19971074 Ver 1_Complete File_19970101

State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources 4 • 0
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt, Secretary p FE H N F=11'
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
December 22, 1997
Mecklenburg County
DWQProject #971074
APPROVAL of 401 Water Quality Certification and ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
Mr. Frank Vick
NC DOT
PO Box 25201
Raleigh NC 27611-5201
Dear Mr. Vick:
You have our approval, in accordance with the attached conditions and those listed below, to
fill in 0.06 acres of wetlands or waters for the purpose of bridge replacement at Charlotte, as you
described in your application dated December 5, 1997. After reviewing your application, we
have decided that this fill is covered by General Water Quality Certification Numbers 3127 and
3107. This certification allows you to use Nationwide Permit Numbers 6 and 23 when it is issued
by the Corps of Engineers. In addition, you should get any other federal, state or local permits
before you go ahead with your project including (but not limited to) Sediment and Erosion
Control, Coastal Stormwater, Non-Discharge and Water Supply Watershed regulations. This
approval will expire when the accompanying 404 or CAMA permit expires unless otherwise
specified in the General Certification.
This approval is only valid for the purpose and design that you described in your application
except as modified below. If you change your project, you must notify us and you may be
required to send us a new application. If total wetland fills for this protect (now or in the future)
exceed one acre, compensatory mitigation may be required as described in 15A NCAC 2H .0506
(h) (6) and (7). For this approval to be valid, you must follow the conditions listed in the attached
certification and any additional conditions listed below.
1. Sediment and erosion control measures shall adhere to the design standards for sensitive
watersheds (T 15A:04B .0024).
2. DOT shall follow guidance provided by DWQ in our 27 May 1997 letter for minimizing
damage to aquatic resources until a final policy is developed in conjunction with DOT.
If you do not accept any of the conditions of this certification, you may ask for an
adjudicatory hearing. You must act within 60 days of the date that you receive this letter. To ask
for a hearing, send a written petition which conforms to Chapter 150B of the North Carolina
General Statutes to the Office of Administrative Hearings, P.O. Box 27447, Raleigh, N.C. 27611-
7447. This certification and its conditions are final and binding unless you ask for a hearing.
This letter completes the review of the Division of Water Quality under Section 401 of the
Clean Water Act. If you have any questions, please telephone John Dorney at 919-733-1786.
Attachment
cc: Wilmington District Corps of Engineers
Corps of Engineers Asheville Field Office
Mooreville DWQ Regional Office
Mr. John Dorney
Central Files
1
P.E.
971074.1tr
Division of Water Ouality • Non-Discharge Branch
4401 Reedy Creek Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607 Telephone [phone] FAX # [phone]
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer • 50% recycled/10% post consumer paper
~( . 1 e STATE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
December 5, 1997
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Regulatory Field Office
P.O. Box 1890
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402-1890
Attention: Mr. Mike Smith
Assistant Chief
Dear Sir:
CJ V,
Subject: Mecklenburg County, NC 49 (York Road), replace Bridge No. 23 over
Catawba River; Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-49(5); State Project
No. 8.1673902; TIP No. B-3004. ,,,
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace
Bridge No. 23 over Catawba River (Lake Wylie) on NC 49 (York Road). The new
structure consists of a bridge that is 1,507 feet in length with a 56-foot clear roadway
width and five-foot wide sidewalks for northbound and southbound pedestrian traffic.
Approach work improvements are also necessary. A phased con 'on approach will
be utilized to maintain traffic across the Catawba Ri r. o wetl will be impacted by
the proposed work. This project is scheduled to be let to construction in September 1998.
The project is being processed by the FHWA as a "Cate or' clusion" (CE)
in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). A copy of this doc t has been attached to
this letter. The NCDOT does not anticipate requesting a Sec on 404 Indiv' ual Permit
but proposes to proceed under a Section 404 Nationwide P it 23 in acc dance with
33 CFR 330 Appendix A (B-23) issued December 13, 199 , by the Co s of Engineers
(COE). The provisions of Section 330.4 and Appendix A ) se regulations will be
followed in the construction of the project.
The NCDOT has completed a survey for Michaux's sumac (Rhus michauxii) and
smooth coneflower (Echinacea laevigata). These species were not listed by the US Fish
and Wildlife at the time that the CE for the project was completed. The proposed project
will have no effect on these species. A copy of this report is attached to this letter.
401 ISSI,IE
GARLAND B. GARRETr JR.
SECRETARY
RECEMD
DEC 1 is 1997
EWRON*tak SCIENCES
9
2
The NCDOT anticipates that 401 General Water Quality Certification for an
approved CE will apply to this project. A copy of the CE document has also been
provided to the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural
Resources, Division of Water Quality, for their review. The South Carolina DOT will
apply for the appropriate 401 General Water Quality Certification from South Carolina,
as well as the appropriate Section 404 Permit from Charleston District, U. S. Army Corps
of Engineers.
If you have any, questions or need any additional information, please contact
Mr. Phillip Todd at [phone], Extension 314.
Sincerely,
H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
HFV/pct
cc: Mr. Bob Johnson, COE, Asheville
Mr. John Dorney, Division of Water Quality
Mr. William Rogers, P.E., Structure Design
Mr. Whit Webb, P.E., Program Development
Mr. Len Hill, P.E., Highway Design
Mr. A. L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit
Mr. Tom Shearin, P.E., Roadway Design
Mr. B G. Payne, P.E., Division 10 Engineer
r

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT JR. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS GARLAND B. GARRETr JR.
GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201. RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 SECRFrAKY
03 November 1997
MEMORANDUM TO: Jay Bissett, P.E., Unit Head
Project Planning Unit
ATTENTION: Leigh Lane
Project Planning Unit
FROM: Dale W. Suiter, Environmental Biologist
Natural Resources, Permits and Mitigation Unit
SUBJECT: Protected Species Update for the FHWA Right of Way
Consultations of Bridge # 23 over the Catawba River (TIP
No. B- 3004) and widening of NC 49 from Carowinds
Boulevard to Tyvola Road (U-2512B), Mecklenburg County.
REFERENCES: 1. Categorical Exclusion for B-3004 dated April 1995.
2. Environmental Assessment for U-2512 dated June 1994.
The referenced CE (Reference 1) and EA (Reference 2) for the subject projects
did not address smooth coneflower (Echinacea laevigata) and Michaux's sumac (Rhus
michauxii) since those species were not listed for Mecklenburg County at that time.
Complete species descriptions and biological conclusions follow.
Rhus michauxii (Michaux's Sumac)
Family: Anacardiaceae (Cashew)
Federal Status: Endangered, 28 May 1989
Distribution: Michaux's sumac is endemic to the inner Coastal Plain and Piedmont
physiographic provinces of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Most
populations occur in North Carolina.
Habitat: This species prefers sandy, rocky, open woods and roadsides. Its survival is
dependent on disturbance (Mowing, clearing, fire) to maintain an open habitat. It is
often found with other members of its genus as well as with poison ivy (Toxicodendron
radicans). There is no longer believed to be an association between this species and
specific soil types.
0
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Characteristics: Michaux's sumac is a dioecious shrub growing to a height of 0.2 - 1.0
m (0.06 - 0.31 ft). Plants flower in June, producing a terminal, erect, dense cluster of 4-
5 parted greenish-yellow to white flowers. Fruits, produced from August through
September, are red, densely short-pubescent drupes, 5 - 6 mm (0.25 in) across. Most .
populations, however, are single sexed and reproduce only by rhizomes. The entire
plant is densely pubescent. The deciduous leaves are composed of 9 - 13 sessile,
oblong leaflets on a narrowly winged or wingless rachis. The acute to acuminate leaflets
have rounded bases and are 4 - 9 cm (1.5 - 3.5 in) long and 2 - 5 cm (1.0 - 2.0 in) wide.
They are simply or doubly serrate.
Threats: This species is threatened by loss of habitat. Since its discovery, 50 percent
of Michaux's sumac habitat has been lost due to its conversion to silvicultural and
agricultural purposes and development. Fire suppression and herbicide drift have also
negatively impacted this species.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
Habitat for Michaux's sumac in the form of roadside shoulders and disturbed
areas exist throughout the project study area. Surveys for Michaux's sumac were
conducted on 16-17 September 1997. Survey methodology included driving the length
of the project in order to identify areas of suitable habitat. NCDOT biologists Dale Suiter
and Marc Recktenwald conducted a plant by plant survey in the areas considered
suitable habitat. No individuals were found. As of 23 September 1997, the North
Carolina Natural Heritage Program database of rare species and unique habitats
showed no populations of this species in the project study area. This project will not
affect Michaux's sumac.
Echinacea laevigata (smooth coneflower)
Plant Family: Asteraceae (Composite)
Federal Status: Endangered
Distribution: The smooth coneflower was once found in all of the Atlantic Coast states
from Pennsylvania to Georgia and on the Gulf Coast in Alabama and inland in Arkansas.
Populations are now limited to Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia.
Habitat: The smooth coneflower is found in meadows, open woodlands, glades, cedar
barrens, roadsides, power line rights-of-way, clearcuts and dry limestone bluffs. Plants
usually grow in soil derived from calcareous parent material. North Carolina populations
are found in soils derived from Diabase, a circumneutral igneous rock. Optimal sites are
in areas with abundant sunlight and little competition from other herbaceous plants.
Natural fires and large herbivores are important in the maintenance of the smooth
coneflowers habitat.
Characteristics: This perennial herb grows from simple or branched rhizomes. It grows
up to 1.5 meters tall, has a smooth stem, and few leaves. The basal leaves are the
largest and are smooth to slightly rough, tapered to the base, elliptical to broadly
lanceolate, and measure 20 cm across and 7.5 cm in width and are distinguished by
long petioles. Mid-stem leaves have short or no petioles and are smaller than the basal
leaves. Flowers are light pink to purplish in color, solitary, and 2-2.5 cm across. The
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petal-like rays usually droop. Fruits are gray-brown, oblong-prismatic, four- angled, and
0.5-4 mm long; seeds are 0.5 cm long.
Biological Conclusion:
No Effect
Habitat for smooth coneflower in the form of disturbed roadside shoulders and
other disturbed areas exist throughout the project study area. Surveys for smooth
coneflower were conducted on 16-17 September 1997. NCDOT biologists Dale Suiter
and Marc Recktenwald drove the length of the project in order to identify areas of
suitable habitat. A plant by plant survey was conducted in the areas considered suitable
habitat. No individuals were found. As of 23 September 1997, the North Carolina
Natural Heritage Program database of rare species and unique habitats showed no
populations of this species in the project study area. This project will not affect smooth
coneflower.
Please contact me at [phone] ext. 303 if you have any questions
regarding this memorandum.
cc: V. Charles Bruton, Ph.D., Natural Resources, Permits and Mitigation Unit Head
Hal Bain, Natural Resources Supervisor
File B-3004
File U-2512B

Mecklenburg County
NC 49
Bridge No. 23 (Buster Boyd Bridge) Over The Catawba River (Lake Wylie)
Federal-Aid Project BRSTP-49(5)
State Project 8.1673902
T.I.P. No. B-3004
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
AND
N.C. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
APPROVED:
z1 S ?& /Z
A H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Ma ager
Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT
4 zf1111- , C. c?A,-?
DATE Nicholas L. Graf, P.E.
Division Administrator, FHWA

Mecklenburg County
NC 49
Bridge No. 23 (Buster Boyd Bridge) Over The Catawba River (Lake Wylie)
Federal-Aid Project BRSTP49(5)
State Project 8.1673902
T.I.P. No. B-3004
°d°?99i ?i0YC2;g?p00
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O ICJ V.?? ? ?
D. °D?9cese?.?ee?'?•?
CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION
April 1995
Documentation Prepared By
JBM Engineers & Planners, Inc.
Brian D. Dehler, P.E.
Project Manager
for North Carolina Department of Transportation
A. Bissett, Jr., P.E., 11nit_Head
Consultant Engineering Unit
eigh Cobb j?J
Project Engineer
.?r
Mecklenburg County
NC 49
Bridge No. 23 (Buster Boyd Bridge) Over Catawba River (Lake Wylie)
Federal-Aid Project BRSTP-49(5)
State Project 8.1673902
T.I.P. No. B-3004
Bridge No. 23 is included in the Federal-Aid Bridge Replacement Program. The location
is shown in Figure 1. No substantial environmental impacts are anticipated. The project is
classified as a Federal "Categorical Exclusion".
I. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
This project will impact two geodetic survey markers. The North Carolina Geodetic
Survey will be contacted prior to construction at:
PO Box 27687
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611
[phone]
The Catawba River (Lake Wylie) is a federally licensed reservoir under the jurisdiction of
the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). In response to recommendations
made by the FERC and it's licensee, Duke Power Company, the following commitments
will be fulfilled:
1. Any new bridge piers will be marked for the safety of the boaters.
2. The North Carolina Department of Transportation's Standard Specifications for
Roads and Structures, Section 402-2, requires that substructures be removed to
the stream bottom. Other obstructions within the project limits, will be removed
to at least five feet below the maximum drawdown level of the reservoir. The
maximum pond elevation (569.4 feet) has an allowable ten-foot drawdown,
therefore, these obstructions will be removed to below elevation 554.4 feet.
Erosion and sedimentation control measures will be strictly enforced during construction
activities to minimize unnecessary impacts to stream and wetland ecosystems. All
standard procedures and measures, including NCDOT's Best Manageinent Practices For
Protection of Surface Waters, will be implemented, as applicable, to avoid water quality
impacts and minimize erosion and sedimentation into adjacent waters.
The following permits will be required:
L A permit will be required from the Corps of Engineers for the discharge of dredged or
fill material into "Waters of the United States". (Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
(33 U.S.C.O.E. 1344))

2. Since the subject project is classified as a Categorical Exclusion, it is likely that this
project will be subject to the Nationwide Permit Provisions of 33 CFR 330.5 (A) 23.
However, final permit decisions are left to the discretionary authority of the United
States Army Corps of Engineers.
3. Foundation investigations will be required on this project. The investigation will
include test borings in soil and/or rock for on-site testing as well as obtaining samples
for laboratory testing. This may require test borings in the river and/or wetlands.
These activities will require authorization under Nationwide Permit No. 6.
4. A South Carolina Budget and Control Board construction permit will be required for
the proposed work.
5. A US Environmental Protection Agency National Pollution Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permit, will be required if more than five acres will be cleared.
6. The Catawba River (Lake Wylie) is a federally licensed reservoir. As such, approval
must be obtained from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) prior to
any construction activitities within the FERC boundaries.
7. A 401 Water Quality Certification, as administered through the N.C. Department of
Environment, Health and Natural Resources and the South Carolina Department of
Health and Environmental Control, will also be required.
2
. A
11. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Bridge No. 23 will be replaced on existing location as shown in Figure 2 (Alternative 1).
The recommended replacement structure consists of a new bridge, 1,507 feet long with a
56-foot clear roadway width and five-foot wide sidewalks for northbound and southbound
pedestrian traffic.
Improvements to the existing approaches will be necessary for a distance of approximately
750 feet on the northbound (NC 49) approach and 1100 feet on southbound (SC 49)
approach. The roadway approaches to the bridge will transition from the recommended
bridge replacement structure to the existing roadway sections on either side. SC 49 is
presently under construction to provide a five-lane curb and gutter section north of Bridge
No. 23. NC 49 widening is included in the North Carolina Department of Transportation's
Transportation Improvement Program as project no. U-2512. The proposed widening of
NC 49, between the Buster Boyd Bridge and SR 1441 (Carowinds Boulevard), is
scheduled for construction to begin in 1998. The northbound (NC 49) approach,
therefore, will transition from the existing two-lane roadway to the recommended bridge
replacement structure. The roadway approaches will transition to a 56-foot curb and
gutter section with two 12-foot through lanes in each direction separated by a four-foot
raised concrete median. The posted speed will be 35 m.p.h. and the geometric features of
the approaches will conform to the proposed improvements on either side.
The roadway grade of the new structure will be approximately the same as that of the
existing structure at each end and provide a minimum of eight-foot of navigational
clearance above the maximum operating pool elevation of 569.4 feet. The center span of
the new structure will provide 15 feet of navigational clearance above maximum operating
pool. A minimum grade of 0.30% will be required to adequately drain the bridge deck
surface.
A phased construction approach will be utilized to maintain traffic across the Catawba
River at this location.
Estimated cost, based on current prices, is $11,003,500 for Alternative 1 ($10,858,500-
construction; $145,000-ROW). The estimated cost of the project, as shown in the 1995-
2001 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), is $9,255,000 ($9,100,000-
construction; $155,000-ROW). The North Carolina Department of Transportation
(NCDOT) and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) have agreed
to share the costs, subject to the terms and conditions of an Agreement dated April 19,
1993, for the design and construction of the proposed bridge replacement.
III. EXISTING CONDITIONS
The project is located at the North Carolina - South Carolina State Line in the southwest
portion of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina and the northeast portion of York
3
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County, South Carolina (see Figure 1). Development in the area, immediately adjacent to
the bridge, is suburban in nature.
NC 49 is classified as a minor arterial. in the Statewide Functional Classification System
and is a Federal Aid Highway.
In the vicinity of the bridge, NC 49 and SC 49 are two-lane, undivided highways with turf
shoulders (see Figure 4). The bridge approach sections consist of a 24-foot wide
pavement area and 8-foot earth shoulders (see Figure 2 and Figure 3). The right-of-way
along the northbound (NC 49) approach is 100 feet wide. Right-of-way along the
southbound (SC 49) approach is variable from 100 feet to approximately 190 feet. This
right-of-way "gore" is located where the old alignment for the Catawba River (Lake
Wylie) crossing existed (approximately 60 feet east of the present alignment) prior to
construction of the present structure. The roadway grade within the project limits, slopes
downward from the south, is flat across the bridge, then slopes slightly upward toward the
north. The existing bridge is located on a tangent which extends approximately 100 feet in
each direction from the structure. The bridge deck surface is situated approximately 15.5
feet above the Lake's normal operating pool elevation (566.4 feet). The bridge provides
7.46 feet of clearance above the maximum operating pool elevation (569.4 feet). The
Lake depth varies between 20 to 30 feet through a majority of the project area and has a
main channel depth of approximately 60 feet.
The current traffic volume of 18,800 vehicles per day (VPD) is projected to increase to
45,000 VPD by the year 2018. The projected volume includes 3% truck-tractor semi-
trailer (TTST) and 5% dual-tired vehicles (DTT). The posted speed limit, on both
northbound (NC 49) and southbound (SC 49) approaches, is 35 mph.
The existing bridge (see Figure 4) was constructed in 1960. Bridge No. 23 is a 22-span
structure that consists of a reinforced concrete deck on twenty precast, prestressed
concrete girder approach spans and a two span continuous through truss at the main
channel. The substructure is comprised of reinforced concrete caps on precast,
prestressed concrete piles, except for bent no. 16 which consists of a reinforced concrete
post and beam pier with spread footings supported on a concrete seal.
The overall length of the structure is 1,507 feet. The clear roadway width is 28.0 feet with
3.2-foot sidewalks on each side. At present, there is no posted weight limit on this bridge.
Bridge No. 23 has a sufficiency rating of 38.8 compared to a rating of 100 for a new
structure. The existing bridge is considered structurally deficient.
Several utilities are attached to the overhangs of the existing structure; including telephone
cables and a gas main. Additionally, there are overhead power lines on both sides of the
roadway through the project area.
4
NC 49, in Mecklenburg County, is not part of the North Carolina Department of
Transportation's Bicycling Highway system. There is no indication of unusual levels of
bicycling on this roadway, nor does it correspond to a bicycle Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP) request. Special accommodations for bicycles on this project
are not warranted although efforts will be made to accommodate existing bicycle traffic
within the overall project design.
Seven accidents have been reported in the vicinity of Bridge No. 23 during the period
from January 1, 1989 to December 31, 1991. Five of the accidents were rear-end type
collisions and the remaining two were angletsideswipe type collisions. Icy road conditions
and wet road conditions were contributing factors in five of the accidents. Injuries were
reported in one of the seven accidents.
School buses do not cross the studied bridge on a daily schedule.
IV. ALTERNATIVES
Two alternatives for replacing Bridge No. 23 were studied. Each alternative consists of a
bridge 1,507 feet long. The structure(s) will accommodate four 12-foot travel lanes, two
in each direction with five-foot wide sidewalks. The approach roadway will consist of a
multi=la -cuiwi- -mod' -gaiter section. Typical sections of the approach roadway and
proposed structure(s) are included as Figure 2 and Figure 3.
The alternatives studied are shown on Figure 2 and Figure 3 and described as follows:
Alternative 1 (Recommended) - involves a phased replacement of the existing two-lane
structure with a four-lane structure at the same location. Improvements to the approach
roadways will be required for a distance of approximately 1100 feet on the southbound
(SC 49) approach and 750 feet on the northbound (NC 49) approach. Northbound and
southbound traffic will be separated by a four-foot raised, concrete median. Five-foot
wide sidewalks will be provided on each side of the proposed structure. The existing two-
lane traffic pattern will be maintained on the existing structure during construction of
additional lanes to the east. The traffic pattern will shift to the new lanes, upon
completion, and work will begin on replacement of the existing structure. The roadway
grade of the new structure will provide 15 feet of navigational clearance at the center span
and a minimum of eight-foot of navigational clearance above the maximum operating pool
elevation of 569.4 feet. A minimum grade of 0.30% will be required to adequately drain
the bridge deck surface.
Alternative 2 - involves construction of a new, two-lane parallel structure and
rehabilitation of the existing two-lane structure. Improvements to the approach roadways
will be required for a distance of approximately 1100 feet on the southbound (SC 49)
approach and 750 feet on the northbound (NC 49) approach. The new structure is
proposed to the east (upstream) of the existing structure and provides two lanes of travel
for northbound traffic. The structures will have a 28-foot clear roadway width and five-
foot wide sidewalks along one side. The existing structure will serve to maintain the
existing two-lane traffic pattern during the construction of the new structure. The traffic
pattern will shift to the new structure, upon completion, and work will begin on
rehabilitation of the existing structure which will provide two lanes of travel for
southbound traffic. A 0.30% minimum grade will be utilized to achieve adequate drainage
of the bridge deck surface.
As noted previously in Section III, Bridge No. 23 has a sufficiency rating of 38.8 and is
considered to be structurally deficient. Since bridges with such low ratings are not usually
considered as potential candidates for rehabilitation, a field inspection was conducted to
determine if rehabilitation is a feasible alternative. General observations from the field
inspection, which was conducted on June 24, 1993 and included representatives from
NCDOT's Bridge Maintenance Unit, are as follows:
Substructure
The braced pile bents are generally in good condition. Noted deficiencies are as
follows:.
1. There are several areas of localized concrete spalls which have exposed some
reinforcing steel. This situation is most prevalent on the end faces of the caps
and on the brace pile saddles and is likely due to insufficient rebar cover at
these locations.
2. Cracking and spalling of the concrete has occurred on several bent caps at the
bottom of the cap's longitudinal face adjacent to the piles.
3. Bent No. 15 and Bent No. 17 (bents on which the superstructure transitions
to/from the truss spans) have numerous horizontal hairline cracks on the
longitudinal face of the caps.
4. Vertical cracks were noted above the waterline in several of the 22 inch
octagonal piles. These cracks varied in width from hairline to approximately
1/16 inches.
5. Bent No. 16 is a two-column, cast-in-place concrete bent with spread footings
on a concrete seal that provides the center support for the two-span continuous
truss. The concrete above the waterline is in good condition except at the
splash-zone where extensive aggregate popouts have occurred.
Superstructure
The general overall condition of the superstructure is good to fair. Noted
deficiencies are as follows:
6
1. .The precast, prestressed girders appear to be in very good condition however
some rust stains were observed on the girder ends, apparently due to rusting of
the exposed ends of the prestressing strands.
2. The two-span structural steel truss appears to be structurally sound with no
apparent overstressed or deformed members. The paint system on the truss is
in poor condition. Numerous areas of peeling and/or delaminated paint and
rusting of the base metal were noted.
3. The deck is in fair condition. There is a general loss of riding surface (grout)
on most spans. Three spans have an epoxy overlay riding surface, some of
which has begun to crack and delaminate. There is frequent transverse
cracking of the top deck surface and some exposed reinforcing steel, likely due
to inadequate cover of the rebar. There are several areas of the deck,
especially at the joints, that have previously been patched. Several of these
patches have failed and are in need of repair.
4. The joints between the prestressed girder spans are "filled" type joints that are
in fair condition. Many are depressed several inches below the riding surface
and have filled with sand and debris. Most joints appear to be leaking.
5. Cracking and spalling of the concrete on the end diaphragms was noted at
numerous locations.
6. The roadway approaches at both ends of the bridge are in poor condition.
Neither end has concrete approach slabs. The bituminous pavement is severely
cracked and broken and the approach fill has settled several inches.
Rehabilitation Measures
It is concluded that the existing bridge can be economically rehabilitated to provide
30 to 50 years of additional useful life. The rehabilitation measures are as follows.
1. Repair deteriorated substructure concrete with shotcrete or cast-in-place
concrete patches. Proper surface preparation will be essential for these repairs
to perform satisfactorily.
2. Seal all cracks in the existing concrete bent caps and prestressed concrete piles
with pressure injected epoxy grout.
3. Apply epoxy protective coating to the tops of all bent caps
4. Replace the existing deck. Deck replacement is warranted due to: (1) the
existing slab thickness and reinforcing steel are marginally deficient for the HS-
20 design load; (2) the poor condition of the riding surface of the existing
deck; (3) replacement of the existing traffic rails will require demolition of the
existing overhangs; and (4) the poor condition of the joints and bent
diaphragms (replacement with a jointless deck or joints only at the bridge ends
and at the truss spans should be considered).
7
5. Clean and paint the existing bearings.
6. Construct new rails that conform to the current AASHTO specifications.
7. Remove the red-lead paint from the existing truss and dispose of in accordance
with current federal and state guidelines. Repaint with a suitable paint system.
8. Construct approach slabs on both ends of the bridge.
9. Place rip rap on the front slopes of both ends of the bridge to deter scour.
The "do-nothing" alternative would eventually necessitate closure of the bridge. This is
not acceptable due to the traffic service provided by NC 49 and SC 49.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation, Division 10 Office concurs that traffic
be maintained on-site instead of closing the road during construction because of the traffic
volumes using the bridge and the excessive length of additional travel that would be
required with an off-site detour.
V. ESTIMATED COST
The estimated costs for the two alternatives are as follows:
Alternative 1 Alternative 2
Structure $ 7,150,500 $ 3,930,000
Roadway Approaches 1,797,200 1,434,550
Structure Removal 355,000 0
Structure Rehabilitation 0 1,825,000
Engineering & Contingencies 1,555,800 1,210,450
Right-of-Way/Construction Easements/Utilities 145,000 165,000
Total $ 11,003,500 $ 8,565,000
VI. RECON AENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Bridge No. 23 will be replaced at its existing location, as shown in Figure 2 (Alternative
1). The recommended improvement consists of a new structure, having a length of
approximately 1,507 feet, a 56-foot clear roadway width and five-foot wide sidewalks on
both sides of the roadway. Improvements to the approach roadways will be required for a
distance of approximately 1100 feet on the southbound (SC 49) approach and 750 feet on
the northbound (NC 49) approach. Alternate 1 is recommended for the following reasons:
8
1. The design life of the new structure exceeds the extended service life anticipated for
the rehabilitated structure.
2. The new structure will provide a minimum of eight feet navigational clearance above
maximum operating pool.
3. The new structure will provide 15 feet of navigational clearance above. maximum
operating pool at the structure's center span with a negligible increase (0.5%) in
construction costs. The additional clearance is essential for the enhancement of
boating safety and promotion of commerce on Lake Wylie.
4. SCDOT prefers to replace the existing two-lane structure with a new four-lane
structure and provide the clearances discussed above. (See Attachment A-2.)
The recommended improvement includes the phased construction of a new structure with
the initial widening occurring to the east (the upstream side) of the existing structure,
paralleling the alignment of the existing structure. The existing structure will be removed
and the remaining half of the new structure will be constructed in its location.
Improvements to the northbound (NC 49) and southbound (SC 49) approach roadways
will be required to provide a transition to and from the recommended bridge improvement.
The northbound (NC 49) approach requires approximately 750 feet to transition from the
existing two-lane section to the proposed 56-foot curb and gutter roadway approach
section. The southbound (SC 49) approach requires approximately 1100 feet to transition
from the 68-foot curb and gutter section (currently under construction) to the
recommended bridge improvement.
During the construction period, maintenance of traffic on-site is necessary. Otherwise,
traffic would have to be detoured along existing secondary roads. This detour route is
considered unacceptable due to the traffic volumes using the bridge and the excessive
length of additional travel required.
Based on a preliminary hydraulic analysis, the new structure is recommended to have a
length of approximately 1,507 feet. The bridge will have a minimum grade of 0.30% in
order to provide positive drainage of the bridge deck. A minimum vertical navigation
clearance of eight feet above the maximum operating pool elevation (569.4 feet) will be
provided in accordance with the SCDOT Policy. Rock fill will be utilized below elevation
569.4, if it is necessary to place new fill in the lake. Rip rap will be provided on new fill
slopes to protect them from wind and boat generated wave action. The use of a silt fence
and prompt and proper seeding of fill slopes should minimize lake siltation and turbidity
that may result from the proposed construction activity.
9
VII. NATURAL RESOURCES
A biologist visited the project site on June 24, 1993 to verify documented information and
gather field data for a thorough assessment of potential impacts that could be incurred by
a proposed bridge replacement project.
The investigation examined the vegetation surrounding the highway bridge in order to 1)
search for State and Federally protected plants and animal species; 2) search for unique or
prime-quality communities; 3) describe the current vegetation and wildlife habitats; 4)
identify wetlands; and 5) provide information to assess (and minimize adverse)
environmental effects of the proposed bridge replacement.
Biotic Communities
Plant Communities
Plant community descriptions were based on a classification scheme recommended and
used by the N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NBP), and published in the Classification of
the Natural Communities of North Carolina: Third Approximation, (Schafale, M.P. and
A.S. Weakley, 1990). Community classifications were modified slightly to better reflect
field obseivations, when appropriate, and are consistent with descriptions provided in the
NC 49 Widening project (TIP U-2512) environmental documentation.
Natural community patterns in the vicinity of the project have been heavily modified by
previous disturbances, particularly related to lakefront development. Five communities
were identified in the project area. The following descriptions have been adapted from the
NHP publication to reflect local variations within the study alignment.
Urban/Disturbed
Urban/Disturbed areas are the predominant community type in the project area, due
primarily to the extensive development that has taken place along the lakefront. These
systems are places where businesses (e.g., marinas, restaurants), residences, and other
related human activities dominate the landscape. As a result, vegetation in non-paved or
unconstructed areas is limited to landscape plantings and successional species interspersed
with indigenous specimens. .
Successional
Successional fields are typically previously forested areas cleared for development.
Natural red cedar, loblolly pine and scattered hardwood regeneration is common in this
community type which comprises the entire northwest quadrant of the project area, where
YMCA Camp Thunderbird is located. Other species that are found in this community
include trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), honeysuckle (Lonicera sp.), aster (Aster sp.),
10
dogfennel (Eupatorium capillifolium), butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), thistle
(Carduus sp.), and Queen Anne's Lace (Daucus carota). Grasses including fescues
(Festuca sp.) and ryes (Lolium sp.) are also common.
The remaining three communities occur on the south side of the bridge, away from the
disturbed, lakefront area but adjacent to NC 49. These include Pine Mixed Hardwood
Forest (PHW), Upland Hardwood Forest (UHF), and Mesic Forest (W).
Pine Mixed Hardwood Forest
Pine mixed hardwood forest cover represents a mix of co-dominant pines and hardwoods
in the canopy. Loblolly (Pinus laeda), Virginia (P. virginiana), and shortleaf (P.
echinata) pines share canopy dominance with willow oak (Quercus phellos), water oak
(Q. nigra), southern red oak (Q. falcata), sweetgum (Liquidambar styrac j2ua), and
hickory (Cwya spp.). Other species found in this community include dogwood (Corpus
florida), red maple (Acer rubrum), American holly (Ilex opaca), pipsissewa (Chimaphila
maculata), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), and poison ivy
(Toxicodendron radicans). This community is found in small tracts along both sides of
NC 49.
Upland Hardwood Forest
The upland hardwood forest tracts in the project area are characterized by steep slopes
with well developed, late successional stands of hardwoods. The dominant trees in this
community include willow oak (Quercus phellos), white oak (Q. alba), southern red oak
(Q. falcata), scarlet oak (Q. coccinea), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), and hickory (Carya
spp.). The understory vegetation is limited to the sapling species of those species found in
the overstory. There is one tract of this community type located on the southwest
quadrant of the study area. As this community grades toward the lake, the community
exhibits mesic characteristeristics and the understory vegetation becomes more dense.
Species such as dogwood (Corpus florida), red maple (Acer rubrum), American holly
(Ilex opaca), pipsissewa (Chimaphila maculata), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus
quinquefolia), poison ivy (Toxicodendron. radicans), rattlesnake plantain (Goodyera
pubescens), arrow wood (Viburnum rafinesquianum) and ebony spleenwort (Esplenium
platyneuron) are more abundant in this area.
Mesic Forest
Mesic forest communities occur along mesic slopes bordering drainage swales and
intermittent tributaries. This community is dominated by sweetgum (Liquidambar
styrac flues), red maple (Acer rubrum) and cottonwood (Populus deltoides). Other
associated species include yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), American sycamore
(Platanus occidentatis), and American beech (Fagus grandifolia). The understory is
sparse and includes dogwood (Corpus florida) and sassafras (Sassafras albidum), while
ground cover includes liverleaf (Hepatica americana), wild ginger (Hexastylis arifolia),
11
and Christmas fern (Polystichum acrosticoides). This community is found along both
sides of NC 49 at the southern end of the project area.
Wildlife (General)
Most of the project area is dominated by water (Lake Wylie) and terrestrial areas have, for
the most part, been developed for commercial and residential uses. Therefore, vegetative
cover and protection for traditional forms of wildlife are rare and limited primarily to the
forested communities along the outside limits of the study area. Mammals likely to inhabit
the area include the gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), opposum (Didelphis
marsupiahs), Eastern mole (Scalopus aquaticus), bats (Lasiurus sp. and Myotis sp.),
raccoon (Procyon lotor), chipmunk (Tamias striatus), mice (Peromyscus sp.), and
cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus).
Birds likely to inhabit the study area include the red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis),
grackle -(Quiscalas quiscula), robin (Turdus migratorius), cardinal (Cardinalis
cardinalis), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), mockingbird (Mimus polyglottus), Carolina
wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus), Carolina chickadee (Parus carolinensis), tufted
titmouse (Parus bicolor), wood thrush (Hylocichla mustelina), solitary vitreo (Vireo
solitarius), and white throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis). Waterfowl and
shorebirds, such as mallard (Anal platyrhynchos), black duck (A. rubrpts), Canada goose
(Branta canadensis), great blue heron (Ardea herodius) and green heron (Butorides
striatus), are also likely to be found in the study area either year round or during migration
seasons.
The Lake Wylie shoreline provides habitat for a variety of reptiles and amphibians such as
the Eastern newt (Notophthalmus viridescens), northern dusky salamander
(Desmognathus fuscus fuscus), green frog (Rana clamitans), snapping turtle (Chelydra
serpentina), painted turtle (Chrysemys pitta), and Northern water snake (Nerodia
fasciata).
Fish species likely to inhabit Lake Wylie include longnose gar (Lepisosteus osseus), shad
(Dorosoma spp.), carp (Cyprinus carpio), catfish (Ictalurus spp.), bream (Lepomis spp.),
largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), and crappie (Pomozis spp.).
Physical Resources
Soil
Pacolet sandy loam - PaF (2545% slopes) is the soil series found along the lake front
slopes. Pacolet sandy loam is well drained and found along steep side slopes adjacent to
drainage ways. It has moderate permeability and rapid surface runoff characteristics.
Because it has low potential for urban/agricultural uses, erosion may be accelerated.
12
Cecil sandy clay loam - CeD2 (8-15% slopes) occurs in the southern terminus of the
project area. It is a well drained soil typically occurring on upland ridges and moderate
side slopes. Moderate permeability and medium surface runoff are characteristic of this
soil type.
Water
This bridge replacement project spans the Catawba River (Lake Wylie), which forms a
part of the Santee-Cooper river basin in South Carolina.
The Catawba River (Lake Wylie) has a "best usage" classification of "WS-V" and "B" at
the Buster Boyd Bridge. Class WS-V waters are protected as water supplies which are
generally upstream and draining to Class WS-IV waters. There are no categorical
restrictions on watershed development or treated waste water discharges but protection of
downstream receiving waters is implemented. Class B designates waters suitable for
primary recreation, aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife and agriculture.
The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network (BMAN), managed by the North
Carolina Department of Environment, Health & Natural Resources, Division of
Environmental Management, addresses the long term trends in water quality at fixed
monitoring sites by the use of benthic macroinvertebrates. These organisms are sensitive
to very subtle changes in water quality. Specific data for the Catawba River at Lake Wylie
are not available. However, the most recent available data (1986-1988) describes Lake
Wylie as showing signs of enrichment due to eutrophic algal blooms. The Belmont
Wastewater Treatment Plant, located upstream from the project area, is permitted to
discharge 5 million gallons per day (MGD) into the Catawba River. Duke Power is
permitted an unlimited discharge (10 MGD design flow) into the South Fork Catawba and
Catawba Rivers.
Table 1 describes the characteristics of Lake Wylie in the vicinity of the proposed bridge
replacement project.
TABLE 1
Observation Point Upstream 500 ft. Existing Crossing Downstream 500 ft.
Substrate Silt, sand, bedrock
Current Flow Low - impounded - lentic conditions
Lake Width ft. 2,200 1,400 2,500
Bank Height ft. 10-15 15-20 10-15
Water Depth ft. Range: 0-60; average: 30-35 1-3 2-3
Water Color Slightly turbid Slightly turbid Slightly turbid
Water Odor None
Aquatic Vegetation None
Adjacent Vegetation Hardwood/Scnib fringe - sycamore, alder,
Commercial/Marina development
Wetlands None; deep water habitat
13
r,
Because of the lentic characteristics of the Lake, sediment loads will not be carried far
from the project site. The stream banks are relatively steep and the dam structure will
contain storm surges; therefore, overtopping floods are not likely to occur.
Jurisdictional Topics
Wetlands
No wetland communities will be affected by this project. The stream banks are steep and
well drained and no wetland hydrology was observed in the project vicinity.
Protected Species
Under federal law, any federal action which is likely to result in a negative impact to plants
and animals with federal classifications of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed
Endangered (PE) and Proposed Threatened (PT) is subject to review by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service (FWS) under one or more provisions of the Endangered Species Act of
1973. In the case of state-funded actions, where federal wetland permits are likely to be
required, for example, the FWS can require consultation to insure that the proposed action
does not jeopardize any endangered, threatened or protected species. Even in the absence
of federal actions, the FWS has the power, through provisions of Section 9 of the
Endangered Species Act, to exercise jurisdiction on behalf of a protected plant or animal.
The FWS and other wildlife resource agencies also exercise jurisdiction in this resource
area in accordance with the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended;
16 USC 661 et seq). North Carolina laws are also designed to protect certain plants and
animals where statewide populations are in decline. 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. These Acts are administered and enforced by the North
Carolina.Wildlife Resources Commission and the NC Department of Agriculture.
The FWS, the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) and the S. C. Wildlife
& Marine Resources Department (SCWMRD) were consulted to identify the potential for
occurrences of protected species in the project study area.
Federally Listed Species:
Information from the FWS dated September 20, 1993, indicates that there are two
federally protected species listed in Mecklenburg County, NC. Correspondence from the
SCWMRD dated April 22, 1993, indicates that two federally protected species are also
listed in York County, SC. Three species altogether are federally listed within the project
area (see Table 2). A discussion of each species and its relationship to the proposed
project follows.
14
TABLE 2
COMMON NAME SPECIFIC NAME STATUS
Carolina heelsplitter (NC) Lasmigonia decorata E'
Schweinitz' sunflower (NC & SC) Helianthus schweinitzii E'
Pool sprite (SC) Amphianthus pusillus T'
E' - Endangered: A taxon that is threatened with extinction throughout all of its range.
PEZ - Proposed Endangered: A taxon proposed for listing as Endangered.
73 - Threatened: A taxon that is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
* - Indicates no specimen from Mecklenburg County in at least 20 years.
Carolina heelsplitter (Lasmigonia decorata)
The Carolina heelsplitter is a freshwater mussel that reaches an average length of 78
mm, an average height of 43 mm, and an average width of 27 mm. Distinguishing
characteristics include an ovate trapezoid shaped shell, flattened umbo, and a
-yellowish; Vwr ish,-or brownish periostracum with greenish or blackish rays. This
rare species is only found in a restricted area of the Carolinas. Its current distribution
is limited to two streams and a small river all originating out of Union County, NC.
Historically, the Carolina heelsplitter has been found in creeks, streams, rivers and
ponds (most likely mill ponds). This species apparently prefers shaded habitats either
in a ponded portion of a small stream or in runs along steep banks with moderate
current. The mussel has only been found in waters less than three feet deep with a soft
mud or muddy-sand substrate.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect.
Suitable habitat for the Carolina heelsplitter does not occure in this stretch of the
Catawba River (Lake Wylie). The species does not occur in lacustrine habitats. It can
be concluded that the construction of this project will have no impact on the Carolina
heelsplitter.
Schweinitz' sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii)
Schweinitz' sunflower is an erect herb, with one to several pubescent stems originating
from a crown and supporting lanceolate leaves. The plant, which produces typical
"sunflowers", is discernible in the field form other members of its genus by the
presence of a tuberous root system, tomentose to pilose leaf undersides, and harsh
upper stems which arch upward in a candelabra-like manner. Flowering occurs from
September to frost. This species thrives in full sun characteristic of Piedmont prairies,
15
successional fields, forest ecotonal margins, and forest openings. Decline in the
sunflower is attributed to the disappearance of fire maintained prairies and pine
savannahs in the Piedmont physiographic province. Schweinitz' sunflower is known to
exist on 15 sites, all within 90 miles of Charlotte, none of which are recorded in the
vicinity of the proposed bridge replacement project.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect.
Plant-by-plant surveys for Schweinitz's sunflower were conducted during a site visit.
Roadside shoulders and ecotones between these shoulders and mixed pine/hardwood
forests were surveyed. No populations of Schweinitz's sunflower occur in the project
study area. No impact to Schweinitz's sunflower will result from proposed project.
Pool sprite (Amphianthus pusillus)
Amphianthus is a small annual with two opposite, floating leaves per stem. The leaves
are typically ovate or elliptic, 4-8 mm long, 3-5 mm wide, narrowing to a short petiole,
connected to the submersed basal rosette by a lax stem. The flowers of the basal
rosette are self-pollinating while the surface flowers are solitary between the two
floating leaves of each stem. The plant is found in shallow pools on granite outcrops.
Seed germination is limited to only certain, probably wet, years and flowering occurs
in April. Because the habitat for this plant is so specialized, it is extremely rare.
Biological Conclusion: No Effect
The study area does not support suitable habitat for this plant; therefore, no impacts to
this species will occur.
The FWS and SCWMRD also identified candidate species, (species that are currently
under status review), that may occur in the project study area. A list of these species is
provided in Table 3.
TABLE 3
COMMON NAME SPECIFIC NAME SUITABLE HABITAT
Georgia aster C Aster eor anus No
Heller's trefoil * C Lotus helleri No
Nestronia C Nestronia umbellula No
Earleaf false-foxglove SC A alinis auriculata No
Shoals spider-lily SC H enocallis coronaria No
Virginia uillwort SC Isoetes vir 'nica No
* Indicates nospecimen from Mecklenburg Count in at least 20 ears.
16
State Listed Species:
The NCNHPP indicated that there are no North Carolina state protected species within the
project study area. The SCWMRD reported that one species listed as State Threatened,
occurs within York County, SC. This is the Carolina darter (Etheostoma collis collis).
This species prefers a lentic habitat and does not inhabit impouded habitats such as Lake
Wylie.
Impacts
The recommended improvement consists of replacing the existing two-lane structure with
a new four-lane structure on existing location (see Figure 2, Alternative 1). Traffic will be
maintained on site during the construction period by utilizing a phased construction
approach.
Construction of the new bridge and approach roadways will impact the ecological
community. Portions of the shoreline and upland hardwood communities will be
destroyed by land clearing, excavation, filling, draining and paving. As a result, these
communities will be altered and, consequently, the habitat quality lessened to some
degree. During construction, efforts should be made to minimize impacts to the riparian
and hardwood forest communities.
Approximately 0.06 acre of riparian habitat will be impacted by the new construction.
These losses are relatively small compared to the amount of similar habitats that are found
in the region.
Impacts due to the proposed project will mainly affect aquatic organisms. Dredging,
filling, pile-driving operations, slope stabilization, and land clearing are construction
activities which can result in the direct loss of benthic organisms due to an increase in silt
load. The removal of benthic organisms reduces the potential food supply for fish and
other vertebrates.
Project construction may result in a number of impacts to the Catawba River (Lake
Wylie). Construction of the new bridge structure, as well as the construction of the
approach roadways are likely to create short-term increases in siltation and sedimentation
in the River. Fill material placement for the approach roadway may enter the River, and
pier and/or abutment excavation will result in increased turbidity. both on-site and
downstream of the project area. Other impacts might include increased concentration of
toxic compounds from construction, highway runoff, and toxic spills; and reductions to
sensitive invertebrate species due to alterations in water clarity and light-incidence
resulting from increased turbidity. However, these potential impacts are avoidable.
Appropriate measures, consistent with Best Management Practices, will be implemented
during the term of the project to minimize, control and/or contain the potential impacts.
17
Unique and/or Prime-Quality Habitat:
The natural community types associated with the proposed bridge replacement project are
not uncommon. Most of the project area is man-dominated which lessens the habitat
quality further. The acreage of impact that will occur as a result of this project is not
substantial.
The Catawba River (Lake Wylie) is not designated as wild or scenic river or waterway.
Permit Coordination
In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C.O.E.
1344), a permit will be required from the Corps of Engineers for the discharge of dredged
or fill material into "Waters of the United States".
Since the subject project is classified as a Categorical Exclusion, it is likely that this
project will be subject to the Nationwide Permit Provisions of 33 CFR 330.5 (A) 23. This
permit authorizes any activities, work and discharges undertaken, assisted, authorized,
regulated, funded or financed, in whole or in part, by another federal agency and that the
activity is ' "categorically excluded" from environmental documentation because it is
included;: a category of actions which neither individually or cumulatively have a
significant effect on the environment. However, final permit decisions are left to the
discretionary authority of the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
Foundation investigations will be required on this project. The investigation will include
test borings in soil and/or rock for on-site testing as well as obtaining samples for
laboratory testing. This may require test borings in the river and/or wetlands. These
activities will require authorization under Nationwide Permit No. 6.
The proposed project traverses a navigable waterway of South Carolina, as determined by
the South Carolina Water Resources Commission. As such, a South Carolina Budget and
Control Board construction permit will be required for the proposed work.
A US Environmental Protection Agency National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit, as administered under general permit by the South Carolina Department
of Environmental Control (DHEC), will be required if more than five ages will be cleared.
The Catawba River (Lake Wylie) is a federally licensed reservoir. As such, approval must
be obtained from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) prior to any
construction activitities within the FERC boundaries. Appliction must be made through
the licensee (Duke Power Company).
A 401 Water Quality Certification, as administered through the N.C. Department of
Environment, Health and Natural Resources and the South Carolina Department of Health
18
and Environmental Control, will also be required. This certificate is issued for any activity
which may result in a discharge into waters for which a federal permit is required.
Compensatory mitigation is not required under a Nationwide permit. Erosion and
sedimentation control measures should be strictly enforced during construction activities
to minimize unnecessary impacts to stream and wetland ecosystems. Best Management
Practices will also be implemented.
VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
The project is expected to have an overall positive impact. Replacement of an inadequate
bridge will result in safer and more efficient traffic operations.
The project is considered to be a Federal "Categorical Exclusion" due to its limited scope
and insignificant environmental consequences.
The bridge replacement will not have an adverse effect on the quality of the human or
natural environment with the use of current NCDOT standards and specifications.
The project is not in conflict with any plan, existing land use, or zoning regulation. No
change inland use is expected to result from construction of the project.
No adverse impact on families or communities is anticipated. Right-of-way acquisition
will be limited. No relocatees are expected with implementation of the proposed
alternative.
No adverse effect on public facilities or services is expected. The project is not expected
to adversely affect social, economic, or religious opportunities in the area.
The proposed project will not require right-of-way acquisition or easements from publicly
owned parks, recreation areas or historic sites as described in Section 4(f) of the
Department of Transportation Act of 1966.
This project is subject to compliance with Section - 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, implemented by the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at. 36 CFR Part 800.
Section 106 requires that if a federally funded, licensed, or permitted project has an effect
on a property listed on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation be given an opportunity to comment. The
project is also subject to compliance with Section 4(0 of the Department of
Transportation Act of 1966, as amended.
19
An examination of records at the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and
Natural Resources, Division of Environmental Management, Groundwater Section and the
North Carolina Department of Human Resources, Solid Waste Management Section
revealed-no underground storage tanks or hazardous waste sites in the project area.
Mecklenburg County is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Regular Program.
The approximate 100-year flood plain in the project area is shown in Figure S. The
amount of flood plain area to be affected is not considered to be significant.
There are no practical alternatives to crossing the flood plain area. Any shift in alignment
would result in a crossing of approximately the same magnitude. All reasonable measures
will be taken to minimize any possible harm. The final design and construction of the
bridge will be such that the backwater elevation will not encroach beyond the current 100-
year flood plain limits.
In the -vicinity of the bridge replacement project, there is a small marina and attached
restaurant on the North Carolina side and a restaurant (closed) on the South Carolina side
located within the limits of the 100-year flood plain.
On the basis of the above discussion, it is concluded that no serious adverse environmental
effects will result from implementation of the project.
21
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NC 49
BRIDGE NO. 23
B-3004
NORTHBOUND
(NC 49)
APPROACH
SOUTHBOUND
(SC 49)
APPROACH
SIDE VIEW
FIGURE 4
e

AL
'11?lw
19
SC 49
I BRIDGE No. 23 1
ZONE X
J
NC 49 IY?RK Rp.
AIT

r +• *"
. l. ?;..
,1 md'l 'k ?
N , NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS
PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL
+BRANCH
NC 49 - REPLACEMENT OF BRIDGE No. 23
OVER THE CATAWBA RIVER
MECKLENBURG COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
YORK COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA
STATE PROJECT No. 8.1673501 (B-3004)
FIGURE 5
SrATC
?c `r f- z3
]S i S
North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
James B. Hunt, Jr_, Governor Division of Archives and History
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary William S. Price, Jr., Director
June 10, 1993
MEMORANDUM
TO: L. J. Ward, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
Division of Highways
Department of Transportation
FROM: David Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
SUBJECT: Proposed replacement of Bridge 23 (Buster Boyd Bridge) on
NC 49 over Catawba River, Mecklenburg County, B-3004,
8. 1673501, CH 93-E-4220-0938
We have received information concerning the above project from the State Clearinghouse.
We have conducted a search of our files and are aware of no structures of historical or
architectural importance located within the planning area.
If there are any structures over fifty years of age--including the bridge itself--in the area of
potential effect, please send us photographs of the structure(s) keyed to a map. Also .
include a brief statement about each structure's history and explain which National Register
criteria it does or does not meet. If there are no structures over fifty years of age in the
area of potential effect, please notify us of this in writing.
There are no known archaeological sites within the proposed project area. Based on our
present knowledge of the area, it is unlikely that any archaeological resources which may be
eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places will be affected by the
project construction. We, therefore, recommend that no archaeological investigation be
conducted in connection with this project.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act of 1966 and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations
for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 36 CFR Part 600.
Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the
above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at
919/733-4763.
DB:slw
Enclosure
cc: Nicholas Graf, Federal Highway A-1ministration
mate Clearinghouse
B. Church, NCDOT
T. Padgett, NCDOT
109 Cast Jones Street • Raleigh. North Carolina 27601-2907

ATTACHMENT A-1
V
SCC?1'
South cerouna
oepartment of Transportation
1'.U. box 191
Odw*M. £.C. 202202
Danfol P. F`mIn4' P.E.
OkeCkr Au t 2, 1994
. I.
Belacement of the Buster Boyd Bridge over Lake Wylie
S. C. Route 49 - York County
Mr. Larry R. Goode, Ph.D., P.E.
State Highway Administrator
State of North Carolina
Department of Transportation
P. O. Box 25201
Raleigh, North Carolina 27611-3201
Dear W. Goode:
This is in reference to II. Franklin Vicles icttcr of July 1, 1994 to William
M. DuBose concerning the replacement of the Buster Boyd Bridge over Lake
Wylie:. Transmitted with Mr. Viclc's letter were the minutes of a June 9 meeting
which indicated the NCDOT preferred Alternative 2, the construction of a new
two lane parallel structure and rehabilitation of (he cxisti Dg two lane structure.
We do not object to the concept of twin two lane bridges as proposed in
Alternative 2, but our Department has some concerns regarding the rehabilitation
of the existing bridge which is over 30 years old. Although Alternative 2 will
result in a lower initial construction cost than Alternative 1, the phased
rcplaccment of the existing structure with a totally new four lane structure on
existing location, we believe Altemadve 1 would provide the better value over
time. A new structure or structures could incorporate the latest design standards
including consideration of possible seismic activity and .6nuld require Jess
maintenance. Also, utstcad of a service life of So years as proposed far the new
and rehabilitated structures in Alternative 2, we would like for the project to result
in a structure or structures with a 75 year service life.
AcFpN EatcawMTw"NNE ACT ?TU11,21
'CN E?uPI.O''rER
ATTACHMENT A-2
y?
?s
-2-
.Another consideration in deciding whether to totally replace the existing
structure involves the adequacy of the clearance under the bridge for watercraft
Currently the clearance is 7.46 feet above the maximum operating pool elevation
with both of the proposed replacement alternatives providing a uthduiwn clcaraucc
of eight feet An eight foot clearance complies with our standard policy for
recreational lakes, however we have received a request from the York County
Legislative Delegation to increases the clearance so as to afford better access for all
vessels to utilize the entire lake rather than being restricted to one side of the
bridge. They indicated many of their constituents had contacted them regarding
the need for a higher bridge. In view of this, it appears the number and nature of
the watercraft on Lake Wylie may warrant a clearancc gmaict than eight feet.
Should the existing bridge be retained an increased clearance could not be
provided.
In summary, we still prefer Altemative 1 for replacing the Buster Boyd
Bridge. However, if Alternative Z remains the choice of your Department, I
believe it would be beneficial for members of our staffs to meet so as to reach a
consensus on this issue. Please advise as to your position on this cnattrr.
Sincerely,
. - Jo
Interim Direc
CC: Honorable Harvey Peeler
Honorable Robert W. Hayes, Jr.
W. H. Franklin Vick (Planning and.F.nvirnnmental Branch, NCDOT)