20091095 Ver 1_Individual_20091015

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
524 South New Hope Road
Rale
igh, NC 27610 M
99-22-1760
091095 919121211707 Fax
www.environmentalservicesinc.com OCT IS 2009
DENR - WATER OWLITY
WET?MNS AND sTORUWATER BRANCH
LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL
TO: DATE: October 15, 2009 JOB NO:
NCDWQ ER06-166
Wetlands/401 Unit
RE: Jones Sausage Road Widening and Realignment - Section 401 Application
WE ARE SENDING YOU
Attached Under separate cover via the following items
COPIES DATE DESCRIPTION
1 Individual Permit Application forms
1 Environmental Report
1 Set of five permit drawings
1 Applicable Engineering Design Sheets
1 CD with electronic files
1 $570 fee
THESE ARE TRANSMITTED as checked below:
For approval Approved as submitted
For your use Approved as noted
Resubmit _ copies for approval
Submit _ copies for distribution
As requested Returned for corrections
For review and comment
For bids due 2009
Return _ signed copies
Prints returned after loan to use
REMARKS: Please contact Jeff Harbour or Gail Tyner at 212-1760 if you have questions.
Copy to:
APPLICATION FOR DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY PERMIT
[33 CFR 325;
NO. 07100003
r 31, 2004
The Public burden for this collection of information Is eostimated to average 10 flours per response, although the majority of applications should require
5 hours or lass. This Includes tho tlmo for reviewing instruotlons, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and
completing and reviewing the collection of Information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this colleotion of
rnformatton, Including auggostions for reducing this burden, to Department of Dofonse, Washington Headquarters Service Directorate of Information
Operations and Reports, 1216 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 9204, Arlington, VA 222024302; and to the Offlco of Management end Budget,
Paperwork Reduotion Project (0710.0003), Washington, DO 20603. Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law,
no person shall be subject io any penalty for falling to comply with a collection of Information If it doaa not display a currently valid OMS control
tx„aaN nn NOT RPT[IAN vour form to either of thoso addressee. Complatad applications must be submitted to the District Engineer having
PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT
Authorities; Rivets and Harbors Act, Section 10, 33 USC 403; Clean Water Act, Section 404, 33 USC 1344; Marine Protection , Research and
Sanctuaries Act, 33 USC 1413, Section 103. Principal Purposo: Information provided on this form wlll bo used In evaluating the applieation.for a
is nvolmay be shared with the untary, however, Info matt on Is la not of Justice and other federal, state, and local government provided he permit application cs not be evaluated norg can agencies. permit
peirrilt. Submission Routine
requested Information Information
be issued.
One set of original drawings or good roproduolble copies which show the location and character of the proposed activity must be r{ttached to this
application (see sample drawings and Instructions) and be submitted to the District Engineer having jurisdiction over the location of Ilia proposed
. . .. . ...., .._-
i. APPLICATION NO, 2, FIELD OFFICE CODE 13, DATE RECEIVED 14, DATE APPLICATION COMPLETED

ITEMS BELO
O
E Fl
6, APPLICANT'S NAME 6. AUTHORIZED AGENT'S NAME AND TITLE tonc*w.tisnotr=?c0
City of Raleigh Publia Works Dept Environmental Services, TnC.
6. AFFLiCANVS ADDRESS E. AGENIT'S ADDRESS
cjo Sammy Wood, P.E. 222 M, Hargett Street 524 S, New Hope Road Raleigh, NC 27606
P.O. Box 590 Raleigh NC 27602 A
7.. APPHC NT'S HONE NOS. W/AREA CODE 10. AGENT'S PHONE NOS. W/AREA CODE
a, Residence e. Reoidence

b. Ewsiness 919-996-3030 LCEO nV ADO] 1CAN
W T
B
I:. Business 919-212-1760
I hereby authori2e, Environmental Services, Inc. to act in my behalf as my agent In the processing of this appllcatlcn and to
furnish, upon request, sjppiemental 1'rformatlon in support of this permit application.

010NATURE DATE
_ NAME, LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT OR ACTIVITY
12. PROJECT NAME OR TITLE ts-cocrnxk+, DEMR
Jones Sausage Road widening and Realignment WETLANDS At
'13, NAME OF WATERBODY. IF KNOWN nrnorarar J I 14. PROJECT STREET ADDRESS rdepa wbew
Big Branch
1E, LOCATION OF PROJECT
Wake NC
COUNTY STATE
10, OTHER LOCATION DESCRIPTIONS, IF KNOWN, is-rnstrvctknsl
Intersection of Jones sausage Road, Rock
Quarry Road, and New Hope Road
17, DIRECTIONS TO THE SITE
From Raleigh take 2-40 east to Jones Sausage Road, take a le-F+ on Jones Sausage Road (north)
to the Rock Quarry Road Sntersection
i
1

512009
ENO OR 345, u 97 EDITION OF FEB 94 IS OBSOLETE, (Proponent: CECW-OR)
t8. Nature of AaTiv)ly(oparF!lMaFFrgcU,tx+tld0arl?rurll •
Roadway and Sewer improvement Projeclt - xntexsection re-alignment and sewerline improvements
associated with the Rock Quarry Road Jones Sausage Road Improvement P=J est.
18. t'iojeetfLrposaroeatrrae?:rm,oncrFe+po,oo?lherr?et,antrntGr,ciFirrrl
To upgrade the existing facilities to meet the inoveased traffic demands, provide bettor
traffic flour, and improve intersection safety. ,
URE BLOCKS 20.22 1P DRFDOED AND(OR FILL MATE. 1AL IS TO g O18CHARCED
20. Reason[)) for Dlseha?pa
Unavoidable impacts resulting front new alignment and right-of-way expansion to allow for the
proposed road construction, zmpaots will jeSUl.t from placement of fill material as well as
construdtion oJ! box culvert and newerlina.
21. Type(s) of Moteria Selnp isaharpa an t a mount of Each Tune hi Cublc Yards
Clean fill amount to be determined, 4-cell RCBC (each cell - 121vride X 101high), 4- 1151long-
X 6011-round floodplain equalizer pipes, 1601long' X 1.021wide bridge span, and temporary ?
22, Surface Area In Acres Of Wetiands or Other Watnru FJliad Gsrararmxuwjr
Permanent Impacts: Wetlands - 3.03 ac, Perennial Stream - 725 linear ft, Intermittent Stream (Unimportant)
- 153 linear ft. Temporary S&EC Impacts: Wetlands - 0.20 ac. Temporary Sewer Easement Impacts:
-
Wetlands - 0.26 ac, Perennial Stream - 26 linear ft
23, Is Any Portion of the Work Already Cornpl01c7 Yes F_= No JFYg?. pE3CRIBE THE COMFLETED WORK
24. Addrasoon of AdlefnIng Prop a;ty Owners, Loss oat, t:fo., Whose Prcpotty AdjOlns the Wvlorbody (IF more than con be antorod hero,
p)saso attdeh Q supplemental Ilst),
see attached tsble
25. LJst of Other Cerdficaltons or ApprovalslDanlals Recaivcd from other Fedaral, SOO G? LOaDI Aganelas for Work Douwii744 In 7hl3 Appliealion.
..,,•, r,n,. r,n?, r,tr,udaa pATr+ APPLIED DATE APPEOVEr3 DAT.: DrMED
AUftN4T Irr't Hrr^nu4HV .vFn u.1_.-•.........-.. -.... .
DNQ )Suffer Review N31RRO #08-3.37 Bake 5-09-2008
r ould Ino1u c but tv not roalrtcted to zoning, bull ing Hnd flood Ploln perrellta
28, Application Is hereby made for a permit or permits to authorize the work doacrlbod In
appllcat)on la cornplota and sootlrate. I further certify that I possess; the aulhodlyto'
duly auihorizad agent of the ap Itcen .
Sl ATUAEOFAPPLICANT DATR ompo.e:
autherizad agent If tl:s statement Jn block 11 has boon tlUad out Qnd atgnad.
n, 1 cortlfy that tits lnrorrrratfon to thls
%VDA described horaln or am Doling astlte
A?
17 GENT l fE
aolivity (applicant) or it may be sipped by a duly
IS U.S.C, Section 1001 provides that: Whoavor, in any manner Valthln iho jurisdiction of any department or agency of the Unhad States
knowingly and %Vlllfully folslfim,, conceals, at covers up tiny trick, aehema, or Osgulsas a material factor makes any false, ilatltious or
lraudulant atatomenta orfaprountatlons or makes or uses anyfalso wrlling or doeumont knowing alma to contain any false, flailtious or
fraudulant statements or antry, shall be flnod not mora then 910,000 or Imprisonad not mare than five years or both.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
FOR
JONES SAUSAGE ROAD WIDENING AND REALIGNMENT
WAKE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
In Support of the
SECTION 404 and 401 PERMIT APPLICATION
October 2009
1.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The City of Raleigh is proposing a roadway and sewer improvement project associated with
widening and realignment of Jones Sausage Road (SR 2547), including the intersection which
crosses Big Branch (Figure 1). The project extends from the I-40/Jones Sausage Road
westbound interchange ramps to Rock Quarry Road (SR 2542), a distance of approximately 1.5
miles.
The project will involve widening Jones Sausage Road from a basic two-lane roadway to a four-
lane divided facility. The proposed curb and gutter typical sections will include sidewalks along
the western side of the roadway with wide outside lanes along each side to accommodate bicycle
traffic. The proposed minimum right-of-way width will be 110 feet.
The proposed project plan includes re-aligning the intersection of Jones Sausage Road with New
Hope Road (SR 2036), as well as widening and replacing the bridge on Rock Quarry Road. The
project's primary components include:
1. Realigning Jones Sausage Road to reflect the location of New Hope Road (approximately
600 feet east of the existing Jones Sausage Road intersection;
2. Installing a new multi-cell concrete box culvert in Big Branch under Jones Sausage Road
with adjacent floodplain pipes;
3. Widening Rock Quarry Road and upgrading the bridge over Big Branch;
4. Widening the berm width near Rock Quarry Road to accommodate a planned greenway
path along Big Branch;
5. Modifying existing traffic signals at Auburn Church Road and installing a new traffic
signal for the proposed Jones Sausage Road/Rock Quarry Road/New Hope Road
intersection;
6. Installing a sanitary sewer line in the newly expanded Rock Quarry Road right-of-way
adjacent to the new bridge over Big Branch.
The proposed Jones Sausage Road Widening and Realignment project has been met with
approval from local and state government officials. The road and intersection realignment will
improve the traffic flow and help alleviate congestion and safety hazards at this busy intersection.
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
The City of Raleigh is submitting an Individual Permit (IP) application to the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE) requesting authorization to permanently impact 3.03 acres of jurisdictional
wetlands, 725 linear feet of Important stream channel, and 153 linear feet of Unimportant stream
channel pursuant to Section 404 of the Clean Water Act of 1972 (33 USC 1344). Another 0.20
acres of wetlands are proposed for temporary impact and/or clearing (i. e. wetland conversion) as
a result of temporary sedimentation basins that will be necessary during the construction phase.
Additionally, 0.26 acres of wetlands is proposed for temporary impact and/or clearing (i.e.
wetland conversion) as a result of a new sewer easement adjacent to the north side of the
expanded Rock Quarry Road. The sewer easement will also temporarily impact 26 linear feet of
a small perennial stream channel. This action will also require water quality certification from the
State of North Carolina through the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) (NCGS
143-215) pursuant to Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. Approval from DWQ is also being
sought for proposed riparian buffer impacts pursuant to the Neuse Riparian Buffer Rule.
The purpose of this document is to provide an evaluation of three general criteria which will be
considered as part of the permit process: 1) the relative extent of the public and private need for
the proposed activity; 2) the practicability of using reasonable alternative locations and methods
to accomplish the objective of the proposed activity; and 3) the extent of the effects which the
proposed activity is likely to have on the public and private uses to which the area is suited,
including environmental impacts. This document is intended for use by USACE and DWQ as the
basis for determining the applicant's compliance with the Section 404 (b) (1) guidelines and other
Section 404 permitting requirements as well as Section 401 water quality certification.
2.0 PURPOSE AND NEED
The proposed project is needed to improve capacity and safety along Jones Sausage Road and its
intersection with Rock Quarry Road and New Hope Road. The existing intersections associated
with Jones Sausage Road, Rock Quarry Road and New Hope Road are not capable of efficiently
handling the increased traffic volume due to the development in the surrounding area. The small
linear distance between the two existing intersections does not allow the traffic to flow properly.
The existing bridge associated with intersection is structurally sound due to upgrades, but
functionally obsolete based on current guidelines.
3.0 ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS
Headquarters of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (HQUSACE) guidance from 22 April 1986
requires that alternatives be practicable to the applicant and that the purpose and need for the
project must be the applicant's purpose and need. This guidance also states that project purpose
is to be viewed from the applicant's perspective rather than only from the broad, public
perspective. The essential point of the HQUSACE policy guidance of 22 April 1986 is that under
the Section 404 (b)(1) Guidelines, an alternative must be available to the applicant to be a
practicable alternative. Pursuant to 40 CFR 230.10(a)(2) practicable alternatives are those
alternatives that are "available and capable of being done after taking into consideration cost,
existing technology, and logistics in light of overall project purpose". Section 40 CFR 230.10 (a)
of the Guidelines state that " no discharge of dredged or fill material shall be permitted if there is
a practicable alternative to the proposed discharge which would have less adverse impact on the
Jones Sausage Road Widening 2
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
aquatic ecosystem, so long as the alternative does not have other significant environmental
consequences".
The proposed realignment of Jones Sausage Road presented in this application results from prior
regulatory commitments obtained during an inter-agency meeting held on 29 July 2003. At that
time, the improvements to Rock Quarry Road were not part of this project, but since then the City
has included these improvements as part of this comprehensive project. A detailed analysis of
jurisdictional impacts and cost was completed comparing Alternatives I and 2 of the Jones
Sausage Road portion of this project. Note that slight design changes have occurred to
Alternative #1 since 2003; however, the overall conclusions have not changed. There are no
viable alternatives for the widening of Rock Quarry Road and the construction of the new bridge;
therefore, for the purposes of this analysis, the impacts resulting from the Rock Quarry Road
portion of this project are assumed to be the same for both alternatives.
Alternative #1- Preferred Alternative
The proposed realignment of Jones Sausage Road referred to as Alternative 41 was preferred by
the regulatory agencies due to three primary factors: l.) Prior commitments based on New Hope
Road alignment; 2.) Alternative 91 had less wetland impacts than Alternative 42; and 3.)
Alternative 41 is more closely aligned with previously disturbed areas. After the agencies a-reed
upon Alternative #1, the discussion shifted to that regarding a bridge versus a large box culvert.
The use of a large multi-cell reinforced concrete box culvert (RCBC) with adjacent floodplain
pipes was identified as the preferred method to cross Big Branch under Alternative #1. The slab
of the RCBC will be buried one foot into the stream bed. The hydraulic design has identified the
RCBC will a four-cell RCBC. Each cell will be 12 feet wide X 10 feet high. Front sills will be
used on the outside cells of the RCBC to provide a low flow channel in the 2 middle cells. A
minimum of four floodplain pipes will maintain floodplain connectivity and be utilized as
wildlife crossings for small mammals, reptiles and amphibians. The floodplain pipes will be 1 15-
foot long, 60-inch round pipes. Table 1 provides a summary of the initial estimated jurisdictional
stream impacts that were used to reach agency concurrence on the use of a RCBC for Alternative
#1.
Alternative 92
Alternative 92 included another realignment option located more eastward that would still allow
the Jones Sausage Road to tie in at the existing New Hope Road intersection. This alternative
deviated from the existing Jones Sausage Road right-of-way closer to I-40 and was ultimately
eliminated due to the increased impacts to both private property and to jurisdictional wetlands
(Table 1). Alternative 42 would also contribute to more habitat fragmentation and would expand
the area of landscape disturbance farther away from the existing development associated with the
current intersection location. Alternative 92 also had significantly higher costs as compared to the
preferred alternative.
Jones Sausage Road Widening 3
And Realignment
EN-VIRONNIENTAL SERVICES, INC.
Tnhh- 1_ Alternntive 1 (Preferred) and Alternative 2 Imaacts Summarv.
Alt. #1 (Preferred Action) Alt. #2
Wetland impact (ac) 3.03 4.36
Important Stream impact (ft) 725 633
Unimportant Stream Impact (ft) 153 0
Neuse Buffer impact (ac) 1.84 1.74
Note: Impacts from the improvements to Rock Quarry Road (widenmgionage) are consiaerea me same ror Dom
alternatives.
Alternative #3 - No Action Alternative
A "No Action" alternative is here considered to be one that avoids all wetland and surface water
impacts. Due to the constraints dictated by site topography and land-grading requirements, this
project cannot be downsized or shifted to avoid all jurisdictional areas and still satisfy project
purpose and need. A "No Action" decision at this location would result in ongoing traffic
congestion and traffic safety issues and is not capable of achieving the basic purpose and need of
the proposed project and, therefore, is not a reasonable altemative.
4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
The Jones Sausage Road Widening and Realignment is located in southeast Raleigh, North
Carolina in the northeast quadrant of the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Garner, NC
7.5-minute topographic map (USGS 1987, USGS 1993). More specifically, the site is located
adjacent to the existing intersection of Rock Quarry Road, New Hope Road, and Jones Sausage
Road (Figure 1).
Topographically, the project site is in the Piedmont physiographic region. The project site
contains moderately sloping uplands and the Big Branch floodplain. Elevations on the site range
from a low of approximately 180 feet above mean sea level (MSL) to a high of approximately
280 feet above MSL.
Soils
Existing soils mapping in the Soil Survey of Wake County, North Carolina (USDA 1970) shows
that the project site contains numerous soil mapping units. These are combined into the Appling
soil association, which has gently sloping to moderately steep, deep, well-drained soils that have
a subsoil of firm clay loam to clay (USDA 1970). Please refer to Figure 2 for the detailed soils
map.
Water Resources
Two major cataloging systems are used in North Carolina to identify surface water drainage
areas: one developed by USGS and the other by DWQ. The project site is located within the
USGS hydrologic unit 03040105 (USGS 1974). The DWQ system places the site in sub-basin
030402 of the Neuse River Basin. Big Branch, [Stream Index Number (SIN 27-34-11)] is the
only named stream within the project study area. Big Branch has been assigned a Best Usage
Classification (BUC) of C NSW from its source to Walnut Creek (DWQ 2008a). Unless
otherwise noted, an unnamed tributary carries the same BUC as the named stream to which it is a
tributary.
Jones Sausage Road Widening 4
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
In additional to Big Branch, the project study area contains one (1) intermittent and four (4)
perennial streams (Figure 3).
DWQ has compiled a comprehensive list of impaired waterbodies according to Section 303(d) of
the Clean Water Act and 40 CFR 130.7 (DWQ 2006). A waterbody that does not meet its water
quality standards for its designated uses is considered to be impaired. No stream segments within
the project study area have been listed as impaired waters according to the current 303(d) list
(DWQ 2006). Walnut Creek [SIN 27-34-(4)a], which is a receiving water of Big Branch, is
considered impaired due to impaired biological integrity due to urban runoff and storm sewers
(DWQ 2006).
There are no Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), High Quality Waters (HQW), or Water
Supply (WS-I or WS-II) Waters within 1.0 mile upstream or downstream of the project study
area (DWQ 2008a).
Water quality is assessed by DWQ through several programs, including benthic macro-
invertebrate monitoring, fish community structure, and aquatic toxicity monitoring. No benthic
monitoring stations are within the project study or on project study area streams (DWQ 2008b).
There are no permitted discharges within 1.0 mile upstream of downstream of the project study
area (DWQ 2008c). Nonpoint source (NPS) discharges observed within the project study area
include sedimentation and stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces. Other NPS discharges
that may be present within the project study area may include residential nmoff, which may
contain sediment, nutrients, and pesticides.
5.0 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Plant Communities
Distribution and composition of plant communities throughout the project study area reflect
landscape-level variations in topography, soils, hydrology, and past and present land use
practices. When appropriate, the plant community names have been adopted and modified from
the N.C. Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) classification system (Schafale and Weakley 1990)
and the descriptions written to reflect local variations within the project study area. Six plant
communities were identified within the project study area: Piedmont Semi-Permanent
Impoundment, mixed hardwood forest, pine/mixed hardwood forest, pine woodland,
successional/clear-cut land, and maintained/disturbed land. Scientific nomenclature typically
follows Radford et. al. (1968).
Piedmont Semi-Permanent Impoundment - The Piedmont Semi-Permanent Impoundment
occurs between the N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Geotechnical field office and
adjacent to Rock Quarry Road and Jones Sausage Road. These impoundments occur in
floodplains and valleys with low gradient. Since they are located on floodplains, flooding may
bring in nutrients and sediments (Schafale and Weakley 1990). The impoundment within the
project study area appears to be the result of a combination of beaver (Castor canadensis) activity
and road causeway location that has caused a rise in water level. Dead stems of trees were
observed within the beaver impoundment. Along the edges of impounded areas, red maple (Ater
Jones Sausage Road Widening 5
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
rubrum), river birch (Betula nigra), tag alder (Abrus serrulata), spice bush (Lindera benzoin), and
American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) are present and a herbaceous layer of soft rush
(Juncus effusus), sedges (Carex spp.), and wool grass (Scirpus cyperinus) is well established.
Mixed Hardwood Forest - This community represents small forested areas within a
predominantly urban setting. Due to the limited size of the forested areas, this community ranges
from areas that are dominated by river birch, tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), red maple,
and sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciua) to areas dominated by white oak (Quercus alba) and
northern red oak (Querars rubra). Pines may be present, but represent less than 20 percent of the
canopy coverage. The understory varies in density and includes saplings of the canopy species,
plus flowering dogwood (Corpus Florida), ironwood (Carpinus caroliniana), autumn olive
(Ealeagnus umbellata). Groundcover consists of vines such as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera
japonica), common greenbrier (Smilax rotundifolia), American wisteria (Wisteria frutescens), and
poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans).
Pine/Mixed Hardwood Forest - This community is characterized by the co-dominance of pines
and hardwoods in the canopy. Pines, especially loblolly pines (Pines taeda), contribute between
20 and 80 percent of canopy dominance, with the remainder of the canopy typically dominated by
a mix of hardwood species such as white oak, sweetgum, red maple, and tulip poplar. This
community represents small forested areas within a predominantly urban setting. Pine to
hardwood ratios vary considerably from site to site depending in part on age of the community
and previous land management practices.
Pine Woodland - Areas designated as pine woodland are characterized by a predominance (greater
than 80 percent cover) of pines in the canopy. Within the project study area, pine woodland represents
a combination of natural communities and successional stages. Typically these areas consist primarily
of loblolly pine. The younger stands (5-10 years old) support a diverse understory with black cherry
(Prunus serotina), eastern red cedar (Juruperus virginiana), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera) and mimosa
(Albizia julibrissin) in the midstory and sapling sized loblolly pine and wild onion (Allium canadense)
in the herbaceous layer. Middle- to older-aged stands (15+ years old) support a developing hardwood
sub-canopy that includes sweetgum and northern red oak with little to no herbaceous layer.
Successional/Clear-Cut Land - Successional areas included within this community designation
include cut-over forest land with one to several years of natural or planted growth. This community
type is different from various other forest communities by dominance of vegetation within the
herbaceous or shrub strata rather than dominance of vegetation in the tree strata. The successional area
described within the project study area appears to be the result of clear-cutting timber for expanding
development adjacent to Jones Sausage Road. Vegetation within the regenerating areas consists of
remnants of previous forest cover with varying amounts of early successional species. Vegetative
composition varies depending upon local hydrologic conditions and time since past disturbance. These
areas consist of scattered tree-sized sweetgum, red maple, and various oaks as well as saplings of these
species and shrubs such as Chinese privet. Herbaceous vegetation includes blackberry (Rubus sp.),
common greenbrier, and Japanese honeysuckle.
Maintained/Disturbed Land - Maintained/disturbed areas occupy a large percentage of land within
die project study area, especially along the existing Rock Quarry Road, Jones Sausauge Road, and
Jones Sausage Road Widening
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
within all the residential developments. This category includes areas with disturbed vegetation and/or
soils with man-made structures including buildings, roadways, parking lots, maintained yards, and
areas where other human activities dominate. Wide, maintained roadside rights-of-way, power line
corridors, maintained road frontages, private home sites, residential communities, and commercial
complexes are included in this category. Tree species observed in this community type include tulip
poplar, American holly (Ilex opaca), black cherry, and southern magnolia (Magnolia grandora).
Herbaceous species include fescue (Festuca sp.), Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon), dog fennel
(Eupatorium capillifolium), foxtail (Setaria geniculata), broomsedge (,4dropogon virginicus),
goldenrod (Solidago sp.), kudzu (Pueraria lobata), pokeweed (Phytolacca onericana), wild onion, and
rabbit tobacco (Gnaphalium obtusifolium). Vines include honeysuckle. Shrubs include wax myrtle
and eastern red cedar. Ornamental trees, shrubs, and grasses intermix with native pines, hardwoods,
and occasionally invasive weeds in an anthropogenic landscape setting.
Wildlife
The location of the project site is in a generally urban setting surrounded by developments, single
family homes, and scattered businesses. Wildlife occurring in the project study area will typically
be those species that are adapted to fragmented landscapes. Impacts to wildlife will likely be
temporary displacement. However, wildlife corridors will remain after construction in the form
of the preserved greenspace, which will include both wetlands and uplands.
Terrestrial Wildlife
The project site is known to contain both game and non-game species. Resources used to
research species distributions and habitat requirements include text by Webster et al. (1985) and
Martof et al. (1980).
Most of the mammals expected to occur within the project study area are the conspicuous larger
and medium-sized species that have wide habitat tolerances. Mammal species documented
within the project study area included gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), beaver (Castor
canadensis), Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus),
raccoon (Procyon lotor), and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus).
No quantitative surveys were conducted to document the small mammal populations within the
project study area. The forested communities in the project study area are expected to provide
habitat for small mammals including insectivores such as the southeastern shrew (Sorex
longirostris) and rodents such as eastern harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys humulis), white-footed
mouse (Peronryscus leucopus), and golden mouse (Ochrotomys nuttalli). Early successional
habitats and weedy disturbed areas are expected to provide habitat for different insectivores, such
as least shrew (Cryptotis par va) and eastern mole (Scalopus aquaticus), and rodents such as the
meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus).
Bird species observed throughout the project study area include species commonly occurring in
both natural and anthropogenic habitats throughout North Carolina. Bird species observed
include pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus), blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata), American crow
(Corvus brachyrhynchos), tufted titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor), Carolina wren (Thryothorus
ludovicianus), American robin (Turdus migratorius), and northern cardinal (Cardinalis
cardinalis). Other species expected to occur within the project study area include a mix of
Jones Sausage Road Widening 7
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
species adapted to ecotonal and fragmented landscapes, as well as species requiring more
contiguous forested habitat.
No terrestrial reptiles were documented within the project study area. Common reptiles expected
to occur within the project study area include eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina), five-lined
skink (Eumeces fasciatus), eastern garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), and black racer (Coluber
constrictor). No terrestrial or arboreal amphibians were documented within the project study
area. Common terrestrial or arboreal amphibians expected to occur within the project study area
include American toad (Bufo americanus) and spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer).
Aquatic Wildlife
According to BasinPro Version 3.1, none of the streams within the project study area are
considered Significant Aquatic Endangered Species Habitat (NCGIA 2002). Significant Aquatic
Endangered Species Habitat identifies the extent of endangered or threatened species populations
and the tributaries and headwaters of their habitats (NCGIA 2002).
Aquatic avian species observed on-site include the great blue heron (Ardea herodias), Canada
goose (Branta canadensis), and wood duck (Aix sponsa).
Fish sampling was not conducted within the project study area. In addition, the waterbodies
within the project study area have not been sampled by the DWQ Biological Assessment Unit
(DWQ 2008b). Species expected to occur within the project study area include, but are not
limited to, American eel (Anguilla rostrata), eastern mosquitofish (GaMbusia holbrooki), bluegill
(Lepomis macrochirus), redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus), green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus),
swallowtail shiner (Notropls procne), satinfin shiner (Cyprinella analostana), white shiner
(Luxilus albeohss), and tessellated darter (Etheostoma oltnstedi) (DWQ 2008b).
Streams within the project study area provide riparian and benthic habitat for amphibians and
aquatic reptiles. No aquatic reptiles were observed within the project study area. Aquatic reptiles
expected to occur within the project study area include snapping turtle (Chelvdra setpentina),
painted turtle (Chiysemys pieta), and northern water snake (A'erodia sipedon). No aquatic
amphibians were observed within the project study area. Aquatic amphibians expected to occur
within the project study area include bullfrog (Runa catesbeiana), green frog (Rana clamitans),
and pickerel frog (Rana palustris).
6.0 CULTURAL RESOURCES
The term "cultural resources" refers to prehistoric or historic archaeological sites, structures, or
artifact deposits over 50 years old. "Significant" cultural resources are those sites that are eligible
or potentially eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (National
Register). Evaluations for cultural resources are required whenever a Section 404 permit
application is submitted to USACE. Evaluations of site significance are made with reference to
the eligibility criteria of the National Register (33 CFR 60) and in consultation with the North
Carolina State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO).
Coordination with the SHPO in 2003 for the Jones Sausage Road project study area (SHPO
Environmental Review Number ER 03-0724) resulted in a regulatory recommendation for an
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intensive archaeological survey. ESI conducted an intensive archaeological survey of the then-
proposed Jones Sausage Road project study area in April 2003 (Di Gregorio et al., 2003). That
investigation resulted in the recording of four new archaeological sites, none of which were
considered eligible for listing in the National Register.
The current project study area partially overlaps with the project study area of the 2003
archaeological survey; however, those portions of the current project study area that were not
covered by the 2003 archaeological survey are subject to SHPO review under Section 106 of the
National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). ESI will submit a regulatory coordination letter to
the SHPO to determine if the SHPO has any comment on the current project study area.
7.0 JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES
Jurisdictional Delineation
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) requires regulation of discharges into "Waters of the
United States." The principal administrative agency of the CWA is the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA); however the USACE has major responsibility for implementation,
CFR 320-330. Water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and streams are subject to jurisdictional
consideration under the Section 404 program. However, by regulation, wetlands are also
considered "Waters of the United States." Wetlands have been described as:
Those areas that are inundated or saturated by groundwater at a frequency and
duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a
prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.
Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas. [33 CFR
328.3(b) (1986)]
The 2007 "Rapanos" decision allows USACE and EPA to establish CWA jurisdiction under
one of two standards. The first standard upholds CWA jurisdiction if the water body is
"relatively permanent", and its adjacent wetlands directly abut the water body. The second
standard upholds jurisdiction if a water body, in combination with all wetlands adjacent to that
water body, has a "significant nexus" with traditional navigable waters.
• Relatively Permanent Waters - A water body is relatively permanent if its flow is year
round or its flow is continuous at least seasonally (e.g. three months). Wetlands adjacent
to a "relatively permanent" tributary are also jurisdictional if those wetlands directly abut
such a tributary.
• Adjacent - Defined by USACE and EPA as bordering, contiguous, or neighboring.
Wetlands separated from other waters of the U.S. by man-made dikes or barriers, berms,
or dunes and the like are adjacent.
• Abutting - Wetlands that are not separated from the tributary by an upland feature are
abutting.
• Significant Nexus - A water body will be determined to have a "significant nexus" if its
functions affect the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of a downstream
traditional navigable water.
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The USACE requires the presence of three parameters (hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and
evidence of jurisdictional hydrology) in support of a jurisdictional determination. All delineation
efforts were completed pursuant to current methodology outlined in the 1987 Army Corps of
Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual (DOA 1987). Streams and surface waters were
delineated pursuant to USAGE and DWQ criteria.
ESI biologists delineated the onsite wetlands associated with Jones Sausage Road in January
2003 with subsequent agency review by Eric Alsmeyer of USACE in February 2003. Steve
Mitchell of DWQ reviewed the Jones Sausage Road delineation in March 2003. In April 2008
ESI staff delineated the wetlands associated with the Rock Quarry Road and also re-visited those
wetlands flagged for Jones Sausage Road to make sure that the wetland boundaries had not
changed. DWQ reviewed the streams features associated with Rock Quarry Road in June 2008.
Figure 3 depicts the jurisdictional wetlands and surface waters occurring in the combined Jones
Sausage Road and Rock Quarry Road interchange project study area. Separate Natural Resource
teclinical Reports (NRTRs) were completed for the Jones Sausage Road study in 2003 and also
for the Rock Quarry Road study in 2008. As such, different labeling nomenclature was present in
the two NRTRs. To minimize confusion, the delineated features have been labeled according to
the NRTR in which they were first reported (i. e., JS-S 1 is Jones Sausage Rd Stream " 1). This is
depicted in Figures 3 and -.55.
Stream Importance
To aid in alternative analyses and to help determine stream mitigation requirements, the USACE
designates streams as either important or unimportant. Streams that have perennial flow,
associated wetlands, significant aquatic fauna, or associated Threatened and Endangered species
are generally considered to be important and impacts to these streams would require mitigation.
Intermittent streams may be considered important if the associated wetlands, significant aquatic
fauna, or Threatened and Endangered species criteria are met. Streams designated as unimportant
do not typically require mitigation. Unimportant streams tend to be very small intermittent
channels with undefined bed and bank or excavated ditches that have captured groundwater flow.
USACE has designated all on-site stream channels as Important due to their association with on-
site wetlands and surface waters except one intermittent stream located southeast of the existing
Jones Sausage Road intersection (USACE review 5 February 2003). This feature is labeled as JS-
S2 on Figure 3.
Neuse River Riparian Buffer Rules
Since the project study area is located within the Neuse River Drainage Basin, the stream
channels are subject to review per the Neuse River Riparian Buffer Rules. Tile Buffer Rules
apply to a 50-ft wide riparian buffer directly adjacent to surface waters in the Neuse River
Drainage Basin. This includes intermittent streams, perennial streams, lakes, ponds, and estuaries
that are depicted on either the most recent USGS topographic maps or county soil survey maps,
but does not include jurisdictional wetlands (non-surface waters) regulated under Section 404 of
the Clean Water Act.
The riparian buffer consists of two distinct zones. Zone 1 comprises a 30-ft wide area adjacent to
the surface water that cannot be disturbed except for those specific activities that are allowed by
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the Buffer Rules. Zone 2 comprises a 20-ft wide area adjacent to Zone I that is to be left
undisturbed except for those activities specifically allowed by the Buffer Rules.
Activities in the buffer area beyond the footprint of the existing use are classified as either
"exempt", "allowable", "allowable with mitigation", or "prohibited." Table 2 provides a list of
activities that may be subject to Buffer Rules within the project study area provided with their
classifications. Depending upon the final design, not all of the uses listed may apply, and other
uses not listed here, such as utility crossings and roadside drainage ditches, anion- others, may be
regulated under the Buffer Rules. Guidelines will be consulted in their entirety to review all
project related uses subject to the Buffer Rules.
Table 2. Activities That Mav Be Subiect to the reuse River Riparian Buffer Rules.
Use Exempt Allowable Allowable
With
Mitigation
Bridges X
Road crossings that impact less than or equal to X
40 linear ft
Road crossings that impact greater than 40 linear X
ft but less than or equal to 150 linear ft or 0.33 ac
of riparian area.
Road crossings that impact greater than 150 X
linear ft or greater than 0.33 ac of riparian buffer
Temporary roads used for bridge construction or X
replacement provided that restoration activities
such as soil stabilization and revegetation occur
immediately after construction.
Non-electric utility line - perpendicular crossings X
that disturb equal to or less than 40 linear ft of
riparian buffer with a maintenance corridor less
than or equal to 10 ft in width
Non-electric utility line - perpendicular crossings X
that disturb equal to or less than 40 linear ft of
riparian buffer with a maintenance corridor
greater than 10 ft in width
Non-electric utility line - perpendicular crossings X
that disturb greater than 40 but less than 150
linear ft of riparian buffer with a maintenance
corridor less than 10 ft in width
Non-electric utility line - perpendicular crossings X
that disturb greater than 40 but less than 150
linear ft of riparian buffer with a maintenance
corridor greater than 10 ft in width
Non-electric utility line - perpendicular crossings X
that disturb greater than 150 linear ft of riparian
buffer
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Activities deemed "exempt" will be designed, constructed, and maintained to minimize soil
disturbance and to provide the maximum water quality protection practicable. "Allowable"
activities may proceed within the riparian buffer provided that there are no practicable
alternatives to the requested use. Prior written authorization from the DWQ or delegated local
authority is required. Activities deemed "allowable with mitigation" may proceed within the
riparian buffer if there are no practicable alternatives to the requested use and an appropriate
mitigation strategy has been approved. Prior written authorization from the DWQ or delegated
local authority is required.
On 9 June 2008, ESI met with Martin Richmond (DWQ) to review the applicability of the Buffer
Rules for the proposed Rock Quarry Road portion of the project. RQR-SI, RQR-S2, and RQR-
S4 are subject to the Neuse River Riparian Buffer Rules (Figure 3). S3 is not depicted on either
the on either the most recent USGS topographic maps or county soil survey maps, therefore is not
subject to the Buffer Rules. In 2003, ESI delineated the Jones Sausage Road portion of the
project. The stream origin point delineated by ESI for JS-S2 (originally called S2 during the
2003 delineation and buffer review) was approved in a letter dated 3 April 2003 by Steve
Mitchell (DWQ). Therefore, only the delineated portion of JS-S2 is subject to the Buffer Rules.
8.0 JURISDICTIONAL IMPACTS
Wetlands and Streams
In accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the CWA (33 U.S.C. 1344), a permit will be
required from the USACE for the discharge of dredged or fill material into "Waters of the United
States." Section 401 of the CWA (33 U.S.C. 1341) requires each state to certify that state water
quality standards will not be violated for activities which: 1) involve issuance of a federal permit
or license; or 2) require discharges to "waters of the United States." The use of a Section 404
permit requires the prior issuance of the 401 certification. Therefore, the applicant must also
apply to DWQ for the 401 certification. This process is typically handled as a joint permit
application to both the USACE and DWQ.
The Jones Sausage Road Widening and Realignment project will entail unavoidable impacts to
riparian wetlands. Permanent wetland impacts will result from realignments and expanded fill
slopes necessary to accommodate the road improvements. A sewer line crossing is also proposed
to be placed on the north side of the expanded Rock Quarry Road where it crosses Big Branch.
The project will also entail unavoidable impacts to intermittent and perennial stream channels.
Stream impacts will result from realignments, expanded fill slopes necessary to accommodate the
road improvements, and installation of larger box culverts to accommodate flow. Table 3
summarizes the proposed impacts associated with this project. The individual wetland and stream
impact areas are provided at the end of the report. Rounding incurs a minor deviation between
the individual amounts and the totals presented in Table 3 (e.g., some individual impacts are
<0.01 ac).
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Tnhlp I Wvtlnnrl and fitrenm Imnact Summarv.
Riparian Wetland Perennial Stream Unimportant
Impact (ac) Impact (ft) Intermittent
Stream Impact (ft)
Road Impro""'" y ?
Permanent impacts ';;>
3.03
72.5
15',
Temporary impacts
Sewer Easement 0.20 -- -
Temporary Impacts 0.26 26 -
Amount Requiring 3.03 725 --
Mitigation
Amount Not Requiring 0.46 26 153
Mitigation'
Note: The sewer line will be directionally bored under trig tsrancn to avoia permanent IntpacLs.
1 No mitigation is being proposed for the temporary wetland impacts resulting from the new sewer line or the
temporary sediment basins. The temporary impacts from the sediment basins will be returned to prc-construction
contours and replanted with native vegetation.
Riparian Buffer Impacts
Impacts to onsite riparian buffers will result from additional clearing that is necessary to facilitate
the construction of the new location, and the expanded rights-of-way for the proposed roadway
improvements. These proposed riparian buffer impacts consist of 1.15 acres of impact to Zone 1
and 0.69 acres of impact to Zone 2. These impacts are depicted in Figure 5. A total of 1.84 acres
of riparian buffer will be affected by this project. Of this total, approximately 0.14 acre will not
be permanently impacted, but be within the permanently maintained sewer easement located
north of the proposed new bridge structure.
9.0 MITIGATION
Mitigation has been defined in National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations to include
efforts which: a) avoid; b) minimize; c) rectify; d) reduce or eliminate; or e) compensate for
adverse impacts to the environment [40 CFR 1508.20 (a-e)]. Mitigation of wetland impacts is
recommended in accordance with Section 404(b)(1) Guidelines of the CWA (40 CFR 230),
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) step-down procedures (23 CFR 777.1 et seq.),
mitigation policy mandates articulated in the USACE/EPA Memorandum of Agreement (MOA),
Executive Order 11990 (42 FR 26961) (1977), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
mitigation policy directives (46 FR 7644-7663) (1981).
Section 404(b)(1) Guidelines, the USACE/EPA MOA, and Executive Order 11990, stress
avoidance and minimization as primary considerations for protection of wetlands. Practicable
alternatives analyses must be fully evaluated before compensatory mitigation can be discussed.
The USFWS policy also emphasizes avoidance and minimization. However, for unavoidable
losses, the USFWS recommends that mitigation efforts be based on the value and scarcity of the
habitat at risk.
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USACE has a wetlands policy based on "no net loss" of function, and generally requires
mitigation to offset wetland impacts, and stream impacts exceeding 150 linear feet of important
channel. NCDWQ requires wetland mitigation for impacts greater than one acre. As of October
16, 2009, NCDWQ will begin requiring mitigation for intermittent stream impacts in addition to
their current requirement for perennial stream impacts. For linear transportation projects, this
new NCDWQ mitigation policy will be applied on a per-stream basis, not on a project-wide basis.
Avoidance and Minimization
The appropriate roadway design is critical to allow the remainder of the project study area to be
properly planned and designed. The design team believes that the roadway design presented in
this permit application and report represents the most practicable and least environmentally
damaging alternative while still maintaining the applicant's purpose and need and also meeting
engineering requirements set forth by the City of Raleigh and NCDOT. Completely avoiding
wetland and stream impacts from road crossings is not possible due to the existing road locations
and the abundance of jurisdictional areas. The position of the wetlands and streams in the
landscape makes it virtually impossible to avoid any jurisdictional impacts. The City of Raleigh
and the design team has made tremendous efforts to reduce the amount of unavoidable impacts to
wetlands, streams, and riparian buffers. Road alignments have been modified where feasible.
Discussions with USAGE and DWQ have occurred at various times to discuss avoidance and
minimization measures including discussions regarding bridges versus box culverts.
Compensatory Mitigation - The applicant is proposing a combination of compensatory
mitigation measures to offset the unavoidable loss of jurisdictional areas resulting from the ones
Sausage Road Widening and Realignment project. Initially, an evaluation of onsite mitigation
potential was conducted to determine if the Jones Sausage Road causeway could be removed after
construction is completed. This proposed action was abandoned due to the amount of subsurface
utilities located within the causeway. The expense of relocating these utilities is not practicable
to the City of Raleigh at this time.
Mitigation ratios for the stream impacts have been identified as 1:1 based on USACE guidance.
The City must mitigate for 725 linear feet of stream impact. The City is proposing to utilize 639
feet of stream restoration credit resulting from the Maple Ridge Stream Restoration project as
p!U-aTm-itigaton for the impacts ineurred-herein.-Tlie remaining 86 feet of stream impact will be
mitigated for either through a private mitigation bank or through the N.C. Ecosystem
Enhancement Program (NCEEP).
Mitigation ratios for wetland impacts will range from 1:1 to 2:1, likely depending on the quality
and function of the particular wetland impact area. Currently, it appears that the City is proposing
to utilize either a private mitigation bank of NCEEP for the wetland mitigation associated with
this project. More detailed information regarding the compensatory mitigation plan will be
submitted under separate cover once the final details and negotiations have been addressed.
Additional Mitigative Measures
Stormwater Management - The stormwater management for the roadway and bridge
improvements has been designed to meet NCDOT standards. Specifications are provided in the
detailed design plans prepared by the project engineer.

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Sedimentation Control - Temporary construction impacts due to erosion and sedimentation will
be minimized through implementation of stringent erosion control schedules and use of best
management practices. The contractor will be required to follow contract specifications
pertaining to erosion control measures (as outlined in 23 CFR 650, Subpart B and Article 107-13)
entitled Control of Erosion, Siltation, and Pollution (NCDOT, Specifications for Roads and
Structures). Temporary wetland impacts will result from the construction of temporary sediment
basins. These impact areas will be returned to pre-construction contours and replanted with
native vegetation. These measures include:
• Use of dikes, berms. silt basins, and other containment measures to control runoff during
construction. Regular maintenance and inspection of these structures is recommended to
insure effectiveness.
• Elimination of construction staging areas in floodplains or adjacent to small streams and
tributaries will help reduce the potential for petroleum contamination or discharges of
other hazardous materials into receiving waters.
• Rapid re-seeding of disturbed sites to help alleviate sediment loadings and reduce runoff.
Increased runoff from new highway construction surfaces can be partially mitigated by
providing grassed road shoulders and limited use of ditching.
• Careful management and use of herbicides, pesticides, de-icing compounds, or other
chemical constituents will minimize potential negative impacts on water quality.
Roadside maintenance crews should be well versed in the use of these chemicals.
• Avoid direct discharges into streams wherever feasible. Runoff effluent should be
allowed to filter through roadside vegetation in order to remove contaminants and to
minimize runoff velocities.
• Comprehensive erosion and sediment control practices will be applied throughout the
project to protect aquatic resources.
10.0 PROTECTED SPECIES
Federal Protected Species
Species with the federal classification of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), or officially Proposed
(P) for such listing, receive protection under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 US 1531 et
secy.) as amended. The most recent list prepared by the USFWS is dated January 31, 2008
(internet update). This list indicates that four endangered species that receive federal protection
have ranges considered to extend into Wake County. Table 4 lists these four species. Records
held by the NCNEP were reviewed by ESI in December 2002, April 2008, and updated in
October 2009 to determine if any federal protected species have been documented from the
project study area or the surrounding vicinity.
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Table 4. Federal Protected Species for Wake County, North Carolina

Common Name
Scientific Name Federal
Status 7 Habitat
1 Biological
Conclusion
Bald Eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus BGPAa No No Effect
Red-cockaded
woodpecker Picoides borealis Endangered No No Effect
Dwarf wedgemussel Alasinidonta heterodon Endangered No No Effect
Michaux's sumac Rims InichcmYii Endangered Yes MA-NLAA
a - Removed from federal Endangered Species list; remains protected by the Bald and Ciolden Eagle
Protection Act
b - MA-NLAA - May Affect - Not Likely to Adversely Affect.
Bald eagle - Bald eagles are large raptors that typically feed on fish but may also consume birds
and small mammals. In the Carolinas, nesting season extends from December through May
(Potter et al. 1980). Bald eagles typically nest in tall, living trees in a conspicuous location near
water and forage over large bodies of water with adjacent trees available for perching (Hamel
1992).
The bald eagle was officially delisted and removed from the federal Endangered Species List in
2007; therefore, a biological conclusion is no longer necessary for this species. They are still
protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
The National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines (2007) restrict disturbance activities within a
primary zone extending 330 to 660 ft outward from a nest tree, which is considered critical for
maintaining acceptable conditions for bald eagles (USFWS 2007). Accordingly, bald eagle
occurrences and nesting habitat were surveyed.
A review of NHP records indicates that the bald eagle has not been documented within 1.0 mile
of the project study area (NCNHP 2009). No individuals or nesting sites were observed within
660 ft of the project limits during the field investigation. This project will therefore have no
adverse effects on the bald eagle.
Red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) - The red-cockaded woodpecker is 7 to 8.5 inches long, has
a black head, prominent white cheek patch, and a black-and-white barred back. Males often have
red markings (cockades) behind the eye, but the cockades may be absent or difficult to see (Potter
et al. 1980). Primary habitat consists of mature to over-mature southern pine forests dominated
by loblolly, loner leaf (P. palusiris), slash (P. elliotii), and pond (P. serotina) pines (Henry 1989).
Primary nest sites for RCWs include open pine stands greater than 60 years of age with little or
no mid-story development. Nest cavity trees tend to occur in clusters, which are referred to as
colonies (USFWS 2003). Optimal foraging habitat is comprised of open pine stands with large
pines 60 years old or greater, low densities of small or medium pines, sparse or no hardwood
midstory, and various species of bunchgass for groundcover (USFWS 2003). However, open
pine or pine/mixed hardwood stands over 30 years of age are considered potential foraging
habitat (Henry 1989). Pine flatwoods or pine-dominated savannas, which have been maintained
by frequent natural fires, serve as ideal nesting and foraging sites for this woodpecker.
Development of a thick understory may result in abandonment of cavity trees. The woodpecker
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drills holes into the bark around the cavity entrance, resulting in a shiny, resinous buildup around
the entrance that allows for easy detection of active nest trees (Henry 1989).
According to NCN-HP records, there is no documentation of RCW within 1.0 mile of the project
study area (NCNHP 2009). The pine stands within the project study area are young, small in areal
extent, and do not provide potential foraging or nesting habitat. These pines are not contiguous
with large stands of pines due to the urban nature of the project vicinity. Therefore, potentially
suitable habitat for the RCW is not present within the project study area and the proposed project
will have no effect on this species.
BIOLOGICAL, CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
Dwarf wedgemussel - The dwarf wedgemussel rarely exceeds 1.5 inches in length. The outer
shell is brown or yellowish brown with faint green rays, and the nacre is bluish or silvery white.
The shells of the females are somewhat wider than those of males. This species typically inhabits
streams with moderate flow velocities and substrates varying in texture from gravel and coarse
sand to mud with little silt deposition (USFWS 1993a). It is generally found in association with
other mussels but is never very numerous. As with other mussel species, the dwarf wedgemussel
has suffered from excess siltation in streams and rivers and from the toxic effects of various
pollutants entering waterways.
No known occurrences of the dwarf wedgemussel have been documented within 1.0 mile of the
project study area (NCNILP 2009). A field evaluation of the perennial channels in the project
study area shows bank erosion, unstable substrate, and excessive siltation that is not typical of
dwarf wedgemussel habitat. The impounded streams within the project study area do not provide
suitable habitat for dwarf wedgemussel. No mussel middens or live unionid mussels were
observed along Big Branch. The stream channel habitat present in Big Branch is degraded and
does not provide habitat for the dwarf %vedcyemussel. This project will not affect dwarf
wedgemussel.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT
Michaux's smac - Michaux's sumac is a rhizomatous, densely hairy shrub one to three feet tall.
Flowering usually occurs from June to July. This species grows in disturbed areas where
competition is reduced by periodic fire or other disturbances, and may grow along roadside
margins or utility rights-of-way. Michaux's sumac appears to prefer sandy or rocky substrates
consisting of basic soils (USFWS 1993b).
No known occurrences of the Michaux's sumac have been documented within 1.0 mile of the
project study area (NCN-IP 2009). The closest documented population is located approximately
1.5 miles northeast of the project study area. Potentially suitable habitat for this species within
the project study area, consisting of open and disturbed upland areas such as roadsides and sewer
lines, was systematically surveyed on 8 May 2008 by ESI biologists Gail Tyner, Robert Turnbull,
and Todd Milam. A reference population of Michaux's sumac was reviewed on 7 May 2008
prior to the survey to confirm the vegetative status of this species as it relates to local conditions.
Based on the survey of all potentially suitable habitat, Michaux's sumac does not occur in the
project study area and no impacts to this species are expected as a result of this project. Based on
recent guidance for determining Biological Conclusions, a"May Affect" conclusion is warranted
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by the presence of potentially suitable habitat. The "?`Tot Likely to Adversely Affect" conclusion
is based on the apparent absence of this species within the potentially suitable habitat identified.
USFWS concurrence is required for a May Affect-Not Likely to Adversely Affect determination.
This can typically be addressed by submittal of a letter to USFWS.
BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: MAY AFFECT-NOT LIKELY TO ADVERSELY AFFECT
11.0 ENVIRONM. ENTAL AND PUBLIC INTEREST FACTORS
Physical/Chemical Characteristics and Anticipated Changes
Substrate - Eartlunoving will occur; however, no significant changes to the general substrate are
anticipated other than what is necessary for construction and landscaping.
Currents, Circulation, or Drainage Patterns - Wetland, stream, and surface water impacts are
proposed; however, no significant changes to the overall circulation and drainage of the project
vicinity are anticipated.
Suspended Particulates and Turbidity - The approved Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan
will be strictly enforced to maintain state water quality standards during construction.
Water Quality - The overall, long-term water quality should not be affected by the proposed
project due to the use of stormwater BMPs and erosion and sedimentation control devices.
Flood Control Functions -Alterations to the site will not result in a reduction of flood control
functions based on analysis conducted by the City of Raleigh and the project engineers.
Storm, Wave and Erosion Buffers -Not Applicable
Aquifer Recharge - Not Applicable
Baseflow - Not Applicable
Biological Characteristics and Anticipated Changes
Special Aquatic Sites - Certain unavoidable impacts to wetlands, streams, and surface waters will
result from this project; however, impacts have been minimized as much as practicable.
Habitat for Fish and Other Aquatic Organisms - Appropriate culverts and pipes will be used for
road crossings that allow for aquatic life passage. Some habitat will be lost due to the fill impacts
associated with this project.
Wildlife Habitat - The project study area is already experiencing habitat fragmentation. Those
species occurring in the area are adaptable to fragmented landscapes.
Endangered or Threatened Species -No impacts to federally protected species are anticipated.
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Human Use Characteristics and Impacts
Existing and Potential Water Supplies - No change anticipated.
Recreational or Commercial Fisheries - No change anticipated.
Other Water Related Recreation - No change anticipated.
Aesthetics of Aquatic Enos} stem - No change anticipated.
Parks, National and Historic Properties, etc. - No change anticipated. Information regarding
coordination between ESI and SHPO is discussed in Section 6.0.
Traffic/Transportation Patterns - Improved traffic capacity and intersection safety will result
from this project.
Energy Consumption/Generation - No change anticipated.
Navigation - No change anticipated.
Safety -No change anticipated.
Air Quality - Temporary impacts resulting from construction.
Noise - Temporary impacts resulting from construction.
Historic Properties - No change anticipated. Information regarding coordination between ESI
and SHPO is discussed in Section 6,0,
Land Use Classification - No change anticipated. The design team and applicant have dealt with
zoning issues.
Economics - No change anticipated.
Property Values - Unknown at this time.
Regional Growth - No change anticipated
Tax Revenues - No change anticipated
Employment - No long-term change anticipated.
Public Facilities - Not applicable.
Business Activity-No change anticipated.
Jones Sausage Road Widening 19
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
Prime and Unique Farmland -No change anticipated.
Food and Fiber Production - No change anticipated.
Water Quantity - No change anticipated.
Mineral Needs - No change anticipated.
Consideration of Private Property - No change anticipated.
Community Cohesion - No change anticipated.
Community Growth and Development - No change anticipated.
Relocations -No relocations are anticipated.
Recreation - Not applicable.
12.0 Secondary and Cumulative Impacts
The surrounding area is currently being developed and is slated for future development. The
proposed project is needed to meet the current and future traffic demands of the area. The
secondary and cumulative impacts associated with the Jones Sausage Road Widening and
Realignment are expected to be negligible. The future impacts should be similar in nature to
existing conditions, except there will be improved traffic capacity and safety. Improvements
associated with the jurisdictional crossings should improve floodplain connectivity and function
for the Big Branch ecosvstem.
13.0 REFERENCES
Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Goblet, and E.T. Laroe. 1979. Classification of Wetland and
Deepwater Habitats of the United States. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USFWS/OBS
79/31. U. S. Department of Interior. 131 pp.
Di Gregorio, Giampaolo, Scott Seibel, and Greg C. Smith. 2003. Intensive Cultural Resource
Investigation: Jones Sausage Road, Wake County, North Carolina. Environmental
Services, Inc., Report of Investigations No. 384, Raleigh, North Carolina. 57 pp.
[DOA] Department of the Army. 1987. Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual.
Tech. Rpt. Y-87-1. Waterways Experiment Station, Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg,
Mississippi. 100 pp. + appendices.
[DWQ] Division of Water Quality. 2006. Neuse River Basinwide Assessment Report.
hM://h2o enr state.ne.state.nc.us/esb/Basinwide/neuseO6BasinReportFinal.pdf Accessed
in April 2008.
[DWQ] Division of Water Quality. 2008a. Basinwide Information Management System (BIMS):
Stream Classification. http•/ih2o.enr.state.nc.us/bims/Reports/reports.litml Accessed
April 2008.
Jones Sausage Road Widening 20
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
[DWQ] Division of Water Quality. 2008b. NCIBI Data.
httQ//w-ww.esb.enr.state.nc.us/NCIBI.htm Accessed April 2008.
[DWQ] Division of Water Quality. 2008c. Active NPDES Permits.
http://l12o.enr.state.nc.us/NPDES/documents/BIIMS 0660106.xls Accessed April 2008.
Hamel, P.B. 1992. Land Manager's Guide to the Birds of the South. The Nature Conservancy,
Southeastern Region, Chapel Hill, NC. 437 pp.
Henry, V. G. 1989. Guidelines for Preparation of Biological Assessments and Evaluations for
the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker. U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region,
Atlanta, Georgia. 13pp.
Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey, and J.R. Harrison III. 1980. Amphibians and Reptiles
of the Carolinas and Virginia. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC.
264 pp.
[NCNHP] North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. 2009. Records review for documented
occurrences of federally-listed and state-listed species within 1.0 mile of the project study
area. Access 6 October 2009.
[NCGIA] North Carolina Center for Geographic Information and Analysis 2002. Basin Pro:
Significant Aquatic Endangered Species Habitat. Version 3.1.
Potter, E.F., J.F. Parnell, and R.P. Teulings. 1980. Birds of the Carolinas. The University of
North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 408 pp.
Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles and C.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas.
The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 118' pp.
Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North
Carolina: Third Approximation. North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, Division of
Parks and Recreation; NC Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources,
Ralci,7h, NC. 325 pp.
[USDA] United States Department of Agriculture. 1970. Natural Resources Conservation
Service. Soil Survey of Wake County, North Carolina. 118 pp.
[USFWS] U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1993a. Dwarf Wedge Mussel Recovery Plan. U.S.
Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Hadley, MA. 52 pp.
[USFWS] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1993b. Michaux's Sumac Recovery Plan. Atlanta,
Georgia. 30 pp.
[USFWS] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2003. Recovery plan for the red-cockaded
Woodpecker (Picoides borealis): second revision. U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Jones Sausage Road Widening 21
And Realignment
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, INC.
Service, Atlanta, GA. 296pp.
[USFWS] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007. National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines.
U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. 23 pp.
[USGS] United States Geological Survey. 1974. Hydrologic Units Map, State of North Carolina.
[USGS] United States Geological Survey. 1987. Garner, NC 7.5-minute topographic
quadrangle.
[USGS] United States Geological Survey. 1993. Digital Orthophoto Quadrangle. Gamer, NC.
Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell, and W.C. Biggs, Jr. 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, Virginia, and
Maryland. The University of North Carolina Press, Chapel Hill, NC. 255 pp.
14.0 FIGURES
Figure 1: Location Map
Figure 2: Soils Map
Figure 3: Jurisdictional Area Map
Figure 4: Approximate Jurisdictional Impact Areas
Figure 5: Approximate Buffer Impact Areas
Jones Sausage Road Widening 22
And Realignment
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Label Cowardin Type Tern orary/Permanent 1 Area
A-I PF05 Wetland Perm 0.81
B-1 PFO1 Wetland Perm U.36
C-1 PFO1 Wetland Perm 0.07
C-2 PFOI Weiland Perm 0.13
C-3 PFO1 Wetland Perm <0.01
D-1 PF05 Wetland Perm 1.56
E-1 PFO1 Wetland Perm 0.02
E-2 PFO1 Wetland Perm 0.09
F-1 PF05 Wetland Perm <0.01
A-2 PF05 Wetland Temp 0.07
A-4 PF05 Wetland Temp <0.01
B-3 PFO1 Wetland Temp 0.01
D-2 PF05 Wetland Temp 0.06
D-3 PF05 Wetland Temp 0.03
D-4 PF05 Wetland Temp <0.01
E-3 PFO1 Wetland Temp 0.02
A-3 PF05 Wetland Temp Sewer 0.21
B-2 PFOI Wetland Temp Sewer 0.05

Label UP Type Tern orar-y/Permanent Length
G-1 Perennial Stream Perm 127
H-1 Perennial Stream Penn 216
H-2 Perennial Stream Penn 40
H-3 Perennial Stream Perm 84
I-1 Perennial Stream Perm 258
J-1 Intermittent Stream Perm 153
G-1 Perennial Stream Temp Sewer 26
PFOl-palustrine forested. broad-leaved deciduous
PF05-palustrine forested. dead (due to periodic and often long teen beaver inundation)
13
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EMergld
Project Boundary. 1; •? ? „?\? (? ?S?' ?a (j :; , l ?l ?? w
O
'Location and extent is approximate.
0 1000 2000 Lv 1 1 ,, ??? ?) I I A11 1
ff Golf. o 11?' J ' \1' ' ?,; \\\, 'r
Feet \.? ' t ri?'1 • ' t .?I,? ?1 ?l i , \. \)'
Source: USGS Dig" Rester Graphics. Garner ti.. l ? I'?, ( •,I 1.' ?l//'? ? -/'? -_ ? ?' ' t.? \ ."?1, ?• `•?`1 i ; ' • \ '?
and Raleigh East NC Quadrangles, 11199; pa? 1 )I , Il \ /N ` .1 11 )
Project boundary provided try Wilbur Smith Y t I ,1'.11` 1 ' l\, .:?? '? I l f!{ 1 ,\ 1
Associates. ?`- I I - ', / {1 f M ,
d. wnw Tn. h,- n wn d.pin.d On Wk to- I. for I \. \? ' . ' ?'`x? • ?'?.
Mortnre'anal paaposa. ony .rd w.a rw pr,!p.red t«. . /y?/. I ,, r , \? _.y?r - f ..-?s' `, . 1 r 1 ? , y'
and b r1d w1taWe for legal or NlpineerFi9 plapo.es. *" "' A • 1 / `?:J \ ti \. • I\1`I??, ' _ I . r Il
ENVIRONMENTAL General Project Location Project: ER06166.00
SERVICES, INC. Jones Sausage Road Date: Oct 2009
624S No. N.w"." Hop. Road
Ra'a'gn. North Laro'na 21610
1919) 212-17so Drwn/Chkd: KT/GT
widening and Realignment
[phone] FAX
„,„;'enurwrmenr fswwosnp.CMr Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina Figure: 1
P 1GeoGr.IPrn?ecra1E R0618B.OOU.ISIFM lac V2 du+: 10/1199: 1100 Au