HomeMy WebLinkAbout20201086 Ver 1_G3c_U-5026 ICELUSA_FINAL_6-1-11_20200825Indirect and Cumulative Effects &
Land Use Scenario Assessment Report
TIP PROJECT NO. U-5026
I-95 / SUNSET AVENUE INTERCHANGE
NASH COUNTY
Prepared for:
North Carolina Department of Transportation
Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
Prepared by:
Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc.
3001 Weston Parkway
Cary, North Carolina, 27513
June 1, 2011
Project U‐5026 i Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ...................................................................................................................... S‐1
1. Background .............................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Project Overview ......................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Study Areas .................................................................................................................. 1
1.3 Time Horizon ............................................................................................................... 2
1.4 Past, Present, and Future Projects .............................................................................. 2
2. Transportation Impact Causing Activities ................................................................................ 4
3. Existing Environment ............................................................................................................... 6
3.1 Population and Economic Growth ............................................................................... 6
3.2 Available Land .............................................................................................................. 7
3.3 Municipal Utilities ........................................................................................................ 8
3.4 Notable Features ......................................................................................................... 9
4. Market for Development ....................................................................................................... 10
4.1 Current Development Pressures ............................................................................... 10
4.2 Development Market Assumptions ........................................................................... 11
5. Growth Management and Local Policies ............................................................................... 11
5.1 Growth Management Plans and Regulations ............................................................ 11
5.2 Land Use and Transportation Plans ........................................................................... 12
6. Indirect and Cumulative Effects Screening ............................................................................ 14
6.1 Indirect Effects ........................................................................................................... 14
7. Probable Development Scenarios ......................................................................................... 17
7.1 Probable Development Area 1 .................................................................................. 18
7.2 Probable Development Area 2 .................................................................................. 19
7.3 Probable Development Area 3 .................................................................................. 19
7.4 Probable Development Area 4 .................................................................................. 20
7.5 Probable Development Area 5 .................................................................................. 20
8. Land Use Scenario Assessment Matrix .................................................................................. 21
9. Water Quality Statement ...................................................................................................... 24
10. Cumulative Effects ............................................................................................................. 25
References ..................................................................................................................................... 27
Project U‐5026 S‐1 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
Executive Summary
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to construct a new
interchange at I‐95 at Sunset Avenue (SR 1770), at the western border of the City of Rocky
Mount in Nash County. The existing ramps for the US 64 interchange (referred to as a collector‐
distributor system in the Merger Screening Meeting packet) will be widened and extended on
both sides of I‐95 from the US 64 interchange through the proposed Sunset Avenue interchange.
These ramps serve as auxiliary lanes, and do not provide access to adjacent parcels or cross
streets. Currently Sunset Avenue is grade‐separated from I‐95. Sunset Avenue does not have
existing control of access, but will have full control of access through the interchange once the
project is constructed. The purpose of this interchange project is to provide direct access to I‐95
for Sunset Avenue (SR 1770) in support of an economic development initiative in the Rocky
Mount area.
The indirect land use screening report for this project looked at the potential for development
and possible trends in the period of time between now and the year 2025. Construction is not
scheduled in the NCDOT Draft 2011‐2020 STIP.
Forecasted Population and Employment Growth
Population growth in the Demographic Study Area (Nash County) is anticipated to be
approximately 1.7 percent per year through 2020. Also, as the roadway infrastructure improves
and the economy improves, more growth is anticipated along these corridors within the FLUSA
because of relatively easy commutes.
Local planners expect slow but steady employment growth in the next 10 to 20 years, likely less
than the Employment and Securities Commission projections of 1.2 percent per year.
Notable Environmental Features
Several streams cross through the FLUSA, many of which are tributaries of the Tar River. The
FLUSA is partially within two protected public water supply watersheds (WSWs), and a small
portion in the southwest corner of the FLUSA is within a critical WSW. Stony Creek (Boddies
Millpond) is listed on the NCDWQ 2010 Final 303(d) list of impaired waters. There are no Wild &
Scenic Rivers or waters on the Nationwide Rivers Inventory (NRI) in the FLUSA. The entire Tar‐
Pamlico River Basin has been classified as nutrient sensitive waters (NSW). There are no high
quality waters (HQW) or outstanding resource waters (ORW) in the FLUSA. Portions of the Tar‐
Pamlico River Basin in the FLUSA have been identified as a Targeted Local Watershed by the
Ecosystem Enhancement Program (EEP), which is an area with an identified need for
restoration. The project crosses several wetland and floodplain areas.
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June 2011
Market for Development
The purpose of this project is to encourage economic development in the Rocky Mount area.
This area has been identified in the Rocky Mount Together Tomorrow plan as a Smart Growth
Area. Although some development would likely occur without the interchange, local planners
expect the new access point to accelerate the pace and level of development in this area.
This project will convert the grade‐separated crossing of Sunset Avenue over I‐95 to a full‐access
interchange. Currently Sunset Avenue does not have any control of access. Once the
interchange is built, there will be full control of access through the interchange except at the
ramps, but no other changes in access along Sunset Avenue or I‐95. The new interchange will
provide additional exposure to parcels in all four quadrants as a result of increased traffic
anticipated to result from this project. This is likely to also increase exposure for parcels further
along Sunset Avenue, which may experience higher traffic volumes as well. This project is
expected to facilitate growth of a land use node at this location.
Indirect Effects Summary
This project will upgrade a grade‐separated intersection to a full‐access interchange on I‐95 at
Sunset Avenue. This project would result in a minor decrease in travel time for most drivers,
and would improve access and exposure to properties along I‐95, Sunset Avenue, and US 64.
There are approximately 17,000 acres of undeveloped/unconstrained land in the Future Land
Use Study Area (FLUSA) which is 68% of the approximately 25,000 acres of total land in the
FLUSA. Water and sewer services are both available. Development activity is expected to be
slow but steady, with notable growth likely as a result of this project. Much of the anticipated
development is related to the interchange, although some growth will occur regardless of this
project.
Nash County and the City of Rocky Mount have land use and transportation plans that include
some development regulations. Rocky Mount’s Comprehensive Plan, Together Tomorrow,
describes targeted growth areas, where the City is focusing its efforts to expand infrastructure
and public services. It led to implementation of the current Land Development Code project,
which addresses floodplain issues, open space planning, and development standards for
subdivisions and commercial construction. The Nash County Land Development Plan includes
objectives to protect watersheds, provide adequate water and wastewater services, and
preserve prime agricultural land and viable agricultural activities. The FLUSA is within a
designated NPDES Phase II area and must conform with a NSW Strategy. It is partially within
two protected public water supply watersheds (WSWs), and a small portion in the southwest
corner of the FLUSA is within a critical WSW. A 50‐foot wide buffer is required along waterways
in the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin. The City of Rocky Mount’s Stormwater Management Plan
establishes the methods by which the City will comply with the Tar‐Pamlico stormwater rule, the
NPDES Phase II regulations, and the Water Supply Watershed regulations. The City also has a
locally delegated Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program. Some of the specific
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June 2011
requirements in the Stormwater Management Plan include requiring a maintenance plan if Best
Management Practices (BMPs) are implemented with a development, preventing and removing
illegal discharges, identifying and prioritizing places within existing developed areas suitable for
retrofits, and conducting public education.
Nash County has stormwater rules controlling stormwater flows and nitrogen and phosphorus
discharges. Nash County also has development ordinances including watershed protection and
flood hazard overlays.
Overall, this project is expected to have moderate indirect effects. The screening tool resulted
in a conclusion of Possible Indirect Scenario Assessment. Therefore, a Land Use Scenario
Assessment has been developed to further investigate water quality impacts,
Indirect Land Use Summary
The FLUSA has had slow but steady growth, due in part to pressure from growth in the Triangle
according to local planners. Few development incentives are available by the City of Rocky
Mount, and development has been largely residential with a small number of new businesses to
support the residents.
This project is on the western edge of Rocky Mount, which is one of the areas identified for
higher growth. Some future growth is expected to continue in this area regardless of this
project, but likely occur with greater intensity and sooner with the addition of an interchange on
I‐95 and Sunset Avenue. Based on land use assumptions in this analysis, there is expected to be
approximately 25% more developed area in the Probable Development Areas (PDAs) in the
future no‐build scenario compared with existing conditions, with an additional 15% more
developed area in the build scenario. These predictions are calculated from parcel‐level
development assumptions based on future growth patterns noted by local planners.
Development in the no‐build scenario would likely be primarily residential. In the build scenario,
local planners anticipate new large retail in the northwest quadrant of the interchange and
redevelopment of the Layton Mobile Home Park in the southwest quadrant to either residential
or commercial, potentially with higher density.
This project is not expected to have a long‐term impact on water quality in the project area.
Cumulative Effects Summary
Development in the Probable Development Areas in the past few years includes development
and expansion of the Carriage Pond and Stone Gate neighborhoods, development of and
expansion of industrial facilities between Dozier Road and I‐95, and development and
redevelopment of commercial properties along Sunset Avenue west of I‐95. Nash Community
College has developed, expanded, and is planning to continue growing in the future by adding
buildings and acquiring property, and a new fire station has recently been built on Sunset
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Avenue west of Old Carriage Road. Specific developments are shown in the Land Use figure in
the CIA Update (February 2011).
Future infrastructure and development projects are anticipated at a slow but steady pace. The
wastewater treatment plant for Rocky Mount and surrounding communities has capacity of 21
million gallons per day (mgd), and currently uses 49 percent of that (10.3 mgd). There are no
plans to extend the treatment capacity for Rocky Mount. The City has taken a preliminary look
at providing sewer to parcels between Dozier Road and US 64 in the northwest quadrant, but
has not developed a specific plan or identified funding. Service would likely go across US 64 to
the existing Stony Creek outfall. The City does not have a map available showing potential
future expansions.
The city’s two water treatment plants have a combined capacity of 26 mgd. Demand was 10.5
mgd in 2010 (40 percent). There are no plans to extend these plants’ treatment capacity.
Future water lines are proposed along Oak Level Road, Old Carriage Road, and Old Spring Hope
Road, eventually connecting the Nash High School to the main line along Halifax Road. Water
service in vicinity of Sunset Avenue Exchange is provided by City of Rocky Mount. The City does
not have a map available showing potential future expansions.
This project is expected to result in a minor decrease in travel time for most travelers, but will
increase access and exposure to properties near the new interchange.
Direct natural environmental impacts by NCDOT projects will be addressed by avoidance,
minimization, or mitigation, consistent with programmatic agreements with the natural
resource agencies during the Merger and Permitting processes. Construction‐related
environmental effects in this area may include wetland or stream impacts. All developments
will be required to follow local, state, and federal guidelines and permitting regulations.
The new interchange will encourage residential and commercial development in the area, and
will contribute to cumulative effects to environmental resources in the FLUSA, such as increased
stormwater and water quality impacts. Impacts will be minimized through compliance with
local and state regulations. The FLUSA is within a designated NPDES Phase II area and must
conform with a NSW Strategy which includes agricultural and stormwater rules. It is partially
within two protected public water supply watersheds (WSWs), and a small portion in the
southwest corner of the FLUSA is within a critical WSW. A 50‐foot wide buffer is required along
waterways in the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin. The City of Rocky Mount’s Stormwater Management
Plan and Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program ensure development in the City complies
with the Tar‐Pamlico stormwater rule, the NPDES Phase II regulations, and the Water Supply
Watershed regulations.
New development in Nash County must also follow the county’s stormwater, watershed, and
flood hazard area regulations. Nash County’s stormwater rules control peak stormwater flows
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June 2011
and require new developments to control nitrogen and phosphorus discharges. Nash County
also has development ordinance overlays for watershed protection and flood hazard areas.
Nash County requires a minimum 30‐foot vegetative buffer for new development along
perennial waters, with a 100‐foot buffer for all high‐density development.
All of the Probable Development Areas are within the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, which is
regulated by NCDWQ, and the southern portion is in a water supply watershed. Future growth
in the no‐build and build scenarios would be slightly higher outside of the water supply
watershed than within in it. The City of Rocky Mount’s Stormwater Management Plan and
locally delegated Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program require a maintenance plan if
BMPs are implemented with a development, prevent and remove illegal discharges, and identify
and prioritize places within existing developed areas suitable for retrofits.
Project U‐5026 1 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
1. Background
The purpose of this report is to document the assessment of potential future land use changes
that may result from this project.
1.1 Project Overview
Description
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to construct a new
interchange on I‐95 at Sunset Avenue (SR 1770), at the western border of the City of Rocky
Mount in Nash County (Figure 1). The proposed project is included in the NCDOT State
Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) as Project U‐5026.
The proposed preliminary design is a half‐cloverleaf interchange with loops and ramps in the
southwest and southeast quadrants of Sunset Avenue and I‐95. The existing ramps for the
US 64 interchange (referred to as a collector‐distributor system in the Merger Screening
Meeting packet) will be widened and extended on both sides of I‐95 from the US 64 interchange
through the proposed Sunset Avenue interchange. These ramps serve as auxiliary lanes, and do
not provide access to adjacent parcels or cross streets. Currently Sunset Avenue is grade‐
separated from I‐95. Sunset Avenue does not have existing control of access, but will have full
control of access through the interchange once the project is constructed.
Project U‐5026 is listed on the NCDOT 2009‐2015 STIP with funding for right‐of‐way acquisition
scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2012. The NCDOT Draft 2011‐2020 STIP moves right‐of‐way
acquisition to FY 2019. Construction is unfunded in both plans. A Categorical Exclusion is
currently being prepared for Project U‐5026. This project is ranked 44th in priority on the Rocky
Mount Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) 2035 Transportation Plan.
The purpose of this interchange project is to provide direct access to I‐95 for Sunset Avenue (SR
1770) in support of an economic development initiative in the Rocky Mount area. Currently the
primary access is via the I‐95 and US 64 interchange, about one mile to the north.
1.2 Study Areas
Two study areas were used in this report, shown on Figure 1.
The Future Land Use Study Area (FLUSA) describes the area around Project U‐5026 that may be
indirectly affected by the actions of others as a result of the construction of this project and
combined projects. This study area identifies the areas that were examined for potential
increases in development pressure. The FLUSA includes land from Nash County, the City of
Rocky Mount, and the towns of Nashville, Red Oak, and Dortches. The FLUSA boundary follows
the roadway network, bounded generally by Red Oak Road/NC 58 on the west, Sandy Cross
Project U‐5026 2 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
Road/West Mount Drive on the south, Winstead Avenue on the east, and Dortches
Boulevard/NC 43 on the north.
The Extended Demographic Study Area (DSA) used to study socioeconomic factors,
employment, and population trends is Nash County. Population and employment projections
are only available by county.
1.3 Time Horizon
The time horizon for this study is 2025. This matches the horizon year of Together Tomorrow,
Rocky Mount’s tier 1 smart growth comprehensive plan. Right of way acquisition is scheduled
for fiscal year (FY) 2019 and construction is not scheduled in the NCDOT Draft 2011‐2020 STIP.
A horizon year of 2025 is within the Rocky Mount MPO Transportation Plan‘s horizon year of
2035 and the state demographer’s projections which go through 2030.
1.4 Past, Present, and Future Projects
Development Patterns
The FLUSA is on the western edge of the Rocky Mount planning limits. This area is one of the
fastest growing in the city. The City has annexed some of this area, and another involuntary
annexation is pending in both the southwest, and to a lesser extent, the northwest quadrants of
the proposed interchange. City and County planners expect this trend to continue (personal
communication, February 2, 2011).
Residential and Commercial Development Projects
In the FLUSA, development in the past few years has included expansion of the Carriage Pond
and Stone Gate neighborhoods, additional industrial facilities between Dozier Road and I‐95,
and additional and redeveloped commercial properties along Sunset Avenue west of I‐95. Nash
Community College, which is west of Old Carriage Road, has expanded and is planning to
continue growing by adding buildings and acquiring property. In addition, a new fire station has
recently been built on Sunset Avenue, west of Old Carriage Road.
Although no specific future development patterns have been identified for this area, local
planners noted that owners of properties north of Dozier Road in the northwest quadrant of the
interchange have been coordinating with a realtor, and appear interested in grouping the
parcels to sell to an interested retail developer. The City supports converting this farmland into
businesses, but the City planner noted that they don’t want to lose the jobs already supported
by the industries in that area. The planners also suggested that the owner of the Layton mobile
home park in the southwest quadrant of Sunset Avenue/I‐95 may be interested in selling the
property for redevelopment if the new interchange increases demand for land in that area. A
new gas station is planned for the southeast quadrant of Sunset Avenue and Old Carriage Road.
Project U‐5026 3 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
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Other Transportation and Infrastructure Projects
The only notable transportation project recently completed within the FLUSA is the widening of
Sunset Avenue from Halifax Road to Old Carriage Road. This project widened Sunset Avenue
from two lanes to three lanes. Local planners indicated that the city has a long‐term desire to
widen Sunset Avenue again to four lanes, but that project will likely take place after 2035, which
is currently the furthest year in their fiscally‐constrained transportation plan.
According to the approved NCDOT 2009‐2015 STIP, there are six additional proposed projects in
the FLUSA; only four of these are listed on the NCDOT draft 2011‐2020 STIP. Each of these is
also listed on the 2035 Rocky Mount Urban Area MPO Transportation Plan. The status of all
projects on the 2035 Transportation Plan was verified with Bob League, Rocky Mount planner
(personal communication, February 9, 2011).
• R‐2823, Northern Connector – a new road from Hunter Hill Road to US 301. This project
is under construction now, and is scheduled to be completed August 2011. This project
is listed as priority #4 in the 2035 Transportation Plan.
• U‐4019, Widen SR 1613 (North Winstead Avenue) from SR 1770 (Sunset Avenue) to SR
1604 (Hunter Hill Road). This project is along the east boundary of the FLUSA. It is
scheduled for FY 2010 through FY 2012 in the 2009‐2015 STIP, but right of way
acquisition is currently underway and let is scheduled for July 2011. This project is listed
as priority #16 in the 2035 Transportation Plan.
• U‐3621, Widen Hunter Hill Road from N. Winstead Avenue to Benvenue Road. Right of
way acquisition is underway for Section U‐3621B (Country Club Road to Benvenue
Road), but the let date has not been set yet. This section is listed as priority #15 in the
2035 Transportation Plan. Section U‐3621A (N. Winstead Avenue to Country Club
Road) is scheduled for right of way acquisition in FY 2017 and construction in FY 2019.
• U‐3331, Widen Country Club Road from B. Leonard Boulevard to Jeffreys Road.
Construction is scheduled for FY 2012 in the draft 2011‐2020 STIP, and this project is
listed as priority #5 in the 2035 Transportation Plan.
• U‐2561C, Widen NC 43 from SR 1613 (Woodruff Road) to I‐95. This project is along the
north boundary of the FLUSA. It is unfunded in the 2009‐2015 STIP, but is not included
in the draft 2011‐2020 STIP and was removed in the 2035 Transportation Plan.
• R‐3316, Widen SR 1544 (Halifax Road) from SR 1770 (Sunset Avenue) to SR 1714
(Bethlehem Road). It is unfunded in the 2009‐2015 STIP, but is not included in the draft
2011‐2020 STIP and was removed in the 2035 Transportation Plan.
The Rocky Mount Urban Area MPO 2035 Transportation Plan includes the following roadway
improvement projects within the FLUSA. The MPO 2035 Transportation Plan priority number is
listed in parenthesis.
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• Red Oak Road, Extend southern terminus to Oak Level Road (#63)
• NC 48, Widen from Homestead Road to Red Oak Road (#51) and from Red Oak Road to
NC 4 (#52)
• Bethlehem Road, Widen from Beechwood Drive to Halifax Road (#74)
• Halifax Road, Widen from West Mount Drive to Bethlehem Road (#84) and from Sunset
Avenue to NC 43 (#85)
• Hunter Hill Road, Widen from Winstead Avenue to Halifax Road (#67) and from Halifax
Road to Green Hills Road (#86)
• Bethlehem Road, Align with Oak Level Road (#58)
• US 64 Bypass, Widen from I‐95 to Church Street (#87)
• I‐95, Widen from NC 4 to NC 97 (#103)
• Winstead Road, Widen from Sunset Avenue to Ridgecrest Drive (#96)
2. Transportation Impact Causing Activities
Travel Patterns
I‐95 provides north‐south access through Nash County. Many travelers on I‐95 are passing
through the area on their way to destinations in the Northeastern United States or Florida.
US 64, which has an interchange with I‐95 one mile south of Sunset Avenue, connects Nash
County with Raleigh to the west and the Outer Banks to the east. Sunset Avenue provides local
access between the city of Rocky Mount and the town of Nashville. The proposed interchange
will change travel patterns locally, as drivers access I‐95 directly from Sunset Avenue rather than
following Old Carriage Road or Winstead Avenue to US 64 to I‐95. Local planners also expect a
new interchange to attract new development and thus increase destination traffic to the area.
U.S. Census data shows that in 2000, over 64 percent of residents in Nash County stayed in the
county to work, with an additional 13 percent commuting to Edgecombe County and less than
six percent commuting each to Wilson and Halifax Counties. The Nash County commuting ratio,
the ratio of persons working in the county to employed residents of the county, was 1.066 in
2000. This has decreased over the past two decades (1.136 in 1990 and 1.141 in 1980). This
indicates that a growing percentage of Nash County residents are working outside of the county,
which corresponds with trends noted by the local planners.
Planners agreed with a prediction in the North Carolina Eastern Region Vision Plan (May 2006),
which identifies a connection between growth in the Triangle area and growth in areas along
US 64 and US 264, especially in Nash and Wilson Counties. As the roadway infrastructure
improves and the economy improves, more residential growth (followed by supporting
commercial growth) is anticipated along these corridors because of relatively easy commutes.
As the small towns reach capacity, growth has begun to move further into rural areas that are
still less than five or ten minutes from highway access. Although 2000 Census data only shows
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1.7% of Nash County residents commute to Wake County, local planners felt this percentage
had grown in recent years and would continue to do so.
Change in Access
This project will convert the grade‐separated crossing of Sunset Avenue over I‐95 to a full‐access
interchange. The new interchange will be approximately one mile south of the existing
interchange of I‐95 and US 64, and five miles north of the existing interchange of I‐95 and Sandy
Cross Road/West Mount Drive. The Sunset Avenue interchange is proposed as a half‐cloverleaf
with ramps and loops in the southwest and southeast quadrants. The existing ramps for the US
64 interchange (referred to as a collector‐distributor system in the Merger Screening Meeting
packet) will be widened and extended on both sides of I‐95 from the US 64 interchange through
the proposed Sunset Avenue interchange. These ramps serve as auxiliary lanes, and do not
provide access to adjacent parcels or cross streets. Currently Sunset Avenue does not have any
control of access. Once the interchange is built, there will be full control of access through the
interchange except at the ramps, but no other changes in access along Sunset Avenue or I‐95.
All existing driveways, roads, and parking areas will remain accessible. Temporary travel delays
are likely during construction.
Change in Exposure
The new interchange will provide additional exposure to parcels in all four quadrants as a result
of increased traffic anticipated to result from this project. This is likely to also increase exposure
for parcels further to the east and west along Sunset Avenue, which may experience higher
traffic volumes as well.
Travel Time Savings
Travel time savings as a result of this project are expected to be moderate for most drivers.
Sunset Avenue is parallel with US 64 into Rocky Mount, and drivers may choose to use the
Sunset Avenue interchange because of its convenience and slightly reduced travel times. For
example, a driver starting on Sunset Avenue near I‐95 will be able to access I‐95 south directly
from Sunset Avenue rather than following Sunset Avenue to Old Carriage Road to US 64 to I‐95,
a savings of 3.5 miles or approximately four minutes at a combination of 45 mph and 65 mph.
Since most drivers accessing I‐95 are likely making longer trips rather than short, in‐town trips,
this reduction in travel time is a relatively small saving.
Land Use or Transportation Node
The purpose of this project is to facilitate new development by improving the transportation
infrastructure. As stated during the October 2010 Merger Screening Meeting, an economic
impact analysis found that a new interchange in this area may help generate over a thousand
new jobs. Local planners and others promoting business interests in Rocky Mount, such as the
Chamber of Commerce, feel that large parcels in at least two quadrants of I‐95 and Sunset
Avenue (northwest and southwest) have potential for economic development. These sites may
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attract a large “destination retailer” because of the approximately 54 million vehicles a year
traveling through the I‐95/US 64 interchange (both routes). Large retailers which might
otherwise be attracted to the area, which is less than 45 minutes from Raleigh and 15 minutes
to downtown Rocky Mount, will not locate in this area without more direct access to I‐95 than
currently exists.
3. Existing Environment
3.1 Population and Economic Growth
The primary reporting units in the demographic study area (DSA) are Rocky Mount and Nash
County. Census data is available for the counties and towns, and population and employment
projections are available by county.
Population
The projected population in the DSA, in comparison to the City of Rocky Mount and the State of
North Carolina, is:
Area 1990 2000 % Change per year
Rocky Mount 48,997 55,893 1.4%
Nash County 76,677 87,420 1.4%
North Carolina 6,628,637 8,046,313 2.1%
2000 2009 (est.) % Change per year
Rocky Mount 55,893 59,172 0.7%
Nash County 87,420 92,814 0.7%
North Carolina 8,049,313 9,045,705 1.4%
2009 (est.) 2025 (est.) % Change per year
Rocky Mount* 59,172 ‐ ‐
Nash County 92,814 114,548 1.5%
North Carolina 9,045,705 11,754,831 1.9%
Source: 1990 and 2000 data – U.S. Census Bureau, 1990 and 2000, Summary File 1; 2009 and 2025 data – North
Carolina Office of State Budget and Management
* Population projections available by county and state only.
Local planners agree with the population projections, anticipating that local growth will begin to
match pace with the State rather than being slower. The impetus behind this growth, discussed
in Section 2, Travel Patterns, is in part the infrastructure improvements and employment
growth in the Triangle area. Also, some growth in the city’s population will occur through
annexations.
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Employment
Nash County is one of five counties comprising the Turning Point Workforce Development Board
(WDB), and is part of North Carolina’s Eastern Region. The Census Bureau quarterly workforce
data shows that employment in Nash County increased by 0.7 percent from 2000 to 2005, and
then decreased by 0.7 percent from 2005 to 2009. The Employment and Securities Commission
projected employment in the Turning Point WDB will increase by 1.2 percent per year from 2004
through 2014. Since these projections were developed during a growth period before the
recent economic downturn, it is likely the area will not see growth in that range in the next few
years. However, local planners expect slow but steady employment growth in the next 10 to 20
years.
Tobacco and textiles, historically two major industries in this area, declined significantly in the
1980s and 1990s. Also, Rocky Mount continues to recover from the flooding from Hurricane
Floyd in 1999, which damaged or destroyed much of the city. Much employment has shifted to
new sectors, and the very low overall growth is indicative of an economy which has managed to
stay steady through all these changes. The 2003 comprehensive plan identifies continuing ways
to recover from those impacts through new development and infill, and the City and County
hope to attract more large employers to the area. Rocky Mount is the hub of this region; the
closest neighbors are Greenville and the Triangle, each of which has its own large generators.
The City and County plan to continue the work that has successfully kept the region steady for
the past three decades. Growth is expected to increase as employment continues to become
more diversified. The Employment Securities Commission anticipates growth in the education
and service industries, and decreases in the production and manufacturing sectors.
According to the North Carolina Employment and Securities Commission, unemployment is:
Area
Labor Force
November
2010
Unemployment
November 2010 2000 (annual
average)
% Change per year
2000‐2010
Nash County 45,860 11.8% 4.6% 0.7%
North Carolina 4,4468,393 9.7% 3.7% 0.6%
3.2 Available Land
To determine the potential market for future development, land within the FLUSA was identified
as “developed,” “undeveloped/constrained,” or “undeveloped/unconstrained.” Categorizing
available land was completed using tax data, GIS data, aerial photography, local staff input, and
field review. Small parcels with a structure; large parcels with mobile homes, commercial, or
industrial development; and road and railroad right‐of‐way were considered developed. Next,
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constraints on development were overlaid on the map, including water bodies, 50‐foot buffers
on streams in the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, and the floodway. Finally, the undeveloped land was
identified as either undeveloped/constrained (if a substantial portion of the parcel was covered
by one or more of these overlays) or undeveloped/unconstrained.
There are approximately 25,000 acres of land in the FLUSA. Of this, approximately 7,000 acres
(28%) is currently developed. Of the 18,000 acres of undeveloped area, approximately 1,000
acres (4% of the total) is considered constrained – protected by ponds, stream buffers and
floodway restrictions. The remaining 17,000 acres (68% of the total) of land is classified as
undeveloped/ unconstrained, which includes active farmland, forested areas, open space, and
large parcels with single structures. Undeveloped/unconstrained areas generally represent land
within the FLUSA that could be developed in the future. Local planners anticipate
redevelopment of the 40‐acre mobile home park in the southwest quadrant of the proposed
interchange. If this parcel is redeveloped, it may either remain residential or be converted to
commercial, both of which have the potential for higher density.
3.3 Municipal Utilities
Information on existing and future utility services was gathered from conversations with the
Rocky Mount and Nash County Directors of Engineering, as well as from the Rocky Mount
Together Tomorrow comprehensive plan and Rocky Mount Local Water Supply Plan (2007).
Each county and town is required to prepare a Water Supply Plan for the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR) Division of Water Resources;
Rocky Mount’s 2007 plan is currently under review, and Nash County’s plan is not available for
viewing. Records of communication are in the appendix.
Although the proposed interchange is partially within unincorporated Nash County, both Nash
County and Rocky Mount engineers indicated that the areas likely to develop as a result of the
interchange would most likely be serviced by Rocky Mount. Nash County is focusing expansion
of water service west toward Red Oak, and Rocky Mount and Nashville will provide service for
areas between the two municipalities. Therefore, the water and sewer information provided in
the remainder of this section is data for Rocky Mount only. Information on capacity was
provided by Jim Connolly, Rocky Mount Water Resources (personal communication, February
10, 2011). Existing water and sewer lines are shown on Figure 2.
Sewer. City sewer is currently available along Sunset Avenue, Dozier Road, and in
neighborhoods in the northeast, southwest, and southeast quadrants of the proposed
interchange. A sewer line crosses I‐95 south of Sunset Avenue, and two additional crossings
with a new major outfall between the railroad and Oak Level Road are funded in the City
Improvement Program (CIP). The City has taken a preliminary look at providing sewer to parcels
between Dozier Road and US 64 in the northwest quadrant, but has not developed a specific
plan or identified funding. Service would likely go across US 64 to the existing Stony Creek
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outfall. The wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) for Rocky Mount and surrounding
communities is provided by Tar River Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, owned and
operated by the City of Rocky Mount. This WWTP has capacity of 21 million gallons per day
(mgd), and currently uses 49 percent of that (10.3 mgd). There are no plans to extend the
treatment capacity for Rocky Mount. Local planners said that sewer could be extended as
needed to future development in this area.
Water. A water line currently crosses I‐95 along Sunset Avenue, and is generally available in
neighborhoods in the northeast and southeast quadrants. A master meter is used in the Layton
subdivision, but the owner has submitted plans to extend service to each lot to provide
individual meters. This extension would primarily be paid for by the developer, with a small cost
sharing by the City. In the northwest quadrant, water lines are along Freight Road and a portion
of Dozier Road. Future water lines are proposed along Oak Level Road, Old Carriage Road, and
Old Spring Hope Road, eventually connecting the Nash High School to the main line along Halifax
Road. Water service in vicinity of Sunset Avenue Exchange is provided by City of Rocky Mount.
The city’s two water treatment plants (WTP), Sunset Avenue WTP and Tar River Reservoir WTP,
have a combined capacity of 26 mgd. Demand was 10.5 mgd in 2010 (40 percent). There are
no plans to extend these plants’ treatment capacity. Local planners said that water also could
be extended as needed to future development in this area.
3.4 Notable Features
Human Environment
The FLUSA is within Nash County and includes portions of the City of Rocky Mount and the
Towns of Nashville, Red Oak, and Dortches.
Land use in the west portion of the FLUSA is largely farmland interspersed with low density
residential and scattered commercial. On the east side within the Rocky Mount municipal
boundary, land use becomes more dense with a greater number of commercial tracts and
residential neighborhoods. The northeast and southwest quadrants of the proposed
interchange have a notably higher percentage of mobile homes (29 percent and 41 percent,
respectively) compared with the county average (19 percent). These mobile homes may be
grouped in neighborhoods with similar homes or interspersed with small, traditional homes.
Natural Environment
Several streams cross through the FLUSA (shown on Figure 3), many of which branch from the
Tar River east and south of Rocky Mount. The project is within the Upper Tar River Subbasin
(Hydrological Unit Code (HUC) 03020101, previously delineated as subbasin 03‐03‐02), part of
the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin. The southern half of the FLUSA, the Tar River Reservoir‐Tar River
Watershed is in a WS‐IV Water Supply Watershed. In the northern half of the FLUSA, the Stony
Creek Watershed, Stony Creek (Boddies Millpond) is listed on the North Carolina Division of
Water Quality (NCDWQ) 2010 Final 303(d) list of impaired waters as impaired for
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ecological/biological integrity benthos and low dissolved oxygen. There are no Wild & Scenic
Rivers or waters on the Nationwide Rivers Inventory (NRI) in the FLUSA.
The entire basin has been classified as nutrient sensitive waters (NSW). There are no high
quality waters (HQW) or outstanding resource waters (ORW) in the FLUSA. The NC Wetlands
Restoration Program designated the portions of the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin in the FLUSA as a
Targeted Local Watershed by the Ecosystem Enhancement Program (EEP), which is an area with
an identified need for restoration.
As part of the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, NCDWQ riparian buffer rules (50‐foot) are applicable to
this project. More information on conditions in the Upper Tar River Sub‐basin is available in the
Tar‐Pamlico Basinwide Water Quality Plan.
The project crosses several wetland and floodplain areas. The FLUSA contains large tracts of
prime farmland soils and soils of statewide significance, as discussed in the Farmland
Assessment. This area contains large parcels of farmland scattered between rural residential,
medium‐density residential neighborhoods, commercial strips, and remnant patches of
farmland.
4. Market for Development
Staff from local planning departments was consulted to identify specific transportation and
development projects in the FLUSA (copies of communications are in the appendix).
The general opinion of local planners is that this project is likely to increase the pace of
development in the FLUSA. This area has been identified as one of the higher‐growth areas in
the Rocky Mount region. The interchange would accelerate that growth, much of which may
only happen if the interchange is built.
4.1 Current Development Pressures
Local planners expect that this area, which is along the western edge of Rocky Mount’s
municipal boundary, will be one of the highest growth areas in the city. Annexation Area 1 is in
litigation now, and owners of several farmland parcels have expressed interest in selling
together to a big developer. The city has plans to expand water and wastewater infrastructure
along Oak Level Road across I‐95, which is intended to help facilitate interest in future growth.
There is anticipation that developers have been waiting to move into this area until after a final
decision has been made on the new interchange at I‐95 and Sunset Avenue, although
development has continued at a slow but steady pace even without the interchange, as noted in
Section 1.4.
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4.2 Development Market Assumptions
The FLUSA encompasses the West Smart Growth Area, one of three areas identified by Rocky
Mount for outward growth. These areas are part of a larger Planned Growth Area, which covers
the eastern portion of the FLUSA. The outward growth smart growth areas will consist primarily
of residential development with supporting community facilities and commercial as appropriate.
According to the Rocky Mount Together Tomorrow plan, the West Smart Growth Area is
expected to see residential growth due to the relocation of Nash Central High School to this area
in the early 2000s. The school has provided infrastructure which will help facilitate future
development, and the city is planning to run additional water and wastewater lines to the high
school in the near future. Nash Community College is also within the West Smart Growth Area.
The college has expanded recently, and has plans for additional expansion through land
acquisition.
For this study, it was assumed that Annexation Area 1 would be added to Rocky Mount’s
jurisdiction, and that future water and wastewater expansion plans would be completed as
planned. City planners have stated that they will continue to expand infrastructure as needed
to accommodate future development in this area, and local property owners have indicated a
desire to sell their farmland. Redevelopment of the mobile home park in the southwest
quadrant of the proposed interchange is likely based on conversations between the city and the
park owner.
Although the town of Dortches has an interchange focus at the I‐95 interchange at the north
edge of the FLUSA, they would prefer maintain a small town feel. Nashville will be more
accessible with the construction of the Sunset Avenue interchange, and traffic both from
Nashville and Rocky Mount are more likely to use Sunset Avenue to access I‐95 than with the
current configuration.
5. Growth Management and Local Policies
5.1 Growth Management Plans and Regulations
The entire FLUSA is designated as a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
Phase II area, which requires local governments to adopt a post‐construction stormwater
ordinance, and developers to obtain a federal stormwater permit.
As part of the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, this area must conform to the NCDWQ Nutrient Sensitive
Water (NSW) Strategy, which set a goal of reducing nitrogen by 30 percent and no increase in
total phosphorus from 1991 conditions. This will be achieved through a maximum flow of 0.5
million gallons per day (MGD) for each domestic and industrial wastewater discharger. These
goals are to be implemented by wastewater treatment plant dischargers and municipal
stormwater programs. In addition, the agricultural community was required to achieve a
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collective net total nitrogen loading reduction of 30 percent through implementation of Best
Management Practices (BMPs), and local governments implemented stormwater programs to
further protect sensitive areas.
The FLUSA is also protected by the Riparian Buffer Protection Rules for the Tar‐Pamlico River
Basin, which requires a 50‐foot wide buffer along waterways in the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin.
Nash County adopted new stormwater rules in 2004 to control peak stormwater flows and
require new developments to control nitrogen and phosphorus discharges. These regulations
apply to all new development disturbing more than 0.5 acres of nonresidential development or
one acre for residential developments. Although Rocky Mount does not have any specific
“green” development ordinances, many developers choose to provide permanent conservation
easements to conform to the Tar‐Pamlico NSW and NPDES Phase II rules. In addition, the city
requires detention of the 10 year/24 hour and 25 year/24 hour storm storms.
Nash County development ordinances include overlays for watershed protection and flood
hazard areas. Development within the Watershed Protection Overlay Districts is limited in the
size, density, and built‐upon area, and uses with potential for contaminated soils are not
permitted. Nash County requires a minimum 30‐foot vegetative buffer for new development
along perennial waters, with a 100‐foot buffer for all high‐density development. Stormwater
management measures must be included. Regulations within Nash County’s flood hazard
overlay district were strengthened after the flood of 1999, and restrict almost all new
development within special flood hazard restricted areas.
The southern portion of the FLUSA is within a public water supply watershed, which is
considered Class II watersheds and regulated by the Public Water Supply Section of the
NCDENR. Within these watersheds, septic tank permits are limited to lots a minimum of 40,000
square feet.
New developments may be required to obtain a Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 Permit from
the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and a concurrent CWA Section 401 Water Quality
Certification from NCDWQ. In addition, several state and federal permits related to point source
and non‐point source discharges to surface waters (including stormwater runoff) may be
required. A NPDES permit for any discharge of waste or process water under the CWA and a
NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit may be required.
5.2 Land Use and Transportation Plans
The following local land use and transportation plans regulate the land within the FLUSA. Nash
County is part of the Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments, the Upper Coast Plain Rural
Planning Organization, and North Carolina’s Eastern Region.
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Rocky Mount Comprehensive Plan, 2003 – Rocky Mount’s Comprehensive Plan, known as
Together Tomorrow, describes targeted growth areas, including an “outward growth” Smart
Growth Area in the FLUSA. This area has been identified as having significant undeveloped land,
transportation and utility infrastructure, and market forces that induce growth. The city
anticipates that most growth in the Smart Growth Area will be residential supported by
community facilities and commercial as needed.
Rocky Mount Annexation Report and Plan of Service, December 2008 – The city analyzed five
potential areas for involuntary annexation, considering the cost of services and benefits for each
annexation. Annexation Area 1 is within the FLUSA, and is currently in litigation.
Rocky Mount Comprehensive Bicycle Plan, February 2007 – The bicycle plan documented
existing bicycle routes in the Rocky Mount area, and proposed several new routes. The
proposed West Side Connector is within the FLUSA, but does not intersect with the new
interchange. The West Side Connector consists of a wide outside lane on Winstead Avenue, a
multi‐use path along Sunset Avenue, and a wide paved shoulder on Halifax Road.
A Vision Plan for North Carolina’s Eastern Region, May 2006 – The Strategic Planning
Committee and the Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness prepared a vision plan for
the Eastern Region. This plan documented the state of the existing Eastern Region economy and
investigated goals and challenges for future development. It noted that I‐95 and I‐40 are the
Region’s most significant travel routes, and US 64 is one of several important connector linking
the region’s major urban places. However, it also observed that “many segments of those US
highways are not built to four‐lane, interstate‐quality standards…which slows the transport of
goods, services, and people to regional and global markets.”
Nash County Land Development Plan, June 2006 – The southern portion of the FLUSA is in
unincorporated Nash County, and is identified as a suburban growth area in the county’s future
land development map. The suburban growth land use designation is given for areas of the
county where “significant residential growth is expected to occur within the 10‐year planning
horizon.” Water infrastructure is generally available, and wastewater may be extended to serve
new development as needed. Uses that will be allowed in suburban growth areas include low‐
density residential, agriculture, forestry, churches, and limited non‐residential uses. The plan
also includes objectives to protect watersheds, provide adequate water and wastewater
services, and preserve prime agricultural land and viable agricultural activities.
NCDOT 2009‐2015 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
According to the approved NCDOT 2009‐2015 STIP, six additional projects are proposed in the
FLUSA. These projects, described in more detail in Section 1.4, are:
• R‐2823, Northern Connector (#4 in the 2035 Transportation Plan)
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• U‐4019, Widen North Winstead Avenue (#16 in the 2035 Transportation Plan)
• U‐3621B, Widen Hunter Hill Road (#15 in the 2035 Transportation Plan)
• U‐3331, Widen Country Club Road (#5 in the 2035 Transportation Plan)
• U‐2561C, Widen NC 43 (removed from the draft 2011‐2020 STIP and 2035
Transportation Plan)
• R‐3316, Widen Halifax Road (removed from the draft 2011‐2020 STIP and 2035
Transportation Plan)
Rocky Mount Urban Area MPO 2035 Transportation Plan (May 2009) – The MPO has prioritized
125 projects for the area. Projects in the 2035 Transportation Plan that are located in the FLUSA
(more detail is in Section 1.4) include:
• Extend Red Oak Road (#63)
• Widen NC 48 (#51 and #52)
• Widen Bethlehem Road (#74)
• Widen Halifax Road (#84 and #85)
• Widen Hunter Hill Road (#67 and #86)
• Align Bethlehem Road (#58)
• Widen US 64 Bypass (#87)
• Widen I‐95 (#103)
• Widen Winstead Road (#96)
6. Indirect and Cumulative Effects Screening
6.1 Indirect Effects
Indirect and Cumulative Effects Screening Matrix
The categories listed on the ICE Screening Matrix (Table 1) have been shown to influence land
development decisions in numerous areas statewide and nationally. Each characteristic is
assessed individually and the results of the table are looked at comprehensively to determine
the indirect and cumulative effects potential of the proposed project. The scope of the project
and change in accessibility categories are given extra weight to determine if future growth in the
area is related to the project modification. Further examination of potential indirect and
cumulative effects will be undertaken on projects that have more categories noted as moderate
to high concern.
This project screening matrix is provided in Table 1. Each of the nine categories was rated for
the reasons given below.
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Scope of Project. This project will replace a grade‐separated crossing with a full‐movement
interchange on I‐95 at Sunset Avenue. I‐95 is one of the region’s primary routes and Sunset
Avenue is a major local connector between Nashville and Rocky Mount.
Change in Accessibility. The proposed project will create additional access from I‐95 to Sunset
Avenue, which is a critical element to attracting new development to this area. It will also
improve access from US 64 to this area, although travel time savings are expected to be
moderate for most drivers. For example, a driver starting on Sunset Avenue near I‐95 will be
able to access I‐95 south directly from Sunset Avenue rather than following Sunset Avenue to
Old Carriage Road to US 64 to I‐95, a savings of 3.5 miles or approximately four minutes at a
combination of 45 mph and 65 mph.
Forecasted Population Growth. The demographic study area is comprised Nash County, where
population grew by 14 percent from 1990 to 2000, and then only by 6 percent from 2000 to
2009. According to the Office of State Budget and Management, Nash County’s population is
expected to grow by approximately 1.7 percent per year through 2020. These projections, while
aggressive, are supported by local planners who anticipate more growth in Nash County,
especially in western Rocky Mount near the proposed project. As roadway infrastructure in the
Triangle improves and the economy improves, more growth is anticipated in this area because
of relatively easy commutes.
Forecasted Employment Growth. The current unemployment rate in Nash County is 11.8
percent (November 2010). Employment growth is expected to be slow but steady. Local
planners anticipate it will likely be less than the 1.2 percent per year predicted by the
Employment and Securities Commission, even with new growth they hope will come as a result
of this project.
Available Land. There are approximately 17,000 acres of undeveloped/unconstrained land in
the FLUSA. This is 68% of the approximately 25,000 acres of total land in the FLUSA. The 40
acre Layton Mobile Home Park in the southwest quadrant of the proposed interchange is
developed but may be redeveloped, which would potentially lead to higher density on that
parcel.
Water/Sewer Availability. Water and sewer service in the FLUSA is provided primarily by Rocky
Mount. The city has sufficient water and sewer capacity to provide to future developments, and
local planners have stated that infrastructure will be expanded as needed to encourage or
support new developments. The city is planning some infrastructure expansion in anticipation
of development, but in general plans to build pipes as requested by developers.
Market for Development. The purpose of this project is to encourage economic development in
the Rocky Mount area. This area has been identified in the Together Tomorrow plan as a Smart
Growth Area. Although some development would likely occur without the interchange, local
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planners expect the new access point to have a notable impact on the pace and level of
development in this area. Landowners in the northwest quadrant have grouped together to try
to sell their property, mostly farmland, to a large retailer. The Layton Mobile Home Park in the
southwest quadrant is currently developed, but is likely to be redeveloped if an interchange is
built. Additional commercial development along Sunset Avenue is also probable with a new
interchange. Also, the West Smart Growth Area is expected to have notable residential growth
due to its proximity to Nash Central High School and US 64.
Public Policy. The FLUSA is designated as a NPDES Phase II area, and is within the Tar‐Pamlico
River Basin which must conform with a NSW Strategy. The FLUSA is also protected by the
Riparian Buffer Protection Rules for the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, which requires a 50‐foot wide
buffer along waterways. The City of Rocky Mount’s Stormwater Management Plan establishes
the methods by which the City will comply with the Tar‐Pamlico stormwater rule, the NPDES
Phase II regulations, and the Water Supply Watershed regulations. The City also has a locally
delegated Erosion and Sedimentation Control Program. Some of the specific requirements in
the Stormwater Management Plan include requiring a maintenance plan if Best Management
Practices (BMPs) are implemented with a development, preventing and removing illegal
discharges, identifying and prioritizing places within existing developed areas suitable for
retrofits, and conducting public education.
Nash County has stormwater rules controlling stormwater flows and nitrogen and phosphorus
discharges. Nash County also has development ordinances including watershed protection and
flood hazard overlays. The southern portion of the FLUSA is within a public water supply
watershed. New developments may be required to obtain a NPDES permit, a NPDES Phase II
Stormwater Permit, a Section 404 permit from the USACE, and a Section 401 Water Quality
Certification from NCDWQ.
Notable Environmental Features. Several streams cross through the FLUSA, many of which
branch from the Tar River. The project is within the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin. The southern half
of the FLUSA, the Tar River Reservoir‐Tar River Watershed, is within two protected public water
supply watersheds (WSWs), and a small portion in the southwest corner of the FLUSA is within a
critical WSW (see Figure 3). Stony Creek (Boddies Millpond) is listed on the NCDWQ 2010 Final
303(d) list of impaired waters. There are no Wild & Scenic Rivers or waters on the Nationwide
Rivers Inventory (NRI) in the FLUSA. The entire basin has been classified as nutrient sensitive
waters (NSW). There are no high quality waters (HQW) or outstanding resource waters (ORW)
in the FLUSA. Portions of the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin in the FLUSA have been identified as a
Targeted Local Watershed, which is an area with an identified need for restoration. The project
crosses several wetland and floodplain areas.
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Table 1 – Indirect Land Use Effects Screening Tool – TIP Project U‐5026 – I‐95/Sunset Avenue
Interchange
Screening Tool Results
Based on the information gathered from local land use and transportation plans, city planners
and engineers, mapping, and field visits, the screening tool recommends a Possible Indirect
Scenario Assessment.
Indirect Effects Summary
This project will convert a grade‐separated intersection to a full‐access interchange on I‐95 at
Sunset Avenue. This project would result in only a minor decrease in travel time for most
drivers, and would improve access and exposure to properties along I‐95, Sunset Avenue, and
US 64. There is a substantial amount of land available for future development, and water and
sewer services are both available. Development activity is expected to be slow but steady, with
some growth likely as a result of this project. Much of the anticipated development is related to
the interchange, although some growth will occur regardless of this project. The study area
contains many streams and wetlands including one stream on the 303(d) list, but there are no
ORW or HQW. Nash County and the City of Rocky Mount have land use and transportation
plans that include some development regulations and additional federal and state regulations
are in place for development in this area.
Overall, this project is expected to have moderate indirect effects. A Land Use Scenario
Assessment has been developed to further investigate water quality impacts, beginning at
Section 7.
7. Probable Development Scenarios
Probable Development Areas (PDAs) are sub‐areas that were used to further consider
development pressures and future land nodes. The PDA boundaries generally follow rivers, sub‐
basins, property lines, and roads where appropriate. PDA boundaries and existing land uses in
the FLUSA are shown in Figure 4. Future land use for the build and no‐build scenarios are shown
on Figure 5.
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All PDAs are in a designated National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II
area, which requires local governments to adopt a post‐construction stormwater ordinance, and
developers to obtain a federal stormwater permit. As part of the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, this
area also must conform to the NCDWQ Nutrient Sensitive Water (NSW) Strategy. Finally, the
entire area is also protected by the Riparian Buffer Protection Rules for the Tar‐Pamlico River
Basin, which requires a 50‐foot wide buffer along waterways in the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin.
Nash County requires a minimum 30‐foot vegetative buffer for new development along
perennial waters, with a 100‐foot buffer for all high‐density development. The southern portion
of PDAs 1, 2, 3, and 4 and all of PDA 5 are within a public water supply watershed, which is
considered Class II watersheds and regulated by the Public Water Supply Section of the
NCDENR. The northern portion of PDAs 1, 2, 3, and 4 is in a targeted local watershed.
7.1 Probable Development Area 1
Probable Development Area 1 comprises the Direct Community Impact Area (DCIA), first
introduced in the Community Impact Assessment. It is approximately 1,400 acres, bounded by
US 64 on the north, Old Carriage Road on the west, Halifax Road on the east, and the railroad on
the south. The proposed interchange is completely within PDA 1. Although a small portion of PDA
1 is outside of Rocky Mount’s ETJ, that portion is currently being annexed by the city.
The northwest quadrant of PDA 1 is primarily industry and agriculture, the northeast and
southwest quadrants are largely residential, and the southeast quadrant is a combination of
residences, industry, and agriculture. Water and sewer are currently available within this PDA
except to the northwest quadrant (Figure 2). Local planners stated that although specifically
planned, the City of Rocky Mount expects to extend services to that quadrant once development
is proposed.
No‐build: Some future development is expected within this PDA without a new interchange to
accommodate spillover from growth in the Triangle. New development will likely include small
individual commercial parcels along Sunset Avenue, commercial and industrial uses along Dozier
Road, and new low‐ and medium‐density residential tracts in the northeast quadrant.
Build: Local planners expect there to be a higher rate of growth if the interchange is constructed.
Based on land use assumptions in this analysis, there is expected to be approximately 55%
developed area in the no‐build scenario and 95% developed area in the build scenario in PDA 1.
Development in the no‐build scenario would likely be primarily residential. The northwest
quadrant is comprised of several farm owners who have grouped together to try to sell their land
to a large commercial developer; this sale is anticipated by local planners to hinge on the existence
of the interchange. The southwest quadrant is almost built‐out, but some additional development
and some redevelopment are expected with the interchange. The Layton Mobile Home Park,
which is adjacent to farmland and forest, may be redeveloped as either residential or
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commercial, both of which may be higher density than the existing neighborhood. Although
some residential development is likely in the remaining two quadrants without the interchange,
growth with the interchange is expected to be more widespread and occur sooner.
7.2 Probable Development Area 2
Probable Development Area 2 is approximately 1,300 acres, and is located west of the
interchange. It is bounded by US 64 on the north, Red Oak Road on the west, the railroad on
the south, and Old Carriage Road on the east.
Nash Community College is on the west side of Old Carriage Road, and a Wal‐Mart Supercenter
is across from Regency Drive near Nashville. The primary land use in PDA 1 is agriculture. Most
of the PDA is in unincorporated Nash County except for the Wal‐Mart parcel which is in
Nashville. The Nash Community College and nearby parcels are part of the annexation
underway to Rocky Mount. Water is available along Sunset Avenue to Kamlar Road and along
Old Spring Hope Road and Shellcastle Road. Sewer currently stops on Sunset Avenue east of Old
Carriage Road. Local engineers noted that water and sewer could easily be extended to serve
this area by either Rocky Mount or Nashville. Small portions of this PDA that contain several
stream channels are identified as Undeveloped/Constrained because of the anticipated physical
limitations on those parcels.
No‐build: Nash Community College is planning to expand, including purchasing new land.
Residential development is expected within this PDA even without a new interchange due to
growth pressures from nearby areas and as a result of the Nash Community College expansion.
Future development is likely to occur first along Sunset Avenue/Eastern Avenue and Old
Carriage Road.
Build: Construction of an interchange on I‐95 would improve access along Sunset Avenue, and is
expected to increase traffic between Nashville and Rocky Mount. The new access is likely to
encourage additional residential development along Sunset Avenue/Eastern Avenue and may
also result in new development on Red Oak Road.
7.3 Probable Development Area 3
Probable Development Area 3 is east of the proposed interchange, bounded by Iron Horse Road
on the north, Halifax Road on the east, the railroad on the south, and Weatherstone
Drive/Gravely Drive on the east. It is approximately 600 acres, and is completely within the City
of Rocky Mount. It is comprised of three residential neighborhoods, scattered individual homes
and businesses, and several large tracts of farmland and forest. Water and sewer are available
to developed areas within this PDA, and could easily be extended to new development.
No‐build: Due to its proximity to downtown Rocky Mount, this PDA is expected to develop
faster than the others in the no‐build scenario. Local planners anticipate slow but steady
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growth in western Rocky Mount. Because several farmers in this area have expressed interest in
selling their land and since farmland is easier to develop than forest, it was assumed that the
farmland in this PDA would be developed first.
Build: Addition of an interchange on I‐95 is expected to further encourage development in
western Rocky Mount, especially along Sunset Avenue. New land uses will likely include
medium‐density residential neighborhoods throughout the PDA and small commercial parcels
along Sunset Avenue and Halifax Road.
7.4 Probable Development Area 4
Probable Development Area 4 is approximately 1,300 acres, and is bounded by the railroad on
the north, Old Spring Hope Road on the west, Oak Level Road on the south, and I‐95 on the east.
Nash Central High School is between Old Carriage Road and I‐95. Other land uses include three
large residential neighborhoods, farmland, and forest. Most of this PDA is in unincorporated
Nash County except for the Nash Central High School parcel which is within Rocky Mount limits.
A large part of PDA 4 is currently being annexed into Rocky Mount. Maple Creek crosses
through PDA 4 from I‐95 to Old Carriage Road.
Water and sewer are available for the school, and water is available in the residential
neighborhood off Old Carriage Road. The City of Rocky Mount has plans to extend water and
sewer across I‐95 north of Oak Level Road to the school, which would also make these services
available for future development in PDA 4.
No‐build: According to Rocky Mount’s comprehensive plan, the Nash Central High School and
associated infrastructure in the West Smart Growth Area will attract residential uses and some
neighborhood and community services. These are anticipated to be located initially along Old
Carriage Road and Old Spring Hope Road.
Build: Since this is over a mile from the proposed interchange, future land uses are expected to
be similar in the build and no‐build scenarios. The new interchange may add some additional
development pressure within PDA 4, but most growth will likely occur regardless of the project.
7.5 Probable Development Area 5
Probable Development Area 5 is approximately 700 acres, bounded by the railroad on the north,
I‐95 on the west, Oak Level Road on the south, and Halifax Road on the east. Land uses are
primarily farmland with forest and low‐density residences. Maple Creek crosses through PDA 5
from Bethlehem Road to I‐95. There are no water or sewer services in this PDA. However, the
planned infrastructure extensions north of Oak Level Road to Nash Central High School would
provide service through this area, and water and sewer are available as far as Ketch Point Drive
adjacent to the east boundary of PDA 5.
Project U‐5026 21 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
No‐build: This area is shown as undeveloped land in the West Smart Growth Area, which
indicates that it is likely to see future growth. Growth is expected to initially be along Oak Level
Road and Community Drive where existing low‐density residential areas (generally one house
per 5 acres in this area) may be redeveloped and expanded into medium‐density
neighborhoods. Growth is also likely adjacent to existing stubbed‐out residential roads such as
Ketch Point Drive on the east side of PDA 5. Rocky Mount’s comprehensive plan notes that
development in the West Smart Growth Area is expected to be primarily residential with
associated neighborhood and community services.
Build: Generally, development in PDA 5 is expected to occur regardless of the interchange
because of its location in the West Smart Growth Area. Some of the development in this PDA
may be shifted to areas closer I‐95/Sunset Avenue because of the attraction of the interchange,
so the overall growth in PDA 5 is expected to be slightly lower in the build scenario than in the
no‐build scenario.
8. Land Use Scenario Assessment Matrix
Indirect Land Use Effects Matrix
The categories listed on the Indirect Scenario Assessment Tool (Table 2) have been shown to
have a direct relationship between indirect development and impacts to resources. Each
characteristic is assessed individually for the build and no‐build scenario, and the results of the
table are looked at comprehensively to determine the overall impact potential on development
patterns and resources of the proposed project. In general, the more the Build Scenario and No‐
Build Scenario diverge, the greater the potential for resource impacts.
This project screening matrix is provided in Table 2. Each of the six categories was rated for the
reasons given below.
Pressure/Demand for Typically Higher Impact Development. A new interchange at I‐95 and
Sunset Avenue will likely result in new commercial development, especially in PDA 1. Several
land owners in the northwest quadrant of the proposed interchange have expressed interest in
selling together to a large retailer, and local planners noted (based on conversations with the
owner) that the mobile home park in the southwest corner may be available for redevelopment.
A large retail development would include elements different from existing commercial facilities
such as large parking lots and large single‐story structures. A small level of non‐residential
development may occur, especially in PDA 1, even without the interchange, but is more likely to
be additional industrial or smaller‐scale commercial facilities. This would be in part as a result of
pressure by the City of Rocky Mount, the Chamber of Commerce, and others supporting local
businesses.
Project U‐5026 22 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
Future Shift of Regional Population Growth to the Project Area. This area has grown at a slow
but steady pace over recent years. The North Carolina Eastern Region Vision Plan identifies a
connection between growth in the Triangle area and growth in areas along US 64 and US 264.
As the roadway infrastructure expands and the economy improves, more residential growth is
anticipated along these corridors because of relatively easy commutes. As the small towns
reach capacity, growth has begun to move further into rural areas that are still less than five or
ten minutes from highway access. Growth is anticipated to occur in both the build and no‐build
scenarios, but the new interchange will likely increase the attraction of this area. New
residential development will likely be similar to other medium‐density single‐family
neighborhoods in the area rather than like the older mixed neighborhoods of traditional and
mobile homes.
Pressure for Land Development Outside Regulated Areas. All Probable Development Areas are
within the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, which is regulated by NCDWQ. The southern portions of
PDAs 1, 2, 3, 4 and all of PDA 5 are in a water supply watershed. There are no 303(d) listed
streams in the PDAs, but some streams are likely to require 50 foot buffers. Development
anticipated with the build and no‐build scenarios is heaviest near the proposed interchange and
is slightly heavier outside of the water supply watershed.
Pressure for Land Development Outside Planned Areas. PDAs 1, 3, 4, and 5 are primarily in
either Rocky Mount’s municipal boundary, ETJ, or the area currently being annexed by Rocky
Mount. PDA 2 is primarily in unincorporated Nash County with small portions in Nashville and in
the annexation area. Most proposed development is closer to Rocky Mount, and
unincorporated parcels would likely be annexed by the city. The Rocky Mount water and sewer
infrastructure currently serves much of the PDAs, and local planners and engineers have said
that services could be extended to future development in the entire area. Therefore, the
majority of future development would be within existing or future planned areas, with both the
build and no‐build scenarios.
Development Patterns. Although there has been some scattered commercial and low‐density
residential development in the area, most residences are clustered together in medium‐density
neighborhoods. Future residential development is anticipated to follow the same pattern. Local
planners hope that a new interchange will attract a big‐box retailer to the area, which may in
turn lead to other commercial uses in those quadrants. The build scenario is expected to result
in slightly more clustered development because of the potential commercial growth that would
replace the existing farmland near the interchange. In the no‐build scenario, most of that land
would likely remain farmland.
Planned/Managed Land Use and Impacts. As part of the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, this area must
conform to the NCDWQ Nutrient Sensitive Water (NSW) Strategy, which includes agricultural
and stormwater rules. The Riparian Buffer Protection Rules for the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin
Project U‐5026 23 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
require a 50‐foot wide buffer along waterways. The area is also designated as a Phase II area,
which requires local governments to adopt a post‐construction stormwater ordinance, and
developers to obtain a federal stormwater permit.
Nash County has stormwater rules to control peak stormwater flows and requires new
developments to control nitrogen and phosphorus discharges. Nash County development
ordinances include overlays for watershed protection and flood hazard areas. Nash County
requires a minimum 30‐foot vegetative buffer for new development along perennial waters,
with a 100‐foot buffer for all high‐density development. Stormwater management measures
must be included. Regulations within Nash County’s flood hazard overlay district were
strengthened after the flood of 1999, and restrict almost all new development within special
flood hazard restricted areas. Rocky Mount does not have any specific “green” development
ordinances, but does require detention of the 10 year/24 hour and 25 year/24 hour storm
storms. Most future development is within Rocky Mount’s planning boundaries (or the land will
be annexed by the city as part of the project), especially in the build scenario.
Table 2 – Indirect Scenario Assessment Tool – TIP Project U‐5026 – I‐95/Sunset Avenue
Interchange
Indirect Land Use Summary
The FLUSA has had slow but steady growth, due in part to pressure from growth in the Triangle.
Few development incentives are available by the City of Rocky Mount, and development has
been largely residential with a small number of new businesses to support the residents.
This project is on the western edge of Rocky Mount, which is one of the areas identified for
higher growth. Some future growth is expected to continue in this area regardless of this
project, but likely occur with greater intensity and sooner with the addition of an interchange on
I‐95 and Sunset Avenue. Based on land use assumptions in this analysis, there is expected to be
approximately 25% more developed area in the Probable Development Areas (PDAs) in the
future no‐build scenario compared with existing conditions, with an additional 15% more
developed area in the build scenario. These predictions are calculated from parcel‐level
Project U‐5026 24 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
development assumptions based on future growth patterns noted by local planners.
Development in the no‐build scenario would likely be primarily residential. In the build scenario,
local planners anticipate new large retail in the northwest quadrant of the interchange and
redevelopment of the Layton Mobile Home Park in the southwest quadrant to either residential
or commercial, potentially with higher density.
All of the Probable Development Areas are within the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin, which is
regulated by NCDWQ, and the southern portion is in a water supply watershed. Future growth
in the no‐build and build scenarios would be slightly higher outside of the water supply
watershed than within in it. Development within the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin must have 50‐foot
stream buffers and follow the NCDWQ Neuse Nutrient Strategy, which includes agricultural and
stormwater rules. New development in Nash County must also follow the county’s stormwater,
watershed, and flood hazard area regulations.
9. Water Quality Statement
All of the land within the probable development areas is in the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin and is
classified as nutrient sensitive waters. The only stream in the FLUSA listed on the NCDWQ 2010
Final 303(d) list of impaired waters, Stony Creek (Boddies Millpond), is outside of all of the PDAs.
There are no high quality waters (HQW) or outstanding resource waters (ORW) in the FLUSA.
Neither the project nor induced development is expected to directly or indirectly affect 303(d)
waters, ORWs, or HQWs. Growth management regulations are described in Section 5.1 of this
report, and are summarized below.
The FLUSA is protected by the Riparian Buffer Protection Rules for the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin,
which requires a 50‐foot wide buffer along waterways in the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin. The
southern portion of the FLUSA is within a public water supply watershed, which is considered
Class II watersheds and regulated by the Public Water Supply Section of the NCDENR. Nash
County’s stormwater rules control peak stormwater flows and require new developments to
control nitrogen and phosphorus discharges. Nash County also has development ordinance
overlays for watershed protection and flood hazard areas. Nash County requires a minimum 30‐
foot vegetative buffer for new development along perennial waters, with a 100‐foot buffer for
all high‐density development.
The entire FLUSA is designated as a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
Phase II area, which requires local governments to adopt a post‐construction stormwater
ordinance, and developers to obtain a federal stormwater permit. New developments may also
be required to obtain a Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 Permit from the US Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE) and a concurrent CWA Section 401 Water Quality Certification from NCDWQ.
In addition, several state and federal permits related to point source and non‐point source
discharges to surface waters (including stormwater runoff) may be required. This report will be
Project U‐5026 25 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
forwarded to NCDWQ in order to assess the potential impact to water quality from indirect and
cumulative effects.
10. Cumulative Effects
Past Projects – Development in the past few years includes development and expansion of the
Carriage Pond and Stone Gate neighborhoods, additional industrial facilities between Dozier
Road and I‐95, development and expansion of industrial facilities between Dozier Road and I‐95,
and development and redevelopment of commercial properties along Sunset Avenue west of
I‐95. Nash Community College has developed, expanded, and is planning to continue growing in
the future by adding buildings and acquiring property, and a new fire station has recently been
built on Sunset Avenue west of Old Carriage Road.
Current Project – Project U‐5026 will construct a new interchange at the grade‐separated
crossing of I‐95 and Sunset Avenue. The proposed design is a half‐cloverleaf interchange with
loops and ramps in the southwest and southeast quadrants of Sunset Avenue and I‐95. The
existing collector‐distributor frontage roads will be extended on both sides of I‐95 from the US
64 interchange through the proposed Sunset Avenue interchange.
Future Projects – Although few specific future development projects have been identified for
this area, local planners noted that owners of properties north of Dozier Road in the northwest
quadrant of the interchange have been coordinating with a Realtor, and appear interested in
grouping the parcels to sell to an interested retail developer. The City supports converting this
farmland into businesses, but the City planner noted that the City does not want to lose the jobs
already supported by the non‐agricultural industries adjacent to the farmland, such as the PLT
Concrete plant and Stauffer Manufacturing in the northwest quadrant. The planners also
suggested that the owner of the Layton mobile home park may be interested in selling the
property for redevelopment if the new interchange increases demand for land in that area. That
land, which is adjacent to farmland and forest, may be redeveloped as either residential or
commercial, both of which may be higher density than the existing neighborhood.
Notable Environmental Resources – Several streams cross through the FLUSA, many of which
branch from the Tar River. This project is within the Tar‐Pamlico River Basin. All streams in the
Tar‐Pamlico River Basin are designated as nutrient sensitive waters, and as part of the Neuse
River Basin, NCDWQ buffer rules apply. A portion of the FLUSA is within a public water supply
watershed. The FLUSA also contains wetland and floodplain areas.
Impacts on Environmental Resources – Based on the preliminary design, the project will impact
approximately 4 acres of medium‐quality wetlands and 155 linear feet of streams.
There are approximately 25,000 acres of land in the FLUSA. Of this, approximately 7,000 acres
(28%) is currently developed. Of the 18,000 acres of undeveloped area, approximately 1,000
Project U‐5026 26 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
acres (4% of the total) is considered constrained – protected by ponds, stream buffers and
floodway restrictions. The remaining 17,000 acres (68% of the total) of land is classified as
undeveloped/ unconstrained, which generally represents land within the FLUSA that could be
developed in the future.
Nash County has ordinances for watershed protection and flood hazard areas. NCDWR Central
Coastal Plain Capacity Use Area Rules apply for the county. The FLUSA is designated as a NPDES
Phase II area. New developments may be required to obtain a NPDES permit, a NPDES Phase II
Stormwater Permit, a Section 404 permit from the USACE, and a Section 401 Water Quality
Certification from NCDWQ. With these regulations, the combination of past, current, and future
projects is expected to have a minor impact on notable environmental resources in the FLUSA.
Cumulative Effects Summary – Two large residential neighborhoods have continued to build out
and several small commercial developments have been constructed recently. Other
infrastructure and development projects are anticipated at a slow but steady pace. This project
is expected to result in a minor decrease in travel time for most drivers, but will increase access
and exposure to properties near the new interchange. The new interchange will encourage
development in the area, which is one of the stated purposes of the project, and will contribute
to cumulative impacts to environmental resources in the FLUSA.
Direct natural environmental impacts by NCDOT projects will be addressed by avoidance,
minimization, or mitigation, consistent with programmatic agreements with the natural
resource agencies during the Merger and Permitting processes. All developments will be
required to follow local, state, and federal guidelines and permitting regulations.
Project U‐5026 27 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
References
City of Rocky Mount Planning and Development website,
http://www.rockymountnc.gov/planning/ (accessed January 18, 2011)
City of Rocky Mount Stormwater Management Plan, August 2004,
http://www.rockymountnc.gov/publicworks/documents/CRM‐Stormwater‐Management‐
Plan.pdf.
Community Impact Assessment for TIP U‐5026, April 2009, North Carolina Department of
Transportation.
Floodplain Protection Overlay Ordinance, http://www.rockymountnc.gov/planning/forms.html
(accessed January 18, 2011)
Graves, Ken (Rocky Mount Planning Administrator), Personal communication, February 2, 2011
Hawkes, Derek (Nash County Utilities Director), Personal communication, February 4, 2011
Kerr, Brad (Rocky Mount Director of Engineering), Personal communication, February 4, 2011
League, Bob (Rocky Mount Planner), Personal communication, February 9, 2011
Local Water Supply Plans (Nash County, City of Rocky Mount), 2007,
http://www.ncwater.org/Water_Supply_Planning/Local_Water_Supply_Plan/search.php
Nash County website, http://www.co.nash.nc.us/ (accessed January 18, 2011)
Nash County Land Development Plan, June 2006, http://www.ucprpo.org/Local%20Plans.html
Nash County Zoning Data, http://gis.co.nash.nc.us/connectgis/nash/ (accessed January 18,
2011)
National Park Service Nationwide Rivers Inventory,
http://www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/nri/states/nc.html (accessed February 4, 2011)
Nixon, Nancy (Nash County Long Range Planner), Personal communication, February 2, 2011
North Carolina Department of Commerce, http://www.nccommerce.com/en (Economic
Deveopment Intelligence System – https://edis.commerce.state.nc.us/EDIS/page1.html)
(accessed January 18, 2011)
North Carolina Division of Water Quality, http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/wq (accessed January
18, 2011)
North Carolina Division of Water Quality 2010 Tar‐Pamlico Basinwide Water Quality Plan, Upper
Tar River Subbasin, January 2011,
http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/wq/ps/bpu/basin/tarpamlico/2010
North Carolina Division of Water Quality Tar‐Pamlico Nutrient Strategy, December 1997,
http://portal.ncdenr.org/web/wq/ps/nps/tarpamlico
Project U‐5026 28 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
June 2011
North Carolina Division of Water Quality Riparian Buffer Protection Rules for the Neuse and Tar‐
Pamlico River Basins, July 1997, http://h2o.enr.state.nc.us/nps/BufRulFakSheet‐NeuseTP2‐
00.pdf
North Carolina’s Eastern Region, http://www.nceast.org (accessed January 18, 2011)
North Carolina’s Eastern Region Strategic Plan, May 2006, http://www.nceast.org/strategic_plan
North Carolina Employment Security Commission, http://www.ncesc.com (accessed January 18,
2011)
North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management, http://www.osbm.state.nc.us/
(accessed January 18, 2011)
North Carolina Department of Transportation Final Transportation Improvement Program (2009‐
2015). http://www.ncdot.org/PLANNING/development/tip/TIP/
North Carolina Department of Transportation Draft Transportation Improvement Program
(2011‐2020). http://www.ncdot.org/performance/reform/
Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments, http://www.ucpcog.org/ (accessed January 18,
2011)
Upper Coastal Plain Rural Planning Organization, http://www.ucprpo.org/ (accessed January 18,
2011)
Rocky Mount Annexation Report and Plan of Service, December 2008,
http://www.rockymountnc.gov/planning/forms.html
Rocky Mount Comprehensive Bicycle Plan, February 2007,
http://www.rockymountnc.gov/mpo/documents/RMCBP07.pdf
Rocky Mount Urban Area MPO, http://www.rockymountnc.gov/mpo/ (accessed January 18,
2011)
Transportation Plan 2030, Rocky Mount Urban Area MPO, November 2004,
http://www.rockymountnc.gov/planning/forms.html
Long Range Transportation Plan 2035, Rocky Mount Urban Area MPO, May 2009,
http://www.rockymountnc.gov/mpo/documents/LRTP%202035%20Master%20File.pdf
Together Tomorrow, Tier 1 Smart Growth Comprehensive Plan for the City of Rocky Mount, June
2003, http://www.rockymountnc.gov/planning/forms.html
Turning Point Workforce Development Board, http://www.turningpointwdb.org/ (accessed
January 18, 2011)
U.S. Census Bureau web page, www.census.gov, 1990 and 2000
Wall, Ann (Rocky Mount Planning Director), Personal Communication, February 2, 2011
Figures
Figure 1. Study Areas
Figure 2. Existing Water and Sewer Lines
Figure 3. Natural Environment
Figure 4. Existing Land Use
Figure 5. Future Land Use
Red Oak
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Oak Level Rd
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U-5026 Nash CountyI-95 / Sunset Avenue Interchange
NORTH CAROLINADEPARTMENTOFTRANSPORTATION
0 1 20.5 Miles
Study AreasFigure 1
/
LegendFuture Land Use Study Area (FLUSA)
Rocky Mount ETJ
Proposed Annexation Area 1
County Boundary
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FRANKLIN
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Reges Store Rd
W e s t M o u n t R d S Winstead AveBethleh em Rd
G r e e n H i l ls R d
Bra ke Rd
Sherrod Rd
E Washington StNelms LnBarnes Hill Church RdOak Level RdColey RdArrow RdD ozier R dN Winstead AveSheffield Dr
Winstead Rd
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Woodlawn Rd
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Existing Water and Sewer LinesCity of Rocky Mount
Figure 2
/
LegendWater Line
Sewer Line
Probable Development Areas (PDAs)
Future Land Use Study Area (FLUSA)
Proposed Annexation Area 1
Rocky Mount ETJ
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E Washington St
S a n d y C ro ss R dNelms LnPridgen RdWoodruff RdOak Level Rd
English Rd
Exum Rd
Breedlove Rd
Arrow RdTurkey Foot RdW Beulah Rd Boseman RdDozier RdE Beulah Rd
Harrisontown Rd
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Rd I-95Winstead Store RdJames Bunn RdW Tarboro RdN 1st StS Alston StRo
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Leaston RdTrooper RdE 6th StN Alston StTown Hal
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Appendix
Record of Communication
City of Rocky Mount and Nash County Planners ........................... A‐1
City of Rocky Mount Director of Engineering ................................ A‐5
Nash County Utilities Director ....................................................... A‐6
Project R‐2514 A‐1 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
Appendix
Project U‐5026
Local Planner Interview
Nash County
Nancy Nixon, Senior Planner (252‐459‐1686)
City of Rocky Mount
Ann Wall, Director of Planning (252‐972‐1102)
Ken Graves, Planning Administrator (252‐972‐1103)
February 2, 2011
2:00 p.m.
In‐person, Rocky Mount Planning Division
(Bold denotes questions we discussed. Italics denotes information I had gathered prior to the
meeting. Other text is a summary of our discussion.)
1. List recent and current development and infrastructure projects in the county and
general development trends.
‐ Annexation Report and Plan of Services (September 2008) shows Annexation 1 in
DCIA. Status of annexation?
Sunset Avenue between Dozier and I‐95 has some recent commercial and
redevelopment. The City has annexed some of this area, and another annexation (Area
1) is pending on the southwest side (involuntary). Carriage Pond has grown out in the
last few years. This area is one of the higher growth areas in the City. Nash Community
College has continued to expand, and has plans for “significant expansion” in the near
future, including purchasing property. A new fire station was built recently in the
northwest quadrant of Sunset/Old Carriage. A gas station is coming to the northeast
quadrant of Sunset/Old Carriage.
2. Describe anticipated future development and infrastructure projects, and land use/
transportation plans. What/where are there current development pressures? How
will this project affect development patterns?
‐ Undeveloped land in northeast quadrant.
‐ Manufactured home parks around interchange should be replaced with apartments,
retail, gas stations, and hotels. Developers have not been buying property in
anticipation of interchange, and City does not offer tax breaks or other incentives to
developers (2009 interview).
Project R‐2514 A‐2 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
Appendix
The interchange would make it easier to get into Nashville although Nashville already
has two interchanges on US 64 and US 58 runs through it, so impact on Nashville from
this project would be limited. In the northwest quadrant of Sunset/I‐95, there is a
movement afoot (Frank Livesly, Realtor) by a group of property owners interested in
selling, but waiting for the right time. The last 3‐4 years, the area was hoping to attract
a major retailer but it didn’t work out. The City would be able to provide all water and
sewer services to that area. Industries along Dozier don’t want to lose jobs, but some
areas are underdeveloped on the north side of Sunset. Most of the open land is north
of Dozier. Anticipate future development along Oak Level, especially commercial
development at intersections. Although Dortches has an interchange‐focused
development in the plans currently, it would prefer to keep its small town feel.
The owner of the parcel north of US 64/west of I‐95 is interested in selling but is blocked
by Joe Bell’s property at the northeast quadrant of Old Carriage Road/US 64. The
northwest quadrant property owner wants to sell. The City is meeting with a small
business recruiter next week (Allen Matthews) to discuss future business growth. Brook
Valley is owned homes on rented lots. Layton is rented homes on rented lots, and the
owner is most likely to want to sell of the three mobile home parks at the interchange.
Layton is probably more concerned with noise since taking down visual barrier. Stone
Gate is probably not interested in selling, but may be willing to give up a small piece of
land for interchange if needed.
3. Is this project consistent with local planning and economic goals? Are those goals part
of an approved planning document? Whose planning jurisdiction is this project in?
‐ Rocky Mount’s planning and zoning jurisdiction extends beyond the city limits to
include adjacent portions of unincorporated Nash County and Edgecombe County
(2009 interview)
‐ Rocky Mount’s Comprehensive Plan, Together Tomorrow (June 2003). Most of the
DCIA is within a Planned Growth Area (designed to accommodate “outward
growth”). Parts of DCIA (north of Sunset Ave between Arrow Road and N. Old
Carriage Road, the Carriage Pond subdivision, and area south of Layton subdivision)
are also within the West Smart Growth Area (majority of residential uses with
neighborhood and community services as appropriate).
Yes, this project is consistent because it would encourage growth on the side of Rocky
Mount which local planners for smart, outward growth.
4. How do you think this project will be perceived by the community?
‐ 12 comment sheets after February 2008 public workshop: 3 supported project
(potential industrial and economic growth and increased travel and tourism), 3
questioned need for project, 3 were concerned about increase in traffic (loss of rental
income, declines in property values, safety, delays, noise, and crime), and 2 were
concerned about project‐induced commercialization along Sunset Avenue.
Project R‐2514 A‐3 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
Appendix
The attitude of the public is generally positive, and the project has support of the
Chamber of Commerce. Some residents on Sunset Avenue may be concerned because
of traffic, but businesses and property owners who want to sell their land look forward
to the interchange.
5. What are travel and commuting patterns into and through the area? Who uses these
roads (locals, commuters)? How will this project, in combination with other known
roadway projects, affect travel patterns?
‐ I‐95 provides north‐south access through Nash County. Many travelers are passing
through Nash County on their way to destinations in the Northeastern US or Florida.
US 64 connects Nash County with Raleigh to the west and Outer Banks to the east.
Sunset Avenue provides local access between Rocky Mount and Nashville.
‐ Project U‐3621 proposes to widen Hunter Hill Road to multi‐lanes from N. Winstead
Avenue to NC 43‐48 in Rocky Mount (2.4 miles).
‐ Project U‐4019 proposes to widen Winstead Avenue to multi‐lanes from Sunset
Avenue to Jeffreys Road in Rocky Mount (1.4 miles).
Raleigh road growth may result in growth in Rocky Mount/Nash County, such as that
already seen in Middlesex and Bailey (along US 264). Towns don’t have capacity, so
starting to see growth in migration from other parts of the county. Moving into rural
areas instead of towns, often into subdivisions with larger homes. Not as much along
US 64, but just starting. Likely to occur first in Nashville and Spring Hope.
6. Provide a general description of the communities in the area – are they cohesive, how
do they interact with each other or other nearby towns, what are the important
features within each community, and what are their concerns about the future? Are
there any minority, low‐income, or limited English‐speaking communities near the
project?
‐ Minority: See Map 4 (southeast and northeast corners of DCIA, Sunset Avenue east
of Sunshine Drive, Layola Avenue, and Carroll Avenue)
‐ Low‐income: Trailer homes southeast (Stonegate) and southwest (Layton)
‐ Limited English speaking: Southwest quadrant
Stone Gate is cohesive, and has more minority residents. Layton may have some
cohesion, but less so than in previous years, more transient residents now. Layton is
mixed race – it was originally more white, but has had an influx of Hispanic recently.
7. Do bicyclists and pedestrians use the roads in this area?
‐ Proposed West Side Connector (Rocky Mount Comprehensive Bicycle Plan, Feb
2007), starts at the intersection of South Halifax Road and Bethlehem Road, turns
east on Sunset Avenue (east of the DCIA), and continues along other roadways
outside of DCIA.
Project R‐2514 A‐4 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
Appendix
‐ No sidewalks in DCIA. This part of Sunset Avenue is not included in the city’s
sidewalk priority list (Transportation Plan 2030).
No, bicyclists and pedestrians are generally not active near the proposed interchange.
There may be a sidewalk added on Old Carriage because of the high school. A sidewalk
plan is upcoming.
8. List any development restrictions, such as stream buffers, stormwater guidelines, etc
(any local policies that would affect how development would occur).
‐ WS‐IV Protected Area watershed with Phase II requirements south of Sunset Avenue
(2 dwelling units per acre or 24% built‐upon area in low density or 24‐70% built‐upon
in high density, with 50‐foot buffers).
‐ Floodplain Protection Zoning Ordinance
No other development restrictions they know of.
9. Do the state’s forecasted population and employment growth match those
anticipated by the county and municipality? Do you expect this project will shift
future population growth patterns?
‐ In the past 10 years, population had grown about 0.7% per year in both City and
County, about half as fast as in the previous decade (and less than NC). Projections
show growth of 1.8% per year in Nash County through 2020 (same as NC).
‐ Employment in the Rocky Mount area decreased by 4% (0.8% per year) from 2000‐
2005, and by 9% (2.4% per year) from 2005‐2009. Similar trends in NC, but higher %
in Rocky Mount than in state.
‐ Ongoing trends in NC whereby residents are moving to larger urban areas to pursue
economic opportunities.
‐ Does the city have more updated employment/economic development information
than 2003 plan?
2003 plan is most current information. Rocky Mount is expected to be slightly under the
state’s growth. Growth will probably be in Nash County, not Edgecombe County. Some
Rocky Mount growth through annexation. Growth most likely in Nashville, Rocky
Mount, Dortches, along US 264, including commuter traffic growth.
Employment has decreased in Edgecombe County, now has one of the highest
unemployment rates. It was on the list of 10 counties most impacted by NAFTA. Rocky
mount is the hub of its region. The closest neighbors are Greenville and the Triangle,
each of which have their own generators. Employment often comes from the regional
hub – in the 1980s and 1990s the area lost tobacco and textile markets. Then the area
flooded in 1999, resulting in loss of much in downtown Rocky Mount. Overall, the area
has lost several large market sectors but added employment in others – a lot of work
has been done just to stay stable. Expect employment to continue to increase if don’t
Project R‐2514 A‐5 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
Appendix
keep getting pulled down by large sectors. The area will continue to grow and attract
businesses; relationships between the city and counties in the region are good, they
recognize education is important, and they are focused on improving infrastructure.
They hope for steady positive growth.
10. Describe existing water and sewer capacities, constraints or concerns, policies, and
plans/budget for expansion. Are maps of the infrastructure available (electronic
preferred)?
‐ Water and sewer maps shown on Annexation map.
Development along Sunset Ave could be served by the City. The City plans to extend
water and sewer to the high school.
11. Are there any active farms in this area?
Yes, but many have expressed interest in selling to a developer.
12. Provide the names of anyone else you suggest we speak to about this project.
‐ Mike Toleson or Brad Kerr, City Engineering (252‐972‐1120)
‐ John Guessman, Carolina’s Gateway Partnership
‐ Mr. Jean Foxworth, Town of Nashville Planning Director (252‐459‐4511 x232)
Project R‐2514 A‐6 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
Appendix
Project U‐5026
Local Planner Interview
City of Rocky Mount
Brad Kerr, Director of Engineering (252‐972‐1120)
February 4, 2011
10:15 a.m.
Phone
(Bold denotes questions we discussed. Italics denotes information I had gathered prior to the
meeting. Other text is a summary of our discussion.)
13. Describe existing water and sewer capacities, constraints or concerns, policies, and
plans/budget for expansion. Are maps of the infrastructure available (electronic
preferred)?
‐ Water and sewer maps shown on Annexation map.
An existing water line crosses I‐95 south of Sunset Avenue. The City is not concerned
about future expansions of the line; capacity is not a problem. Another extension is
partially funded at Oak Level Road (all is funded except the I‐95 crossing), which will
eventually connect the high school to the Halifax master main off Oak Level Road. To
serve development on Dozier Road, would need to go under US 64 from the north – the
City has a rough idea of how to do that work, but does not have a plan in place yet.
Most would flow to the Stony Creek outfall (gravity or pump). Water is readily
accessible.
A sewer extension crossing I‐95 just south of Sunset Avenue is funded in the CIP. The
City is getting ready to run a major outfall on the south side of the railroad crossing
(between Oak Level and Sunset).
Water and sewer are in the southwest and southeast quadrant of the intersection, from
the south side. The City is planning to extend from a master meter to individual meters
in Layton soon. The owner has submitted a plan, and would pay for most of the work.
The City would pay for a small portion in a cost‐sharing agreement.
Project R‐2514 A‐7 Indirect and Cumulative Effects Report
Appendix
Project U‐5026
Local Planner Interview
Nash County
Derek Hawkes, Nash County Utilities Director (252‐462‐2613)
February 4, 2011
11:30 a.m.
Phone
(Bold denotes questions we discussed. Italics denotes information I had gathered prior to the
meeting. Other text is a summary of our discussion.)
14. Describe existing water and sewer capacities, constraints or concerns, policies, and
plans/budget for expansion. Are maps of the infrastructure available (electronic
preferred)?
‐ Water and sewer maps shown on Annexation map.
The County serves the area south of Sherrod/Oak Level, and some of Batchelor
Road/Barnes Hill Church Road/54. The City serves the area between Rocky Mount and
Nashville. The County has focused on the west side of the county toward Red Oak, and
he knows Rocky Mount and Nashville will eventually pick up the DCIA.