19991411 Ver 1_Complete File_19991212

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ATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
JAMES B. HUNT 1R. P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201
GOVERNOR
06 December 1999
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Asheville Field Office
151 Patton Avenue, Room 14
Asheville, NC 28801-5006
ATTENTION: Mr. Steve Lune:
NCDOT Coordinato:
DAVID MCCOY
SECRETARY
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SUBJECT: Caldwell County, Replace Bridge No. 50 over Laytown Creek with a new
structure on the existing alignment; TIP No. B-2936, State Project No.
8.1731501. Federal-Aid Project No. BRSTP-268(2).
Dear Sir:
The attached Categorical Exclusion prepared for the referenced project is provided for
your review. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to
replace Bridge No. 50 over I.aytown Creek on NC 268 in Caldwell County at the existing
location. The replacement structure will be a precast reinforced concrete box culvert
(RCBC) approximately 16.2 meters (53.0 feet) long to accommodate 3.3 meter (11 foot)
travel lanes.
Laytown Creek is the only jurisdictional water resource occurring within the project area.
Anticipated impacts from the recommended alternative will be up to 38.1 meters (125
feet) of linear stream channel, or 0.03 hectare (0.08) acre) of jurisdictional surface water
impacts. The project is being processed by the Federal Highway Administration as a
Categorical Exclusion (CE) in accordance with 23 CFR 771.115(b). NCDOT proposes to
proceed under a Nationwide Permit in accordance with 61 Federal Register 65874, 65916
(December 13, 1996).
We anticipate that 401 General Water Quality Certification No. 2734 (Categorical
Exclusion) will apply to this project, and are providing one copy of the CE to the North
Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality
(DWQ), for their review. The NCDOT will adhere to the general conditions of the 401
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Water Quality Certification; therefore, written authorization from the DWQ is not
required.
Caldwell County is one of 25 counties designated as having trout waters, which requires
consent from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) certifying that
the proposed action will not adversely impact these resources is required for issuance of
the Nationwide permit. A copy of the referenced CE is being provided to the WRC for
their review.
Since the completion of the referenced CE the federally threatened dwarf-flowered
heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora) has been added to the US Fish and Wildlife list of
protected species for Caldwell County. The project site was visited on May 10. 1999 by
NCDOT Environmental Specialists Tim Savidge and Jared Gray, to evaluate the potential
for this species to occur in the project area. The majority of the project area consists of
disturbed man-dominated communities. A small amount of a Mesic Mixed Hardwood
Forest community will be impacted by the project (See referenced CE). This communitN
was surveyed for the presence of dwarf-flowered heartleaf. No Hexastylis species were
found in this project limits. The only heartleaf species found in the area was (Hexastvli,?
heterophvlla), which was found in the forested community northwest of the bridge, well
outside of the project limits. It can be concluded that project construction will not impact
the dwarf-flowered heartleaf.
If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Tim Savidge at [phone], ext. 313.
Sincerely,
William D. Gilmore, P.E., Manager
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Attachments
cc: Mr. David Franklin, USACOE, Wilmington
Mr. John Dorney, NCDENR-DWQ
Mr. Joe Mickey, NCWRC
Mr. Calvin W. Leggett, P.E., Programming and TIP Branch
Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Engineer
Mr. A.L. Hankins, P.E., Hydraulics Unit
Mr. William J. Rogers, P.E., Structure Design Unit
Mr. John Alford, P.E., Roadway Design Engineer
Mr. W.E. Hoke, P.E., Division 11 Engineer
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6% IL.
NC 268
Bridge No. 50
Over Laytown Creek
Caldwell County
Federal-Aid Project No. BRSTP - 268(2)
State Project 8.1731501
TIP No. B-2936
Categorical Exclusion
US Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
and
NC Department of Transportation
Division of Highways
Approved:
Date
-113 (' 9
Date
H. Franklin Vick, PE, Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT

Nt?holas L. Graf, PE
Division Administrator, FHWA

71r,
16.
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Approved:
1
Date
113ol ??
Date
NC 268
Bridge No. 50
Over Laytown Creek
Caldwell County
Federal-Aid Project No. BRSTP - 268(2)
State Project 8.1731501
TIP No. B-2936
Categorical Exclusion
US Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
and
NC Department of Transportation
Division of Highways
i/L • t: )
H. Franklin Vick, PE, Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch, NCDOT
il- '0 ?_Jtl
--------------
N6olas L. Graf, PE
Division Administrator, FHWA
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NC 268
Bridge No. 50
Over Laytown Creek
Caldwell County
Federal-Aid Project No. BRSTP - 268(2)
State Project 8.1731501
TIP No. B-2936
['
. Categorical Exclusion
US Department of Transportation
Federal Highway Administration
and
NC Department of Transportation
Division of Highways
January 1998
Document Prepared
by
etherill Associates, Inc.
Q90E sS;prY q
q
Norman Willey, PE _ SE Al . -
Project Manager = =
36 55 -
For the %,N H"Wo
NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT &'N PORTATION
. .off
k /A. Bissett, Jr, PE Unit ead
Consultant Engineering Unit
l_
By 6k Brady
Project Planning Engineer
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NC 268
Bridge No. 50
Over Laytown Creels

Caldwell County
Federal-Aid Project No. BRSTP - 268(2)
State Project 8.1731501
TIP No. B-2936
Bridge No. 50 is located in Caldwell County on NC 268 crossing Laytown Creek.
It is programmed in the 1998-2004 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) as a bridge
replacement project. This project is part of the Federal-Aid Bridge Replacement Program
and has been classified as a "Categorical Exclusion". No substantial environmental
impacts are expected to result from this action.
I. SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENTS
• All standard procedures and measures will be implemented to avoid or minimize
environmental impacts. All practical Best Management Practices (BMP's) will be included
and properly maintained during project construction.
Laytown Creek is not designated as Public Mountain Trout Waters, however, fish
sampling conducted by North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) staff
on the 28th of July 1994 revealed that the stream supports wild rainbow trout in the
headwaters and wild brown trout in the lower reaches. It has a North Carolina Department
of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR) Division of Water Quality
Classification of C TR which is protected for trout stocking and propagation.
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• NCDOT will consult with NCWRC on the design of this project.
• NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMP's), "Design Standards in
Sensitive Watersheds" and "Guidelines for Construction of Highway
Projects Adjacent to or Crossing Trout Waters" for the protection of surface
waters will be implemented and strictly adhered to during the life of the
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project.
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• In water construction and land disturbance in the 25 foot wide buffer zone
will not be allowed between November 4 and April 15 to avoid spawning
periods for the trout.
• Heavy equipment will be operated from the bank rather that the stream
channel in order to minimize sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of
'i introducing other pollutants into the stream.
Wet concrete will not be allowed to contact the stream.
• Bottom of culvert will be countersunk so as not to impede fish passage.
• An archaeological survey will be conducted in the early preliminary design stage
of this project.
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II. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Bridge No. 50 will be replaced with a new structure on the existing alignment.
Traffic will be maintained during construction on a temporary detour on the south side of
the existing roadway.
The new structure will be a precast reinforced concrete box culvert (RCBC)
approximately 16.2 meters (53.0 feet) long to accommodate two 3.3 meter (11 foot) travel
lanes.
Approach work will extend approximately 229 meters ( 750 feet). The roadway
approaches includes two 3.3 meter (11 foot) lanes and 1.8 meter (6 foot) shoulders. The
shoulder width will be widened an additional 1.0 meter (3.28 feet) where guardrail is used.
Based on preliminary design work, the design speed will be approximately 100 km/h (60
mph).
The temporary detour will be approximately 232 meters ( 762 feet) long. The
c roadway width will be 5.4 meters (18 feet), with a 0.9 meter (3 foot) shoulder on each
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side. The shoulder width will be increased to 1.5 meters (5.0 feet) where guardrail is
required. The temporary structure is expected to be a series of pipes. The detour will have
a design speed of 40 km/h (25 mph). Access will be maintained to SR 1507, Laytown
Road, during construction.
The estimated cost of the project is $493,700, including $475,000 in construction
cost and $18,700 in right of way cost. The estimated cost of the project in the 1998-2004
TIP is $255,000.
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III. EXISTING CONDITIONS
NC 268 is classified as a Rural Collector in the Statewide Functional Classification
System. The speed limit along this section of road is 90 km/h (55 mph). The road serves
both local and through traffic in the rural area of Caldwell County between Lenoir and
Wilkesboro. The study area is primarily agricultural, with scattered farm residences.
The existing bridge was completed in 1950. It is 9.7 meters (32 feet) long and 5.3
meters (17.4 feet) in width providing for two travel lanes. It has an approximate 90° skew
to the creek.
According to the Bridge Maintenance Unit records the sufficiency rating of the
bridge is 30.3 out of a possible 100. Presently, the bridge is posted for maximum weights
of 21.772 kilogram (24 tons) for single vehicles and 27,216 kilograms (30 tons) for tractor-
truck semi-trailers.
The horizontal alignment is good at both ends of the bridge. A curve is located 122
meters (400 feet) west of the bridge. Shoulder widths on both ends of the bridge are
approximately 0.6 meters (2 feet) wide. The "T" intersection of SR 1507 is located at the
east end of the bridge.
The traffic volume is currently 700 vehicles per day (vpd) and projected to increase
to 1200 vpd by the year 2020.
The Traffic Engineering Branch indicates that one accident has been reported within
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the last three years in the vicinity of the bridge. This was an angle collision at the
intersection of SR 1507, which intersects NC 268 immediately east of the bridge.
There are six (6) daily school bus crossings of the bridge three (3) in the AM and
three (3) in the PM. The Wilkes County School Transportation Director indicated an on-
site detour was needed if construction occurred during the school year.
d
There is no sign of fiber optic cable in the vicinity of the bridge. An aerial
telecommunication cable crosses the creek on the south side of the bridge. It then becomes
an underground utility line at or adjacent to the right of way limit on both roadway
approaches. According to Caldwell County Planning Department there are no public water
or sewer lines in the vicinity of the project. The utility impact rating on this project is low.
Laytown Creek's confluence with the Yadkin is approximately 33.4 meters (110
feet) south of the bridge.
I Pasture land exists on the south side of the bridge. Residential and undeveloped
land abuts the north side of the bridge.
Research of public environmental records and an on- site inspection did not find any
evidence of the presence of hazardous/toxic materials in the immediate project area.
IV. PROPOSED ALTERNATIVES
One build alternative, a "do-nothing" alternative and a rehabilitation alternative
were considered for the proposed improvement of Bridge No. 50 in Caldwell County.
Alternative A (Recommended) consists of constructing an on-site detour on the
south (downstream) side of the existing bridge; removing and replacing the bridge in place,
while traffic is maintained on the detour; removing the temporary detour and restoring the
natural area upon completion of the new structure and approaches. The design speed for
the replacement structure and approaches is 100 km/h (60 mph). The design speed of the
,. temporary detour is 40 km/h (25 mph).
A detour on the upstream (north) side is not desirable due to proximity of residential
t development and the topography (side hill cut). Also, a historic resource is located on this
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side of the roadway.
The "do-nothing" alternative is not feasible. This will require the closing of the
road as the existing bridge deteriorates to the point where it is unsafe at any posted weight
limits.
Rehabilitation of the existing deteriorating bridge is neither practical nor
economically justifiable.
Y
There is no feasible off-site detour available in the project area to allow
consideration of closure of NC 268 over Laytown Creek, during construction .of the
replacement structure.
The Eleventh Highway Division Engineer concurs in the recommendation of the
preferred alternative.
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V. ANTICIPATED DESIGN EXCEPTIONS
No design exceptions are anticipated on this project.
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VI. ESTIMATED COST
ITEM COST
New Structure $109,130
Bridge Removal $10,770
Approach Roadway $106,100
Temporary Detour $171,000
Engineering & Contingencies $78,000
Total Construction $475,000
Right of Way $18,700

Total Cost $493,700
VII. RECOMMENDED IMPROVEMENTS
Bridge No. 50 will be replaced with a new structure on the existing alignment over
Laytown Creek. Traffic will be maintained on a temporary detour approximately 12.2
meters (40 feet) south of the existing bridge.
A new precast RCBC approximately 16.2 meters (53 feet) in length to
accommodate two 3.3 meter (11 foot) lanes. It will be constructed at approximately the
same elevation as the existing bridge. The bottom will be counter-sunk 0.3 meter (1 foot)
below the stream bed.
Approach work will extend approximately 106 meters (350 feet) from the west end
of the bridge and approximately 121.9 meters (400 feet) from the east end of the bridge.
It includes two 3.3 meter (11 foot) lanes and 2.8 meters (9 foot) shoulders tapering to 1.8
s meters (6 feet) where guardrail is not required. Based on preliminary design work the
design speed will be approximately 100 km/h (60 mph).
The temporary detour will be approximately 232 meters (760 feet) in length, with
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T,
a two-lane 5.4 meter (18 feet) roadway. The detour structure will likely be a series of pipes
10.9 meters (36 feet) long. The design speed of the detour will be 40 km/h (25 mph).
Access to SR 1507 (Laytown Road) will be maintained during construction via the
temporary detour.
VIII. NATURAL RESOURCES
T'
The proposed project study area lies in a rural area of Caldwell County,
approximately 5.5 kilometers (3.4 miles) northeast of the Yadkin Valley, North Carolina
(Figure 1).
Methodology
Information sources used to prepare this report include: U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) Grandin quadrangle map (1966); Soil Conservation Service (SCS) Soil Survey of
Caldwell County (1989); United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National
Wetlands Inventory Map (Grandin 1994); USFWS list of protected and candidate species
(1997); North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) database of rare species and
unique habitats (1997); NCDOT aerial photography of the project area (1:1200); North
Carolina Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (NCDENR) Division of
Water Quality (DWQ) formerly Division of Environmental Management (DEM), water
resource data; and North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) proposed
critical habitat information. Research using these resources was conducted prior to the field
investigation.
A general field survey was conducted along the proposed project corridor on February 4,
1997. Plant communities and their associated wildlife were identified using a variety of
observation techniques including active searching, visual observations with binoculars, and
identifying characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, tracks, scats, and burrows).
Impact calculations were based on the worst-case scenario using the full 24.4 meter (80.0
foot) wide right of way limits and the width of the replacement structure, the width of the
creek for aquatic impacts, and the length of the project approaches. The actual construction
Q impacts should be less but without specific replacement structure design information
(culvert, pier intrusions, etc.) the worst-case was assumed for the impact calculations.
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Definitions for areal descriptions used in this report are as follows: "project study area",
"project area", and "project corridor" denote the specific area being directly impacted by
each alternative. "Project vicinity" denotes the area within a 1.6 kilometer (1.0 mile) radius
of the project area.
Topography and Soils
w
The topography of the project vicinity is characterized as rolling hills with moderate
to steeply sloping banks along the major streams. Project area elevation is approximately
350.0 meters (1150.0 feet) above mean sea level. The project site lies within the Blue
Ridge Mountain Physiographic Province.
According to the General Soil Map for Caldwell County (SCS, 1989), the project
area consists of Chewacla-Masada-Congaree soil association which is described as nearly
level to strongly sloping, somewhat poorly drained to well drained soils that have a loamy
or clayey subsoil.
The specific map units within the project area include State loam and Buncombe
loamy sand. Neither of the these soil types are listed as hydric. State loam is described as
a well drained soil on low stream terraces adjacent to the flood plains of large streams; it
is mapped in the northeast, northwest and southeast quadrants of the project area.
Buncombe loamy sand is described as frequently flooded, nearly level, excessively drained
soil found on flood plains along the major streams; it is mapped in the southwest quadrant
of the project area along the Yadkin River. These soil types were confirmed in the field by
taking soil borings.
Biotic Resources
Living systems described in the following sections include communities of
associated plants and animals. These descriptions refer to the dominant flora and fauna in
each community and the relationship of these biotic components. Classification of plant
communities is based on a system used by the NCNHP (Schafale and Weakley, 1990).
Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are used for the plant and
animal species described. Subsequent references to the same species include the common
name only. Vascular plant names follow nomenclature found in Radford et al. (1968).
Terrestrial and aquatic wildlife were determined through field observations, evaluation of
t . habitat, and review of field guides and other documentation (Conant, 1958; Farrand, 1993;
Robbins et al., 1966; and Whitaker, 1980).
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Terrestrial Communities
The predominant terrestrial communities found in the project area are man-
dominated and mesic mixed hardwood forest communities. There are no hydrologic
indicators or hydric soils present within the project area. Dominant fauna associated with
these areas are discussed in each community description. Many species are adapted to the
" entire range of habitats found in the project area but may not be mentioned separately in
each community description.
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Man-Dominated Community
This highly disturbed community within the project area includes the road shoulders
as well as the fields in the northeast, southwest, and southeast quadrants of the project area.
The utility easement along the north side of NC 268 is located along the road shoulder
(Figure 2). Many plant species are adapted to these disturbed and regularly maintained
areas including fescue Festuca s pp.), rass (Lolium sPP• ), plantain (Plantago s
g ( PP•), rY g PP.),
white clover (Trifolium repens), wild onion (Allium cernuum), and dandelion (Taraxacum
officinale).
The animal species present in these disturbed habitats are opportunistic and capable
of surviving on a variety of resources, ranging from vegetation (flowers, leaves, fruits, and
seeds) to both living and dead faunal components. On the day of the site visit, an Eastern
bluebird (Sialia sialis), American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos), and Northern
mockingbird (hlimus polyglottos) were observed in the field in these areas. Species such
as Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), raccoon (Procyon lotor), Eastern mole
(Scalopus aguaticus), Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), chipping sparrow (Spizella
passerina), Northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), American robin (Turdus
migratorius), turkey vulture (Catharses aura), rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta), and Eastern
garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) are often attracted to these disturbed habitats.
Mesic Mixed Hardwood Forest Community
This community is found in the northwest quadrant. This area appears to be
recently partially timbered. The canopy layer is dominated by tulip poplar (Lirodendron
tulipifera), sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), white oak (Quercus alba), Eastern white pine
(Pinus strobus), Virginia pine (P. virginiana), and black walnut (Juglans nigra). The
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understory and shrub layers include red maple (Acer rubrum), American holly (Ilex opaca),
Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), and Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense). The
herbaceous layer includes Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), and Japanese
honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica).
Species which may inhabit this area include broad-winged hawk (Buteo
platypterus), common flicker (Colaptes auratus), downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens),
white breasted nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis), Eastern phoebe (Sayornis phoebe), black-and-
white warbler (Mniotilta varia), Northern black racer (Coluber constrictor constrictor),
W, American toad (Bufo americanus), striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), and white-tailed deer
L (Odocoileus virginianus).
Aquatic Communities
The aquatic community in the project area exists within Laytown Creek. Within the
project area, the creek is approximately 6.0 meters (20.0 feet) wide. On the day of the field
investigation the water was slightly turbid and the flow was moderately fast. The depth of
the creek ranges from 0.1 to 0.3 meters (0.3 to 1.0 foot). The substrate consists of a fine
micaceous sand with some gravel, cobbles, and boulders which form riffle areas.
Vegetation along the banks includes blackberry (Rubus spp.), Japanese honeysuckle,
and aster (Aster spp.). Along the southwest bank, additional species include red maple,
giant cane (Arundinaria gigantea), broom sedge (Andropogon virginicus), and panic grass
(Panicum spp.). Along the southeastern bank, vegetation includes bamboo (Phyllostachus
aurea), persimmon (Diospyros virginiana), and black walnut.
On the day of the site visit,_a tessellated darter (Etheostoma olmstedi) was observed
in the creek. Species such as the Eastern painted turtle (Chrysemys picta picta), Northern
water snake (Natrix sipedon sipedon), green frog (Rana clamitans), and bullfrog (Rana
t catesbeiana) may also reside or forage within this aquatic community or along the waters
edge.
Macroinvertebrates such as larvae of the mayfly (Ephemeroptera), stonefly
(Plecoptera), and caddisfly (Trichoptera) would be expected to be found within the snag
habitats and within the riffle areas in the creek. The macroinvertebrate fauna within the
channel may be dominated by chironomid larvae (midges) and oligochaetes (segmented
worms). On the day of the site visit, several mayflies were collected by dipnetting in the
creek.
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According to Stephanie Goudreau, District 8 Biologist for the NCWRC, Laytown
Creek was sampled in 1960 at the SR 1507 bridge which is approximately 2.4 kilometers
(1.5 miles) upstream of the project area. Species collected include rosyside dace
(Clinostomus funduloides), bluehead chub (Noconds leptocephalus), creek chub (Semotilus
atromaculatus), redlip shiner (Notropis chiliticus), and fantail darter (Etheostoma
Jlabellare). Another tributary to the Yadkin River is Kings Creek which has its confluence
approximately 2.4 kilometers upstream of the confluence of Laytown Creek. Kings Creek
was sampled by NCWRC in 1980; in addition to the species listed above, large mouth bass
(Micropterus salmoides), redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus), striped jumprock
(Moxostoma rupiscartes), piedmont darter (Percina crassa), and thicklip chub (Cyprinella
labrosa) were collected. The Yadkin River was sampled at the NC 268 bridge which is
located 4.0 kilometers (2.5 miles) downstream of the project area by NCDEM in 1988.
Species collected at this location include highback chub (Notropis hypsinotus), bluehead
chub, sandbar shiner (Notropis scepticus), telescope shiner (Notropis telescopus), white
sucker (Catostomus commersoni), silver redhorse (Moxostoma anisurun:), striped
( jumprock, snail bullhead (Ictalurus brunneus), flat bullhead (Ictalurus catus), rock bass
(Ambloplites rupestris), and smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieui). This location was
sampled again in 1989 by the Smithsonian Institution; species collected include sandbar
shiner and tessellated darter.
According to Fish (1968), Laytown Creek had limited fishing significance due to
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heavy siltation.
Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities
Biotic community impacts resulting from project construction are addressed
separately as terrestrial impacts and aquatic impacts. However, impacts to terrestrial
communities, particularly in locations exhibiting gentle slopes, can result in the aquatic
community receiving heavy sediment loads as a consequence of erosion. It is important to
understand that construction impacts may not be restricted to the communities in which the
construction activity occurs. Efforts should be made to ensure that no sediment leaves the
construction site.
Terrestrial Communities
The mesic mixed hardwood forest and the man-dominated communities serve as
nesting, foraging and shelter habitat for fauna. Removal of plants and other construction
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related activities will result in the displacement and mortality of faunal species in residence.
Individual mortalities are likely to occur to terrestrial animals from construction machinery
used during clearing activities.
Calculated impacts to terrestrial resources reflect the relative abundance of each
community present in the study area. Project construction will result in clearing and
degradation of portions of these communities. Often, project construction does not require
the entire right of way; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. The
replacement of Bridge No. 50 will result in a total of 0.54 hectare (1.36 acre) of impacts to
terrestrial communities (including a temporary detour). Table 1 details the anticipated
impacts to terrestrial and aquatic communities by habitat type.
TABLE 1
ANTICIPATED IMPACTS TO
TERRESTRIAL and AQUATIC COMMUNITIES
HECTARES ACRES
Bridge No. 50 Man- Mesic Mixed Aquatic Combined
Replacement Dominated Hardwood Community Total
Impacts Communit y Forest
Permanent 0.37 (0.92) 0.08 (0.21) 0.02 (0.06) 0.47(l.19)
Temporary 0.09 (0.23) 0.00 (0.00) 0.01 (0.02) 0.10 (0.25)
NOTES:
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• Impacts are based on 24.4 meter (80 foot) right of way limits.
• Actual construction impacts may be less than those indicated above,
calculations were based on the worst-case scenario.
Aquatic Communities
The aquatic community in the project study area exists within Laytown Creek. The
replacement of Bridge No. 50 (including the temporary detour) with an 80 foot corridor that
overlaps the 80 foot roadway corridor will result in the disturbance of up to 38.1 meters
(125 feet) of linear stream channel or 0.03 hectare (0.08 acre) of stream bottom in Laytown
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Creek (This represents worst-case conditions; actual disturbance area will likely be less).
Construction of the temporary detour will be done so as to avoid direct disturbance of the
river bottom of the adjacent Yadkin River.
Impacts to the adjacent mesic mixed hardwood forest and man-dominated
communities can have a direct impact on aquatic communities. Activities such as the
removal of trees, as well as the construction of the culvert and approach work will likely
result in an increase in sediment loads and water temperatures and a decrease in dissolved
" oxygen in the short-term. Construction activities can also increase the possibility of toxins,
such as engine fluids and particulate rubber, entering the waterways. The combination of
these factors can potentially cause the displacement and mortality of fish and local
populations of invertebrates which inhabit these areas.
Potential adverse effects to surface waters will be minimized through the use of
NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMPs), "Design Standards in Sensitive
Watersheds" and "Guidelines for Construction of Highway Projects Adjacent to or
Crossing Trout Waters".
Water resources
This section describes each water resource and its relationship to major water
systems. The proposed project lies within the Yadkin-Pee Dee River drainage basin.
Water Resource Characteristics
Laytown Creek flows southeast through the proposed project area with a width of
6.0 meters (20.0 feet). Laytown Creek has its confluence with the Yadkin River
approximately 60.0 meters (200.0 feet) downstream of the Bridge No. 50. Laytown Creek
has a classification of C Tr from the North Carolina Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (NCDENR). The portion of the Yadkin River downstream of Laytown
Creek also has a classification of C Tr. Class C indicates waters protected for secondary
recreation, fishing, aquatic life including propagation, survival, and wildlife. The
designation of Tr. indicates freshwaters protected for natural trout propagation and survival
of stocked trout. The classification index number for this portion of the creek is 12-22.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps
for Caldwell County indicates the project area lies in Zone A, where no base flood
elevations have been determined.
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Benthic macroinvertebrates, or benthos, are organisms that live in and on the bottom
substrates of rivers and streams. The DWQ uses benthos data as a tool to monitor water
quality as benthic macroinvertebrates are sensitive to subtle changes in water quality. The
DWQ also uses the North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity (NCIBI) as another method to
determine general water quality. The method was developed for assessing a stream's
biological integrity by examining the structure and health of its fish community. According
to Ms. Nancy Guthrie, the DWQ does not have any benthic macroinvertebrate data or
NCIBI data for Laytown Creek within the project area. Ms. Guthrie also indicated that
there was no data available for any nearby locations that would give reliable information
about the water quality at this site.
The Caldwell County Watershed Map (1996) indicates that the project area is not
within a Critical Area. There are no water resources classified as High Quality Waters
(HQW), water supplies (WS-1 or WS-II), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) within
1.6 kilometers (1.0 miles) of the project area.
A review of point-source dischargers located within the project vicinity was
conducted. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted
through the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System program. Any discharger is
required to register for a permit. There are no point-source dischargers within the project
vicinity.
Non-point source refers to runoff that enters surface waters through stormwater flow
or no defined point of discharge. In the project area, stormwater runoff from NC 268 and
runoff from any fertilizer used on the residential lawn or fields may cause water quality
degradation.
Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources
Impacts to the water resources will result due to the placement of a culvert in the
creek channel. Increases in water temperature due to removal of shade trees along the creek
banks is possible. Construction of the bridge and approach work will increase sediment
loads, and additional sediment loading can reduce flow and result in a decrease in oxygen
levels.
The NCDOT, in cooperation with DWQ, has developed a sedimentation control
a . program for highway projects which adopts formal BMPs for the protection of surface
waters. The following are methods to reduce sedimentation and water quality impacts:
• strict adherence to BMPs, "Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds" and
16
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"Guidelines for Construction of Highway Projects Adjacent to or Crossing Trout
Waters" for the protection of surface waters.
• reduction and elimination of direct and non-point discharge into the water bodies
and minimization of activities conducted in streams
° placement of temporary ground cover or re-seeding of disturbed sites to reduce
runoff and decrease sediment loadings to Laytown Creek as well as the adjacent
Yadkin River
W reduction of clearing and grubbing along streams
Special Topics
Jurisdictional Issues: Waters of the United States
Wetlands and surface waters fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United
States" as defined in 33 CFR 328.3 and in accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the
Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). Waters of the United States are regulated by the United
States Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE).
No wetlands will be impacted by the subject project as Laytown Creek has well
defined banks within the bridge replacement corridor. Investigation into wetland occurrence
in the project impact area was conducted using methods of the 1987 Wetland Delineation
Manual. Project construction cannot be accomplished without infringing on jurisdictional
surface waters. Anticipated surface water impacts fall under the jurisdiction of the
USACOE. Up to 38.1 meter (125 feet) of linear stream channel or 0.03 hectare (0.08 acre)
of jurisdictional surface water impacts ( 45ft. Due to temporary detour) may occur due to
I the proposed replacement of Bridge No. 50.

Permits
In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 USACOE,
1344), a permit will be required from the USACOE for the discharge of dredged or fill
material into "Waters of the United States".
Since the subject project is classified as a Categorical Exclusion and wetland
impacts are not anticipated, it is likely that this project will be subject to the Nationwide
17
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Permit Provisions of 33 CFR 33-.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 within 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 USACOE and
IZ DWQ.
K A 401 Water Quality Certification, administered through the NCDENR, 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.
Foundation investigations will be required for the project. The investigations will
include test borings in soil and/or rock for in situ testing as well as obtaining samples for
laboratory testing. This may require test borings in streams.
Laytown Creek is classified by DWQ as trout waters (TR.). Consultation with
NC WRC is required for the protection of this natural resource, since sampling indicates that
the stream supports trout although it is not currently designated as Public Mountain Trout
Waters.
Mitigation
Since this project is likely covered by Nationwide Permit 23 and wetland impacts
are not anticipated, mitigation should not be required by the USACOE. Mitigation for
impacts to surface waters of less than 45.7 meters (150 feet) linear is generally not required
by the USACOE. A final determination regarding mitigation requirements rests with the
USACOE and NCDENR, DWQ.
Rare and Protected Species
Some populations of plants and animals have been or are in the process of decline
due either to natural forces or their inability to coexist with humans. Rare and protected
species listed for Caldwell County, and any likely impacts to these species as a result of the
proposed project construction are discussed in the following sections.
Federally Protected Species
Plants and animals with federal classification of Endangered (E), Threatened (T),
18
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v

Proposed Endangered (PE), and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions
of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended.
The United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) lists two federally protected
species for Caldwell County as of the November 4, 1997 listing.
TABLE 2
FEDERALLY PROTECTED SPECIES
CALDWELL COUNTY
Scientific Name North Carolina Habitat
Common Name Status Present
Microhexura montivaga E No
(Spruce-fir moss spider)

Liatris helleri T No
(Heller's blazing star)
NOTES:
E Denotes Endangered (a species that* is in danger of extinction
throughout all or a significant portion of its range)
T Denotes Threatened (a species that is likely to become endangered
within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion
of its range)
Microhexura montivaga (Spruce-fir moss spider) E
Family: Dipluridae
Date Listed: Feb 6, 1995
Distribution in N.C.: Avery, Caldwell, Swain, Yancey
.s
The spruce-fir moss spider is a small (0.25 to 0.38 centimeters/0.10 to 0.15 inches)
spider which ranges in color from light brown to yellow-brown to a darker reddish brown.
It has no markings on its abdomen. It is identified by its chelicerae which project forward
beyond the anterior edge of the carapace. It also has very long spinnerets and a second pair
of book lungs.
The spruce-fir moss spider is known only from mature Fraser fir and red spruce
forest communities of the highest elevations. The typical habitat is well drained, damp
19
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moss mats growing on rocks and boulders. It prefers well-shaded places in these forests
where it constructs tube shaped webs in the interface between the moss mat and rock
surface.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
Habitat is not present for the spruce-fir moss spider within the project area.
The project area includes man-dominated communities and a partially timbered,
mesic mixed hardwood forest; there are no mature Fraser fir or red spruce forest
communities with damp moss mats on rocks. A search of the NCNHP showed no
recorded occurrences of this species within the project vicinity. It can be concluded
that the construction of the proposed project will not impact the spruce-fir moss
spider.
Liatris helleri
(Heller's blazing star)
Asteraceae .
Nov 19, 1987
T
Family:
Date Listed:
Flowers present: July-September
Distribution in NC: Ashe, Avery, Burke, Caldwell, Mitchell, Watauga, Yancey
Heller's blazing star is a perennial herb with one or more erect or arching stems,
which arise from a tuft of narrow pale green basal leaves. It has a showy spike of lavender
flowers which are present from July through September. Fruits are present from September
through October.
Heller's blazing star is endemic to the northern Blue Ridge Mountains where it
occurs on high elevation ledges of rock outcrops. It grows in shallow, acidic soils which
are exposed to full sunlight.
. t
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
Habitat is not present for Heller's blazing star within the project area. The
project area includes man-dominated communities and a partially timbered, mesic
mixed hardwood forest; there are no shallow acidic soils or high elevation ledges of
rock outcrops. A search of the NCNHP showed no recorded occurrences of this
species within the project vicinity. It can be concluded that the construction of the
proposed project will not impact Heller's blazing star.
20
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Federal Species of Concern
Federal Species of Concern (FSC) are not legally protected under the Endangered
Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are
formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. Species designated as FSC are
defined as taxa which may or may not be listed in the future. These species were formerly
Candidate 2 (C2) species or species under consideration for listing for which there is
insufficient information to support listing. Some of these species are listed as Endangered,
Threatened, or Special Concern by the NCNHP list of Rare Plant and Animal Species and
are afforded state protection under the State Endangered Species Act and the North
Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979; however, the level of protection
given to state listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities. Table 3 includes listed
FSC species for Caldwell County and their state classifications.
I
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TABLE 3
FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN
CALDWELL COUNTY
Scientific Name North Carolina Habitat
Common Name Status Present
Neotoma n:agister * SC No
Alle hanwoodrat
Macromia margarita * SR Yes
(Margarita River skimmer
Ophiogomphus edmundo * SR No
Edmund's snaketail dragonfly)
diana SR No
Diana fritillary butterfly)
Abies fraseri NL No
Fraser fir
Geum geniculatum T No
(Bent avens

Juglans cinera WL No
Butternut
Cardamine clematitis C Yes
Mountain bittercress
Lilium grayi T-SC No
(Gray's lily)
Monotropsis odorata * C Yes
Sweet inesa
Verbena riparia * C Yes
(Riparian vervain
Bazzania nudicaulis C No
A liverwort)
Plagiochila sullivantii var. sullivantii C No
22

1
NOTES:
* Indicates no specimens have been found in at least 20 years.
T Denotes Threatened (species which are afforded protection by state
laws).
SR Denotes Significantly Rare (species for which population
monitoring and conservation action is recommended).
C Denotes Candidate (species which are considered by the state as
being rare and needing population monitoring).
NL Denotes not listed (species for which there is no state designation).
WL Denotes watch list (species believed to be rare and of conservation
concern in the state but not warranting active monitoring at this
time).
A search of the NCNHP database showed no occurrences of any Federal Species
of Concern within the project vicinity.
Summary of Anticipated Impacts
Habitat is not present for any federally threatened or endangered species. Habitat
is present for four Federal Species of Concern: the Margarita River skimmer, mountain
bittercress, sweet pinesap, and riparian vervain. According to the NCNHP database, there
have been no reported occurrences of any Federal Species of Concern or state protected
species. No individuals were.observed at the time of the site visit.
IX. CULTURAL EFFECTS
t
t
This project is subject to compliance with Section 106 of the National Historical
Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, implemented by the Advisory Council on Historic
Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106, codified at 35 CFR Part 800.
Section 106 requires that for federally funded, licensed, or permitted projects having an
effect on properties listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, the
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation can be given the opportunity to comment.
The Blackstone Post Office, a property determined eligible for the National of
Historic Places, is the only property listed on or eligible for the National Register located
within the project's area of potential effect. At a meeting on November 20, 1997, with the
State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) it was agreed that the recommended
improvements would have no effect on the Blackstone Post office and a concurrence form
was signed. A copy of the concurrence form is included in the Appendix.
23

The SHPO, in a memorandum dated March 14, 1997 stated the project area is
considered to have a high probability for presence of archaeological sites and therefore,
SHPO recommended that an archaeological investigation be conducted in connection with
this project. A copy of the SHPO memorandum is included in the Appendix.
x X. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
0 The project is expected to have an overall positive impact. Replacement of an
inadequate bridge will result in safer traffic operations.
The bridge replacement will not have an adverse affect 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 significant change in land use is expected to result from construction of the project.
No adverse impact on families or communities is anticipated. No relocatees are
expected with implementation of the proposed alternatives.
No adverse effect on public facilities or services is anticipated. The project is not
expected to adversely affect social, economic, or religious opportunities in the area.
There are no publicly owned parks, recreational facilities, or wildlife and waterfowl
refugees of national, state, or local significance in the vicinity of the project.
No geodetic survey markers will be impacted.
The Farmland Protection Policy Act requires all federal agencies or their
representatives to consider the potential impacts to prime and important farmland soils by
all land acquisition and construction projects. Prime and important farmland soils are
defined by the U.S. Soil Conservation Service (SCS). Since the bridges will be replaced
at the existing location, and impacts to farmlands are temporary due to the on site detour,
the Farmland Protection Policy Act does not apply.
The project is an air quality "Neutral" project, so it is not required to be included
the regional emission analysis (If Applicable) and a project level CO analysis is not
24
0
7
required.
The project is located in Caldwell County, which has been determined to be in
compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. 40 CFR Part 51 is not
applicable because the proposed project is located in an attainments area. This project is
not anticipated to create any adverse effects on the air quality of this attainment area.
The traffic volumes will not increase or decrease because of this project. There are
r no receptors located in the immediate project area. The project's impact on noise and air
quality will not be adverse.
Noise levels could increase during construction but will be temporary. If vegetation
is disposed of by burning, all burning shall be done in accordance with applicable local
laws and regulations of the North Carolina SIP air quality in compliance with 15 NCAC
2d.0520. This evaluation completes the assessment requirements for highway traffic noise
(23 CFR Part 772) and for air quality (1990 CAAA and NEPA) and no additional reports
are required.
An examination of records at the North Carolina Department of Environment and
Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality, 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.
Caldwell County is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program. The
approximate 100 year floodplain in the project area is shown in Figure 3. The amount of
floodplain area to be affected is not considered to be significant.
All borrow and solid waste sites will be the responsibility of the Contractor. Solid
waste will be disposed of in strict adherence to the NC Division of Highways "Standard
Specifications for Roads and Structures". The Contractor will observe and comply with
all laws, ordinances, regulations, orders, and decrees regarding the disposal of solid waste.
Solid waste will not be placed into any existing land disposal sites that is in violation of
state or local rules and regulations. Waste and debris will be disposed of in areas that are
outside the right-of-way and provided by the Contractor. The Contractor will be
responsible for obtaining borrow sites, delineating wetlands in borrow sites from the Corps
and obtaining written concurrence on delineated wetlands in borrow sites from the Corps
of Engineers. Borrow material will not be stockpiled or disposed adjacent to or in areas
where they may runoff with stormwater into streams and impoundments. Where it is
E absolutely necessary to store materials adjacent to streams, they will be stored above the
mean highwater mark in such a manner that they would not runoff with stormwater.
25
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4
Disposal of waste and debris will not be allowed in areas under the Corps of Engineers
regulating jurisdiction. In the event that COE jurisdictional areas cannot be avoided, the
Department will be responsible for mitigation.
The Contractor will maintain the earth surface of all waste areas, both during the
construction phase and until the completion of all seeding and mulching, or other erosion
control measures specified, in a manner that will effectively control erosion and siltation
into areas under the Corps of Engineers regulatory jurisdiction, streams and impoundments.
Traffic access will be maintained to Laytown Road (SR 1507) during construction of this
project.
On the basis of the above discussion, it is concluded that no significant adverse
environmental effects will result from implementation of the project. The project is a
Federal "Categorical Exclusion" due to its limited scope and lack of significant
environmental consequences.

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26
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FIGURES
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ri . BRIDGE NO. 50
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NCDOT HIGHWAY MAP SCALE 1" = 2 MILES C
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ZONE X
ZONE X
ZONE A-
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BRIDGE NO. 50
ZONE X
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ZONE X
Cald, ell COL1nty
L.'nincorrorated Areas
370039
1 ZONE
FE),L-%'vIAP = 3702- 0002: D
EFFECTIVE DATE AUGUST 16. 1988
NOT TO SCALE
LEGEND
ZONE A - AREAS ,DF 100-YEAR FLOOD: BASE FLOOD ELEVATIONS AND FLOOD HAZARD FACTORS NOT
DETER%IINED.
ZONE X DETERMINED TO BE OUTSIDE 500-YEAR FLOOD PLAIN.
NOTE. ALL LOCATIONS ARE APPROXIMATE
FIGURE 3
FLOOD PLAIN MAP
TIP NO. E-2936
BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
BRICGE NO. 50 ON NC 268
CALDWELL COUNTY, NC r
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1
BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
BRIDGE NO. 50 ON NC 268 FIGURE 4A
CALDWELL COUNTY TIP NO. B-2936

I
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FACING SOUTH- OVERVIEW OF BRIDGE #50
s
BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
BRIDGE NO. 50 ON NC 268 FIGURE 4B
CALDWELL COUNTY TIP NO. B-2936
i
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FIGURE 5
TIP NO. B-2936
s
' bLAck4T.d6 p«rr orFi?E
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APPENDIX A

II
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Caldwell County Schools Transpork ion Deoarsment 113Tr?n?sP_ri -r),,,
i L„-iua. NC 23645
Phiho Ciarn. Transonr•rouon Direeror Tcir_?nonc 704.7544041
February 20. 1997
?? E I V\
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-? FEB 2 4 19°7
2 p;VIS1G^4 OF
HIGHWA'(S
F?'VIftONti
IV, Mr. H. Franklin Fick, P. E. Manager
JA- State of North Carolina
Department of Transportation
Division of Hid=hways
PO Box 25301
Raleiah. NC 27611-5201
Dear Mr. Vick:
I
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13
SUBJECT: Replacement of Bridge No. 50 on NC 268 over Laytown Creek,
Caldwell County, State Project 8.731501, TIP no. B-3936
The Caldwell County school system has three buses which cross this bridge
two times daily. It would be very difficult to detour these buses around
the construction. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely
Philip Clark
Transportation Director
Caldwell County Schools
pc/ap
4
•?,y 1
Tor` =oli na Wildlife Resources Comrlission
_ ??Ca.
41 ^ N Salisbury Srrec:, Raleigh. North Caro'una 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
-- Charles R. Fawood, Executive Director
' MENIORk DUM
TO: H. Franklin Vick. P.E.. Manager
?la.^,ning and Environmentai Branca. NCDOT
FRO',,,: Stephanie E. Coudreau. Mt. Region Coordinator
habitat Conse.:a:ion Prog7am
t DA:E: March 11. 1997
t S *?.BJEC i : Scoping comments for replacement of Bridle =:0 on NC '-6S over La\zown Creel:. Caldwell
Counry. TiP B--9-6.
T is cot-espondence responds to a recuest by you for our review and preliminary comments on :he subiect
?roiec:.
L z\-,,%%n Creek is not Designated Public Mount a:n Trout Water: however. fish sampling cenduc,, d by
Nc-h Caroiina *?%*ildlife Resources Commission staff or. _S Jul; 100' revealed :hat the stream supports ld
7ainbOV, rout i -. to headwaters and wild brown trout in the lower reaches. We have the following
,-Commenda:lOns t0r minimizing adverse impacts to fisheries resources:
I l l^s ° work and lard dis,urbance within the :4-foot wide buffer zone are prohibited during the trout
spawner n _ season of November I through April If to protect the and ir• stages of trout.
If cor•cre:e will be used. work must be accomplished so that wet concrete does not contact stream water.
f iris Zvi1:1 lessen the chance of altering the stream's water the nism, and causing a fish kill.
L d .he ban): r. i order to :minimize
nt s^ould be operate , om 2th!-r thn tr the S.; earn channel in
sedimentation and reduce the likelihood of introducing other pollutants into he stream.
Strnctn, erosion, cont-.ol measures should be installed where soil is disturbed and maintained until proiect
con„die:ion.
} Temporary or permanent herbaceous vegetation should be planted on all bare soil within l: days o` ground
dig:'rbing activities to provide long-term erosion control. If seeding^_ is done after 1 October 1007• then the
`C DOT ;;could rerun after 1 April 1995 to reseed if necessan%
Tltcni< you for the opporrun.ir: to review and comment during the eariy stages of this project. If you have
any question_ re_ardin: these comments. please contact me at 701,6==
0

H
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment,
Health and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., G ovemor
Jonathan B. Howes, Secretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
A 1 i
r 1037 1
February 26. 1997
T?t
lr
NIEN10R.ANDIINI
To: Mr. Byron Bratty, NCDOT, Planning & Ens ironmental
From: Cyndi Bell. NC Division of Water Quality C, L U
Subiecr `Water Quality Checklist for Bridge Replacement Projects
Reference your correspondence dated February 12, 1997, in which you requested comments concerning
dne scope of work to be performed by Wetherill Associates. Inc., for five bridge replacement projects. Tlne
Division of Water Qutdin, requests that NCDOT and it-s consulLint consider the following generic
environmental commitments for design and construction of bridge replacements:
A. DWQ requests that-OT-strictly adhere to North Carolina regulations entitled "Design Standards
in Sensitive Watersheds" (15A NCAC (NB .0024 ouehout design and constr c tot
project in die area that drains to streams havin? «' 'ater Supply), ORW (Outstanding _
Resource Water), IIQW (I-ligh Quality Water). B (Body Contact), SA (Shellfish Water) or Tr
(Trout Water) classifications to protect existing uses.
B. DWQ requests that bridges be replaced on existing location with road closure, when practical. If.,,-
"
an on-site detour is necessary, remediaion measures in accordance with DWQ requirements for
General 401 Ceriificadon 2726/Nationwide Pennit No. 33 (Temporary Construction, Access and
Dewatering) must be followed.
C. D«'Q requests that hazardous spill catch basins be installed at any bridge crossing a sirean
cllssified as HQW or WS (Water Supply). The number of catch basins installed should be
determined by the design of the bridge, so that runoff would enter said basin(s) rather than
directly flowing into the stream.
D. To the maximum extent pracdcable, DOT should not install the bridge bents in the creek.
E. Wetland bnpacts should be avoided (including sediment and erosion control
structures/measures) to the maximum extent practical. If this is not possible, alteniatives that
minimize wetland impacts should he chosen. Mitigation for unavoidable impacts will be
required by DWQ if impacts exceed one acre. Smaller impacts may require mitigation by the
i U.S. Anny Corps of Engineers.
F. Borrow/waste areas should not be located in wetlands. It is likely that compensatory mitigation
will be required if wetlands are impacted by waste or barrow.
G. DWQ prefers replacement of bridges with bridges. If the new structure is it) be a culvert, it
should he countersunk to allow unimpeded fish passage through dne crossing.
0 P.O. Box 29535, Raleigh, North Carolina 27626-0535 Telephone [phone] FAX # [phone]
I.
,ir. Byron Br.?cly Alc1110
--chru.?ry 26. 1997
I1. 11' foundation test borings %vill be required, this should be noted in the docuntcnl. Geotcchuical
work is approved under Geuend 401 Certification Number 3027/Nation vide Pennit No. 6 for
" Survey Activities. Written concurrence from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is required in designated mountain trout counties.
1. If this project is processed as a Categorical Exclusion, NCDO"1 is reminded that mitigatio? will
be required if well.md impacts exceed one acre. in accordance with DWQ Weiland Rules 115A
NCAC 211.0506 (h)(2)).
The atu?ched utble has been prepared by DWQ for your assistmtce in studying the systems involved in
these bridge replacements. This information includes the DWQ Index Number. DWQ Stre.un
Classification. river basin, and preliminary comments for each crossing. Please note that National
Waland Inventory (NAVI) map references are not to be replaced by onsite welland determinations b\
qualified biologists.
Thank you for your request for DWQ input. DOT is reminded that issumtce of a 401 Water Quality
Certification requires satisfaction of water quality concerts, to ensure that water quality standards are tnet
?l and designated uses are not lost or degraded. Questions reLarding, die 401 Certification or other water
quality issues should be directed to Cyndi Bell at [phone] in DWQ's Water Quality Environmentrtl
Sciences Branch.
cc: Michelle Suverkrubbe
Melba McGee
B2936.DOC
13

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DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY
WILMINGTON DISTRICT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS
P.O. BOX 1890
WILMINGTON. NORTH CAROLINA 28402.1890
IN REPLY REFER TO March 31, 1997
Special Studies and
Flood Plain Services Section
Mr. H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
-Planning and Environmental Branch
North Carolina Division of Highways
Post Office Box 25201
Raleign, North Carolina 27611-5201
Dear Mr. Vick:
c
?.t
. f
? r z ?no1
ap J ,
This is in response to your letter dated February 12, 1997, requesting our scoping
Q comments on the "Replacement of Bridge No. 50 on NC 268 over Layton Creek,
Caldwell County. State Project 8.731501, TIP No. B-2936" (Regulatory Branch Action
I.D. No. 199702454). Comments on this bridge replacement are to be used in the
Planning and Environmental Study (Categorical Exclusion).
Our comments involve impacts to flood plains and jurisdictional resources, which
inciude waters, wetlands, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects. The proposed
project would not cross any Corps-constructed flood control or navigation project.
Enclosed are our comments on the other issues.
We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this project. If we can be of further
assistance, please contact us.
Sincerely,
L
Enclosure
C: E. Shuford, Jr., P.E.
Acting Chief, Engineering and
Planning Division
0
T
March 27, 1997
Page 1 of 1
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, WILMINGTON DISTRICT, COMMENTS ON:
"Replacement of Bridge No. 50 on NC 268 over Layton Creek, Caldwell County, State
40 Project 8.731501, TIP No. B-2936" (Regulatory Branch Action I.D. No. 199702454)
1. FLOOD PLAINS: POC - Mr. Bobby L. Willis, Special Studies and Flood Plain
Services Section, at [phone]
The proposed project is located in Caldwell County, which participates in the
National Flood Insurance Program. From a review of Panel 25 of the August 198a
Caldwell County Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), Layton Creek (Laytown on the
FIRM), is mapped approximately. We suggest that you coordinate with the county for
compliance with their flood plain ordinance. If their ordinance does not specifically
address crossings on approximate streams, we recommend that the flow-carrying
capacity of the structure not be reduced.
2. WATERS AND WETLANDS: POC - Mr. Steve Chapin. Asheville Field Office.
Regulatory Branch. at [phone]
We have reviewed your proposed project but have not had the opportunity to
make a field visit. In general, a Department of the Army (DA) permit. pursuant to
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended, may be required if the
project requires culverting or if support piers are installed below ordinary high water in
the channel. Also, we wish to stress stringent erosion control for any ground
disturbance in the vicinity of the project.
If you have any questions related to DA permits for this project. they should be
addressed to Mr. Chapin.

T
`r y'
1

North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources -
James B. Hunt Jr., Governor Division of Archives and History
Betty Ray McCain, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Director
Q March 14, 1997

MEMORANDUM
TO: H. Franklin Vick, P.E., Manager
Planning and Environmental Branch
Division of Highways
Department of Transportation r
FROM: David Brook
Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer
SUBJECT: Bridge Group XIII, Bridge 50 on NC 268 over
Layton Creek, Caldwell County, B-2936, State
Project 8.731501, ER 97-8565
Thank you for your letter of February 12, 1997, concerning the above project.
We have conducted a search of our maps and files and have located the following
structures of historical or architectural importance within the general area of the project:
Blackstone Post Office, north side of NC 268, 0.2 mile west of junction with SR
1509, Grandin vicinity
i._
IF
We look forward to meeting with an architectural historian from the North Carolina
Department of Transportation to review the aerial and photographs of the project area so
we can make our survey recommendation.
The project area is considered to have a high potential for the presence of significant
archaeological resources. We recommend that a comprehensive survey be conducted by
an experienced archaeologist to.identify the presence and significance of archaeological
remains that may be damaged or destroyed by the proposed project. Potential effects on
unknown resources should be assessed prior to the initiation of construction activities.
The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for
Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800.
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
cc: N. Graf
B. Church
T. Padgett
109 East Joncs Strcct - Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2507
P
1 Pjr<s'rP ZL? C2) .
Federal Aid T 41TIP County Ci{ILDWELI?
CONCURRENCE FORM
FOR
ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTS
Brie: Projer: Desc: Ption
{Z_t,Pt,AcF 6,LIDGE Q0. i*O i,I %AC, U-6 PV • L Lh4raww
4
f
On representatives of the
Nor,h Carolina Department of T ranscona:ion (NCDOT)
4 Federal Hiahway Administration (Fr.-WA)
? Nor,h Carolina State Estoric Preservation OFce (SH,?O)
Other
reviewe,-4 the _uojec: oroje=.and acreed
there are no e:=ec:s on the vaticral ReTs:er-listed proper; within the eroje-'s
ar--a of corentiai effec: and listed on :i a reve se.
.,,e. are no ? on .:.e National Re _te. ::foie cree.,ies locate 1t„
oroie_:'s area of :,otentiai and listed on the reverse.
;;,ere is an effec: on :he ?+at:onai Re^scc.-4istec proper-;/croceries within the
profe?-'s area of pczen:'ai efec:. he 7roce7.a-prece:6:es and the e::ec:,'s) are
lis:ed on the re-ferse.
t::..'° is an e':e": on iii-- Naconal Re_ts:er-el:x:ale procer•?/grope ues
prcjec: Wlt.:1., :i:e
?ro _ e
hoc .? ;. .a/pr?pe test ..
v's area of e^ti-l e::e=:. ie an.;
on zhe reverse.
Siene?:
I,,_ 4"
4 Repcesertt

.h-
N';?v .20.11X17
CDOi, Historic .=1c:;ite::arc! Resources Section
r the Divisi n Administrator, or other Feaerai Agency

a
Re:resentative? S"r.PO
`State Historic Preseriation Officer

Date
Date
I?Zt
ate
gate
ederal ?yid T lM5 • VAP (tL TIP County
-?, ooe: pies within area of potential effe- :or which there is no effecz. Indicate it proper-,y is
lational Reviser-listed (NR) or determined e!i2 ole (DE).
pjtiAGlLyfo?? ?oS"i- OFFICE C1?Ci)
El
?roce?ies wit'r?in _: ec or cotentiai e: ec: Ocr wiuca there is ?m efec:. Indicate ; ro=7; sar=S (N-,a
or DE) and desc-roe a sec:.
t
Reason(s) w;,y er:ec: is not adverse (if acpiic::oie).
i

I 6
Initialed: NCDOT Sn-pO kD
13