by the project. 2. The quantity of wetlands, streams, lakes, ponds and other fish or wildlife habitats to be graded, filled or otherwise disturbed. 3. Stream relocations, crossings or other proposed construction activity that may impact them. 4. Acreage of upland habitat impacted by cover type. 5. Mitigation measures proposed to avoid, eliminate, reduce, or compensate for fish and wildlife habitat losses. Thank you for the opportunity for input during the pre-planning stage for this project. We will be happy to assist in any manner feasible during all phases of the project. WDB/lp A-29 .' STA pa .d • j u1 a/yyyy NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION 116 West Edenton Street • Education Building Raleigh, NC 27603-1712 MEMORANDUM TO: L. J. Ward, P.E. Bob Etheridge Superintendent May 30, 1990 Manager of Planning and Research NC Division of Highways Highway Building / FROM: Charles H. Weav Assistant Sta rintendent for Auxiliary Services NC Department Public Instruction 217 W. Jones ., Ed. Annex I RE: Proposed Improvement of NC 211, from Rowland Avenue to West of Kings Cross Road, Lumberton, Robeson County, Federal Aid Project No. M-7761(2), State Project No. 8.1461601, T.I.P. No. U-2415 Please find attached communication from William R. Johnson, Superintendent of Public Schools of Robeson County, relative to subject project. mrl Attachment A-30 an equal opportunity/affirmative action empla)w Public Schools of Robeson County Donald A. Bonner Post Office Drawer 2909 Associate Lumberton, North Carolina 28359 Superintendent (919) 738-4841 Personnel Services William R. Johnson, Superintendent J. C. Humphrey Associate Superintendent Business And Administrative Services May 25 , 1990 Mr. Charles H. Weaver Assistant State Superintendent Auxiliary Services N. C. Dept. of Public Instruction 116 West Edenton Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27603-1712 John C. Ray Associate Superintendent Program Services Ruth D. Woods Associate Superintendent Compensatory Education Services RE CE -V h4AY 29 1990 :)'Yi5J0N OF SCHOOL PLANNItYo Re: Proposed Improvement of NC 211, from Rowland Avenue to West of Kings Cross Road, Lumberton, Robeson County, Federal Aid Project No. M-7761(2), State Project No. 8.1461601, T.I.P. No. U-2415 Dear Mr. Weaver: This is a very worthwhile project which should greatly reduce congestion in this area. We have several buses using this route each morning and afternoon and completion of this project will allow a more timely flow of traffic. Thank you. Sincerely, William R. Johnson Superintendent WRJ: rgb A-31 In Quest of Excellence ?•? :'o. `:ate 3v ? ?,7 iSrr $•i? J,?s N Aiy c,? fP J L WLRCOG ? l.RC 0GZ OFF coV I'?.1 2?? J Lumber River Council of Governments -3721 Fayetteville Road ,? `?pY1999 CP Post Office Drawer 1529 Lumberton. North Carolina 28358 R?'L?V?gFFIC? o (919) 738 5104 '`? SECRE.?ppQA ?. C? ?? N.C. INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS REVIEW AND COMMENT FORM TO: Ray Griffin, Lumberton City Manager James Martin, Robeson County Manager FROM: James Perry, Chief Administrator DATE: May 11, 1990 This office has received the attached information about a proposal which could affect your jurisdiction. If you need more information, please contact the applicant directly. Other questions may be directed to our agency at 738-8104. If you wish to comment on this proposed action, complete this form with comments and return to this office by June 4, 1990. If no comment is received by the above date, it will be assumed that you have no comments regarding this proposal. State Application Identifier # Commenter's Name: / A. Ray Griffin, Jr. / Representing: 90E- City Manager The City of Lumberton Address: P.O. Box 1388, Lumberton, NC 28359 Telephone: Date: (919) 671-3806 5/24/90 A-32 The Lumberton City Council has endorsed this project as. one ci its major priorities for highway improvements within the Lumberton area. It is requested that the Lumber River Council of Governments approve this project and forward same to -the State at its earliest convenience. OWN A10 m \ a ?1oJS NO LRCOG Lumber River Council of Governments 111 West 5th Street Post Office Drawer 1529 Lumberton, North Carolina 28358 (919) 738-8104 May 5, 1990 L. J. Ward, P.E. Manager of Planning and Research Department of Transportation P. 0. Box 25201 Raleigh, N. C. 27611-5201 RE: Proposed Improvement of NC 211, Lumberton Dear Mr. Ward: rfA ?9 S ? R?SFARCH e? The Lumber River Council of Governments has no information we believe to be pertinent to the above project. However, the COG endorses the need for the improvments outlined for NC 211 and will be glad to assist your efforts in any way. Sincerely, James Perry Chief Administrator c Ray Griffin, Manager City of Lumberton gcl I A-33 City Of -fun29FTt0n NICI POST OFFICE BOX 1388 r+ V _fUln9zdon, OWottA eaaolina I 18359.1988 Mr. L. J. Ward, P.E. Manager of Planning and Research State of North Carolina Department of Transportation P.O. Box 25201 Raleigh, NC 27611-5201 MAY 2 9 1990 May 25, 1990 D!1/1S,uN0F . nr';"' VAYi'40011*11 . BUILDING STN STREET RE: Proposed Improvement of NC211, from Rowland Avenue to west of Kings Cross Road, Lumberton, Robeson County, Federal Aid Project No. M-7761(2), State Project No. 8.1461601, T.I.P. No. U-2415 Dear Mr. Ward: Thank you for giving me an opportunity to respond to the aforereferenced project. The Lumberton City Council has unanimously endorsed this project as one of its major priorities for highway improvements in the Lumberton area. The City of Lumberton agrees with the need for this project, and respectfully requests that your agency proceed with all dispatch to implement the project at your earliest convenience. As a noted concern, when the bridge is replaced, it is respectfully requested that sidewalks be provided on at least one side in order to facilitate pedestrian traffic across the interstate. The Kings Cross Road area is adjacent to a swimming pool that receives frequent use by children from the eastside of I-95. Children and pedestrians visiting the motels are continuously walking across the bridge, and the provision of a sidewalk would ensure the safe pedestrian usage within the area. Thank you again for your assistance in this matter. /js cc: Lumberton City Council Sincerely, David F. einstein Mayor A-34 OFFICE OF THE MAYOR LUMBERTON AREA I% ON 9 \49c 1 Q. OF C? CHAMBER OF COMMERCE November 15, 1990 Mr. D. R. Dupree Acting Division Engineer N. C. Department of Transportation PO Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 Dear Mr. Dupree: On behalf of the Lumberton Area Chamber of Commerce, I want to thank the North Carolina Department of Transportation for holding a public meeting to receive input from concerned citizens of Robeson County on the Proposed Upgrading of NC 211 and NC 72-711, project numbers 8.1461601 and 8.1461701. The Lumberton Area Chamber of Commerce respectfully requests that DOT remain on a timely completion of these projects. Sincerely, f ? I John C. Nicholson President is cc: Mr. L. Jack Ward Manager/Planning & Environmental Branch NCDOT PO Box 25201 Raleigh, North Carolina 27611 A-35 • 800 N. Chestnut Street R O. Box 1008. Lumberton, North Carolina 28359-1008 Telephone (919) 739-4750 ZJames G. Martin, Governor g.' North Carolina Thomas J. Harrelson, Secretary Department of Transportation Release: Immediate Date: October 29, 1990 Contact: Bill Jones, (919) 733-2520 Distribution: 78 Release No: 423 PUBLIC MEETING SET FOR PROPOSED UPGRADING OF NC-211 and NC 72-711 RALEIGH -- The N.C. Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting Thursday, November 15 on a proposal to upgrade NC-211 and NC-72-711 in the vicinity of I-95 at Lumberton in Robeson County. The meeting will be open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 15 at the Osterneck Auditorium of the Robeson County Public Library, located at 101 N. Chestnut Street in Lumberton. The proposed improvements to NC-211 (Roberts Avenue) consist of widening that facility to a five- to six-lane curb and gutter section from Kings Cross Road across I-95 to link with the existing five-lane section east of I-95. Replacement of the bridge carrying NC-211 over I-95 and improvements to the NC-211/I-95 interchange are also included in the project. The proposed improvements to NC-72-711 (Country Club Drive) consist of widening that facility to a five- to six-lane curb and gutter section from the NC-72/NC-711 intersection west of I-95 to SR 2501 (Starlite Drive) east of I-95. It is anticipated NC-72-711 will be realigned to the south of the existing highway from just west of the NC-72-711/I-95 interchange to SR 2501 to conform with the Lumberton Thoroughfare Plan. Replacement of the bridge carrying NC-72-711 over I-95 and rehabilitation of the bridge over the Lumber River are also included in the project. The projects are scheduled in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), NCDOTIs planning document for highway projects. Right of way acquisition and construction for both projects are scheduled for Fiscal Years 1993 and 1995, respectively. The public is invited to attend the informal meeting, ask questions, make comments or recommendations, and submit material about the proposed projects., NCDOT officials are asking interested citizens to meet with them on a one-to-one basis. This will give the department a better opportunity to understand citizens' attitudes about the proposed projects. Other written material may be submitted to L. Jack Ward, Manager of Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT, P. 0. Box 25201, Raleigh, NC 27611. **DOT** A-36 Public Affairs Division NC DOTLINE Joanne V. Latham P. O. Box 25201, Raleigh, N. C. 27611 1-800-526-2368 Director of Public Affairs (919) 733-2520 Media Information Updates FAX: (919) 733-9150 An Equal Opportunity/Affirmuive Action Employer H? Q ?z L a? cz O L^ MEN Tn V ' me i? V ,o • L n A-37 ?. S r+ •G 00 a. 9d ?+ 3 r{py ?C C7 ? l0C •U ?j 67 • 6J ?" ??'' 'O GL V1 d ayF.r •' 6?! N mQ O? ? la" y ° h ep ? 'O O .?j •p G ^' ? ?' C? ..t7. ? • S 41 ?....1 Q A •Ir l0 M '?D .? ) ° at y 0 Q O H C" 'fl 01 a a N 7 Q d y! Coll -2- ca°??3v?yeo C it Q E=_ .» .,.. it tv J2 cc "Ci in a 4) a Ad cc 13 1. t N can t Cj d " D J3 Z? 'lg to" C3 C3 40 61' 14 Uz 16. :1. 1: 'A -a 2 8 *8 W N ? .S M y yr.? s C, Ja* aq= °a?"0 °ZwacoEyN ev?GL4 .20 E. 4 ,3 C2 cis C6 Hearing From Page 1B that using service roads at the interchange. Mr. Smith said he crosses Rob- erts Avenue in the affected area five times a day. He said he uses the N.C. 72-711 exit area three to four times a week. "And they're both disasters," he said. "Traffic will back up to Shoney's in the afternoon when everybody is going home." Mr. Evely also welcomed news of improvements to the N.C. 211 exit. Dairy Queen sits in a corner near the exit ramp and the highway. Mr. Evely owns the busi- ness but leases the building, where the state has proposed building an access road to Lackey Street. all thought that was a good idea from the beginning ... I thought it would help business," he said. Although Mr. Evely said he was "shocked," he appeared calm. "I've got a couple of years to look around and see what I want to do," he said. "If that's how it is, that's how it is. I'll ju;t have to look around ... I don't want to take Dairy Queen out of Lumberton." Under the plan, the state is scheduled to begin buying right-of-way in 1993 and construc- tion is scheduled to begin in 1995. Lubin Prevatt, head of rural project planning for the department, said construction sbould take about two years. At the N.C. 72-711 exit, the state has proposed a $6.3 million project that includes widening the highway from five- to six-lanes from the N.C. 72-711 intersection west of I-95 to Starlite Drive east of the in- terstate. The state plans to realign N.C. 72-711 south of the existing highway from the west ramp of the current interchange to Starlite Drive. The proposed realignment would con- form with the city's thoroughfare plan, which eventually calls for an outer loop around Lumberton. The bridge carrying N.C. 72.711 across the interstate would be replaced, and the state plans to upgrade a separate bridge over the Lumber River. The state also plans to separate interstate traffic from the service road traffic in the area. "Our main concern is getting ramp traffic and service road traffic away from each other," Eric Midkiff, a highway planning engineer, said. The changes wo ld improve traffic and reduce the number of accidents, he said. Between January 1986 and April 1990, the N.C. 211 area had almost four times more accidents than the state average for urban state roads, according to state officials. The N.C. 72-711 area had almost twice as many as the state average, according to officials. The department said the pro- posals are not concrete and could change depending on recommenda- tions or other factors. 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' estimated t<3.2 million: Construction -: F,; Lumberton City: Manager;, Ray on the project is expected to begin in. Giitfin Jr, said, DOT officials are U.,, log., r.. J ?2 seeking public input on the proposed ;, .The: -proposed project.: for... N,C:" improvements to Roberts. Avenue 72/711.1$ expected to widen the.road and N.C. 72-711 in the vicinity of In'.-* to a_ five-to-nix lane curb and gutter, testate section., from, the • N.C.•.. 72.7111 An- - The:. proposed lmprovements-, to i' tersection _west; of J-95. to- Starlight Roberts Avenue call for the road to,, rf^• '`Ly ' ?" ` t': ?? ; "`? be widened to s five-to-six lane curb l,rt PNsie aN DOT, pag!.7A ....... ... .. .. r..?,.. u:...?:d.i::r tic -. ?... -. p•.?}.tl...,..,...?P:T. fYP z.:.?.. .... ar.:::c::. Y. ' Continued from page 1A DOT Drive. Jones said it is anticipated if -people' and businesses stayed Chamber "members and members that the road will be realigned to the away and did not get themselves on : of the Lumberton City Council have t south of the existing highway, just record." - .:_ - -_. requested that DOT keep. the.. pro. west of the N.C:42/711 overpass to 'Accord jects on schedule. ing to Jones; the public State Road 2501 to conform to may ask questions, make comments Both projects have been repeated. Lumberton 's Thoroughfare Plan. and submit material about the pro. - ; b pushed fb funding- during the;1980's ' problems. or DOT is also expected to replace posed projects. Other written mate- other projects taking precedence. the overpass and rehabilitate the rial' may be submitted to L. Jack "We're just asking that they stay Lumber River Bridge. The project, Ward. Manager of Planning and , _ these pro. expected to begin in 1995, will cost Enviromental Branch, NCDOT, ", timely. onshe saidI completing feel Lumberton ?•an estimated $6.3 million:-,; P.O. Box 25201, Raleigh, N.C. 271111:.".....: -'b+'According:to Griffin; the project =.''Betty: West; associate"eiecutiv-,w."should be?treated „fairly. and get, its allows resident to talk "one-on-one" director of the Lumberton Chamber c fair aliare of help from the Depart- with DOT officials. of Commerce; said :% the local' ; ment of, Transportation: Alk we're "The meeting will explain to the business community has pushed for:. asking is to be treated fairly,'.:J,,, public just what the project consists the projects for several years.: ;.? , ...? Councilman Wyatt Johnson said ' of;"._ Griffin said. "It will let .. `. ciq+' officials are - optimistic, about •.' residents near the proposed project "We've been very interested in the ' the projects "staying on track:" .. `: improvements,". Ms..", West said. "I think the DOT is going to stay know what will happen and how it "Those Toads are extremely confus- i on schedule," Johnson said..'This is will affect them." fig,: expedally to tourists. They get: the farthest they gone. We're now on _; . -il Griffin called. the exsisting roads in there and they are unsure where the TIP (Transportation Improve.:; to go. I don't know what the accident ` meat Project) plan and we weren't insufficient for the amount of traffic:' utihztsg the roads.... :•rate is, but it must behigh. = before. So it looks good.", i:.: . 'There are serious deficiences on. ....She said the chamber held a lun=.•:= . The TIP is the_departmeni's plan ' _both.roads'that need to be address,:: cheon with DOT.officials in October- ring document. for highwayR pro- ed"he.said. "It would be a mistaketo'discusstheproject.:':': jects. • -_..?a'•i... .....e ... ... ?_?.. .. ..- .. ^:._. ... .. ..a.w..... w. .a.:w:...eVtl'tY:..?.. .._r:'•. ??+.- .. -. if.r.?:r.J.1...di?it ..wa b'. A-40