Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout20030490 Ver 1_Complete File_20030417GM STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR OCT -3, September 26, 2001 0 3o?-(4v V1 Sw ?clL LYNDO TIPPETT , SECRETARY Memorandum To: File From: Beverly Robinson Project Development Engineer Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Subject: Agency Meeting Minutes for Replacing Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek, Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP- 133(2), State Project No. 8.1231501, TIP Project No. B- 3116 and Replacing Bridge No. 61 on NC 133 over Town Creek, Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-133(1), State Project No. 8.123140 1, TIP Project No. B-3115 Citizens Informational Workshop A citizens informational workshop was held on May 22, 2001. Approximately 25 persons attended this meeting. An aerial mosaic of the two bridges was displayed as well as a map of the proposed detour route. Most of the comments at the workshop were in opposition to closing the road. Most of the citizens agreed with the idea of replacing both bridges at the same time, but had some concerns about closing the road because of the inconvenience to school buses, evacuation during the hurricane season, emergency response time and increased travel cost due to high gas prices. June, 2001 Concurrence Meeting A concurrence meeting was held on June 14, 2001 for TIP Projects B-3115 and B-3116. The following persons were in attendance: Tom McCartney David Cox John Hennessy Joe Blair Mason Herndon Dave Timpy Cathy Brittingham Bill Arrington MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 USFWS NCWRC NCDWQ NCDOT-Division 3 NCDOT-Division 3 DEO COE Coastal Management Coastal Management TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 FAX: 919-733-9794 WEBS/TE: WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC Stephen Roberts Roadway Design Sue Flowers Roadway Design Jay McInnis PDEA Beverly Robinson PDEA The following information was presented at the meeting: Purpose for Meeting The purpose of this meeting was to discuss alternatives for TIP Projects B-3115 and B-3116 and to obtain concurrence on the recommended alternative for each of these projects. These projects both involve replacing bridges carrying NC 133 over streams in Brunswick County. The two bridges are within 4.5 miles of each other. Because of this close proximity, NCDOT is considering constructing both bridges at the same time in order to minimize the disruption to roadway users and area residents. II. Purpose and Need The purpose of the proposed projects is to replace structurally deficient bridges. III. Project Description Both projects are included in the North Carolina Department of Transportation's 2002-2008 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). TIP Project B-3116 proposes to replace Bridge No. 56 carrying NC 133 over Allen Creek. TIP Project B-3115 proposes to replace Bridge No. 61 carrying NC 133 over Town Creek. Bridge No. 56 was built in 1950. The deck of this structure is 61 feet long and 25 feet wide. There is approximately 12 feet of vertical clearance between the floor beams of the bridge deck and streambed. There are two lanes of traffic on the bridge. According to Bridge Maintenance records, the sufficiency rating of Bridge No. 56 is 37.9 out a possible 100. Presently Bridge No. 56 is posted with weight restrictions of 30 tons for single vehicles and legal load limit for truck-tractor semi-trailers. Bridge No. 61 was built in 1955. The deck of this structure is 300 feet long and 26 feet wide. There is approximately 26 feet of vertical clearance between the floor beams of the bridge deck and streambed. There are two lanes of traffic on the bridge. According to Bridge Maintenance records, the sufficiency rating of Bridge No. 61 is 27.9 out o possible 100. Presently the bridge is posted with weight restrictions of 37 tons for single vehicles and the legal load limit for truck-tractor semi-trailers. IV. Studied Alternatives Status of Proposed Project B-3116 Planning studies for TIP Project B-3116 are currently underway. The categorical exclusion for this project is scheduled to be completed in October 2001. Right of way acquisition is scheduled for June 2002 and construction is scheduled for May 2003. The cost and impacts of the alternatives being considered for the proposed bridge replacement are shown on the table below: Bridge Lengths Cost - In Place Cost - Realignment Impacts-In Place Impacts- Realignment Restoration/ Creation-In Place Restoration/ Creation- Realignment 80 feet $ 525,000 $1,000,000 0.88 acres 2.76 acres 0 1.30 acres 150 feet $ 725,000 $1,250,000 0.82 acres 2.49 acres 0.09 acres 1.30 acres *300 feet $1,200,000 $1,650,000 0.69 acres 2.18 acres 0.28 acres 1.30 acres Impacts are based on mechanized clearing 10 feet outside of construction limits. Cost = construction cost only. *Bridge length recommended by NCDOT. Status of Proposed Project B-3115 Planning studies for TIP Project B-3115 were completed in May 2000. The categorical exclusion for this project recommended replacing the existing bridge on new alignment 50 feet west of the existing structure. The recommended length for the new bridge would be approximately 300 feet. Replacing the bridge at its existing location and constructing a temporary detour bridge was considered. Since completion of the categorical exclusion, replacing the bridge at its existing location has been suggested as a third alternative. A comparison of the three alternatives are listed below: Bridge Cost - In Cost - Impacts-In Impacts- Restoration Restoration/ Lengths Place Realignment Place Realignment /Creation- Creation- In Place Realignment *300 feet $1,400,000 $2,000,000 0.17 acres 0.27 acres 0 0.64 acres Detour $475,000 0.27 0.64 Impacts are based on mechanized clearing 10 feet outside of construction limits. Cost = construction cost only. *Bridge length recommended by NCDOT. VI. Agency Comments and Questions Constructability Both bridges will be constructed using drilled shafts at the existing elevation. Bridge No. 61 over Town Creek will be constructed from barges. Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek will require a temporary work bridge or the existing structure will be strengthened to support construction equipment. Moratoriums An in-water construction moratorium is required from April through June for the short-nosed sturgeon. If in-water construction is not completed by June the agencies discussed possibly extending the moratorium to September. Guidelines would be developed by the agencies for the extension. Mitigation A preliminary mitigation plan will be included in the CE for both projects. The Division of Coastal Management (DCM) regulations requires mitigation for coastal wetland impacts over 1000 square feet. DCM will allow for enhancement credits if mitigation is required. The agencies recommended that DOT look at the total need for mitigation to determine if mitigation for these bridge sites could help with overall mitigation needs. Permit applications should be submitted as early as possible because of the mitigation component. The Corps of Engineers will require 2:1 mitigation for an 80-foot bridge for B- 3116 but will not require any mitigation for a 300-foot bridge. DCM will consider no mitigation for a 300-foot bridge for B-3116. Impacts Impacts mentioned in the information presented at the June 14, 2001 meeting were based on widening shoulders in the project areas to 8 feet with a 3:1 slope. Wetland boundaries were determined to skirt the edge of the existing pavement. 8-foot shoulders are required to meet AASHTO standards. The 3:1 slope is required for slope stability. A 2:1 slope was proposed as an alternative to the 3:1 slope. Joe Blair of the Division 3 stated 2:1 slopes are hard to maintain during and after construction. The agencies asked that a description of the slope and justification for the slope be included in the Categorical Exclusion (CE) and permit application. Impacts presented were based on clearing limits extending 5 feet beyond the slope stake line. Wildlife Resources Commission suggested that a 5-ft clearing area should not be presented unless it is within NCDOT capabilities to limit clearing to only five feet outside the slope stake line. Allen Creek will require a temporary work bridge or the existing structure will be strengthened to support construction equipment. Moratoriums An in-water construction moratorium is required from April through June for the short-nosed sturgeon. If in-water construction is not completed by June the agencies discussed possibly extending the moratorium to September. Guidelines would be developed by the agencies for the extension. Mitigation A preliminary mitigation plan will be included in the CE for both projects. The Division of Coastal Management (DCM) regulations requires mitigation for coastal wetland impacts over 1000 square feet. DCM will allow for enhancement credits if mitigation is required. The agencies recommended that DOT look at the total need for mitigation to determine if mitigation for these bridge sites could help with overall mitigation needs. Permit applications should be submitted as early as possible because of the mitigation component. The Corps of Engineers will require 2:1 mitigation for an 80-foot bridge for B- 3116 but will not require any mitigation for a 300-foot bridge. DCM will consider no mitigation for a 300-foot bridge for B-3116. Impacts Impacts mentioned in the information presented at the June 14, 2001 meeting were based on widening shoulders in the project areas to 8 feet with a 3:1 slope. Wetland boundaries were determined to skirt the edge of the existing pavement.' 8-foot shoulders are required to meet AASHTO standards. The 3:1 slope is required for slope stability. A 2:1 slope was proposed as an alternative to the 3:1 slope. Joe Blair of the Division 3 stated 2:1 slopes are hard to maintain during and after construction. The agencies asked that a description of the slope and justification for the slope be included in the Categorical Exclusion (CE) and permit application. Impacts presented were based on clearing limits extending 5 feet beyond the slope stake line. Wildlife Resources Commission suggested that a 5-ft clearing area should not be presented unless it is within NCDOT capabilities to limit clearing to only five feet outside the slope stake line. Division of Coastal Management (DCM) will require temporary wetland impact areas be monitored for 3 to 5 years after construction of the proposed bridges. A report concerning regeneration will also be required. If the wetlands have not regenerated by that time, the impacts will be considered permanent and mitigation will be required. The estimated temporary wetland impacts due to a temporary work bridge are 0.003 acres. July, 2001 Public Officials Meeting A meeting was held on July 9, 2001 with public officials in Brunswick County. The meeting concluded with the following requests: Several public safety officials and town officials were contacted concerning the impact closing the road to replace the bridges would have on their daily processes. The agencies represented included the following: Brunswick County Emergency Management Brunswick County Emergency Medical Services Brunswick County Sheriff's Department Brunswick County Planning Town of Belville Town of Leland Town of Southport CP&L (Southport Plant) Brunswick County Schools NC State Highway Patrol Brunswick County Utilities Brunswick County Solid Waste Brunswick County Manager The above officials were in favor of replacing the bridges at the same time. Some officials were concerned about the inconvenience of a detour but could work around it. Closing only the Allen Creek Bridge was also mentioned as an option to replacing the bridges. Closing only one bridge would still result in the inconvenience of a detour. No substantial opposition was given for the alternatives under consideration. The local emergency management officials had the following requests: 1) The let date be changed from July to September 2) NCDOT investigate the necessary improvements needed for NC 87 to be used as a detour route, including the need for additional traffic signals and resurfacing 3) NCDOT review and update the Evacuation Time Estimates for Plume Exposure Pathway Emergency Planning Zone Brunswick Nuclear Plant Document 4) NCDOT provide a process to educate the public about bridge replacements, road closures and detour routes. Conclusion Bridge No. 56 will be replaced in its existing location with a 300-ft bridge. Bridge No. 61 will be replaced in its existing location with a 300-ft bridge. The requests from the June 9, 2001 meeting will be addressed as the project progresses. These issues will be included on the project commitment sheets of the Categorical Exclusion. No mitigation may be needed for constructing a 300-foot bridge for the proposed bridge replacement. Please respond by October 18th with any comments or changes to this memo. If you have any question feel free to call me at (919) 733-7844 extension 254. NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION V. DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH BRIDGE NO. 56 OVER ALLEN CREEK AND BRIDGE NO. 61 OVER TOWN CREEK BRUNSWICK COUNTY TIP PROJECT NO. B-3116 AND B-3115 FIGURE 1 ,, . l C STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JPL DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS GARLAND B. GARPETT JR. GOVERNOR P.O. BOX 25201. RALEIGH. N.C. 27611-5201 SECRETARY December 16, 1997 MEMO TO: Project File FROM: Bill Goodwin, P. E.? Project Planning Engineer SUBJECT: Scoping Meeting for Replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek in Brunswick County, Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP- 133(2), State Project No. 8.1231501, TIP No. B-3116 A scoping meeting for the subject project was held on December 10, 1997. The following persons were in attendance: Debbie Bevin SHPO Ray Moore Structure Design Lanette Cook Program Development Jerry Snead Hydraulics Chris Howard Traffic Control Eddie Sasser Traffic Control Sue Flowers Roadway Design Lee McCrory Roadway Design Gary Foster Roadway Design Bill Goodwin Planning and Environmental Utility conflicts will be low for this project. There are underground phone cables on the west side of NC 133 going aerial across the creek. There is also a fiber optic cable underground along the west side of NC 133. Also along the west side of NC 133 there are overhead power lines. Ms. Cyndi Bell of DWQ indicated, prior to the meeting, that Allen Creek is classified as Class C - SW. Implementation of Standard Sedimentation and Erosion Control Measures will be acceptable. Surface water and wetland impacts should be avoided and minimized where ever possible. Mr. David Cox of NC WRC indicated by memo, that NCDOT should routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into the stream. Replacement of S. M bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. Allen Creek has high potential for anadromous fish usage and the NCDOT policy entitled "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage" should be followed for this project. Ms. Debbie Bevin of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) indicated that there are no known architectural or archaeological resources in the project area and no unknown resources are likely to be found. Therefore, no surveys will be required for this project. Mr. Jerry Snead of the Hydraulics Unit indicated that a new bridge will be required to replace the existing bridge. This bridge should be 24 meters (80 feet) in length. This new bridge should be placed at approximately the same roadway elevation as the existing bridge. An on-site detour structure should be a bridge 18 meters (60 feet) in length and could be placed approximately 1 meter (3 feet) lower than the existing bridge. The detour structure should be located west of the existing bridge to avoid a tributary east of the bridge. Brunswick County is one of the counties under the jurisdiction of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). Therefore, a CAS ?A permit will be required for this project. A desired design speed of 100 km/h (60 mph) should be achieved on this project. The roadway approaches will have two 3.6 meter (12 ft) travel lanes, 1.2 meter (4 foot) paved shoulders, and a total shoulder width of at least 2.4 meters (8 ft). The shoulder will be 1.0 meters (3 feet) wider where guardrail is warranted. This section of NC 133 is classified as a Rural Major Collector Route in the Statewide Functional Classification System. The Brunswick County School Bus Transportation Coordinator indicated that four school busses cross this bridge twice per day during the school year. Closing the bridge during construction would cause significant delays for these busses. Any detour route would involve may miles of indirect travel; therefore, school bus traffic needs to be maintained on-site. The Traffic Forecasting Unit has indicated that near Bridge No. 61, NC 133 carries 5900 vehicles per day at present [1998]. This figure is expected to increase to 12,500 vehicles per day by the year 2020. These traffic figures include 3% dual tired vehicles [DUAL], and 2% truck- tractor semi-trailers [TTST]. The design hourly volume [DHV] is 10%. The Division Engineer has indicated that replacing the bridge in-place, with an on-site detour is important for this project. The traffic volume and length of indirect travel routes make an off-site detour unreasonable. Two alternates will be evaluated for replacing Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek. Alternate 1: Replace Bridge No. 56 in place with a new bridge. Traffic will be maintained on a temporary detour located west of the existing bridge during construction. Alternate 2: Replace Bridge No. 56 on new alignment to the west of the existing bridge with a new bridge. Traffic will be maintained on the existing bridge during construction. M . Y J Alternate 2 may involve a significantly longer bridge than recommended by hydraulics. A permit requirement of alternate 2 may be bridging a significant portion of the wetland in the project area and removal of the existing causeway. Early coordination with the local CAMA office will help clarify their position on this issue and help eliminate permit problems later in the project process. Planning will contact the local CAMA office on this issue. The TIP cost estimate for this project is $ 380,000 including, $ 75,000 spent in prior years, $ 275,000 for construction and $ 30,000 for right of way acquisition. The current project schedule calls for right of way acquisition to begin in April 2000 and construction to begin in May 2001. ` BG/ 9.. E , `V '?oF NOAT;hj North Carolina Department of y ?;\ Transportation Division of Highways 9 F QO?? Planning & Environmental Branch ?T OF TAANS Brunswick County Replace Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 Over Allen Creek B-3116 Figure One N )g-85" GSA Caf f-- Few- 4,3 KU ly ?OFNORT1yCg904v North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways 9 sQ°?P Planning & Environmental Branch OF*M Brunswick County Replace Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 Over Allen Creek B-3116 Figure One BRIDGE PROJECT SCOPING SHEET 11/6/97 TIP PROJECT: B-3116 DIVISION: Three F. A. PROJECT: BRSTP - 133(2) _ STATE PROJECT: 8.1231501 COUNTY: Brunswick ROUTE: NC 133 DESCRIPTION: Replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek PROJECT PURPOSE: replace obsolete bridge PROJECT U.S.G.S. QUAD SHEET(S): Carolina Beach NC Quad ROADWAY CLASSIFICATION: -Rural Major Collector TIP CONSTRUCTION COST .......................................................................... $ 275,000 TIP RIGHT OF WAY COST .......................................................................... $ 30,000 PRIOR YEARS COST ...................................................................................... $ 75,000 TIP TOTAL COST ........................................................................................... $ 380,000 TRAFFIC: CURRENT 5600 VPD; DESIGN YEAR (2020) 12500 VPD TTST 1 % DUAL 3 % EXISTING ROADWAY TYPICAL SECTION: Two lane shoulder section. 20 foot pavement. grassed shoulders EXISTING STRUCTURE: LENGTH 18.6 METERS WIDTH 7.7 METERS 61 FEET 25.3 FEET COMMENTS: P7 1 , z, '` ti r ? t = o ? t 1 v T ?? • ?j . 46, 4 F. f ?' '? 'P, , • • NCDOT BRIDGE REPLACEMENT SCOPING MEETING DATE: T.I.P. No.: Project Engineer: Project Description: Replace Bridge No. over on in County Existing bridge built 19 Sufficiency Rating Paved/Unpaved Right of Way 19_ Let/Construction 20_ Design Year 20 Posted limits: mph; lbs cars lbs trucks dimensions existing: wide x long travel lanes elevation above stream proposed: wide x long travel lanes elevation above stream structure existing: proposed: school buses accidents current use v.p.d., anticipated use e.p.d. Design Year Classification: Division Engineer recommendations: Hydraulics recommendations: Detour type/rationale: Design constraints: Right-of-Way issues: WRC comments: Moratorium recommended - for Sediment and Erosion control recommended - DWQ comments: Utility conflicts: Historic properties: Anticipated wetland issues: Other cultural/natural resource issues: checklist: avoid wetlands, show alternatives in document maximize bridging (i.e. cost of mitigation vs. cost of extra bridging) replace with bridge if possible, need rational for culvert discuss temporary impacts and restoration c.Q, /t/,4/3 3 any geotechnical work? prefer bridge to culvert anadromous fish any stream rechannelization or new wetland impacts (mitigation)? hazardous spill basins erosion/side slope problems approach work impacts any associated highway projects? Stream name: DWQ Index No. River Basin: DWQ Classification: NWI Info: - 1 D ? 6 L W STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TkkNSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. GovERNOR P.O. BOX 25201, RALEIGH, N.C. 27611-5201 November 7, 1997 MEMORANDUM TO FROM: SUBJECT: Ms. Cyndi Bell DWQ - DENR H. Franklin Vick, P. E., Manager Planning and Environmental Branch Review of Scoping Sheets for the following projects: Project T.I.P. County Bridge No. Stateloute Planning Engineer B-3112 Bladen No. 59 NC 11'". Jeff Inghamf/ B-3115 Brunswick No. 61 NC 133 Bill Goodwinvl`? B-3116 Brunswick No. 56 NC 133 Bill Goodwin, ' ? B-3312 Burke No. 347 SR 1984 John Williams ? Attached for your review and comments are the scoping sheets and location maps for the subject projects. The purpose of this information and the related review procedure is to have an early "meeting of the minds" as to the scope of work that should be performed and thereby enable us to better implement the projects. Scoping meetings for these projects are scheduled for December 10, 1997 in the Planning and Environmental Branch Conference Room (Room 470). These scoping meetings will be held back to back beginning at 2:00 P. M. in the order shown above. These meetings typically last 10 to 15 minutes per project, so all attendees should plan to arrive at the beginning of the 2:00 P. M. session as applicable. You may provide us with your comments at the meeting, mail them to us prior to the meeting, or e-mail them to bgoodwin@dot.state.nc.us prior to the meeting. Thank you for your assistance in this part of our planning process. If there are any questions about the meetings or the scoping sheets, please call the indicated Project Planning Engineer, at 733-3141. HFV/bg Attachments RECEIVED NOv 1 01997 ???Ran+,,?rv rAC sci?c?s GARLAND B.,GARRETT JR. SECRETARY 9 •%r- MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTNTN T OF TRANSPORTATION N. C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources APR 2003 Division of Coastal Management Hestron Plaza II 151 -B NC Highway 24 ? SECTION d ?d 11LIAILI Y Morehead City, NC 28557 ATTENTION: Mr. Bill Arrington SUBJECT: Application for CAMA Major Development Permit for the proposed replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County, NCDOT Division 3. Federal Project No. BRSTP-133(2), State Project No.. 8.1231501, T.I.P. No. B-3116. ?,yy MSTAh'o aw April 7, 2003 LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY ?up Dear Sir: Please find enclosed copies of the Programmatic Categorical Exclusion form (PCE), 1998 Natural Resources Technical Report and Amendment letter dated October 18, 2001, Onsite Mitigation Plan, the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) permit application, permit drawings, Foundation Layout sheets, Utilities By Others sheet, copy of the Adjacent Riparian Property Owners Notification and reply form, a North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Stormwater Exemption letter, half size roadway plans, and a check for $400.00 for the application fee for the above referenced project. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The Department of Transportation is proposing to replace a structurally deficient bridge which was built in 1950. Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County will be replaced on the existing alignment with a new bridge approximately 300 feet in length and 39 feet in width. During construction traffic will be detoured onto NC 87. Onsite mitigation is being proposed for this project and is addressed within the attached Mitigation Plan. Please note?that there are minor differences between the PCE and the plan sheets. As the project design was refined, estimates for impacts totals as well as structure sizes became more precise. MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 FAX: 919-733-9794 WEBSITE: WWW.NCDOT.ORG LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC P_ Y^ PROPOSED IMPACTS Permanent Fill and Mechanized Clearing The 'PCE reports wetland impacts of 0.22 acre of permanent fill and 0.38 acre of mechanized clearing. The design has been refined and the final estimate for impacts to wetlands associated with this project now consist of 0.33 acre of permanent fill and 0.21 acre of mechanized clearing. Please note that the mechanized clearing limits are merely included on the drawings to allow room for the installation and maintenance of sediment and erosion control devices. No clearing or grubbing of marsh grasses is proposed within this five feet zone. NCDOT does not anticipate a permanent impact will result from the activity within this area. Bent Placements The replacement bridge will be a spanning structure. However, due to the skew of this crossing it will be necessary for Bent #3 to be placed along the edge of the stream channel and a very small portion of Bent #2 to extend into the stream as well (see attached Foundation Layout sheets). Please note that less than 0.004 acre of surface water impacts will be associated with the installation of these two bents. Therefore, negligible impacts are proposed to Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) [DWQ Index No. 18-851; Class C Sw. Pile Installation The bridge will have drilled piers for the interior bents and steel piles for the end bents. Drilled pier excavations will be stabilized with permanent steel casing (36" dia.) and drilling slurry. The permanent casing will be installed by driving, screwing, or vibrating prior to drilling below the casing. Once the permanent casing is installed to the weathered limestone, the excavation below that will be stabilized with slurry. Drilled pier specifications require containment of the slurry and disposal of slurry off site. The drilled piers may be installed either before or after the existing embankment is removed at the Contractor's option. NCDOT has committed to a Construction Moratorium, as listed in the green sheet within the attached PCE form. There will be no in-water or in-marsh activity during the months of February 15 through September 30. This is considered the in-migration, spawning and out-migration period for the endangered shortnose sturgeon and other anadromous fish. Utility Relocation BellSouth will have to relocate their aerial phone lines and proposes to 'directional bore under Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) from approximately station 22+00 to station 12+00 (see attached Utilities By Others sheet). All existing buried BellSouth cable within these limits left of line -L- will be abandoned. The two existing BellSouth poles will be removed. BellSouth will cut off the poles at ground level and the contractor will remove the poles from the roadway or bridge. BellSouth expects to need about five weeks to complete their work and will not begin until after all permits have been received for this project. Time Warner Communications are in joint use with Brunswick EMC and will remain in place. •o_, BRIDGE DEMOLITION The project commitments green sheet attached to the PCE assumes the worst-case scenario that all the spans over the water are potential discharge. It states that removal of the existing bridge could potentially drop a maximum of 27.4 yd3 of fill into the creek. However, Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal will be followed during Construction. Therefore, Bridge No. 56 will be removed without dropping components into Waters of the United States. To ensure the project will not adversely affect the endangered shortnose sturgeon, explosives will not be used in the bridge demolition. AVOIDANCE and MINIMIZATION Through efforts to minimize and avoid impacts to Waters of the United States, the project design has been refined. The existing 60-foot bridge will be replaced with a 300-foot bridge rather than with a shorter bridge and it will be replaced in place rather than on new location. There will be negligible impacts to surface water, because the new bridge will span the majority of Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) with one support bent being placed along the edge of the stream. There are no deck drains on the proposed bridge from station 15+50 -L- to 16+50 -L-. This eliminates deck drains from discharging directly into the creek (as is the present. case). The other drainage is as shown on the plans. A state stormwater permit application addressing all the stormwater runoff was sent to the DWQ Wilmington Regional Office for their review and approval. A State Stormwater exemption letter was received from that office, dated July 24, 2002 (see attached). Top down construction will be used so that no temporary construction access is necessary. An offsite detour will be used during construction rather than using an onsite detour, as originally proposed. Since soils within the project area are not sufficiently stable for maintaining 2:1 slopes, 3:1 slopes will be provided to lessen wetland impacts and for slope stabilization. Please note that 2:1 slopes with class II riprap will be used on the spill through slopes under the bridge only (as depicted on the profile drawing, sheet 7 of 10). All mechanized clearing limits for this project have been reduced from 10 feet in width to a minimum of 5 feet, with the exception of 10466t wide clearing limits only at pipe outlet locations for erosion control measures. This minimization effort has cut the proposed mechanized clearing from 0.41. acre to 0.21 acre. Please note that the clearing limits beyond the slope stake line is primarily for erosion control purposes. The mechanized clearing limits are merely included on the drawings to allow room for the installation and maintenance of sediment and erosion control devices. No clearing or grubbing of marsh grasses is proposed within this five-foot zone. MITIGATION The project will permanently impact a total of 0.33 acre of wetlands. In order to mitigate for these losses, NCDOT is proposing onsite restoration and enhancement through removal of 220 feet of the existing causeway and planting Spartina alterniflora. Elevations will be restored to pre-disturbance contours, mimicking the elevation of the adjacent healthy natural areas of Spartina alterniflora. See attached Mitigation Plan for details. PROTECTED SPECIES Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of January 29, 2003, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service lists fifteen federally protected species for Brunswick County. The Biological Conclusions for each of these species remain valid and are presented in the attached PCE form and/or NRTR. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has developed a list of "Precautions for the general construction in areas which may be used by the West Indian manatee in North Carolina." These precautions will be considered in all aspects of project construction (see final pages of the attached PCE form). To ensure the project will not adversely affect the endangered shortnose sturgeon, explosives will not be used in the bridge demolition. To protect the shortnose sturgeon and other anadromous fish, there will be no in-water or in-marsh activity during the months of February 15 through September 30. REGULATORY APPROVALS NCDOT requests that the proposed work be authorized under a Coastal Area Management Act Major Development Permit. A check for $400.00 for the application fee is enclosed. Copies of the green cards will be forwarded as soon as they are available. By copy of this letter, we are also requesting issuance of a United States Army Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit 23 (FR number 10, pages 2020-2095; January 15, 2002). We anticipate a 401 General Certification number 3371 will apply to this project. In compliance with Condition 1 of GC 3371 we hereby request written concurrence from the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. Thank you for your assistance with this project. If you have any questions or need additional information please call Ms. Heather Montague at (919) 715-1456. Sincerely, f ' Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D. Environmental Management Director, PDEA GJT/hwm cc: Ms. Cathy Brittingham, NCDCM Mr. John Dorney, DWQ, Raleigh Mr. Gary Jordan, USFWS Mr. Mike Street, NCDMF Mr. Omar Sultan, Programming and TIP Mr. David Chang, P.E., Hydraulics Mr. Mark Staley, Roadside Environmental Mr. Mason Herndon, DIV 3 DEO Mr. Dave Timpy, USACE, Wilmington Mr. Travis Wilson, NCWRC Mr. Ron Sechler, NMFS Mr. Jay Bennett, P.E., Roadway Design Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Mr. Greg Perfetti, P.E.; Structure Design Mr. H. Allen Pope, PE; Division 3 Engineer •.,a On-site Mitigation Plan . for the Proposed Replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek in Brunswick County, North Carolina. TIP No. B-3116 April 7, 2003 Overview: The NCDOT will replace the existing 60-foot long bridge over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) with a new bridge approximately 300 feet in length. The additional bridge length will allow for the removal of 220 linear feet of causeway in previously filled wetlands. The existing causeway will be removed and returned to an elevation resembling that of the adjacent wetlands. Causeway Removal: The removal of the old causeway will mean that approximately 0.24 acre of fill will be removed from wetlands associated with Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek). Approximately 1450 yd3 of existing causeway will be lifted, restoring the riverine wetland underneath. It is anticipated that the removal of the existing causeway will in turn enhance the high quality riverine wetlands upstream and downstream of the bridge, since water will be able to flow unimpeded beneath the new structure, allowing the natural wetland hydrologic conductivity to return. Therefore, in addition to the 0.24. acre of restoration, the NCDOT proposes riverine wetland enhancement extending outward from the lifted causeway. The area of potential enhancement has been calculated based on the "Cox" half- circle proposal set forth by the NCWRC, where the length of fill removed is the radius of the circle (115 feet from southern causeway section and 105 feet from the northern causeway section). Enhancement areas were calculated within the quadrants surrounding the existing bridge and causeway for a total of 0.76 acre, with 0.25 acre within the proposed right-of-way limit and 0.51 acre beyond the right-of-way limits. Vegetation: Wetland grass (Spartina altemiflora) will be planted in areas where the existing causeway fill is removed down to the adjacent marsh elevation, as directed by the Engineer. Elevations will be restored to pre-disturbance contours, mimicking the elevation of the adjacent healthy natural areas of Spartina alterniflora. NCDOT proposes to monitor vegetation through annual photographs. AJft The proposed enhancement area is currently a coastal swamp community dominated by cordgrass (Spartina altemiflora). The NCDOT does not propose any vegetative manipulation in this area as it is expected that the greatest benefit to the system will be realized through the return of the natural hydrologic processes. Hydrology: Restored elevations and the proximity of the enhancement and restoration areas to Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) ensures that both areas will be saturated and/or inundated for extended periods of time. The NCDOT requests that post construction elevation verification be allowed in place of tide gauge monitoring. Credits: With a 4:1 ratio, the 0.76 acre of enhancement would serve as 0.19 acre of proposed enhancement credit. Combined with the 0.24 acre proposed from credits from a 1:1 ratio for onsite restoration, NCDOT proposes to offer 0.43 acre of onsite mitigation to compensate for the 0.33 acre of permanent wetland fill. NCDOT does not propose to offer mitigation for the 0.20 acre of mechanized clearing as listed on Sheet 9 of 10 from the attached permit drawings. Please note that the mechanized clearing limits are merely included on the drawings to allow room for the installation and maintenance of sediment and erosion control devices. No clearing or grubbing of marsh grasses is proposed within this five feet zone. Therefore, NCDOT does not anticipate a permanent impact will result from the activity within this area and proposes confirmation of maintained jurisdictional criteria through annual photographs. Form DCM-MP-1 APPLICATION (To be completed by all applicants) 1. APPLICANT a. Landowner: Name N. C. Department of Transportation Address 1548 Mail Service Center City Raleigh State NC Zip 27699 Day Phone (919) 733-3141 Fax (919) 733-9794 b. Authorized Agent: Name Address City State Zip Day Phone Fax c. Project name (if any) B-3116 (8.1231501) Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek on NC 133 NOTE. Permit will be issued in name of landowner(s), and/or project name. 2. LOCATION OF PROPOSED PROJECT a. County Brunswick Revised 03/95 b. City, town, community or landmark north of Orton and north of Brunswick Town c. Street address or secondary road number NC 133 d. Is proposed work within city limits or planning jurisdiction? Yes X No e. Name of body of water nearest project (e.g. river, creek, sound, bay) Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) 3. DESCRIPTION AND PLANNED USE OF PROPOSED PROJECT a. List all development activities you propose (e.g. building a home, motel, marina, bulkhead, pier, and excavation and/or filling activities. Replacing existing bridge with a new bridge. 220 ft of existing causeway will be removed. b. Is the proposed activity maintenance of an existing project, new work, or both? new work c. Will the project be for public, private or commercial use? Public transportation d. Give a brief description of purpose, use, methods of construction and daily operations of proposed project. If more space is needed, please attach additional pages. Purpose of project is to provide Dubuc transportation. TOD down construction will be used to reduce impacts in the creek and wetlands. Form DCM-MP-1 4. LAND AND WATER CHARACTERISTICS a. Size of entire tract 1.83 acre b. Size of individual lot(s) N/A c. Approximate elevation of tract above MHW or NWL 5.0 feet d. Soil type(s) and texture(s) of tract Bohicket silty clay loam e. Vegetation on tract predominately Spartina alterniflora f. Man-made features now on tract existing bridge, roadway, and utilities g. What is the CAMA Land Use Plan land classification of the site? (Consult the local land use plan.) X Conservation Transitional Developed Community Rural Other h. How is the tract zoned by local government? N/A L Is the proposed project consistent with the applicable zoning? X Yes No (Attach zoning compliance certificate, if applicable) j. Has a professional archaeological assessment been done for the tract? Yes X No If yes, by whom? k. Is the project located in a National Registered Historic District or does it involve a National Register listed or eligible property? Yes X No 1. Are there wetlands on the site? X Yes No Coastal (marsh) X Other If yes, has a delineation been conducted? YES (Attach documentation, if available) m. Describe existing wastewater treatment facilities. N/A n. Describe location and type of discharges to waters of the state. (For example, surface runoff, sanitary wastewater, industrial/commercial effluent, "wash down" and, residential discharges.) surface runoff o. Describe existing drinking water supply source. N/A 5. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION In addition to the completed application form, the following items must be submitted: • A copy of the deed (with state application only) or other instrument under which the applicant claims title to the affected properties. If the applicant is not claiming to be the owner of said property, then forward a copy of the deed or other instrument under which the owner claims title, plus written permission from the owner to carry out the project. • An accurate, dated work plat (including plan view and cross-sectional drawings) drawn to scale in black ink on an 8 1/2" by 11" white paper. (Refer to Coastal Resources Commission Rule 7J.0203 for a detailed description.) Please note that original drawings are preferred and only high quality copies will be accepted. Blue-line prints or other larger plats are acceptable only if an adequate number of quality copies are provided by applicant. (Contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding that agency's use of larger drawings.) A site or location map is a part of plat requirements and it must be sufficiently detailed to guide agency personnel unfamiliar with the area to the site. Include highway or secondary road (SR) numbers, landmarks, and the like. f; Form DCM-MP-1 •A Stormwater Certification, if one is necessary •A list of the names and complete addresses of the adjacent waterfront (riparian) landowners and signed return receipts as proof that such owners have received a copy of the application and plats by certified mail. Such landowners must be advised that they have 30 days in which to submit comments on the proposed project to the Division of Coastal Management. Upon signing this form, the applicant further certifies that such notice has been provided. Name Laurence G. Sprunt Address 4528 River Rd. SE Winnabow, NC 28479 Name Address Phone Name Address Phone • A list of previous state or federal permits issued for work on the project tract. Include permit numbers, permittee, and issuing dates. • A check for $250 made payable to the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR) to cover the costs of processing the application. • A signed AEC hazard notice for projects in oceanfront and inlet areas. • A statement of compliance with the N.C. Environmental Policy Act (N.C.G.S. 113A - 1 to 10) If the project involves the expenditure of public funds or use of public lands, attach a statement documenting compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. Revised 03/95 6. CERTIFICATION AND PERMISSION TO ENTER ON LAND I understand that any permit issued in response to this application will allow only the development described in the application. The project will be subject to conditions and restrictions contained in the permit. I certify that to the best of my knowledge, the proposed activity complies with the State of North Carolina's approved Coastal Management Program and will be conducted in a manner consistent with such program. I certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact, grant permission to representatives of state and federal review agencies to enter on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this permit application and follow-up monitoring of the project. I further certify that the information provided in this application is truthful to the best of my knowledge. This is the day of , r Print Name A / l? l f Signature allyl glk29AT/ ? Landowner or Authorized Agent Please indicate attachments pertaining to your proposed project. DCM MP-2 Excavation and Fill Information DCM MP-3 Upland Development DCM MP-4 Structures Information X DCM MP-5 Bridges and Culverts DCM MP-6 Marina Development NOTE. Please sign and date each attachment in the space provided at the bottom of each form. A Form DCM-MP-5 BRIDGES AND CULVERTS Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major Permit, Form DCM-MP-1. Be sure to complete all other sections of the Joint Application that relate to this proposed project. 1. BRIDGES a. Public X Private b. Type of bridge (construction material) concrete - cored slab c. Water body to be crossed by bridge Allen Creek d. Water depth at the proposed crossing at MLW or NWL approldmately 6 ft e. Will proposed bridge replace an existing bridge? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of existing bridge 58.6 ft (2) Width of existing bridge 24.0 ft (3) Navigation clearance underneath existing bridge 2.0 ft (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing bridge be removed? (Explain) all of the eadstin? bridge will be removed. f. Will proposed bridge replace an existing culvert(s)? Yes X No If yes, (1) Length of existing culvert N/A (2) Width of existing culvert N/A (3) Height of the top of the existing culvert above the MHW or NWL N/A (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing culvert be removed? (Explain) N/A g. Length of proposed bridge 300 ft h. Width of proposed bridge 39 ft i. Height of proposed bridge above wetlands 2.5 ft j. Will the proposed bridge affect existing water flow? X Yes No If yes, explain The proposed bridge will enhance flow in the wetlands through the removal of 220 ft of the existhm causeway. k. Navigation clearance underneath proposed bridge 2.5 ft Will the proposed bridge affect navigation by reducing or increasing the existing navigable opening? Yes X No If yes, explain m. Will the proposed bridge cross wetlands containing no navigable waters? Yes X No If yes, explain n. Have you contacted the U.S. Coast Guard concerning their approval? Yes X No if yes, please provide record of their action. Revised 03/95 Form DCM-MP-5 2. CULVERTS N/A a. Water body -in which culvert is to be placed b. Number of culverts proposed c. Type of culvert (construction material, style) d. Will proposed culvert replace an existing bridge? Yes No If yes, (1) Length of existing bridge (2) Width of existing bridge (3) Navigation clearance underneath existing bridge (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing bridge be removed? (Explain) e. Will proposed culvert replace an existing culvert? Yes No If yes, (1) Length of existing culvert (2) Width of existing culvert (3) Height of the top of the existing culvert above the MHW or NWL (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing culvert be removed? (Explain) f. Length of proposed culvert g. Width of proposed culvert h. Height of the top of the proposed culvert above the MHW or NWL i. Will the proposed culvert affect existing water flow? Yes No If yes, explain j. Will the proposed culvert affect existing navigation potential? Yes No If yes, explain Revised 03/95 3. EXCAVATION AND FILL. a. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert require any excavation below the MHW or NWL? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of area to be excavated 220 ft +/- (2) Width of area to be excavated 45-50 ft (3) Depth of area to be excavated 0.5 ft +/- (4) Amount of material to be excavated in cubic yards 205 b. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert require any excavation within: NO Coastal Wetlands _ SAVs _ Other Wetlands If yes, (1) Length of area to be excavated (2) Width of area to be excavated (3) Amount of material to be excavated in cubic yards c. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert require any highground excavation? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of area to be excavated 220 ft +/- (2) Width of area to be excavated 45-50 ft (3) Amount of material to be excavated in cubic yards 1450 d. If the placement of the bridge or culvert involves any excavation, please complete the following: (1) Location of the spoil disposal area To be determined by contractor. (2) Dimensions of spoil disposal area N/A (3) Do you claim title to the disposal area? Yes X No If no, attach a letter granting permission from the owner. (4) Will the disposal area be available for future maintenance? Yes X No (5) Does the disposal area include any coastal wetlands (marsh), SAVs, or other wetlands? Yes X No If yes, give dimensions if different from (2) above. (6) Does the disposal area include any area below the MHW or NWL? Yes X No If yes, give dimension if different from No. 2 above. M Form DCM-MP-5 e. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert result in any fill (other than excavated material described in Item d. above) to be placed below MHW or NWL? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of area to be filled 1630 ft (2) Width of area to be filled 8.5 ft (avg.) (3) Purpose of fill roadway fill d. Will the proposed project require any work channels? Yes X No If yes, complete Form DCM-MP-2 How will excavated or fill material be kept on site and erosion controlled? Design Standards for Sensitive Watersheds will be used. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert result in any fill (other than excavated material described in Item d. above) to be placed within: X Coastal Wetlands _ SAVs _ Other Wetlands If yes, (1) Length of area to be filled 1630 ft (2) Width of area to be filled 8.5 ft (avg.) (3) Purpose of fill roadway fill What type of construction equipment will be used (for example, dragline, backhoe or hydraulic dredge)? Standard bridge and roadway construction equipment. [Drilled pier excavations will be stabilized with permanent steel casing (36" dia.) and drilling slurry. The permanent casing will be installed by either driving, screwing or vibrating prior to drilling below the casing] g. Will wetlands be crossed in transporting equipment g. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert to project site? Yes X No result in any fill (other than excavated material If yes, explain steps that will be taken to lessen described in Item d. above) to be placed on environmental impacts. highground? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of area to be filled 875 ft (2) Width of area to be filled 45 ft h. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert (3) Purpose of fill roadway fill require any shoreline stabilization? Yes X No If yes, explain in detail 4. GENERAL a. Will the proposed project involve any mitigation? ACW X Yes No AppUcan r Proje Name If yes, explain in detail see onsite mitigation plan M?/ , V V ?- Signature b. Will . the proposed project require the relocation of 4-69 any existing utility lines? X Yes No Date If yes, explain in detail Telephone lines on both sides of the bridge will be relocated. Time Warner Communications are in ioint use with Brunswick EMC and will remain in place. Will the proposed project require the construction of any temporary detour structures? Yes X No If yes, explain in detail Revised 03/95 ?? t U V d i4m ? O 7 '? own -? O W JECT r ' .,.% NIOSN 1 ? 87 S _ uoo. - RR B GS ggEEGG// - n PR I CT DETOUR ROUTE NCD®T DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS BRUNSWICK COUNTY PROJECT: 8.1231501 (B-3116) VICINITY REPLACE BRIDGE X56 ON NC 133 OVER ALLEN CREEK MAPS SHEET OF 7 / 24 / 02 ? NOR-TH CAROLINA `tih _ _ ?i•rth.4",•txr 't?' __v' f,?; (Cr?'f. i t _.?fSI.Yi .{F 4 L}„SFi .. t, " • M ' .. ? ?= ?tR? Lfe r ? d ii Fxf } . t , ,' L L , iggf fu%FftR's! t ---}} t ftt 'A r,r:?€rxf°?ft skl-:.J'? -Mal c { _ ?'?'rr=t.Q=uT.'Ftf rc,- L$b e.L`•t_)..Y. Cr ?? R'f - x r• i 7, - g v.. .: 1•-?°:•F _- _ :?bi 'f?' eLe?:R!- M_e•""_ R e 1 1 1 ?c?•??,;fbrd; -F: .?E?I:,r!_Y:'=`: Y. °G€ff"r' t,+: - rY': }.• 9, k -? :+?€?c•=-??.°-T_?-??-;€i?€- ?'? - :c€_€?k?} '?"ffr - - i -«._ _'Y ?E _?€=#' .:L _ ?'f` --_- .f4 .:?` yn:rr ?. - `?b - sue= v{ -ttrR??- 1'.s .hht?FFi-Fsr F 5 _ __ ? Y ,?Rt€ L ?' •tR ?- r..t+,rF€t - -: ° it . ; 61 e e P:. ___ '-€?.,+ f .tt? __ '•i - " ?.•:r t i t . '?€f S: _,;'f?,b--? : , •;'f€?siF-,? ? =:c-trC{4?. ?? ? t ? . ? ::}!:?if? ??:d: Fr 1??'?C^' :. ...? 1 ,t/ ?.l ?. J G ? ?,A i .1 ` - .iC+ ? - -Y,??`P? 1- F d •F c? i• .,L€ -F ? ?y , , El #?? ?€?r,. ?: Y€ f?, i K',sf ? xf r,:7- ?_rc+t+f E?{ Y If61G ? t ?.....1 f Ii St ._--.=--*L' t _•_'x__..i_ ?c-F ? '-YSf fti z rtfh ..rk+: -bf t?+ t_ s ? , PRIME .t ..:_`_:'- .t xt :: +:::r.+` tft .t: + 'f :? ?? ? e'.,. .t ?` st: •f/:``- .`Y: :4 , 12 -t _ # t .. lr rt R :+? :Ftcr€E {i:€? yry?y fi ?? 1;.k;, ±I•F„-wr. HT f u :f ga ` k €F?: escv: a :Sh.R. ,-€fF+€?€. f ? ?""RRiJ a S t..Y ;,? r.l•.: --- RIB` • Zfgc: € ??l lr '4? > c tSC, ;, '1 t _?3 i t'' ? _- Lr? -f'#?y ?f :??:t€w.??ff?t?.y zLf e?sG: 1, t f ? k +,.?4c?t ),-•1 -? ?'fX 7 ? r:?? .? ,:b', 1 ?4 MAN $+7t'+ i `?",:1 - _?•: ???tcffr`f' - 'i• i 'd 4;!: i x4h ttrt.._: Lb: j<E4 f ., ?+z r{€'_-?.. nt i€?rr ``'I+?_Frfcif'?+?)jl f ' ?i ?•fft"--=_i_s.. s^t?,?t):Rtt.t. ? t ? q F ? Fmrtxt - 'F€RFf ff`' F t xt? ' Ll?? . S _ x f r # - i< : }f "tSr.Cfr1 er-_ "i x i ?L6r ? } y ? ? ? _ s_? ' ti . t ;bet t rt+x?n it+-F' tttt::::-.-. - €?'Sr€. rk :;;44::: a .'' ' t€:,t , rrG•: t __ ._?,.,.. ?..r d t:?-RE .fit . =?::fr'&X t,??. - ? ?t ? ------ -fctF? ._ .ttm:-?-- ? i ..?:?.:.: ?brr•:?tt :.fS ? ` ?:f: f€° -` f :LY?:;cc:.'t'?ff' xe r?tr z- ' t???T,7'•f-. ''-'rt'e-h-?' wt? j. ?- ?? .`.Y_ .?• _ '? 1) !? l.: ?.?.. •. l •tFr: ? _:ir._; .efR' ? rB.G-•-:?€r-a,? ? i-? -fs€ 'K-' _ _ ???v :::•c -? ? - { =t - _ gmp _- _-rc''?.?'=f ? --?j'•?fi yyr i 2 . ?9 ?: 5) v. s kH? y,Y?) L 7 7 it ?'?? e? ;cffr ? ?i??,Y ¢ xt I 4. ' ~i?l ,.? 7a tr:: d IT.?F of .'r .;•r:? r v{-,ALL+x ? L+' Ri. t??'i,_• ?/ erk? E? ? ' ? ?-? €+R FC);,t•' ?.` ? _::-rfG?'" L hF ?.?..:. '? ? i . ?,? ? ? L w!:L • '? tti ? p Il? ? } r?•G ? Y / ` - : t ? ,t e€ .a' x f ' : gY.4at Kr ?;t F x ? -€ rx'S 1 _ ' P '. 1 i r l X ? -2????J."?4 ? xF' F r - L' ? ? f ? ?? ??'• '? i 1` ? ? `t i y'k t- '? R c , j-L.t,?i•: a. s x i, ?' s•',? x3; E ''r? - _ --# .. f r+ "'+e? 'ir r jL +? r rt ? St f u ?jr ? ? 4L ta. - ' , t 4' _ , b., t_ • r Y 'r.. ?1•Rx _ --Y,.ti_ti: r?:' :?--': € ?? ,?'?'? ??' C I ' r? r?: T t '? h ' €s r €f f _.'';_-'- v:blrr '' "''?,;C"-•?•1??? 6 -€,. ? T?.'c:+- ? , :? ? ?= ???.. r ' ? ?_ _ - tf ? t-_ '.tf?4"" [?•t A -N-c-?' r 1. t 'k e - iFff;: t i f __ '???ff ' . ?.?.: rff?? t'.?ti:•r , {-?..iq 1.a:?:? ??'?i' 'L? L_??? •fR .f ct ?k-:. xh'? ---= :??;u:: ax' Rt* ? _:?t •t": • '' ???L t?k? . 3 it rv .. ? .? ? r< = Y 1 Y?:cb +?• .tai ? 11 -x- ,Sa ?.'. NOT" ?1rt fF. 2 ?` ?'Y+i { ? ? -. ?}? k??-)'4i4 4 •?I ?v p 't ... -r So ? + ? ? v i L. 'ir ? FR?f ti -1: r 4. I ? f,. f ? i ? ki ?? ? € l YL - + 1 x .SIF`,xj-i. fY ; ' 1 >. R 'R' Ka?x V",? l{16f7i 1 , r - . .,,?t?r. .... ... ?":. .,a. t..:: ;„ - sm'-???rtf t.?r _.'?1.?.-' ..., bM t? ._. ._--r:.•t. kAL l?.. NCD®T SlTIE MAP DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS BRUNSWICK COUNTY PROJECT. 8.1231501 (B-31%) REPLACE BRIDGE 856 ON NC 133 OVER ALLEN CREEK SHEET 2 OF 10 10/22/02 w WETLAND LEGEND - -WLB- - - WETLAND BOUNDARY PROPO.SED BRIDGE -WLBJ WETLAND PROPOSED BOX CULVERT DENOTES FILL IN WETLAND DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER (POND) DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND DENOTES EXCAVATION IN WETLAND DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN SURFACE WATER * * DENOTES MECHANIZED * * ** * * * CLEARING PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT 12"-48' (DASHED LINES DENOTE PIPES EXISTNG STRUCTURES) 54" PIPES & ABOVE SINGLE TREE WOODS LINE DRAINAGE INLET ROOTWAD FLOW DIRECTION RIP RAP TB T_ TOP OF BANK WE - EDGE OF WATER 5 ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER IF AVAILABLE - -C- - PROP. LIMIT OF CUT - -F - PROP. LIMIT OF FILL --?- PROP. RIGHT OF WAY - - NG- - NATURAL GROUND - -PL - PROPERTY LINE -TDE- TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT - PDE - PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT - EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - EPB- EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY - - - --- - WATER SURFACE x x x x x LIVE STAKES x x x E2D BOULDER - CORE FIBER ROLLS ? PREFORMED SCOUR HOLE (PSH) LEVEL SPREADER (LS) GRASS SWALE N. C. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS BRUNSWICK COUNTY PROJECT: 8.1231501 (8-3116) REPLACE BRIDGE 7x56 ON NC 133 OVER ALLEN CREEK SHEET 3 OF 10 7/24/02 M O GV LTa M to Z oa -1- 00+171 3N11 HOlbW H M %0 U ?Z z ? 2 ? ??m? xc 1 I x? H 4 z .1 I ? LL- / b f? NC ?q0 0 ? O z? v . z I Qr) W J Q I a w I ? z a_ w / In M N LL z uz w 1/ J z zx um,: ca, LL) L" W J ' H3 WU O 1 J w °z o 1 ° o 1S/?? Lr) O Ln N 0 O w J Q N U -1- 00+81 3N11 HOldW J Q Q w y?. H z n a N C7 ? W U ? z w Q J N N ? 83p o ovol ? i d O. OG m J u. 1 a lD LLJ I 1ld/77/7 z -- J Z l ¢~ ~ W e 3Lu Q L OZ W ~_ Zw F- w z O a_ N U N\l W U O z N Lli W C3 O y? az a? J F- MO U? N 3a u-¢ 7a O cr J / WO WW LuU I ? 3 H O Z cr Z Z Ln wo o wo O =? :. w : J `C s*? N U -1- 00+171 3N11 HOiVN • . N 0 Ln o I I I ? C\j ? LL-I ? J oe?,o J Q H W H Z OZ Cr d N W U Z W cr Q J '1S 3 1 0 .a N w M z d Z o a z ? U ; O a ? a w 24 a U z E - W x O W Z N . + Z O J 2 Z J O U Lea ?Q N Y) -? W W J O ~0 3 W U 2 Z z O p o tf ) f !• J '? In Q CV N -?- 00+81 3NI? HOldW O .!^ 64 0 O 0 ? 44 Dd z W 0 0 ® O p w w I p + x U C7 a O 00 0 ® U ca a cz. o < I I ? z ® 3 m (? U U w C-1 I -I p o z w CD < p I p O o .. a CG a a N Q 0 U z w n , I z Q-J CO o ; >a x Q fl? < l v, cn L < X F- z I \ N? w Lc) O 1 1 \ aw J + Ln U , U N > W I J W -Ii H Ln e ? z I _ O N O I W 0 to 0 I + CT - --- W Ln in Q Q CcJ W I r- 1 f I N C? (nLn0 !- ---- - ? O -cam I = O + I I D I ? , ? I J w CD p m ? z I I N I rvel _ X W O W p p O O + Q , Z f- Ln ? , O CD Z n- I O C.7 CD z I Q? >a cn Q X w , X I w Q I - , Z N I = w I Q ? N I Q p I U + O 0 0 0 O O O \ a G4 \ I z? M ,. 0 M z T Z ao ® ? p LL G4 M o i z I Z w I a c M I ? a 0 a a '? I az m i ? I y O O N CD N O ( U + S W O f `--I G 1 o-- ? 1 a 1 \ O N M I O O N W > I J as J O I U- Q N ~ o O w S I ? 3 ~ I O w o I p N O I J O Q co O N O N O ? N 1,10- F- MO cc Z M IL o Q cn ? o C6 O? Z v 2 OU ` Y H U- U O 04 U - Z co 00 d U) ? U O` 0 co 5; w w co 00 O ww U a w 2 z U W O a 2 z? Oz ?O Z O w co LLI z Z z ? w H U) LO 3: z 5 a LL O W ? t LO U 0 - Q 0 N O Q Z6 E In N LL 0 1- W O o Z W Q 2 H W O z O ? C N O^ 7 y ? ? Z co ? O C C ? _ " Q X ? Q W U ? 0 Q: - Q ? co W Q O W ? Cl) C U v 0 Q Z i L .. N ? O O N C ? O U v U ? ? ? Q ? ? 0,0 N U cu d W c W a p to o o g ?? Z W ? N m W Cl) Cl) ? ? o 0 m a a? ` d o ? N N p?j N O O O J •-O` O to O ? N w O d Z Cl) O o= W z F- PROPERTY OWNERS NAMES AND ADDRESSES PARCEL NO. NAMES ADDRESSES LAURENCE G. SPRUNT 4528 RIVER RD. SE WINNABOW, N.C. 28479 no xa ms 0 0 x = m? °n m H r O m V) m H I F' (n r T 0 y H --I Z .n z D ?uN K DD m D A . - pA '- D H f a + • 0 } -0 A d O + 0 In Z Nm w ;0I .A.O H N Az Ap NI a D O N ax O rm ° ?? r m z I D -i w I I ao C6 , 0 O Z ? N .. > .. I p Z r N '- co m :- z 01 ? M V)z ?o mz M - I i D °m Z T I ,*_ :s W A D+? I ? z WZZ- w I m N X O r rr ' H 'm i s 'O M N D M M z 0 x O z Z T O n r H II 0 m H N a '1A 1 r n ? 9 r Z r ft z D Z Ln _? 3 s ? i K- D I m = I N z D -I H X ?L N N I\ I D w +( g I 0`°D NZ? i OAfpW 0 , r r - H M I 00? M I I ?-4 H I D w 00 0 - Z w m I m?Ra n ? LJ W z -.4 MCA N M I o x a° r ?' I I o? I F) r rj ...p I I I Z V I ? I I - p i co Z ?Cl I n o m nzL +O•v I ' I w OAS N rO f' D A N x z? I D m H I / Cl zm rz I!F`- i s Wr m N D A ?D I ;u N x K- N O " o fN 10 °v m I f?6?.0 I I M (A (n z H ; D c a M n z o m n `n I + I vl o ?m + N 1 x 10 L" bz o ° a ? r m r a I Z M Ln o Z I N m rn m O L Q n o - X n ^ :T7Z m Z m n W Z m ~ Z7m > Z ~ Z V . to N('7F-W N s D . 14,E r D W H z(A ° o m Ln L4 0 .rM m J -1 -1 A 1 0 0) N Z Z i c°' r C A N = r O M 7 f. N Z NSF z u? '? o m N O Ill O llftl O lllll O lllll O lll m r A fn It G7 D Z ?. a m I rm .+n A O -f I n N O M 1•'?' I ?° r .Z IN N (TYP ) D.. te .- vx H . m m r -O-j ? mw N z 0 0 I ° n m =- 1 -- W v d - m z \ X # z r D n H? i c Az rap "r- c m Z XN, 'I v x m " r c oa Ln >< Oul Z m HH "C :-n O m H z m 0 \ m m m ? z A 7 I X ,, r W r; c '0X H I n 1 °mZ n M in M in r I+ W rri m I z o P m µ M 7 m z i X f n m N ! z n , II I ?n m- -I I ^ m x rH • In ? I+ aAx H Q sl °1 L' > z Z ,n -4 _ m I A - A II ??Z z I H Z I N-ICn I N z Q ? Ix c? m I m x m Z r f n -I ' -I l X O I # + ? m r 1 W r m r z 1 N ? 1 Zn W K J It 't 3 1 D n + v- m N 0 ?n a z A 0 O 1 co A r z o L r + + O O H ? N D a A + H z co m D N D Z p 0 N v D m z o n O m O O1 A 0 ((A D Z ° co I^ o z -I m x 7i p O i O O, N H c ? D x?O A Z N DAD < 9 . O Ditn :0 O m 1 C H m D H OZmv Z ° IX M O CO m z Mr --4 0 N < H J -0DI,.I CA H? VI r + O) N ?H m _ I Nm c?nn o rN I > H ?. ? HX ! Onz RI}m rin mW I ?.y m m+z - FLn a ulv I r ' ,o z t°_ m z w+ ? 'n w 1 iD ID N - ? [p O co r- O ' Z 'm I N Z; 0 0 M O I+ D ?s 0 0 L m v? ? c C.) M .A- -{ X M in D < r D N Z s 9 m ° "<II y m moll ? ui A ? D W N L -? o D o -v c .. W ( N ' o ?- = N f Q e 11 H ?'+ t N u z \Y! J F H W W l1') a ;' I LLm U 1 >Y3~ ?o M a° Q OIWI-N o N I LLw m N a ?Vm0 0 8 I Y Dam= O I MZ $ L) . U. d J X?-a z ca -j o') ?I Q .? ' Z w w M N CLI S33Id U Q wo a W OQ: W H N a 0 W Q S3lId 30VW3 Q W o m w cc a N (A P I J I O •t t In ° I N 4. 241 « I K H " lVl ?/ a: c" W "WLIV' . -' H a I °a N I i I v «w I z W J . 111 J O t- Z 1 ?O Cep i J I 0 d O I ?1 H > K H • d M I p v O + 0) W I p H d ,a N o M z I N 9-.Li 9-.LI vi a w w J Lj m J I I..,-, H . a O a 0 m - °w o as I w f -Z J ?v c-y I O N m= o a : x 0aa w Z N ZNN co a J o J i O !L I-WH ZN 2 V a w d W."O J _ d H w O M LO I H> F- m JOO M j H Q W N n« N m Q 1- I O ' N Z J Z J + OF-I" HO': 3~ I H Z H NO-i ad''.. °a Z IL Z w ww ~ I ?+ J wzz al~-! O J a HmW w te LL. a o mm LLJ (TI F Z N « W FH „9-,LI I „9-,L1 W J co 0-i .6 z I I- O o0 I, J O ? w I J .. i O I H } ri o a 3 1 w w H ? I O' a N I in iw I-Z „9-,Li I „9-,11 Z H W J CD J ?c I F Z '7 O I ?v I I I S31Id 30V88:5 n n N o0 w J I '. oo m N N a a' S31Id 3j o 0 ??_ 1 I r ? - - W Ui F- V w w J M Uh > a L"n wm J Q + N J F NO Z a I, W tA , m N mo Z r V a w x x G V i N I I O C] y co co Lli & o? H m f- iii$CCC H J H A Y J ? J 3 H 3 w W H O O 00 SNIn H z W = W 0 zO 0 O cr. Lu CL CO J = 4U) OLU m ? ? I1 OZ d J o Jf Q N * NO * I c II OU , ? I z * * ON II ILO* ILm * * O ? QNg??'g 1 ? ? ?? * * * mJJtopJ . s tier V@.:N ` O at!O,m Sft 2711*7711 oN v, * * W ! 8 a'?"fit ? ? ` >? 'MWO •Q>?a'?C7N,yp. * ? ?? § +'??'?????! 3?? N t „''in J? < 3?N < s Y lid, 1 > hna it ~ Nlhg es's u<a co N, O N "s ?i Z/fr ?? Y ?? 4 O H dS S 4?,x,« `' i I H S, OLU es- 3 -p3 j, is •$ m .. ? m I • Z3 p8, .. s ILO [r co x aI N AA c LU C3 _jw oz V0 x NO I ! ? O Q LLI x ric LUW Occ I r. OW LL 0 CC >- h Q * ? V1 a N O 3 $?Nptpm??ep?ep Z I I CL m N I 1' JHLin ? ? * N Q?N? g77ii7 ~J W QNJf y?? "LLJ \ d -H r. ? O x 4_NWUU J xz J ??akl= x * II -ILL ? 7i $gBY?g ? r * QO O ti Nn?e?eJ 299924 j I 4 III * II J .lK a '-, 8M IN ?' ids e. O/ * i * /I 1111,}1 Y .`- ®R . STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR April 7, 2003 Laurence G.Sprunt 4528 River Rd. SE Winnabow, NC 28479 Dear Mr Sprunt: LYNW TIPPETr SECRETARY The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) on NC 133. The project lies in Brunswick County. This project crosses an Area of Environmental Concern, as defined by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM), and must be approved by the DCM under provisions of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). One of the prerequisites to this approval is that adjacent riparian landowners be given an opportunity to comment on the proposal. A copy of the permit application is enclosed for your review. The attached form is submitted to insure that you have an opportunity to comment on the proposal. The work planned is depicted in the attached drawing. If you have no objections to the proposal, please return the form with your response within 30 days to this office. If you do have objections to the project, please forward your comments to: . Mr. Bill Arrington- N.C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Coastal Management 151-B Hwy 24 Hestron Plaza II Morehead City, N.C. 28557 Written comments must be received by the Division of Coastal Management within 30 days of receipt of this notice. NO RESPONSE WITHIN 30-DAYS of receipt of the correspondence will be INTERPRETED AS NO OBJECTION. Thank you for your cooperation. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact Ms. Heather Montague, at (919) 715-1456. Sincerely, Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D. Environmental Management Director, PDEA GJT%hwm Enclosure: Permit Application for Bridge No. 56 MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: 919-733-9794 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS WEBSITE? NCDOT.ORG 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 .LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC -Adk ADJACENT RIPARIAN LANDOWNER STATEMENT Replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County, NCDOT Division 3. General Statutes and Division of Coastal Management Major Development Permit approval procedures require that riparian landowners with property adjoining a proposed development in an Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) be given thirty (30) days in which to comment on the proposed development. This form allows the adjacent riparian landowner to express either: (1) that he objects to the project; or, (2) that he does not object and desires to waive his/her right to the 30-day period so that the processing of the application can progress more rapidly. Of course, the adjacent riparian landowner need not sign this format all if he/she so chooses. I, , am an adjacent riparian property owner and am aware of the North Carolina Department of Transportation's proposed replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County, North Carolina. I am further aware that this work will occur in one or more AEC's and therefore will require authorization from the Division of Coastal Management in accordance with the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). I have no objection to the project as presently proposed and hereby waive that right of objection as provided in General Statute 113-229. I have objections to the project as presently proposed and my comments are attached. Signature of Adjacent Riparian Landowner Date: .Aa O OF WA TFR. QG ...ONW.- `C Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross, Jr., Secretary North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director Division of Water Quality Wilm ETIVZI. J U L 2 9 2002 July 24, 2002 Mr. Andrew Nottingham, P.E. NC Department of Transportation 1590 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1590 Dear Mr. Nottingham: DIVISION OF HIGMAYS Subject: EXEMPTION from Stormwatet` Management Permit Regulations Stormwater Project No. SW8020632 Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek on NC 133 Brunswick County The Wilmington Regional Office received a copy of your application for the project known as Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek on NC 133. Staff of the Wilmington Regional Office have reviewed the application for the applicability of the Stormwater Management rules to the proposed activity at this project. Based on our review, you do not appear to be proposing a development activity on this site at this point in time that would be subject to the stormwater requirements as provided for in 15A NCAC 2H.1000. Please be advised that other regulations will potentially apply to your proposed activities. If your project disturbs five acres or more and has a point source discharge of stormwater runoff, then it is subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater discharge requirements. You are required to have an NPDES permit for stormwater discharge from projects meeting these criteria. This exemption applies only to the Coastal Stormwater Management Permit for the currently proposed activity. If at anytime in the future, development of any part of this site is planned, as defined in NCAC 2H.1000, or if the proposed activities differ in any manner from what is shown on the plans on file with the Division, you must submit the project for review of the applicability of the stormwater management rules. If you have any questions concerning this matter, please do not hesitate to cull me at (910) 395-3900. Sincerely, Rick Shiver Water Quality Regional Supervisor RSS/arl: S:\WQS\STORMWAT\EXEMPT\020632.JUL cc: Delaney Aycock, Brunswick County Building Inspections Linda Lewis Wilmington Regional Office Central Files NCDENR N.C. Division of Water Quality 127 Cardinal Drive Extension Wilmington, N.C. 28405 (910) 395-3900 Fax (910) 350-2004 Customer Service 800-623-7748 -AL. STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR October 18, 2001 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: Jay McInnis, Jr., P.E., Unit Head Bridge Replacement Unit Elizabeth L. Lusk, Environmental Biologist Natural Systems Unit LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY SUBJECT: Amendment to the Natural Resources Technical Report for the proposed replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek in Brunswick County. TIP No. B-3116, State Project No. 8.1231501; Federal Aid No. BRSTP-133(2). ATTENTION: Beverly Robinson, P.E., Project Manager The following serves to update the Natural Resources Technical Report (NRTR) for the subject project. In an effort to minimize and avoid impacts to Waters of the U.S., design of the bridge replacement has changed. The existing 60-foot bridge will be replaced with a longer 300-foot bridge in place, rather than on new location. During construction traffic will detoured off site, rather than using an onsite detour, as originally proposed. As a result of redesign, there will be minimal surface water impacts, because the new bridge will span the entire width of Allen Creek with one supporting bent placed in the creek. The new bridge will be 240 feet longer than the existing bridge and the proposed right-of-way will be the same as the current 60-foot right-of-way. Therefore rather than impacting wetlands, there will be an opportunity to restore approximately 0.3 acres of brackish marsh community currently filled with the existing causeway. This will in turn enhance the brackish marsh community directly upstream and downstream of the bridge. Restoration would consists of removing fill from as much of the existing causeway as is available (0.3 acres). The fill will be removed down to the adjacent marsh elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using similar brackish marsh species found in the adjacent marshes such as giant cordgrass (Spartina cynosuroides), various rushes (Scirpus americanus, S. robustus, and S. validus), sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense), and arrowhead (Sagittaria falcata). Of course, species planted depends on availability at the time of planting. cc: Hal Bain, Unit Head File`B-3f16 MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE. WWW.DOH.DOT.STATE.NC.US RALEIGH NC RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 r CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION ACTION CLASSIFICATION FORM TIP Project No. State Project No. Federal Project No A. Project Description: APR .7.003 Replace a structurally deficient bridge. .?: Wda`d ? ;?V 9QUALITY SECTION C. Proposed Improvements: B-3116 8.1231501 BRSTP-133(2) 030490 Replace Bridge No. 56 on its existing alignment. The new bridge will be approximately 300 feet in length and placed at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. During construction, traffic will be detoured onto NC 87. V] E L. Sr DS / , s?, r?.rU3 B. Purpose and Need: Circle one or more of the following Type II improvements which apply to the project: Modernization of a highway. by resurfacing, restoration, rehabilitation, reconstruction, adding shoulders, or adding auxiliary lanes (e.g., parking; weaving, turning, climbing). a. Restoring, Resurfacing, Rehabilitating, and Reconstructing pavement (3R and 4R improvements) b. Widening roadway and shoulders without adding through lanes c. Modernizing gore treatments d. Constructing lane improvements (merge, auxiliary, and turn lanes) e. Adding shoulder drains f. Replacing and rehabilitating culverts, inlets, and drainage pipes, including safety treatments g. Providing driveway pipes h. Performing minor bridge widening (less than one through lane) 2. Highway safety or traffic operations improvement projects including the installation of ramp metering control devices and lighting. a. Installing ramp metering devices b. Installing lights c. Adding or upgrading guardrail d. Installing safety barriers including Jersey type barriers and pier protection e. Installing or replacing impact attenuators f. Upgrading medians including adding or upgrading median barriers g. Improving intersections including relocation and/or realignment h. Making minor roadway realignment i. Channelizing traffic j. Performing clear zone safety improvements including removing hazards and flattening slopes k. Implementing traffic aid systems, signals, and motorist aid 1. Installing bridge safety hardware including bridge rail retrofit O Bridge rehabilitation, reconstruction, or replacement or the construction of grade separation to replace existing at-grade railroad crossings. a. Rehabilitating, reconstructing, or replacing bridge approach slabs b. Rehabilitating or replacing bridge decks c. Rehabilitating bridges including painting (no red lead paint), scour repair, fender systems, and minor structural improvements O Replacing a bridge (structure and/or fill) 4. Transportation corridor fringe parking facilities. 5. Construction of new truck weigh stations or rest areas. 6. Approvals for disposal of excess right-of-way or for joint or limited use of right-of-way, where the proposed use does not have significant adverse impacts. 7. Approvals for changes in access control. 8. Construction of new bus storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and located on or near a street with adequate capacity to handle anticipated bus and support vehicle traffic. 9. Rehabilitation or reconstruction of existing rail and bus buildings and ancillary facilities where only minor amounts of additional land are required and there is not a substantial increase in the number of users. 10. Construction of bus transfer facilities (an open area consisting of passenger shelters, boarding areas, kiosks and related street improvements) when located in a commercial area or other high activity center in which there is adequate street capacity for projected bus traffic. 11. Construction of rail storage and maintenance facilities in areas used predominantly for industrial or transportation purposes where such construction is not inconsistent with existing zoning and where there is no significant noise impact on the surrounding community. 12. Acquisition of land for hardship or protective purposes, advance land acquisition loans under section 3(b) of the UMT Act. Hardship and protective buying will be permitted only for a particular parcel or a limited number of parcels. These types of land acquisition qualify for a CE only where the acquisition will not limit the evaluation of alternatives, including shifts in alignment for planned construction projects, which may be required in the NEPA process. No project development on such land may proceed until the NEPA process has been completed. D. Additional Project Information 1. Environmental Commitments SEE ATTACHED LIST OF PROJECT COMMITMENTS (GREENSHEET) 2. Existing Conditions NC 133 is classified as a Rural Major Collector in the Statewide Functional Classification System. NC 133 has a posted speed limit of 55 mph. The existing bridge was built in 1950. It has a reinforced concrete deck on steel I- beams and the substructure is concrete caps on timber piles. The deck is 61 feet (18.5 meters) long and 25 feet (7.6 meters) wide. There is approximately 12 feet (3.6 meters) of vertical clearance between the floorbeams of the bridge deck and streambed. There are two lanes of traffic on the bridge. According to Bridge Maintenance Unit records, the sufficiency rating of the bridge is 37.9 out of a possible 100. This structure is functionally deficient and the substructure is becoming structurally deficient. Presently the bridge is posted with weight restrictions of 30 tons for single vehicles and the legal load limit for truck-tractor semi-trailers. Vertical and horizontal alignments are good. The approach roadway is 19 feet (5.8 meters) with 8 foot grass shoulders. The Traffic Engineering Branch indicates that 14 accidents have been reported during the period April 1998 through March 2001 from SR 1518 (Daws Creek Road) to SR 1555 (Mellaney Road). Eight school buses cross the studied bridge twice daily. Utility conflicts will be low for this project. There are underground phone cables on the west side of NC 133 going aerial across the creek. There is also a fiber optic cable underground along the west side of NC 133. Also along the west side of NC 133, there are overhead power lines. The proposed offsite detour for Bridge No. 56 is NC 87. This route will be used to access US 17 as well as the Southport area. NC 87 runs parallel to NC 133. Daws Creek Road (SR 1518) connects NC 133 and NC 87. 3. Cost Estimate The project cost is estimated at $1,237,000 including $1,200,000 for construction and $37,000 for right of way acquisition. 4. Estimated Traffic 2001- 5,300 vehicles per day 2025 -19,000 vehicles per day Single unit trucks and tractor-trailers make up three percent and two percent of these volumes, respectively. 5. Environmental Issues The estimated wetland impacts will include 0.22 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.38 acres of mechanized clearing in wetlands. Replacing Bridge No. 56 with a 300-foot bridge will allow for wetland restoration due to the removal of the existing roadway. Approximately 0.24 acre of causeway will be restored as a result of the proposed project. Restoring the causeway will lessen the wetland impacts to 0.36 acres. NCDOT Biologist Randy Turner coordinated with the Division of Coastal Management and per conversations with this agency, mitigation will not be required for the proposed project. The following are reasons mitigation will not be required for replacing Bridge No. 56: 1. The existing Bridge is 60 feet and the proposed bridge is 300 feet. 2. Approximately 0.24 acres of causeway will be restored as a result of the longer bridge. 3. A 3:1 slope will be provided to lessen wetland impacts and for slope stabilization. 4. An offsite detour will be used to further reduce the impacts to wetlands. 4 E. Threshold Criteria The following evaluation of threshold criteria must be completed for Type II actions. ECOLOGICAL YES (1) Will the project have a substantial impact on any unique or important natural resource? ? (2) Does the project involve any habitat where federally listed endangered or threatened species may occur? F (3) Will the project affect anadromous fish? (4) If the project involves wetlands, is the amount of permanent and/or temporary wetland taking less than one-third (1/3) acre and have all practicable measures to avoid and minimize wetland takings been evaluated? (5) Will the project require use of U. S. Forest Service lands? (6) Will the quality of adjacent water resources be adversely impacted by proposed construction activities? (7) Does the project involve waters classified as Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) and/or High Quality Waters (HQW)? (8) Will the project require fill in "Waters of the United States" in any of the designated mountain trout counties? (9) Does the project involve any known underground storage tanks (UST's) or hazardous materials sites? PERMITS AND COORDINATION (10) If the project is located within a CAMA county, will the project significantly affect the coastal zone and/or any "Area of Environmental Concern" (AEC)? (11) Does the project involve Coastal Barrier Resources Act resources? (12) Will a U. S. Coast Guard permit be required? (13) Will the project result in the modification of any existing regulatory floodway? NO x O _D ?x F-1 X F] x F-1 x 1:1 x F-1 x 5 r YES NO (14) Will the project require any stream relocations or channel F-1 x changes? SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND CULTURAL RESOURCES (15) Will the project induce substantial impacts to planned growth or land use for the area? F-1 x (16) Will the project require the relocation of any family or business? ? x (17) Will the project have a disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effect on any minority or F-1 x low-income population? (18) If the project involves the acquisition of right of way, is the amount of ri ht of wa ac uisiti n considered mino ? ? g y q o r x (19) Will the project involve any changes in access control? ? x (20) Will the project substantially alter the usefulness and/or land use of adjacent property? _ X (21) Will the project have an adverse effect on permanent local traffic patterns or community cohesiveness? x F (22) Is the project included in an approved thoroughfare plan and/ or Transportation Improvement Program (and is, therefore in conformance with the Clean Air Act of 1990)? x F , (23) Is the project anticipated to cause an increase in traffic - volumes? 1 x F (24) Will traffic be maintained during construction using existing F-1 roads, staged construction, or on-site detours? X (25) If the project is a bridge replacement project, will the bridge be replaced at its existing location (along the existing facility) and will all construction proposed in association with the .bridge replacement project be contained on the existing facility? (26) Is there substantial controversy on social, economic and environmental grounds concerning aspects of the action? F x (27) Is the project consistent with all Federal, State, and local laws relating to the environmental aspects of the project? x 6 (28) Will the project have an "effect" on structures/properties eligible for or listed on the National Register of Historic Places? (29) Will the project affect any archaeological remains which are important to history or pre-history? (30) Will the project require the use of Section 4(f) resources (public parks, recreation lands, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, historic sites or historic bridges, as defined in Section 4(f) of the U. S. Department of Transportation Act of 1966)? (31) Will the project result in any conversion of assisted public recreation sites or facilities to non-recreation uses, as defined by Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Act of 1965, as amended? (32) Will the project involve construction in, across, or adjacent to a river designated as a component of or proposed for inclusion in the Natural System of Wild and Scenic Rivers? YES NO F-I x F1 x F-I x F? x F-I x F. Additional Documentation Required for Unfavorable Responses in Part E Question 2, 3, 4, and 25 have negative responses. The following is an explanation of these negative responses: Question 2 This project does involve habitat where federally listed endangered or threatened species may occur. This species is the shortnose sturgeon. The following is information about the shortnose sturgeon and the biological conclusion of impacts to the sturgeon. Name: Shortnose sturgeon Endangered BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NOT LIKELY TO ADVERSELY AFFECT The short-nosed sturgeon is a small (1 meter in length) species of fish that occurs in the lower sections of large rivers and in coastal marine habitats from the St. John River, Canada to the Indian River, Florida. It can be differentiated from the Atlantic sturgeon because of its shorter snout, wider mouth, and the pattern of its preanal shields (the short-nose having one row and the Atlantic that has two). The short-nosed sturgeon prefers deep channels with salinity less than seawater. It feeds benthicly on invertebrates and plant material and is most active at night. It is an anadromous species that spawns upstream in the spring and spends most of its life within close proximity of the rivers mouth. At least two entirely freshwater populations have been recorded, in South Carolina and Massachusetts. The short-nosed sturgeon requires large fresh water rivers that are unobstructed by dams or pollutants to reproduce successfully. The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program's database of rare species and unique habitats was checked on September 12, 2001. No populations of this species have been reported from the project vicinity. However, favorable habitat does exist for this species. Based on a conversation with the North Carolina Marine Fisheries Service on December 3, 1999, a moratorium is recommended to avoid in-water activity from February 15 through September 30. The National Marine Fisheries Services concurs with the recommendation of North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, and has issued a finding the subject project is "Not likely to Adversely Affect" the shortnose sturgeon (see letter in Appendix). This is dependent on the commitments found on the Project Commitment Green Sheet. Questions 2 and 3 The project will affect. anadromous fish however, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has developed a construction moratorium to further protect the shortnose sturgeon during construction. There will be no in-water or in-marsh activity from February 15 through September 30. This is considered the in-migration, spawning, and out-migration period for the endangered shortnose sturgeon and another anadromous fish. Question 4 This project will impact wetlands. The estimated wetland impacts for the proposed project is not less than one-third (1/3) acre. All practicable measures to avoid and minimize wetland takings have been evaluated. The estimated wetland impacts will include 0.22 acres of fill in wetlands and 0.38 acres of mechanized clearing in wetlands. A 3:1 slope will be used to minimize impacts to wetlands and provide for slope stability an offsite detour will be used to lessen wetland impacts. Question 25 The bridge will be replaced at its existing location (along the existing facility). However, construction proposed in association with the bridge replacement project will not be contained on the existing facility. Shoulders in the vicinity of the bridge are substandard and will be widened as a part of the project. CE Approval TIP Project No. B-3116 State Project No. 8.1231501 Federal-Aid Project No. BRSTP-133(2) Project Description: Replace Bridge No. 56 on its existing alignment. The new bridge will be approximately 300 feet in length and placed at approximately the same elevation as the existing bridge. During construction, traffic will be detoured onto NC 87. Categorical Exclusion Action Classification: (Check one) TYPE II(A) X TYPE II(B) Approved: ,; 3,O /V1 at Assistant Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch 11 29 01 ?. I ' . . Date P ject Planning Unit Hea Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch Project Planni g Engineer VaPf Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch For Type II(B) projects only: 2 Date Division Administrator Federal Highway Administration 10 PROJECT COMIVIITMENTS TIP Project B-3116, Brunswick County Bridge No. 56, on NC 133 Over Allen Creek Federal Aid Project BRSTP-133(2) State Project 8.1231501 1. Division 3 The U.S Fish and Wildlife Service has developed a list of "Precautions for the general construction in areas which may be used by the West Indian manatee in North Carolina." These precautions will be considered in all aspects of project construction. Construction Moratorium: There will be no in-water or in marsh activity during the months of February 15 through September 30, This is considered the in-migration, spawning and out-migration period for the endangered shortnose sturgeon and other anadromous fish. NCDOT agreed to delay closing NC 133 until after Labor Day. 2. Roadway Design Unit, Structure Design Unit, Project Development & Environmental Analysis Branch (Permits), Division 3: Bridge Demolition: Bridge No. 56 is 61 feet (18.5 meters) in length. It has a reinforced concrete deck on steel I-beams and the sub structure is concrete caps on timber piles. Thus, there is a potential for components.of the bridge to be dropped into Waters of the United States during construction. The resulting temporary fill associated with the bridge demolition will be as much as approximately 27.4 cubic yards (20.9 cubic meters). This calculation is based on the entire length of the bridge extending over surface waters as well as jurisdictional wetlands. All deposited components will be removed from the Waters of the U.S., as quickly as possible. During construction, Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal will be followed. To ensure the project will not adversely affect the endangered shortnose sturgeon, explosives will not be used in the bridge demolition. 3. Hydraulics Unit, Structure Design Unit, Division 3: Stream Crossing Guidelines: NCDOT's "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage" will be followed in the design & construction phases. Programmatic Categorical Exclusion December 2001 Pagel of 2 e 4 Roadside Environmental Unit: Design Standards in Sensitive Watersheds: To ensure the project will not adversely affect the endangered shortnose sturgeon, Design Standards for Sensitive Watersheds (formerly High Quality Water Guidelines) will be used. 5. Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch 1) NCDOT will investigate whether any improvements are needed for NC 87 to be used as a detour route, including additional traffic signals and/or resurfacing. 2) NCDOT will provide Carolina Power and Light Company and Brunswick County Emergency Management Officials with an estimate of the amount of time the closure of NC 133 will add to evacuation times for the Brunswick Nuclear Plant. 3) In response to local government requests, NCDOT will provide further public notification regarding this bridge replacement, road closure and detour route. This will be coordinated with Brunswick County Emergency Management. Programmatic Categorical Exclusion December 2001 Page 2 of 2 FIGURES _ s 1 \ v Y 2 Pinelevel 44 5 ; 6 CAMPBELL 1516 ISLAND don -? - ` t % ` 1 r 3• a 1521 % 1 _ i ?` PRETTY _ POND IE t ?0 .L : i _ s ` 1529 Cr 1530 Orton 1' ,l l /?O Tr1AI r $PKInV? 1 .S? ? 'rte.-' ? ' l 529 ' S- , LAKE.? f i B R U N S W A rueaww > sCa/wr?•/??1 I:rrrr.Yrl/ .•, .:;I? - l'.?..?' ? ? ` err a-+rxr '?•? ? North Carolina Department of Transportation Division of Highways Planning & Environmental Branch Brunswick County Replace Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 Over Allen Creek B-3116 Figure One I END OF BRIDGE LOOKING SOUTH FIGURE 3 END OF BRIDGE LONG NORTH TIDE EAST FACE OF BRIDGE NC. 56 FIGIRE 4 i? •»- , / / i fes Z' -? t\ f { I f t3?' \ weer \ 001U17G SN1NG ' \ wls h > roe.?n? r?evfrr rot. M k ?I I SuullY rank / /! an??r trmmi.i 1 t ?= I ! - redwel re1M i i THE •. AS ?? ZEKE ISLAND Detour Route ".'' 1 ' - I mss/ i? I 3CUS ?/? 7 t MRFS ror l I 1411,? V n.s T MME f .. ?j Ba77E{YY `~"? NOTE: MAP INCLUDES ONLY STATE M40ITh INEO ROADS ?? ISLAM / OR IMPORTANT NON-SYSTEM ROADS. 4? u•re. MILEAGE NOT SHOWN ON FRONTAGE ROADS. -.-•`,} ? ? ? I ROADS SHOWN AS S OF OF JAN. I, I998 ph S T RIKIPIG . ISLAND N.[. B I T Z?AR p ASSEAI Y•c OUrln SAY k B,Iy I 9 BRUNSWTICK l NORTH CAROLINA -? ;Bridge No. 61 V G" t h.d.-.r J V >L >a D 7- 0 rn :o CAURBELL ISl ANb ` I 0 C 1 I? Bridge No. 56 -i tllr??;?ll FIGURE 5 APPENDIX ® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission P 512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391 Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director MEMORANDUM TO: Bill Goodwin, Project Planning Engineer Planning & Environmental Branch, NCDOT FROM: David Cox, Highway Project C to for ,wl Habitat Conservation Prograny ` DATE: December 5, 1997 SUBJECT: NCDOT Bridge Replacements, Brunswick, Onslow, Wayne, Cumberland, Richmond, Wilson, Lenoir, and Northampton counties, North Carolina, TIP Nos. B-3115, B-3116, B-3358, B-3379, B-3322, B-3365, B-2110, 13- 3267, B-3200, B-1303. Biologists with the N. C. Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) have conducted site visits as need and have the-following preliminary comments on the subject projects. Our comments are provided in accordance with provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Stat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). On bridge replacement projects of this scope our standard recommendations are as follows: 1. We generally prefer spanning structures. Spanning structures usually do not require work within the stream and do not require stream channel realignment. The horizontal and vertical clearances provided by bridges allows for human and wildlife passage beneath the structure, does not block fish passage, and does not block navigation by canoeists and boaters. 2. Bridge deck drains should not discharge directly into the stream. 3. Live concrete should not be allowed to contact the water in or entering into the stream. 4. if possible, bridge supports (bents) should not be placed in the stream. Bridge Replacement Memo 2 December 5, 1997 5. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, they should be removed back to original ground elevations immediately upon the completion of the project. Disturbed areas should be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and native tree species should be planted with a spacing of not more than 10'x10'. If possible, when using temporary structures the area should be cleared but not grubbed. Clearing the area with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or other mechanized equipment and leaving the stumps and root mat intact, allows the area to revegetate naturally and minimizes disturbed soil. 6. A clear bank (r iprap free) area of at least 10 feet should remain on each side of the steam underneath the bridge. 7. In trout waters, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission reviews all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nationwide and general `404' permits. We have the option of requesting additional measures to protect trout and trout habitat and we can recommend that the project require an individual `404' permit. 8. In streams that contain threatened or endangered species, NCDOT biologist Mr. Tim Savidge should be notified. Special measures to protect these sensitive species may be required. NCDOT should also contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for information on requirements of the Endangered Species Act as it relates to the project. 9. In streams that are used by anadromous fish, the NCDOT official policy entitled "Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage (May 12, 1997)" should be followed. 10. In areas with significant fisheries for sunfish, seasonal exclusions may also be recommended. If corrugated metal pipe arches or concrete box culverts are used: 1. The culvert must be designed to allow for fish passage. Generally, this means that the culvert or pipe invert is buried at least 1 foot below the natural stream bed. If multiple cells are required the second and/or third cells should be placed so that their bottoms are at stream bankful stage (similar to Lyonsfield design). This will allow sufficient water depth in the culvert or pipe during normal flows to accommodate fish movements. If culverts are long, baffle systems are required to trap gravel and provide resting areas for fish and other aquatic organisms. 2. If multiple pipes or cells are used, at least one pipe or box should be designed to remain dry during normal flows to allow for wildlife passage. 3. Culverts or pipes should be situated so that no channel realignment or widening is required. Widening of the stream channel at the inlet or outlet of structures usually causes a decrease in water velocity causing sediment deposition that will require future maintenance. 4. Riprap should not be placed on the stream bed. In most cases, we prefer the replacement of the existing structure at the same location with road closure. If road closure is not feasible, a temporary detour should be Bridge Replacement Memo 3 December 5, 1997 designed and located to avoid wetland impacts, minimize the need for clearing and to avoid destabilizing stream banks. If the structure will be on a new alignment, the old structure should be removed and the approach fills removed from the 100-year floodplain. Approach fills should be removed down to the natural ground elevation. The area should be stabilized with grass and planted with native tree species. If the area that is reclaimed was previously wetlands, NCDOT should restore the area to wetlands. If successful, the site may be used as wetland mitigation for the subject project or other projects in the watershed. Project specific comments: 1. B-3115 - The potential is high for anadromous fish usage at this site. Therefore, the guidelines apply (See Item 9 above). 2. B-3116 - The potential is high for anadromous fish usage at this site. Therefore, the guidelines apply (See Item 9 above). 3. B-3358 - This bridge is surrounded by swamp. We request that NCDOT minimize wetland impacts. 4. B-3379 - This site has a high potential for wetlands adjacent to the bridge. This are is classified as nutrient sensitive waters so we request that sedimentation and erosion controls for high quality waters be followed. 5. B-3322 - No specific concerns. 6. B-3365 - No specific concerns. 7. B-2110 - High potential for wetland impacts. NCDOT should minimize wetland impacts. 8. B-3267 - No specific concerns. 9. B-3200 - Anadromous fish are known to us this area so the guidelines apply (See Item 9 above). There is a high potential for wetland involvement. 10. B-1303 - Anadromous fish are known to use this area so the guidelines apply (See Item 9 above). We request that NCDOT routinely minimize adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources in the vicinity of bridge replacements. The NCDOT should install and maintain sedimentation control measures throughout the life of the project and prevent wet concrete from contacting water in or entering into these streams. Replacement of bridges with spanning structures of some type, as opposed to pipe or box culverts, is recommended in most cases. Spanning structures allow wildlife passage along streambanks, reducing habitat fragmentation and vehicle related mortality at highway crossings. If you need further assistance or information on NCWRC concerns regarding bridge replacements, please contact me at (919) 528-9886. Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on these projects. STA? LY ,t+J} ??1i ?s STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION JAMES B. HUNT JR. P.O. BOX 25201. RALEIGH. N.C. 27611-5201 GOVERNOR 23 December 1998 Memorandum To: Wayne Elliott, Unit Head Bridge Replacement Unit From: Chris Murray, P.W.S. Natural Systems Unit E. NoRRIs TOLSON SECRETARY Subject: Proposed replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County. TIP No. B-3116; Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-133(2); State Project No. 8.1231501. Attention: Bill Goodwin, P.E., Project Planning Engineer Bridge Replacement Unit The attached Natural Resources Technical Report provides inventories and descriptions of natural resources within the project study area, and estimations of impacts likely to occur to these resources as a result of project construction. Pertinent information concerning Waters of the United States and protected species is also provided. c: File 9 Proposed Replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) Brunswick County TIP No. B-3116 State Project No. 8.1231501 Federal Aid Project No. BRSTP-133(2) Natural Resources Technical Report NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL BRANCH NATURAL SYSTEMS UNIT CHRIS MURRAY, P.W.S. NATURAL SYSTEMS UNIT 23 DECEMBER, 1998 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 . 0 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.1 Project Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.2 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.3 Methodology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.4 Qualifications of Principal Biologist . . . . . . . . 3 2.0 Physical Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 2.1 Soils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2.2 Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2.2.1 Subbasin Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2.2.2 Stream Characteristics . . . ... . . . . . . . . 4 2.2.3 Best Usage Classification . . . . . . . . . . . 5 2.2.4 Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 2.2.5 Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources. . . . . 6 3.0 Biotic Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 3.1 Terrestrial Communities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 3.1.1 Disturbed Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.1.2 Pine-hardwood Forest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.1.3 Brackish Marsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.2 Aquatic Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 3.3 Faunal Component . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 3.4 Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Resources . . . . . . .10 4.0 Jurisdictional Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 4.1 Waters of the United States . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters.ll 4.1.2 Summary of Anticipated Impacts. . . . . . . . .12 4.1.3 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 4.1.4 Mitigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 4.1.4.1 Avoidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 4.1.4.2 Minimizaiton . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 4.1.4.3 Compensatory Mitigation . . . . . . . .14 4.2 Protected and Rare Species . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 4.2.1 Federally-Protected Species . . . . . . . . .14 4.2.2 Federal Species of Concern . . . . . . . . .26 5.0 References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Project Study Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities. . . . . .10 Table 2. Federally Protected Species . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Table 3. Federally Species of Concern . . . . . . . . . . . .27 APPENDICES APPENDIX A. Precautions for General Construction in Areas which May Be Used By the West Indian Manatee in North Carolina. 4, 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION The following Natural Resources Technical Report is submitted to assist in the preparation of a Categorical Exclusion for the proposed project. 1.1 Project Description The project involves the replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek in Brunswick County. Allen Creek is also known as Lilliput Creek, and is referred to by that name by the Division of Water Quality (DWQ) and on the USGS topographic map. The existing and proposed right-of-ways (ROW) are 18 m (60 ft). Two alternates are proposed for this project: Alternate 1-Replace Bridge No. 56 in place with traffic maintained on an on-site temporary detour to the west during construction. The length of the on-site detour is approximately 351 m (1150 ft). The on-site detour bridge and roadway approaches will be removed after project construction. The replacement of the existing structure over Allen Creek involves the removal and replacement of Bridge No. 56 and adjacent roadway approaches. Project length of this on-site replacement is approximately 220 m (720 ft). Alternate 2-Replace Bridge No. 56 on new location to the west with traffic maintained on existing during construction. The length of the new location alignment is approximately 473 m (1550 ft). The length of the existing bridge and associated roadway that will be removed after construction of the new alignment is approximately 488 m (1600 ft). 1.2 Purpose - ' The purpose of this technical report is to inventory, catalog and describe the various natural resources likely to be impacted by the proposed action. This report also attempts to identify and estimate the probable consequences of the anticipated impacts to these resources. Recommendations are made for measures which will minimize resource impacts. These descriptions are relevant only in the context of existing design concepts. If design parameters and criteria change, additional field investigations will need to be conducted. 1.3 Methodology Research of the project study area was conducted prior to field investigations. Information sources used in the pre-field investigation include: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) quadrangle map (Carolina Beach, NC), NCDOT aerial photomosaics of the project study area (1:1200) and Soil Survey of Brunswick County (USDA, 1986). Water resource information was obtained from publications of the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR) (1998), North Carolina Department of N `^1 _ 51a 7518 \ stop 1 s?)n 14 1 ? ? ? c i 1 i i 4 i I I 1 't i 1 t PRi POI i ? z n 1 l 4 1 J? l { I ? 1 . '- iAK i CAMPBELL `1I1 ISLAND i ? 1 J North Carolina Department of Transportation t." _ Division of Highways F? Planning & Environmental Branch OF tp?N`' Brunswick County Replace Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 Over Allen Creek B-3116 Figure One Orton ORTON PLA'.'A'ON k6 GARDENS j 0_O? ??'`SwK RUINS( 153 3 Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR) (1995a, 1996), and from the Environmental Sensitivity Base Map of Brunswick County (North Carolina Center for Geographic Information and Analysis, 1995). Information concerning the occurrence of federal and state protected species in the study area was gathered from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) list of protected and candidate species (14 May 1998) and from the North.Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats. General field surveys were conducted along the proposed alignment by NCDOT biologists Chris Murray, Jared Gray, and Susan Brady on 30 October, 1998. Plant communities and their associated wildlife were identified and recorded. Wildlife identification involved using one or more of the following observational techniques: active searching and capture, visual observations (binoculars), identifying characteristic signs of wildlife (sounds, scat, tracks and burrows). Jurisdictional wetland determinations were performed utilizing delineation criteria prescribed in the "Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual" (Environmental Laboratory, 1987).. Definitions for areal descriptions used in this report are as follows: Project Study.Area denotes the area bound by proposed ROW limits; Project Vicinity describes an area extending 0.8 km (0.5 mi) on all sides of the project study area; and Project Region is equivalent to an.area represented by.a 7.5 minute USGS quadrangle map centered on the project. 1.4 Qualifications of Principal Investigator Investigator: Christopher A. Murray Education: M.S. Coastal Ecology, Univ. North Carolina at Wilmington, North Carolina B.S. Zoology, St. Cloud State University, St. Cloud, Minnesota Certification: Professional Wetland Scientist No. 1130 Experience: N.C. Dept. of Transportation 1995-present Environmental Investigations, P.A. 1992-1994 Environmental Services, Inc. 1991-1992 Expertise: Wetland Delineation, NEPA Investigations, and Protected Species Surveys 2.0 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS Soil and water resources, which occur in the project study area, are discussed below. Soil types and availability of water directly influence composition and distribution of flora and fauna in any biotic community. Brunswick County lies in the Coastal Plain Physiographic Province. Land in the project study area is characterized as relatively flat. The project is located in a rural area of Brunswick County'surrounded by undeveloped land, including marsh 4 and forested land. The project study area is located approximately 0-2 m (0-5 ft) above mean sea level. 2.1 Soils Two mapped soil units are located in the project study area and include Bohicket silty clay loam and Blanton fine sand, 0-5% slopes. Bohicket silty clay loam is a nearly level, very poorly drained soil on tidal flats. It is dissected by narrow areas of water. Surface runoff and permeability is very slow. The water table fluctuates with the rise and fall of the daily tides and the soil is flooded each day by tidal water. Bohicket silty clay loam is a hydric soil. Blanton fine sand, 0-5% slope is a moderately well drained soil in slightly convex, interstream areas. Surface runoff is slow and permeability is rapid in the thick sandy surface and moderate in the loamy subsoil. The available water capacity is low. A perched water table can be above the subsoil for a short time during wet periods. Blanton fine sand is a non-hydric soil with inclusions of Muckalee loam in narrow drainageways. 2.2 Water Resources This section contains information concerning those water resources likely to be impacted by the project. Water resource information encompasses the resources' relationship to major water systems, its physical aspects, Best Usage Classification, and water quality of the resources. Probable impacts to these water bodies are also discussed, as are means to minimize impacts. 2.2.1 Subbasin Characteristics Water resources located within the project study area lie in the Lower Cape Fear River and Coastal Watershed (Subbasin 03-06- 17) of the Cape Fear River Drainage Basin. The Cape Fear River Basin is the largest river basin in the state, covering 9,149 square miles (NCDEHNR, 1995a). 2.2.2 Stream Characteristics The proposed project crosses Allen Creek, a tidally influenced brackish water body and its associated brackish marsh. Brackish marshes develop where freshwater from rivers dilutes saltwater from tides. The tidal action reduces local salinity, removes toxic materials, supplies nutrients,.and modifies soil anoxia (Mitsch and Gosselink, 1986). Allen Creek has its headwaters approximately 14 km (9 mi) southwest of Bridge No. 56. The water body flows to the northeast where it outfalls into McKinzie Pond. Allen Creek continues eastward where it crosses under Bridge No. 56 and outfalls into the Cape Fear River approximately 1341 m (4400 ft) east of the project study area. 5 Allen Creek at the project site is approximately 18 m (60 ft) wide. The site visit was conducted during high tide and depth could not be determined. The substrate is likely comprised of an organic muck. 2.2.3 Best Usage Classification Streams have been assigned a best usage classification by the NCDENR (1998). The best usage classification of Allen Creek (Index No. 18-85) is C Sw. Class C waters are suitable for aquatic life propagation and survival, fishing, wildlife, secondary recreation, and agriculture. Swamp Waters (Sw) is a supplemental classification intended to recognize those waters that generally have naturally occurring very low velocities, low pH and low dissolved oxygen. No water resources classified as High Quality Waters (HQW's), Water Supplies (WS-I or WS-II), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW's) are located within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. 2.2.4 Water Quality The DWQ has initiated a whole basin approach to water quality management for the 17 river basins within the state. To accomplish this goal the DWQ collects biological, chemical and physical data that can be used in basinwide assessment and planning. All basins are reassessed every five years. An assessment of water quality data indicates that the Lower Cape Fear River and Coastal Watershed has generally good to excellent water quality due largely to good tidal flushing (NCDEHNR, 1995a). Prior to the implementation of the basinwide approach to water quality management, the Benthic Macroinvertebrate Ambient Network assessed water quality by sampling for benthic macroinvertebrate organisms at fixed monitoring sites throughout the state. Many benthic macroinvertebrates have stages-in their life cycle that can last from six months to a year, therefore, the adverse effects of a toxic spill will not be overcome until the next generation. Different taxa of macroinvertebrates have different tolerances to pollution, thereby, long term changes in water quality conditions can be identified by population shifts from pollution sensitive to pollution tolerant organisms (and vice versa). Overall, the species present, the population diversity and the biomass are reflections of long term water quality conditions. There are no BMAN sampling stations in the project vicinity (NCDEHNR, 1995a). Point sources refer to discharges that enter surface water through a pipe, ditch, or other defined points of discharge. Point source dischargers located throughout North Carolina are permitted through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. Any discharger is required to register for a permit. There are no NPDES sites located within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area. 6 Non-point source refers to runoff that enters surface waters through stormwater flow or no defined point of discharge. There are many types of land use activities that can serve as sources of nonpoint source pollution including land development, construction, crop production, animal feeding lots, failing septic systems, landfills, roads, and parking lots. Sediment and nutrients are major pollution-causing substances associated with nonpoint source pollution. Others include fecal coliform bacteria, heavy metals, oil and grease, and any other substance that may be washed off the ground or removed from the atmosphere and carried into surface waters. Excluding road runoff, there were no identifiable non-point sources that could be observed during the site visit. 2.2.5 Summary of Anticipated Impacts to Water Resources Potential impacts to water resources in the project study area are dependent upon final construction limits. Roadway construction in Allen Creek and the adjacent brackish marsh will result in water quality impacts. The proposed project will bridge Allen Creek but fill portions of the brackish marsh and result in both temporary and permanent impacts. Clearing and grubbing activities near the creek and in the marsh will result in soil erosion leading to increased sedimentation and turbidity. These effects may extend downstream for considerable distance with decreasing intensity. Removal of the marsh vegetation will have a negative effect on water quality. The vegetation at the site typically stabilizes streambanks and reduces sedimentation by trapping soil particles. The vegetation helps to absorb tidal surges by slowing water movement. Because of their location, brackish marshes are valuable for storing floodwaters from rivers and tides (NCDEHNR, 1996). Construction activities adjacent to water resources increase the potential for toxic compounds (gas, oil, and highway spills) to be carried into nearby water resources via precipitation, sheet flow, and subsurface drainage. Increased amounts of toxic materials can adversely alter the water quality of any water resource, thus impacting its biological and chemical functions. Indirect impacts to surface waters may extend,both upstream and downstream of the project study area. Indirect impacts may include isolated changes in flooding/tidal regime, discharge, erosion and sedimentation patterns. In order to minimize impacts to water resources in the entire impact area, NCDOT's Best Management Practices (BMP's) for the Protection of Surface Waters must be strictly enforced during the entire life of the project. The NCDOT, in cooperation with the DWQ, has developed a sedimentation control program for highway projects which adopts formal BMPs for the protection of surface waters. The short-nosed sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum) may inhabit the project study area (see Section A, 7 4.2.1). Accordingly, Design Standards In Sensitive Watersheds (formerly High Quality Water guidelines) must be enforced during the entire life of the project. The project study area is located within the coastal plain and crosses a perennial stream. NCDOT Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage must be adhered to during the life of the project. 3.0 BIOTIC RESOURCES Biotic resources include aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This section describes those ecosystems encountered in the study area, as well as the relationships between fauna and flora within these ecosystems. Composition and distribution of biotic communities throughout the project area are reflective of topography, hydrologic influences and past and present land uses. Descriptions of the terrestrial systems are presented in the context of plant community classifications. Dominant flora and fauna likely to occur in each community are described and discussed. Fauna observed during field investigations are denoted with an asterisk (*). Scientific nomenclature and common names (when applicable) are provided for each animal and plant species described. Subsequent references to the same organism will include the common name only. Plant community descriptions are based on a classification system utilized by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NHP) (Schafale and Weakley 1990). When appropriate, community classifications were modified to better reflect field observations. vascular plant names follow.nomenclature found in Radford et a1. (1968). Habitats used by terrestrial wildlife and aquatic organisms, as well as expected population distributions, were determined through field observations, evaluation of available habitat, and supportive documentation (Fish, 1960, Martof et al., 1980; Webster et a1., 1985; Rhode et al.,.1994; Potter et a1., 1980). 3.1 Terrestrial Communities Three terrestrial communities are identifiable in the project study area: disturbed community, pine-hardwood forest, and brackish marsh. 3.1.1 Disturbed Community This community encompasses two types of habitats that have recently been or are currently impacted by human disturbance: roadside shoulder and disturbed fringe. Roadside shoulder is a regularly maintained habitat that is kept in a low-growing, early successional state. Herbs, grasses and vines located here include broomsedge (Andropogon sp.), crabgrass (Digitaria spp.), bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum), yellow jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), elephant's foot (Elephantopus tomentosus), partridge pea (Cassia fasciculata), dewberry (Rubus flagellaris), 8 St. John's wort (Hypericum sp.), beadgrass (Paspalum sp.), evening primrose (Oenothera sp.), pennywort (Hydrocotyle sp.), horse nettle (Solanum carolinense), Viginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), and greenbrier (Smilax bona-nox). Disturbed fringe is comprised of shrubs and sapling sized trees that exist in the roadside shoulder/brackish marsh ecotone. Species observed here include: silverling (Baccharis halimifolia), dotted horsemint (Monarda punctata), live oak (Quercus virginiana), coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens), black cherry (Prunus serotina) and red cedar (Juniperus virginiana). 3.1.2 Pine-hardwood Forest This upland community is restricted in the project study area to a narrow band located along the southern project limits adjacent to existing NC 133. Species located in the herbaceous and vine layer include netted chain fern (Woodwardia areolata), black stem chain fern (Woodwardia virginica) and crossvine (Anisostichus capreolata). Red bay (Persea borbonia), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), high-bush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosym), black gum (Nyssa sylvatica), fetterbush (Lyonia lucida), yaupon (Ilex vomitoria), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and red maple (Acer rubrum) are located in the sapling and canopy layer. 3.1.3. Brackish Marsh Brackish marshes develop near mouths of coastal rivers with heavy freshwater discharge. that empty into the oceans that exhibit low tidal ranges (Tiner, 1993). These marshes are distinguished by their lack of trees and shrubs and by the dominance of giant cordgrass (Spartina cynosuroides). Despite apparent uniformity, the plants form a mosaic reflecting subtle changes in salinity. Additional species observed here include rushes (Scirpus americanus, S. robustus, and S. validus), aster (Aster tenuifolius), sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense), cattail (Typha angustifolia), arrowhead (Sagittaria falcata) and arrow- arum (Peltandra virginica). 3.2 Aquatic Communities one aquatic community type, coastal plain tidal stream, is located in the project study area. Here, significant amounts of freshwater dilute seawater to create moderately to slightly salty environments. Average salinities range from moderately high [18 parts per thousand (ppt)] to essentially fresh (0.5 ppt) (Tiner 1993). The tides rise and fall twice each 24 hour period. On the North Carolina coast, the tidal range for streams of this size is between 0.6 to 1.3 m (1.9 to 4.3 ft). 9 3.3 Faunal Component Many species found in the outer coastal plain are highly adaptive and may utilize the upland communities, brackish marsh, and Allen Creek for survival and reproduction. Brackish marshes are some of the most productive ecosystems in the world; this is attributable to overbank flooding and tidal flushing. Overbank flooding deposits nutrient-rich sediments from upland communities along tidal systems, promoting plant growth. When brackish marsh plants die, they break into fragments of detritus. Fungi and bacteria feed upon plant detritus, enriching it with their bodies and making nutrients more available to other grazers. Once it is begins to be broken down, the enriched detritus is flushed throughout the marsh system and adjacent estuaries by tidal flooding. There, the detritus forms the basis of many food chains for marine and estuarine fish and shellfish (NCDENR, 1996). Few animals feed directly on marsh plants but many feed on detritus including microorganisms (e.g. zooplankton), macroinvertebrates (e.g. marine worms, amphipods, penaeid shrimp [Penaeus spp.], and blue crabs [Callinectes sapidus]), and forage fish (e.g. killifish [Fundulus spp.], mullet [Mugi1 cephalus], spot [Leiostomus xanthurus], and menhaden [Brevoortia tyrannus]) which are in turn are food for larger fish such as southern flounder [Paralichthys lethostigma] and juvenile weakfish [Cynoscion regalis] (Tiner, 1993). The brackish marsh provides important nursery and spawning grounds for many of the above mentioned fish species in addition to blue crab and penaeid shrimp. Fish (1969) indicates that Allen Creek is of no fishing significance due to its small size. The brackish marsh community is home to many other invertebrates including marsh periwinkle (Littorina irrorata), -marsh fiddler crab* (Uca pugnax), mud snail- (I1y_araassa obsoleta), and Carolina marsh clam* (Polymesoda caroliniana). Coastal wetlands also provide food, shelter, nesting, and resting areas for other vertebrates, including migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds. Year-round residents observed in brackish marshes include great egret* (Casmerodius albus), snowy egret (Egretta thula), Louisiana heron (Hydranassa tricolor), least bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), black rail (Laterallus jamaicensis), red-winged bluebird (Agelaius phoeniceus), and long-billed marsh wren (Cistohorus palustris). Several species of mammals are often found in the marsh community including raccoon (Procyon lotor), marsh rice rat (Oryzomys palustris), northern short- tailed shrew (Blaring brevicauda), southern short-tailed shrew (Blaring carolinensis), least shrew (Cryptotis parva), marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris), and mink (Mustela vison). Amphibians and reptiles commonly observed in and adjacent to brackish marshes and adjacent mixed pine-hardwood forest include green treefrog (Hyla cinerea), American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin), eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina), rainbow snake (Farancia 10 erytrogramma), pine woods snake (Rhadinaea flavilata), and cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus). 3.4 Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Resources Construction of the subject project will have various impacts on the biotic resources described. Any construction related activities in or near these resources have the potential to impact biological functions. This section quantifies and qualifies impacts to the natural resources in terms of the ecosystems affected. Temporary and permanent impacts are considered here as well. Calculated impacts to terrestrial communities reflect the relative abundance of each community (Table 1). Project construction will result in the clearing and degradation of portions of these communities. Estimated impacts are derived using the entire ROW width and length presented in Section 1.1. Usually, project construction does not require the entire ROW width; therefore, actual impacts may be considerably less. Table 1. Anticipated Impacts to Biotic Communities. Community Alternate 1 Alternate 2 In Place Temporary New In Place Replacement Detour Alignment Removal Disturbed Community 0.2/0.4 0.1/0.2 0.1/0.3 0.4/1.1 Pine-Hardwood Forest -- <0.1/<0.1 <0.1/0.1 <0.1/0.1 Brackish Marsh 0.1/0.1 0.5/1.1 0.5/1.3 0.1/0.3 TOTAL (see note) 0.2/0.6 0.6/1.4 0.7/1.7 0.6/1.4 Notes: -Values are cited in hectares/acres -Total impacts may not equal the sum impacts associated with each specific community due to rounding of significant digits. -Alternate 1 In Place Replacement values indicate both temporary and permanent impacts associated with the removal and replacement of Bridge No. 56 and adjacent roadway approaches. -Alternate 1 Temporary Detour values indicate temporary impacts associated with the placement and subsequent removal of the temporary bridge and roadway approaches. -Alternate 2 New Alignment values indicate permanent impacts to the new bridge and roadway approaches on new location. -Alternate 2 In Place Removal values indicate permanent and temporary impacts associated with the removal of Bridge No. 56 and adjacent roadway approaches. The biotic communities found within the project area will be altered as a result of project construction. The brackish marsh habitat is an ecologically important habitat that will be affected by the permanent placement of fill, temporary placement of fill, and the removal of existing fill. Typically, disturbance in this type of habitat will result in the colonization of invasive species including silverling and giant reed grass (Phragmites australis). It is recommended that areas that receive temporary fill and where existing bridge and adjacent roadways are removed be graded down to normal elevation and revegetated with native flora. 11 Clearing and conversion o for roadway development affects habitat for faunal organisms. will displace animals from this additional habitat. Individual to terrestrial animals (shrews, machinery used during clearing f the marsh and forested habitat nesting, foraging, and shelter Temporary and permanent impacts area as they search for mortalities are likely to occur snakes, etc.) from construction activities. Construction activities will impact the water resources located in the project area as well as those downstream. Increased sedimentation and siltation is often directly attributable to construction activities. The suspended particles will clog the feeding mechanisms of benthic organisms, fish, and amphibians. These impacts eventually are magnified throughout the food chain and ultimately affect organisms located in higher trophic levels. Strict erosion and sedimentation controls should be maintained during the entire life of the project. Construction runoff and highway spills may result in mortality to aquatic species inhabiting Allen Creek and the brackish marsh located in the project area. 4.0 JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES This section provides descriptions, inventories and impact analysis pertinent to two important issues--Waters of the United States and Protected and Rare Species. 4.1 Waters of the United States Surface waters and jurisdictional wetlands fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States," under 33 CFR §328.3(a). Wetlands, defined in 33 CFR §328.3 (b), are those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted to life in saturated conditions. Surface waters are waters used in interstate or foreign commerce, waters subject to the ebb and flow of tides, all interstate waters including interstate wetlands, and all other waters such as intrastate lakes, rivers, and streams. Any action that proposes to place fill material into these areas falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (33 U.S.C. 1344). 4.1.1 Characteristics of Wetlands and Surface Waters Allen Creek is considered a jurisdictional surface water. This tidal creek is thoroughly described in Section 2.2.1. The brackish marsh is a jurisdictional wetland. Species observed in this wetland area include giant cordgrass, rushes, aster, sawgrass, cattail, arrowhead and arrow-arum. The organic muck at this site exhibited a soil color of 10YR 2/1 in the A layer. 12 Observations of wetland hydrology include inundation, saturation, drift lines, sediment deposits, and drainage patterns. 4.1.2 Summary of Anticipated Impacts The proposed project will cross jurisdictional surface waters and wetlands. Both temporary and permanent impacts to the brackish marsh are clearly summarized in Table 1. Allen Creek is proposed to be bridged. Approximately 18 m (60 ft) of Allen Creek is located in the ROW of the In Place Replacement and Temporary Detour associated with Alternate 1 and the New Alignment and In Place Removal associated with Alternate 2. The amount of wetland and surface water impacts may be modified by any changes in roadway design. Two systems are currently being used in North Carolina to describe or rate wetlands: a classification system developed by Cowardin et a1. (1979) and a numerical rating system developed by the North Carolina Division of Environmental Management (NCDEHNR, 1995b). The Cowardin system provides a uniform approach in describing concepts and terms used in classifying wetland systems. The brackish marsh has a Cowardin Classification of Estuarine, Emergent, Persistent, with a tidal regime that is regularly flooded (EEM1N). The NCDEHNR wetland rating system is not typically used to rate tidal brackish marsh ecosystems. Construction impacts can severely affect the functions that wetlands perform in an ecosystem. Wetlands influence regional water flow regimes by intercepting and storing storm water runoff which ultimately reduces the danger of flooding in surrounding and downstream areas. Wetlands have been documented to remove organic and inorganic nutrients and toxic materials _ from water that flows through them. The presence of wetlands adjacent to roadways can act as filters to runoff pollutants and toxins. 4.1.3 Permits Impacts to wetlands are anticipated from project construction. In accordance with provisions of the Clean Water Act §404, a permit will be required from the USACE for discharge of dredge or fill material into "Waters of the United States." Due to wetland and surface water impacts expected at the project study area (and the need for a Coastal Area Management Act [CAMA] major development permit), a Nationwide 23 Permit or Regional General Permit 291 will likely be necessary for this project. Final decision concerning applicable permits rests with the USACE. This project will require a 401 Water Quality Certification from the DWQ. Section 401 of the CWA requires that the state issue or deny water certification for any federally permitted or licensed activity that may result in a discharge to Waters of the f.. 13 United States. The issuance of a 401 permit from the DWQ is a prerequisite to issuance of a Section 404 or CAMA permit. CAMA requires a permit if a project meets all of the following conditions: (1) it is located in one of the 20 coastal counties covered by CAMA; (2) it is in or affects an area of environmental concern (AEC) designated by the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC); (3) it is considered "development" under the terms of CAMA and (4) it does not qualify for an exemption identified by CAMA or by the CRC. The project fulfills all of the above statements. The project study area is located in the estuarine system AEC. More specifically, the project will require a CAMA major development permit because impacts to the AEC are likely. 4.1.4 Mitigation The COE has adopted, through the Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ), a wetland mitigation policy which embraces the concept of "no net loss of wetlands" and sequencing. The purpose of this policy is to maintain and restore the chemical, biological and physical integrity of Waters of the United States, specifically wetlands. Mitigation of wetland impacts has been defined by the CEQ to include: avoiding impacts (to wetlands), minimizing impacts, rectifying impacts, reducing impacts over time and compensating for impacts (40 CFR 1508.20). Each of these three aspects (avoidance, minimization and compensatory mitigation) must be considered sequentially. 4.1.4.1 Avoidance Avoidance mitigation examines all appropriate and practicable possibilities of averting impacts to Waters of the United States. According to a 1990 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Environmental Protection Agency and the COE, in determining "appropriate and practicable" measures to offset unavoidable impacts, such measure should be appropriate to the scope and degree of those impacts and practicable in terms of cost, existing technology and logistics in light of overall project purposes. Impacts to the brackish marsh ecosystem cannot be avoided by project construction. 4.1.4.2 Minimization Minimization includes the examination of appropriate and practicable steps to reduce the adverse impacts to Waters of the United States. Implementation of these steps will be required through project modifications and permit conditions. Impacts to the wetland could be minimized by: (1) decreasing the footprint of the proposed project through the reduction of ROW widths, fill slopes and/or road shoulder widths; (2) installation of temporary silt fences, earth berms, and temporary ground cover during construction; (3) strict enforcement of sedimentation and erosion control BMPs for the protection of surface waters and wetlands; 14 and (4) reduction of clearing and grubbing activity in and adjacent to water bodies and wetlands. 4.1.4.3 Compensatory Mitigation Compensatory mitigation is not normally considered until anticipated impacts to Waters of the United States have been avoided and minimized to the maximum extent possible. It is recognized that "no net loss of wetlands" functions and values may not be achieved in each and every permit action. Appropriate and practicable compensatory mitigation is required for unavoidable, adverse impacts which remain after all appropriate and practicable minimization has been required. Compensatory actions often include restoration, creation and enhancement of Waters of the United States. Such actions should be undertaken in areas adjacent to or contiguous to the discharge site. DWQ regulations state that fill or alteration of more than 0.45 ha (1.0 ac) of wetland will require compensatory mitigation in accordance with 15A NCAC 211 .0506(a) and (h) and fill or alteration of more than 450 linear m (150 linear ft) of streams may require compensatory mitigation in accordance with 15A NCAC 211 .0506(a) and (h). If these acreage and linear thresholds are exceeded from project construction, NCDOT will follow these regulations. If Alternate 2 is chosen, the removal of Bridge No. 56 and its adjacent roadway and the subsequent grading down to normal elevation and revegetation with native flora could serve as on- site mitigation for the construction of the new alignment. 4.2 Protected and Rare Species Some populations of fauna and flora have been in, or are in, the process of decline either due to natural forces or their inability to coexist with human activities. Federal law (under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act [ESA] of 1973, as amended) requires that any action, likely to adversely affect a species classified as federally-protected, be subject to review by the FWS. Other species may receive additional protection under separate state laws. 4.2.1 Federally-protected Species Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the ESA. As of 14 May 1998, there are 16 federally-protected species listed for Brunswick County (Table 2). A brief description of each species' characteristics and habitat follows. 15 Table 2. Federally protected species. Common Name Scientific Name Status short-nosed sturgeon Acispenser brevirostrum endangered American alligator Alligator mississippiensis T(S/A) loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta threatened piping plover Charadrius melodus threatened green sea turtle Chelonia mydas threatened leatherback sea turtle Dermochelys coriacea endangered peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus anatum endangered eastern cougar Felis concolor cougar endangered bald eagle Halieetus leucocephalus threatened Kemp's ridley sea turtle Lepidochelys kempii endangered wood stork Mycteria americana endangered red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis endangered manatee Trichechus manatus endangered seabeach amaranth Amaranthus pumilis threatened rough-leaved loosestrife Lysimachia asperulaefolia endangered Cooley's meadowrue Thalictrum cooleyi endangered ' Endangered species are a taxon in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Threatened species are a taxon likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Threatened by similarity of appearance T(S/A) are a taxon that is threatened by similarity of appearance with other species and is listed for its protection. These species are not biologically endangered or threatened and are not subject to Section 7 consultation. short-nosed sturgeon Animal Family: Aciperseridae Date Listed: March 11, 1967 The short-nosed sturgeon is a small species of sturgeon which occurs in coastal rivers and estuaries with soft vegetated substrates. It prefers deep channels with a salinity less than sea water. Although generally considered anadramous, because of the avoidance of high salinities, this species has been described as intermediate between fully anadramous and potamodromous. Adult short-nosed sturgeons are commonly reported in shallow water (2-10 m) in summer and in deeper water (10-30 m) in winter. At spawning time, however, the fish may move considerable distance upstream if unimpeded by dams. Spawning sites have been described as freshwater swamps, or freshwater areas with fast flow and rough bottoms. In the southern portion of its range, short-nosed sturgeon spawning occurs from January to April. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: UNRESOLVED A fishery-dependent gillnet survey and sonic tracking study was conducted in 1990-1992 to determine the distribution and 16 movement pattern of short-nosed sturgeon in the Cape Fear River (Moser and Ross, 1993). This species has been tracked from the Cape Fear River near its confluence with Allen Creek. The project study area is located approximately 1341 m (4400 ft) upstream of this point. The short-nosed sturgeon could inhabit the project study area. A Section 7 Consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service will need to be scheduled to assess potential impacts to this species. The consultation process will likely involve an on-site meeting to address concerns to this species from project construction. American alligator Animal Family: Crocodilidae The American alligator is threatened due to similarity of appearance with other rare species and is listed to protect these species. The American alligator is not biologically endangered or threatened and is not subject to Section 7 consultation. Potential habitat for the American alligator does exist in the project study area; although no individuals were observed during the site visit. A review of NHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed known observations of the American alligator approximately 610 m (2000 ft) east of the project study area along Allen Creek. loggerhead sea turtle Animal Family: Cheloniidae Date Listed: 28 July, 1978 Loggerhead turtles can be distinguished from other sea turtles by its unique reddish-brown color. The loggerhead is characterized by a large head and blunt jaws. Otherwise they have 5 or more costal plates with the first-touching -th- nuchal and 3 to 4 bridge scutes. The loggerhead nests on beaches from Ocracoke inlet, North Carolina through Florida. There are also major nesting grounds on the eastern coast of Australia. It lives worldwide in temperate to subtropical waters. Loggerheads nest nocturnally between May and September on isolated beaches that are characterized by fine grained sediments. It is mainly carnivorous feeding on small marine animals. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is dominated by brackish marsh, upland forest, disturbed habitat, and Allen Creek; there are no beach or marine habitats located in the project study area. Additionally, the project study area does not exhibit the salinity necessary to support this species. Therefore, no effects to the loggerhead sea turtle will occur from the construction of this project. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of loggerhead sea 17 turtle habitat or nesting activity within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. piping plover Animal Family: Charadriidae Date Listed: 11 December, 1985 The piping plover is a small migratory shorebird that resembles a sandpiper. It can be identified by the orange legs and black band around the base of its neck. During the winter the plover loses its black band, its legs fade to pale yellow, and the bill fades to black. Breeding birds are characterized by white underparts, a single black breastband, and a black bar across the forehead. The piping plover breeds along the east coast. This bird, in North Carolina, nests in flat areas with fine sand and mixtures of shells and pebbles. They nest most commonly where there is little or no vegetation, but some may nest in stands of beach grass. The nest is a shallow depression in the sand that is usually lined with shells and pebbles. The piping plover is very sensitive to human disturbances. The presence of people can cause the plover to abandon its nest and quit feeding. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is comprised of brackish marsh habitat, Allen Creek, pine-hardwood forest, and disturbed communities. There is no suitable piping plover nesting, foraging, or wintering habitat in or adjacent to the project study area. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of any piping plover habitat or known populations within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. This project will not impact the piping plover. green sea turtle Animal Family: Cheloniidae Date Listed: 28 July, 1978 The distinguishing factors found in the green of elongated sea turtle are the single clawed flippers and a single pair scales between the eyes. This sea turtle has a small head and a strong, serrate, lower jaw. The green sea turtle is found in temperate and tropical oceans and seas. Nesting in North America is limited to small communities on the east coast of Florida requiring beaches with minimal disturbances and a sloping platform for nesting. The green sea turtle can be found in*shallow waters. They are attracted to lagoons, reefs, bays, mangrove swamps and inlets where an abundance of marine grasses can be found. Marine grasses are the principle food source for the green turtle. These turtles 18 require beaches with minimal disturbances and a sloping platform for nesting. There are no records of green sea turtle nests in North Carolina. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is dominated by brackish marsh, upland forest, disturbed habitat, and Allen Creek; there are no beach or marine habitats located in the project study area. Additionally, the project study area does not exhibit the salinity necessary to support this species. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of any green sea turtle habitat or nesting activity within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. The construction of this project will not affect this species. leatherback sea turtle Animal Family: Dermochelydae Date Listed: 2 June, 1972 The leatherback sea turtle is the largest of the marine turtles. Unlike other marine turtles, the leatherback has a shell composed of tough leathery skin. The carapace has 7 longitudinal ridges and the plastron has 5 ridges. The leatherback is black to dark brown in color and may have white blotches on the head and limbs. Leatherbacks are distributed world-wide in tropical waters of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Leatherbacks prefer deep waters and are often found near the edge of the continental shelf. In northern waters they are reported to enter into bays, estuaries, and other inland bodies of water. Leatherback nesting requirements are very specific. They need sandy beaches backed with vegetation in the proximity of deep water and generally with rough seas. Beaches with a suitable slope and a suitable depth of coarse dry sand are necessary for the leatherback to nest. Major nesting areas occur in tropical regions and the only nesting population in the United States is found in Martin County, Florida. Leatherback nesting occurs from April to August. Artificial light has been shown to cause hatchlings to divert away from the sea. Leatherbacks feed mainly on jellyfish. They are also known to feed on sea urchins, crustaceans, fish, mollusks, tunicates, and floating seaweed. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is comprised of brackish marsh habitat, Allen Creek, pine-hardwood forest, and disturbed communities. . There are no suitable beach or marine habitats located in the project study area. Additionally, the project study area does not exhibit the salinity necessary to support this species. Therefore, no effects to this species will occur from 19 the construction of this project. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of leatherback sea turtle habitat or activity within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. peregrine falcon Animal Family: Falconidae Date Listed: 20 March, 1984 The peregrine falcon has dark plumage along its back and its underside is lighter, barred and spotted. It is most easily recognized by a dark crown and a dark wedge that extends below the eye forming a distinct helmet. The American peregrine falcon is found throughout the United States in areas with high cliffs and open land for foraging. Nesting for the falcons is generally on high cliff ledges, but they may also nest in broken off tree tops in the eastern deciduous forest and on skyscrapers and bridges in urban areas. Nesting occurs from mid-March to May. Prey for the peregrine falcon consists of small mammals and birds, including mammals as large as a woodchuck, birds as large as a duck, and insects. The preferred prey is medium sized birds such as pigeons. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is comprised of disturbed habitat, brackish marsh, pine-hardwood forest, and Allen Creek. Portions of the project study area could provide excellent foraging habitat for this species. However, the construction of the project will - not affect the foraging opportunity for this species. No peregrine falcons or their nests were observed during the site visit. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of. rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of peregrine falcon nests or records within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project.area. This project will not affect the peregrine falcon. eastern cougar Animal Family: Felidae Date Listed: June 4, 1973 The eastern cougar is described as a large, unspotted, long- tailed cat. Cougars feed primarily on deer, but their diet may also include small mammals, wild turkeys, and occasionally domestic livestock, when available. Observations of the western subspecies suggest that cougars begin breeding when 2 or 3 years old and breed thereafter once every 2 to 3 years. Historic records indicate that the eastern cougar once occurred from eastern Canada southward into Tennessee and South Carolina. Present United States distribution is limited to only a 20 few scattered areas at best. Recently there have been some sightings reported in Minnesota and Michigan. In the Southeast Region, there have been a number of sightings, but the best evidence for a small permanent population has come from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park Region. Based on a National Park Service study that included both sighting reports and field observations, there-were.an estimated three to six cougars living in the park in 1975. Sightings have also be reported in three other North Carolina areas including the Nantahala National Forest, the northern portion of the Uwharrie National Forest, and the State's southeastern counties. The remaining population of this species is extremely small; exact numbers are unknown. No preference for specific habitat types has been noted. The primary need is apparently for a large wilderness area with an adequate food supply. Male cougars of other subspecies have been observed to occupy a range of 25 or more square miles, and females from 5 to 20 square miles. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is surrounded by vast areas of undeveloped upland and wetland communities. The brackish marsh and Allen Creek could provide an adequate supply of food for this species. However, the construction of the proposed project will not limit foraging opportunities for this large predator. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of eastern cougar within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. No Eastern cougars were observed during the site visit. This project will not affect this species. bald eagle Animal Family: Accipitridae Date Listed: 11 March, 1967 Adult bald eagles can be identified by their large white head and short white tail. The body plumage is dark-brown to chocolate- brown in color. In flight bald eagles can be identified by their flat wing soar. Eagle nests are found in close proximity to water (within a half mile) with a clear flight path to the water, in the largest living tree in an area, and having an open view of the surrounding land. Human disturbance can cause an eagle to abandon otherwise suitable habitat. The breeding season for the bald eagle begins in December or January. Fish are the major food source for bald eagles. Other sources include coots, herons, and wounded ducks. Food may be live or carrion. t Q 21 BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is comprised of disturbed habitat, brackish marsh, pine-hardwood forest, and Allen Creek. The brackish marsh habitat and Allen Creek could provide foraging habitat for the species; however, the construction of the project will not affect foraging opportunities for the bald-eagle as marsh habitat is abundant in the project vicinity. There were no bald eagle nests or activity observed at or near the project study area during the.site visit. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of bald eagle nests or records within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. This project will not affect the bald eagle. Kemp's ridley sea turtle Animal .Family: Cheloniidae Date Listed: 2 December, 1970 Kemp's ridley sea turtle is the smallest of the sea turtles that visit North Carolina's coast. These turtles have a triangular shaped head and a hooked beak with large crushing surfaces. It has a heart-shaped carapace that is nearly as wide as it is long with the first of five costal plates touching the nuchal plates. Adult Kemp's ridley sea turtles have white or yellow plastrons with a gray and olive green carapace. The head and flippers are gray. Kemp's ridley sea turtles live in shallow coastal and estuarine waters, in association with red mangrove trees. A majority of this sea turtle's nesting occurs in a 24 km (14.9 mile) stretch of beach between Barra del Tordo and Ostioal in the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico. This turtle is an infrequent visitor to the North Carolina coast and usually does not nest here. Kemp's ridley sea turtle can lay eggs as many as three times during the April to June breeding season. Kemp's ridley sea turtles prefer beach sections that are backed up by extensive swamps or large bodies of open water having seasonal narrow ocean connections and a well defined elevated dune area. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is comprised of brackish marsh habitat, Allen Creek, pine-hardwood forest, and disturbed communities. There are no suitable beach or marine habitats located in the project study area. Additionally, the project study area does not exhibit the salinity necessary to support this species. Therefore, no effects to this species will occur from the construction of this project. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of Kemp's ridl.ey sea turtle habitat or activity within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. 22 wood stork Animal Family: Ciconiidae Date Listed: February 28, 1984) Wood storks are large, long-legged wading birds, about 125 cm (50 in) tall, with a wingspan of about 150 cm (60 in). Small fish from 1 to 6 inches long, especially topminnows and sunfish, provide this bird's primary diet. Feeding often occurs in water 6 to 10 inches deep, where a stork probes with the bill partly open. The wood stork is a highly colonial species usually nesting in large rookeries and feeding in flocks. Age at first breeding is 4 years. In South Carolina, storks lay eggs from March to late May, with fledging occurring in July and August. Nests are frequently located in the upper branches of large cypress trees or in mangroves on islands. Several nests are usually located in each tree. Wood storks have also nested in man-made structures. Recent United States breeding is restricted to Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Storks from both populations move northward after breeding, as far as Arkansas and Tennessee in the Mississippi Valley, and North Carolina on the Atlantic coast. Storks are birds of freshwater and brackish wetlands, primarily nesting in cypress or mangrove swamps. They feed in freshwater marshes, narrow-tidal creeks, or flooded tidal pools. Particularly attractive feeding sites are depressions in marshes or swamps where fish become concentrated during periods of falling water levels. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study does provide suitable foraging habitat for this species, as the brackish marsh would provide an abundant supply of prey items. Cypress trees were also observed in the project study area; however, there are no records of wood stork nesting in North Carolina. The construction of the project will not affect the foraging opportunity for the wood stork as marsh habitat is abundant in the project vicinity. There were no wood stork nests or activity observed at or near the project study area during the site visit. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of wood stork nests or records within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. This project will not affect this species. red-cockaded woodpecker Animal Family: Picidae Date Listed: 13 October 1970 The adult red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) has a plumage that is entirely black and white except for small red streaks on the sides of the nape in the male. The back of the RCW is black and white I . t 23 with horizontal stripes. -The breast and underside of this woodpecker are white with streaked flanks. The RCW has a large white cheek patch surrounded by the black cap, nape, and throat. The RCW uses open old growth stands of southern pines, particularly longleaf pine (Pinus palustris), for foraging and nesting habitat. A forested stand must contain at least 50% pine, lack a thick understory, and be contiguous with other stands to be appropriate habitat for the RCW. These birds nest exclusively in trees that are ,> 60 years old and are contiguous with pine stands at least 30'years of age. The foraging range of the RCW is up to 200.0 hectares (500.0 acres). This acreage must be contiguous with suitable nesting sites. These woodpeckers nest exclusively in living pine trees and usually in trees that are infected with the fungus that causes red-heart disease. Cavities are located in colonies from 3.6-30.3 m (12-100 ft) above the ground and average 9.1- 15.7 m (30-50 ft) high. They can be identified by a large incrustation of running sap that surrounds the tree. The RCW lays its eggs in April, May, and June; the eggs hatch approximately 38 days later. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT Suitable nesting and foraging habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers, in the form of old growth pine forests, is not located in the project study area. There were no pines of sufficient size and density located in the project study area or nearby vicinity. A review of NHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed no known populations of RCW within 1.0 km (1.6 mi) of the project study area. Impacts to this species will not occur from project construction. manatee Animal Family: Trichechidae Date Listed: March 11, 1967 The manatee is a large gray or brown aquatic mammal. Adults average about 3 m (10 ft) long and weighing around 1,000 pounds. The body of the manatee is nearly hairless except for a muzzle covered with stiff "whiskers". The U.S. manatee population was probably twice as abundant in the 1700's and early 1800's as at present. Initial population decreases resulted from overharvesting-for meat, oil, and leather. Today, heavy mortality is attributed to accidental collisions with boats and barges, along with loss of suitable habitat. Manatees inhabit both salt and freshwater habits of sufficient depth (greater than 1.5 m). They may be encountered in canals, sluggish rivers, estuarine beaches, and salt water bays. Observations of salt water populations indicate that they may require fresh water for drinking purposes. Manatees also require warm water. When water temperature drops below 20 C, they begin 24 to move into warmer water, often forming large aggregations in natural springs and industrial outfalls during the winter. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT It has been documented that the manatee utilizes brackish waters, as it will move freely between salinity extremes. They are often found in waters 1 to 2 m (3 to 7 ft) deep. Manatees often spend much of their time underwater or partially submerged. This species could potentially utilize the project study area. The USFWS has developed a document titled "Precautions for general construction in areas which may be used by the West Indian manatee in North Carolina" (see Appendix A). If these precautions are considered in all aspects of project construction, this project will not affect the manatee. If in the event that a manatee is observed during construction,'a May Affect scenario would apply and Section 7 Consultation with the USFWS should be initiated, to resolve concerns over the species. seabeach amaranth Plant Family: Amaranthaceae Federally Listed: 7 May, 1993 Flowers Present: June to frost Seabeach amaranth is an annual legume that grows in clumps containing 5 to 20 branches and are often over a foot across. The trailing stems are fleshy and reddish-pink or reddish in color. Seabeach amaranth has thick, fleshy leaves that are small, ovate- spatulate, emarginate and rounded. The leaves are usually spinach green in color, cluster towards the end of a stem, and have winged petioles. Flowers grow in axillary fascicles and the legume has smooth, indehiscent fruits. Seeds are glossy black. Both fruits and flowers are relatively inconspicuous and born along the stem. Seabeach amaranth is endemic to the Atlantic Coastal Plain beaches. Habitat for seabeach amaranth is found on barrier island beaches functioning in a relatively dynamic and natural manner. Seabeach amaranth grows well in overwash flats at the accreting ends of islands and the lower foredunes and upper strands of non- eroding beaches. Temporary populations often form in blowouts, sound-side beaches, dredge spoil, and beach replenishment. This species is very intolerant to competition and is not usually found in association with other species. Threats to seabeach amaranth include beach stabilization projects, all terrain vehicles (ATV's), herbivory by insects, animals, beach grooming, and beach erosion. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is comprised of brackish marsh habitat, Allen Creek, pine-hardwood forest, and disturbed communities. There are no beach habitats located in the project study area. Therefore, no effects to this species will occur from the construction of this project. A review of the Natural 25 Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of sea beach amaranth within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. rough-leaved loosestrife Plant Family: Primulaceae Federally Listed: June 12, 1987 Flowers Present: June Rough-leaved loosestrife is a perennial herb having slender stems and whorled leaves. This herb has showy yellow flowers which usually occur in threes or fours. Fruits are present from July through October. Rough-leaved loosestrife is endemic to the coastal plain and sandhills of North and South Carolina. This species occurs in the ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins (areas of dense shrub and vine growth usually on a wet, peat, poorly drained soil), on moist to seasonally saturated sands and on shallow organic soils overlaying sand. It has also been found to occur on deep peat in the low shrub community of large Carolina bays (shallow, elliptical, poorly drained depressions of unknown origins). The areas it occurs in are fire maintained. Rough-leaved loosestrife rarely occurs in association with hardwood stands and prefers acidic soils. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION NO EFFECT Suitable habitat for rough-leaved loosestrife does not exist as there are no ecotones or edges between longleaf pine uplands and pond pine pocosins on moist to seasonally saturated sands and on shallow organic soils overlaying sand in the project study area. A review of the NHP rare species and unique habitat database did not reveal the presence of rough-leaved loosestrife within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. Impacts to this species will not occur from project construction. Cooley's meadowrue Plant Family: Ranunculaceae Federally Listed: February 7, 1989 Flowers Present: late June-July (best mid July) Cooley's meadowrue is a rhizomatous perennial plant with stems that grow to one meter in length. Stems are usually erect in direct sunlight but are-lax and may lean on other plants or trail along the ground in shady areas. Leaves are usually narrowly lanceolate and unlobed, some two or three lobed leaves can be seen. The flowers lack petals. Fruits mature from August to September. Cooley's meadowrue occurs in moist to wet bogs and savannahs. It also grows along fireplow lines, roadside ditches, woodland clearings, and powerline rights-of-way that provide the hydrology 26 necessary to support this species. Cooley's meadowrue needs some type of disturbance to maintain its open habitat. Plants often found growing with the meadowrue include tulip poplar growing with cypress and/or Atlantic white cedar. Cooley's meadowrue only grows well in areas with full sunlight. BIOLOGICAL CONCLUSION: NO EFFECT The project study area is comprised of brackish marsh habitat, Allen Creek, pine-hardwood forest, and disturbed communities. There are no wet bogs or savannahs at the site. The disturbed community at the project area is regularly maintained is a xeric, upland site. Therefore, there is no suitable habitat for this species located in the project study area. A review of the Natural Heritage Program (NHP) database of rare species and unique habitats did not indicate the presence of Cooley's meadowrue within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project area. No effects to this species will occur from the construction of this project. 4.2.2 Federal Species of Concern Federal Species of Concern (FSC) are those plant and animal species which may or may not be listed in the future. Thirty-five FSC are listed for Brunswick County (Table 3). 27 Table 3. Federal Species of Concern. Common Name Scientific Name NC Status Habitat Bachman's sparrow Aimophila aestivalis SC No Henslow's sparrow Ammodramus henslowii SR No Carolina pygmy sunfish Elassoma boehlkei T No southern hognose snake Heterodon simus SR Yes mimic glass lizard Ophisaurus mimicus SC Yes eastern painted bunting Passerini c. ciris SR Yes Northern pine snake Pituophis m. melanoleucus SC Yes Carolina gopher frog Rana c. capito SC No Bucholz's dart moth Agrotis bucholzi SR No Arogos skipper Atrytone a. arogos SR No Waccamaw spike Elliptio waccamawensis T No Venus flytrap cutworm Hemipachnobia s. SR No moth subporphyrea magnificent ramshorn Planorbella magnifica E No rare skipper Problema bulenta SR Yes Cape Fear threetooth Triodopsis soelneri T Yes savanna indigo-bush Amorpha georgiana var. E No confusa honeycomb head Balduina atropurpurea C No Chapman's sedge Carex chapmanii W1 No Venus flytrap Dionaea muscipula C-SC No dwarf burhead Echinodorus parvulus C No Harper's fimbry Fimbristylis perpusilla T No pondspice Litsea aestivalis C No Carolina bogmint Macbridea caroliniana C/PT No loose watermilfoil Myriophyllum laxum T No savanna cowbane Oxypolis ternata W1 No Carolina grass-of- Parnassia caroliniana E No parnassus pineland plantain Plantago sparsiflora E No awned meadow-beauty Rhexia aristosa T No swamp forest beaksedge Rhynchospora decurrens C No Thorne's beaksedge Rhynchospora thornei C/PE No Carolina goldenrod Solidago pulchra E No spring-flowering Solidago versa E/PT No goldenrod wireleaf dropseed Sporobolus teretifolius T No sensus stricto Carolina asphodel Tofieldia glabra C No dune bluecurls Trichostema sp. 1 C No savanna campylopus Campylopus carolinae C No Threatened (T) are native or once-native species of wild plant or animal which is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. An Endangered (E) species is any native species or once-native species of fauna or flora whose continued existence as a viable component of the State's flora or fauna is determined to be in jeopardy. Significantly rare (SR) species are very rare in North Carolina, generally with 1-20 populations 28 in the state. Special Concern (SC) species require monitoring but which may be collected and sold under regulations adopted under provisions of the Plant Protection and Conservation Act. Proposed Threatened (PT) are species which have been formally proposed for listing as Threatened, but has not yet completed the legally mandated listing process. Candidate (C) species are very rare in North Carolina, with 1-20 populations in the state, generally substantially reduced in numbers by habitat destruction. Proposed Candidate (PC) are species which have been formally proposed for listing as Candidate but has not yet completed the legally mandated listing process. Watch Category 1 (W1) includes rare species whose status in North Carolina is relatively well known and which appear to be relatively secure at this time. FSC species are not afforded federal protection under the ESA and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. Organisms which are listed as Endangered (E), Threatened (T) or Special Concern (SC) by the NHP list of Rare Plant and Animal species are afforded state protection under the State ESA and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979; however, the level of protection given to state listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities. A review of the NHP database of rare species and unique habitats revealed records of the following species located within 1.6 km (1.0 mi) of the project study area: • southern hognose snake approximately 488 m (1600 ft) south of the project study area. • Carolina gopher frog approximately 915 m (3000 ft) south of the project study area. • eastern painted bunting approximately 1585 m (5200 ft) southeast of the project study area. Surveys for the above-mentioned species were not conducted during the site visit, nor were these species observed during the site visit. 5.0 References Amoroso, J.L. 1995. "Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Plant Species of North Carolina." Raleigh, North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Cowardin, L.M., V. Carter, F.C. Goulet, and E.T. LaRoe. 1979. Classifications of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States., U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 29 Environmental Laboratory.- 1987. "Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual," Technical Report Y-87-1, U.S. Army Enginneer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, Miss. Fish, F.F. 1968. A Catalog of the Inland Fishing Waters of North Carolina. North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, Division of Inland Fisheries. Lee, D.S., J.B. Funderburg, Jr., and M.K. Clark. 1982. _A Distributional Survey of North Carolina Mammals. Raleigh, North Carolina Museum of Natural History. LeGrand, Jr., H.E. and S.P. Hall. 1997. "Natural Heritage Program List of the Rare Animal Species of North Carolina". North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Martof, B.S., W.M. Palmer, J.R. Bailey, and J.R. Harrison III. 1980. Amphibians and Reptiles of the Carolinas and Virginia. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Menhinick, E.F. 1991. The Freshwater Fishes of North Carolina. Raleigh, North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission. Mitsch, W.J. and J.G. Gosselink. 1986. Wetlands. New York, Van Nostrand Reichold. Moser, M. and Ross, S. 1993. Distribution and Movements of Shortnose Sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum) and Other Anadromous Fishes of the Lower Cape Fear River, North Carolina. Final Report to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. North Carolina Center far-Geographic Information and Analysis. 1995. Environmental Sensitivity Base Map of Brunswick County, North Carolina. "North Carolina Division of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR). 1995a. Cape Fear River Basinwide Water Quality Management Plan. Division of Environmental Management. North Carolina Division of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR). 1995b. Guidance for Rating the Values of Wetlands in North Carolina. Division of Environmental Management. North Carolina Division of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR). 1996. A Field Guide to North Carolina Wetlands. Division of Environmental Management. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR). 1998. Stream Classification-Internet Website. Division of Water Quality. 30 Potter, E.F., J.F. Parnell, and R.P. Teulings. 1980. Birds of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Radford, A.E., H.E. Ahles, and G.R. Bell. 1968. Manual of the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. Schafale, M.P. and A.S. Weakley. 1990. Classification of the Natural Communities of North Carolina (3rd Approx.) Raleigh, North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Tiner, R. 1993. Field Guide to Coastal Wetland Plants of the Southeastern United States. Amherst, The University of Massachusetts Press. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). 1986. Soil Survey of Brunswick County. Soil Conservation Service. Webster, W.D., J.F. Parnell, and W.C. Biggs. 1985. Mammals of the Carolinas, Virginia, and Maryland. Chapel Hill, The University of North Carolina Press. APPENDIX A - ... _?_... QPTiONAL FOAM 99 (7-90) --'- FAX TRANSMITTAL •of pages W 70 From ?" E eJT?G y D?w?Agenry Pnor• r United States Departrr Faxr D° F,x, S-6 - yS s r ?: OGl""'^='`• ? k5N X540-07_JiT_778p T 7 y Sppg-701 GENERAL SERVICES FISH AND ?VILDLI.- ADMINISTRATION _, ...,..... ___ Raleigh Feld Office ..Pi Post OL9ce Boa 33726 A .3 »• Raleigh. Noah Carolina 27636-3726 July 2, 1996 PRECAUTIONS FOR GENERAL- CONSTRUCTION IN AREAS WHICH MAY BE USED BY THE WEST INDLrN KL AT^.E IN NORTH CAIRCLIN.a The West Indian m.manatse rmsnatus) , also kncwn as the Florida manatee or sea cow, is a Fader-ally-listed en:ancered mamma. Alt ough the manatee's principal stronghold in the _n ced States is Florida, it ecca-sionally manes seasonal iIdgrations into and trroug *_h= C.oas' waters C= North Carolina i- =n addition to przcection = the '.ear c: .:r_- under ? =the=? warner :?..nt s o: _ Federal En da:_ce_ed Species Act (ESA) of 1973, the oecies is listed as endue-gered in North Carolina under t e State F: dangered Species Act (G.S. 113-331 to Z13-337). Additional is pier'-ded under the Marine* Mammal Prot act_on -ct of 972. The J. S. r =5;1 a _d ` Id" i e Service is res=cnsihle or rCCeC=_cn and recover t/ Cf the manatee under rrovisions .e p of the ESQ.. Tanatee is an acua-lic mam-tr.31 w.hic= -aJ use fresh water, i:rac'.?_sh, or marine habitats. The species can, move freely I tween Sa_inity .°xtrermes. The species may he round in Si allow _oastal waters, baya, lagoons, estuaries, Fivers, and _r.land _-t 7='.-,=s. r:ana.. --_es are commcn i v found in water haree t.^. seven -feet of the; time underwater or pa -- - rap . _^_ o ' Y manatees spend -,.uc s utD(`;:__ _ _d, and this be...av-_r often makes the species difficult to detac_ Most adult manatees are about 10 fee= long and weig'r__a ^.ez-..',een SGT and 1,200 coun.S alt::ough score i?divid'uals 'have ?een CCrd_d at Greater than 12 feet -n lergLh and weigh- ng as ma:c'- re- as 1,200 pounds. _n order to protect the manatee in ?north Carolina, the Raleigh Field: G fife daVelOped reGOm-nendations for general conSt=uc ion actin- es in aquatic areas which may ba used by. the sC?CleS. The riana-ee -s generally considered a seasonal inhabitant of. North Caro" .ina with reported. occurrences bei._a craatest du=gin? 1l the months o= June through October. The Service prefers that in- water construction which carp be completed in several months be scheduled during the seven month period of November through May. • Y.cwetr_'r,--th= Service believes that the implementation of the following recor.mendations will allow major, in-water construction projects which- ^o not rec.,.ire blasting to proceed without adverse 1 i:roacts to manatees. While most ccnditions must be implemanted throughout the year, other requirements may be implemented only during the period when manatees are most likely to he in North Carolina waters, currently considered to be the months of June through October. The conditions which should be implemented thrcuahout the year are: 1. The project manager and/or contractor will inform all . personnel associated with the project that manatees may be present in the project area, primarily during the months of June through October, and the need to avoid any harm to these endangered mammals. The project manager will ensure that all construction De=scnnel knew the general a:,pearance of the species and their habit of moving about completely or partially. submerged in shallcw water (see Figure 1) . 21-1-_1 construction personnel will be irforn:ei that they are responsible for oise_v_ng water---elated activities for tho presence oz manatees. . The nrcjec= rranage_ a d; or the ?co :tractor will advise a!-" cc•r.struczion persc..ne t .----t there are civil and criminal penalties for harm.-- a, hara5sina, or killing Itianatees :Y ii; .=h are prntec_ed under Lein Marine Mamma- F_otect_on Act c_ 1972 a-nd the ESA. a manate°_ 1s seen wic124_n 1010 yards c-f t^e active :g oT__?erazicn or vcSSel mOJE.T.ei'ic, all s=zrozriate precautions will be imr1lement°_d to ensure rotecticn of the crana tee. These prec unions will include _e imr:ediaze shutdowrn of mov l :-, eaui z-zzient if a manatee comes wizhin ^0 feet of ODerational area of the er,:ioment.' -Activities will not resume until 'the manatee has aecartec the n=osed- area cn its own vol:tisn. 4. Ary collision with and/or injury to a manatee will be reported icxnediately. The rec_ort must be made to the Service's manatee coordinator in Jacksonville, F_crida lnr. 904-232-2560 , the Rale_ah Field O`--`ice (ph. 915-8=E-4520), and the North Carolina Wildlife -Resources Corr- miss ion (ph 519-224-1288) . The project manager should coordinate iii the Serv'_cs immediately -crior to the start of ccnst= cticn -for the name and current telephone cumber cf the individuals . to be contacted. _ A' sign should be.. posted in all vessels associated with the project where it is clearly visib'e?to tie vessel ope_atcr. The sign should state:, 2 f :+u 11r.D J:._b i 1.\ I 511J J.i.i ;.;.,b I'? r'? la-1C'L.I-. IL.II.\t. CAUTION: The endangered manatee may occur in these waters during the warmer months, primarily from June through October. Idle sp=ed is required if operating this vessel in shallow water during these months: All equiomert must be shut down if a -manatee comes within 50 feet of operating equipment. A collision with and/or injury to a manatee will be reported Immediately to U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service at 919-856-4520 and the North Carolina Wildlife Resources commission at 919-224-1288. (?. The contractor will maintain a Ica detailing sigtir_gs, collisions, or injuries to manatees during project construction. After construction the project manager will prepare a report which summarizes all ir_formation or. ;,(a nat_eS daring construction. This repart will be submitted to the Se_vi-:'s Za_ei;a Field Of `_ice and NC;vzC. '^ f_l l ow4 na conditions Wiil only b= r=cn i d u re Lor corst=.:C+- Z z oTI the period Lrcm June 1 tf:rOL'QTl CCLo'--er 31, the mariod w-en ma. aLees are most likely to be in Port_ Caroli..a: ki 1 vessels asscCiatel with the coast-ucti cn project will operate at ono wake/idle" speeds a= all times while in water fi -Pre the deaf= c= the vessel provides =ess the ra .ce _=rn th-e hcttom. Ali. vessels will follow of deep war-e= W °_*:°_Ve: poss=bl°_. ..L S 8. i. slitat:Cn barriers must be places in shallow water, these barrier will he. (a) maC?e O material '.n WhiCh man--tees r can. o_ become entangled; (b; sec;,:re•i iZ >,.wnr.=r that they ca'_•lnot break free and entangle manatees; and, (C) re_ularly :'tvl2=tGY°d t0 ens-..:re nens-..:re that P ai:at__3 have not b2C0.:.8 er::MIM led. Barriers will be placed i : a manner to al l:,:•r manatees en-: r- =n or =::?t from essential habitat. F_r projects which require an Envirorcrental Assessment or t virc't!_n eel I.:.p_ct Statement pursuant to the National ?vi.or e^t.1 Po'i-Y Act (NEPAL), the inclusion of these c•)ndl___ons in the environmental documentation as part c,= e tZ -t,,:er:alnat_s of 4rrpacts on the manatee will axgedi-e t e S't rvlceI s =evlew of the INE"P docu-ment for the TUlflll-en- of requirements under Section 7 cf the ESA. OPTIONAL FOMM 19 (7. 9.31 FAX TRAtISMITTAL •ofavarsI, To FMm D?ptlAyiwR •, _ :. _ Faa'r Fax ` NSN 7S•t0-Jt.Jt7. 7;611 , bz"-lUt GENrAa: seRwcas ACl./IWSTAA7ICN 3 Lo()u1 F'_ju're 1. Illustration of a typical surface view of a suLmerged manatee (A), a side vie%, of a partially submerged1clly =:anatee (B), and the typical body of shape of the manatee •(C) . Source; Clark, M. K. 1987. Trichechus manatus Linnaeus, West Indian (Florida) Manatee. PP-18-21 in M. K. Clark (ed.) Endangered, Threatened, and Ra=e Fauna of North Carolina. Part I. A re-evaluation of the mammals. Occasional Papers of the North Carolina Biological Survey. No. 1987-3. North Carolina State Museum of Natural Sciences. Raleigh, NC. 7S :-3 B •• • ' ' ... -?>,.::' ??'a_ mot: ?•t' ) .1w .• .w Lam.. Fie. 10. The whsle body of the West Indian (Florida) -Aanatee may be visible in clear water; but in the dart: and mudey waters of caastai `forth Carolina, one normally sees oniy a small part of the -head when the rnana:ee raises its rose to breathe (upper !eft). 4 a„ EPR:IOIE4"CT** 8.1231503 B-3116 O 3! E . . 3 o m o ?i Z O 5 A ? 1 V ?I 8 y O N ? ? v 0 c ? ? n 0 ' f 0: to o. o• r oD y ? 3???0o a ^? `? a w aE Oy ?i O O z z y? to to WN v + o? L- O y ?Cy? y Q y O m L- ROJ Q C w o+ F Cq It A t? `p 4 n n n ? ° o CO) c°a m r °D 3 3 I ? ? Qtr---- W g 7m m b SO W y^, ? ?i 10 bx ? N O V 0 a r Rik, x C-i b ? ? w + y M y w m 04, 12 2 2 ?o ?o xx y w ia 3 m 3. y m N N N p T z0 N am fee 0 V 3 O a 0 p• ° 7 SQ 40 p V 3 O ? N Q m C O 'O O Q Q O d'. O go m y R m T 07 C oQ a ? o a m x n o 3 ? ?! Q A CL ° O ? ? I I O O O p• a ? •a p ; • u y? --1 0 0? m c m so ?° o. O O O qQq?? ' ZO 3 3 IP * rt O S S« 3 O 0 S - m n p p A o O o- O. - _O. oC w m ° O A Ap' ` 4 171 G ; O O O -Q 1? 3 0 ? ° A T A S? m? O m 13 m m -'' a a r m Q. Q_ ?p p T'J'1 7 t III ,v M 0 91 -0 .0 -0 O O' O A m C O C v? spcp p p a p a- o O 4 C C A` p S N v? ° O' a a, A °- r O N N O 0 b 0 o c o ,,, ? y c T o o A 3 s 7 = c A O s o' ? y v ti I I ? "II I ? I? I I I I I i i t I v!C --1 T..1 -1NN y-I? yy =C (7 -1 yN ?N2 A -1y y y y p 'n ? _ ; o_ Q o Q o° 0 ° o Q o -+ o 3 O 1 S o m 1 ?I ms1 0 s?? °a•8O••oa •,°o v c °_ o o °Q Z Q °?. o? 3 =? O •O o a rt o c_ m O O _ m v v ° Q_ p p A °' rt y - I `2.0 O O O_ p m c. C Re a °, -I Z -1 0° ?• 3 O O A o o o Ox 0 40 A N 3 0 0 0 03 y 0 3 O-1 ° 3 Op p o A O '°C o m o m 0 N° ?•, ° ;; ° W O s p W s a; Q y s CCs -. s oa 7 0 O'O O O S; AZo o •a p a m O $ o 0 0 y y K O. v ?.? 0 3 Q o so o O° Q o °-o Q_p °°$ C O O '+ O= Q b O_ y b O O 0 0 0 0 S' °; _ of Q 0 0 O ° a O l0 O X M O o 3 ° y O X = 0 Q O 3 A ®eB):?O O ®m0®oa I II ®I3?0?'B®O+®Csa®®0?13?? o- .. I 0 1 II I I ?? Z?. m y y y y y y o A O A N -0 -0 3 3 3 !? m 0 0• O O r 3 0 Q d` ° Q.. C Op 0-0 3 T2 r m O O 033 °° ° ' CC ?cm QQ $ 3 0 ?,? o d Q O o rt C y ? C C 3 3 3 c ° y c ON i d. C 3 I I I I I ;*X I i I :. :I 6? N ?I '?00 v a W I I I I=I I ? I I I I '? + I? I I N ? N A N 3 s m o 0 p C O = N N 03 S O °• m m p ? ?- q O m m c A H O s O c O --1 y ? ? Iv I ? I rr? vJ tl p 7p O p ° 7p C p O p O O p ° OH p p N O Q p O a O ° ?• 0 2 O ?• O m O O O O ?• O m• ?f E O CL -1 ` 3 0 ' 3 " 0 -1 0- -n CL Q. 3 S7 0- CL 0 0- CL a- CL 00- m Q CL O. U, < 0 S O a o fA O 5. • r C ; rt O r Fn O C N- ' V ° r a " A A a o Q • y o A ' c• °o- m 3 ° o A ° Lr o ° H C C rn ° c in C o o o Vi A 0 O 0. ° m - n m C Q O C in rt .? m 3 in r rt to v O 3 .. in C V T T y y I r 1 1 N ? N N N H e O i i I i i i ? i i I'I ? I I I I ? ? ? I I I 9 I I? ? I I ? I 1 • 1 I O C O K O C 40 O < . C O Q 71 C O Q. O ° Q Q :L S O C A O n A 2 s O ° c N C 7 ?. oss Q Q. s i I I I ? 1 ' 1 i I I I 1 I I 1 i i I I I ; ? I I ? i I 1 N 3 e0 0 O ca n 3 7R" p c O C 7" C O O 0 3 ° 0 c 3 a CL 3 o O n 0 z m Z O Z D r N 0 r N C V /l r x 00 No I? I I O' L.r'' LI I? N C m II N C n m z a m m M 00 ? a \p of \60311609:59 6/2/99 :0 ? S > Mm-IM -I= am?m j9 >-ly -0 ?i?a m?a -4 Ow ->l9 0 M. 1 i?1 > -4 010 010 a -u IUD a> O> g N t MT mmi C=WQ ?DCZ'? DO map Q ?Omo9 OmDZ !OZ 3: z '••? s w CA 9m S ?• p O L v p + s ca c n ?N' s N m Z? c o ? r i i Z O L L +°t Z 1? 5 m `4 46 a L Jr. x a -4 I rr N 1 m I U" + Z I " CCU $ Z r xzth 'MM fi 0 D $ O.o I t3 z O Z G;U O r Cv $ Z N I m A O ? O ym c> m z Z 68a o . m CL? OZ rn LJ- m O rn n l J-` O m i I-I UZI ?O w (7 Ol 5 C? n m > I r 7 OZ ' m m OZ O O a mr O A?r is Z'" I OOW O Z'° w cM oFA Z I or + 9 1 I } o c l ? a' I Z I r?? Z Z F. Z co R° Z I ??8 Z p 1 gt s > fl N :14. E Z O is N O I_ ?s r a E ' •* °1 7 00 s W I p m?? O 8 W m v M a M z M rip ? C N ? N M N ? 171 ? w N .A.. m m ?mD? >10 oo v v r D o m o a zr?M o I? mvvo mv i v0 my v v •o>v m» o ,•, i ?z• ?. rz• a =v m o 9 > o " ms my -,oaDi :°y ¢v ? m¢> <v av ?o m a- a s x • o ar o my M10 am= my my ? m a D >O >mm m0 yip yip ?+>• >O yy >O 1 O Z ZOO zm- m . X pX pX 200 DX OX z D mm Or m A?D'o m• M. mm m• m. m pp r mDs1 W? 9!o sr1-f . x y -iN ?N r Da-1 9N ;+ i m l i >I?npo ? >x m > ? ? o =??^? ? z? ? m . m a 7 omD m m -D ? .. zmx o •nx mw<x z <m i 4i? tom 1 s? xrD 1 A N - < m 0 O tma m-i m m ON O-r 01 R1 m mro ro m o -1 -1 O r1c i r, Z -i i m m zmm cz i m • z m m 1 m ? ? ? 9 ? ?? vmm mm mm n m m m r ?+ m ? ? 9 7°m ?m c ca>o M-_ w m p p ra m ?c ° m m Z• m m - mA9-? i c c c r c me D _ C a ° °c ° ? > zom o> o> m• c M m? • m N ? 9 M Z. M m ? m O O m m n 0 -0> ' z O ? o : m m +r mD ; m O c am= ?9w o o 0 c v a.. s o a m c m _ ? a m zPs ?o xm :^ im m o m O• C? o -IN N IOiIOm Om -T m m 9xa m i• m ? v i om m m 1°m °m xm m o o? 9a D om m m m o 6 ? a sa a m m mm m 6-MMAR p1 09:59 _ _\P , o?\631 64um _ n T O. ° s P ZO O o?o o?o a D r 13 ?? M?? ? m m ? N N a j pl m_ m x o pAp y? C C r p r p ? ? o w Q En J N r 0 0 N 0 5! 25 v O 6 O ?? W N J N J IT w a w C W o TS E K m n C ° ?1 1 a A a g S ? g ?I N N O° y Z > A N N r a O? a O? a 0? a 01 o ? ? IOCATION aT.W.OR Cy N - IR? C WW MAIM 0 . d C N - 6NM KWA7IDH ? Z ? Z N '^ K o N N DWW ENA710H 'Al 0 JIM R JW Yi J1f4 Z JI/4 A" .079 w un DUN IM y V n•sm Dom 24' S DMN ME x LCP T8 W" {D'TNp1 SM QUANUM FM DR%*": r? r? SJM 4iM aff > S1RIRYISS3 • TOTAL L.F. FOR MT 7RrAHO AWE . auw+m MALL M COL A + X COI. c.L s10. mm m Man= ^b DJ. SID. NQ1S OR M ON." DJ. RAMS S GM7E SID. SMA t M=TWE'A' SUL S17 OR 84026 I . ALD.LTYIE'rSM MU OR MV ? ALDJ.7"% IV SID. 840.1! OR $020 AUKL IMME WITH DRAIE SID. 84LS2 AID.. MWM W H TWO GMTES SID. 84022 "L CIS} IRAME WDH ORATE SID 006U M AL P34 M%W WDH IWO GRATES SID. S40.U JL SID:8" OR 840.52 MD.L EMME WOH TWO GRACES STD. M " TJL DJ. SID. Sam GOER Sim awn HQ S sm CONG COIIASS 0.'r C.Y. sm son COW-& L Es1E MA r-11.SUL n ASUML UK". s °°r 911 Y N N y m r ? ? K a ? C < ? a o n m ? H pp 2 ? s r r C o ? 0 n m a ? 8 m c °° 0 r o S a '- ? m 0 + 0 ? p O+D c°o ? ? w w i ? a a s s o 0 s N N D O y N N e C ? ? b a lol l o ? 8 9 i M? f? i4\ C C 6/21/00 C? z ® z x? x? fl jut n No ? ~ r? I I . oo m1yN , I ai: H ? r i N i I. cccelcc OPPP?$ e'xob $ ;; 11 ?rN r{iiN N? Q r N ? a+ tY aaz ? O 4 " 0" ?O a d , ? K ?I x x m? b o ww it 71{ ?O le Z V I II I a ? I I i! I I ?? g a 2 a ?X 3 ? Q rO A 2?; C5 4^c?, y nnnll"n": y n ?c ae iw -0 -?r -?w -,w 1.0 A n NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Coastal Management Michael F. Easley, Governor Donna D. Moffitt, Director William G. Ross Jr., Secretary April 16, 2003 MEMORANDUM: TO: FROM: SUBJECT: Applicant: Mr. John R. Dorney Environmental Biological Supervisor Division of Water Quality Doug Huggett Major Permits Processing Coordinator 030490 ?f APR 1 7 ?_ 003 CAMA/DREDGE & FILL Permit Application Review NC Department of Transportation Project Location: Brunswick County, Bridge No. 56, on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek). Proposed Project: Proposes to replace the existing 60- foot long timber, concrete and steel bridge over Allen Creek with a 300-foot long cored slab concrete bridge spanning Allen Creek and the adjacent Coastal Wetlands. Approximately 220 feet of causeway would be excavated from the existing roadbed and restored to its previous wetland hydrology. Please indicate below your agency's position or viewpoint on the proposed project and return this form by May 7, 2003. If you have any questions regarding the proposed project, please contact Bill Arrington at (252) 808-2808. When appropriate, in-depth comments with supporting data is requested. REPLY: This agency has no objection to the project as proposed. This agency has no comment on the proposed project. This agency approves of the project only if the recommended changes are incorporated. See attached. This agency objects to the project for reasons described in the attached comments. 151-B Hwy. 24, Hestron Plaza II, Morehead City, North Carolina 28557 SIGNED Phone: 252-808-28081 FAX: 252-247-333]DAMnet: www.nccoastalmanag-ement.net An Equal Opportunity \ Affirmative Action Employer - 50% Recycled 110% Post Consumer Paper ?} s , t DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT FIELD INVESTIGATION REPORT APPLICANT'S NAME: North Carolina Department of Transportation 2. LOCATION OF PROJECT SITE: Bridge No. 56, on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County Photo Index - 2000: No Photo 1995: 13 -127 grid: L-9 State Plane Coordinates: x 2316368 y: 120067 GPS: Rover File # X031317A 3. INVESTIGATION TYPE: CAMA/D&F 4. INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURE: Dates of Site Visit - 3/13/2003 Was Agent Present - No 5. PROCESSING PROCEDURE: Application Received as Complete - 4/14/2003 Office -Morehead City 6. SITE DESCRIPTION: ®8 ®4 (A) Local Land Use Plan - Brunswick County Land Classification from LUP - Conservation (B) AEC(s) Involved: CW, PTA and PTS (C) Water Dependent: Yes (D) Intended Use: Public (E) Wastewater Treatment: Existing - N/A Planned - N/A (F) Type of Structures: Existing - NC 133 and 60-foot long by 24-foot wide bridge Plann ed - NC 133 and 300-foot long by 39-foot wide bridge (G) Estimated Annual Rate of Erosion: N/A Source: N/A 7. HABITAT DESCRIPTION: [AREA] Excavated Filled Ot her (A) Coastal Wetlands 0.33 acres 0.21 acres temporary Disturbance for erosion control B) Public Trust Area - Shallow ggItlh 144 0 sq. ft. Kal Bottom Shading 900 sq. ft. (C) Other - High Ground 0.25 acres 1.04 acres (causeway (In roadway) removal) (D) Total CAMA AEC Disturbed: 1.83 acres (E) Total area disturbed by project: 1.83 acres (F) Primary Nursery Area: No (G) Water Classification: C-SW (H) Open for Shellfi shing: No 8. PROJECT SUMMARY: The N.C. Department of Transportation is proposing to replace the existing 60-foot long timber, concrete and steel bridge over Allen Creek with a 300-foot long cored slab concrete bridge spanning Allen Creek and the adjacent Coastal Wetlands. Approximately 220 feet of causeway would be.excavated from the existing roadbed and restored to its previous wetland hydrology. 1L V l FIELD INVESTIGATION REPORT NC DOT - B-3116, Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek, Brunswick County PAGE 2 9. PROJECT DESCRIPTION : The site of this proposal is Bridge No. 56 on NC 133, 0.8 miles north of Orton at the crossing of Allen Creek, in Brunswick County. The general purpose of the project is to replace the deteriorated 60-foot long by 24-foot wide timber, steel and concrete bridge with an 300- foot long by 39-foot wide concrete cored slab bridge Spanning Allen Creek and the adjacent Coastal Wetlands, to alleviate flooding of the bridge approaches, allow safer driving conditions for the traveling public and restore a more natural hydrology to the Coastal Wetlands adjacent to bridge No. 56. Bridge No. 56 crosses Allen Creek 0.5 miles west of its confluence with the Cape Fear River. The bridge crossing Allen Creek is flanked with Coastal Wetlands, except for the narrow spoils berm on both sides of the creek. Creek width at the crossing is approximately 60 feet. Bridge No. 56 crosses Allen Creek at a sharp curve in the creek, with the downstream side of the bridge intersecting the stream at an approximate angle of 90 degrees and the upstream side of the bridge intersecting the stream an approximate angle of 60 degrees. Vertical clearance between the water and bridge bottom is approximately 2 feet. An approximately 1500-foot long by 45-foot wide causeway was constructed through the Coastal Wetlands on Bohicket silty clay loam soils when the bridge was constructed in 1950. The Coastal Wetland area consists of Spartina alterniflora and Spartina cynosuroides. The narrow spoils berm roughly parallel to Allen Creek is vegetated with Red Cedar and Baccaris halimifolia. Soils on this site are mainly Bohicket silty clay loam as classified by the NC Soil Conservation Service. Approximate elevations on the site range between 1 feet and 5 feet above Normal High Water (NH W). No evidence of SAV beds was noted. The North Carolina Division of Water Quality classifies waters of Allen Creek as C -SW at the project site. No Primary Nursery Area, as designated by the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries, is located at this site. The entire project area is within CAMA Areas of Environmental Concern and is designated as Conservation by the Brunswick County Land Use Plan. The proposal is to replace the existing 60-foot long by 24-foot wide timber, steel and concrete bridge with a 300-foot long by 39-foot wide cored slab concrete bridge on the existing alignment. The proposed bridge would have a vertical clearance 0.5 foot greater than the existing bridge (approximately 2.5 feet). Constructing this project would include removing 220 feet of the previously filled causeway (that is approximately 45 feet wide) and grading it 6 inches below NHW to correspond with the surrounding Coastal Wetlands which are predominately vegetated with Spartina alterniflora. The bridge approaches would be approximately 1-foot higher than the existing fill causeway to prevent future flooding. The bridge is being widened from 24 feet to 39 feet to more closely correspond to the 12 foot paved travel lanes and 6 foot grassed shoulders of NC 133. NC DOT Best Management Practices would be used for bridge demolition and Design Standards for Sensitive Watersheds would be used for Erosion control. NC DOT has committed to no in-water and no in-marsh work from February 15 through September 30 of each year, due to the Shortnose Sturgeon and anadromous fish moratoriums. r ? FIELD INVESTIGATION REPORT NC DOT - B-3116, Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek, Brunswick County PAGE 3 10. ANTICIPATED IMPACTS: As proposed, the construction of the bridge approaches with 3:1 slopes would require the filling of approximately 0.33 acres of Coastal Wetlands and approximately 1.04 acres of impacts to high ground. To allow room for installation of erosion control measures, approximately 0.21 acres (5 feet outside construction limits) of Coastal Wetlands would be temporarily disturbed adjacent to the road shoulders. The additional width of the bridge would cause approximately 900 square feet of additional shading impacts to Public Trust Waters AEC. Removal of 230 feet of previously filled causeway (5 feet on each side will later be used to armor the end bents under the new bridge) would result in the disturbance of approximately 0.25 acres of high ground. A minimal disturbance of the creek bottom is expected during the installation of the pilings for bents 2 and 3. The entire work area would be within the CAMA Coastal Shoreline AEC. NC DOT has reduced the Coastal Wetland excavation and fill impacts associated with this proposal by lengthening the bridge from 60 to 300 feet. This would reduce fill in wetlands that would have occurred in raising the causeway and widening the bridge. Lengthening the bridge also creates a wetland buffer between the bridge approaches and the waters of Allen Creek, allowing some treatment of the storm water run off associated with the bridge and roadway. NC DOT has committed to dropping no materials from the bridge demolition in the water and to using top down construction to minimize impacts. Due to the presence of Shortnose Sturgeon and anadromous fish in Allen Creek, NC DOT has committed to an in-water and in-marsh work moratorium from February 15 to September 30. The NC DOT has proposed to use Design Standards for Sensitive Watersheds BMP's to minimize the impacts of erosion. The proposed removal of 220 feet of existing causeway should restore approximately 0.24 acres of fill causeway to its natural hydrology. NC DOT is asking for riverine restoration mitigation credit for this area as well as enhancement mitigation credit for an area extending outward from the removed causeway, calculated as a quarter circle, the radius of which is the length of the removed causeway (0.76acres at 4:1 ratio = 0.19 acres credit). Due to the relatively small areas involved and the direct connection to the tidal waters of Allen Creek, NC DOT has asked to use verification of elevations in the restoration area rather than performing hydrologic monitoring (see included mitigation plan). NC DOT would be impacting approximately 0.33 acres of Coastal Wetlands in this proposal and would like to use the restoration and enhancement created (0.24+ 0.19 = 0.43 acres credit) to offset these impacts. No mitigation is proposed for the 0.21 acres of temporary impacts that may be caused during the installation of erosion control measures. However, NC DOT has offered to submit verification (annual photographs) these areas maintain jurisdictional criteria. The collective disturbance area for the project is 1.83 acres. Bill Arrington April 15, 2003 Morehead City STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPART ENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR N. C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Coastal Management Hestron Plaza II 151-B NC Highway 24 Morehead City, NC 28557 ATTENTION: Mr. Bill Arrington SUBJECT: Application for CAMA Major Development Permit for the proposed replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC .133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County, NCDOT Division 3. Federal Project No. BRSTP-133(2), State Project No., 8.1231501, T.I.P. No. B-3116. Dear Sir: Please find enclosed copies of the Programmatic Categorical Exclusion form (PCE), 1998 Natural Resources Technical Report and Amendment letter dated October 18, 2001, Onsite Mitigation Plan, the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) permit application, permit drawings, Foundation Layout sheets, Utilities By Others sheet, copy of the Adjacent Riparian Property Owners Notification and reply form, a North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) Stormwater Exemption letter, half size roadway plans, and. a check for $400.00 for the application fee for the above referenced project. PROJECT DESCRIPTION M SURE V April 7, 2003 r"1 ? _.?I3 LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY The Department of Transportation is proposing to replace a structurally deficient bridge which was built in 1950. Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County will be replaced on the existing alignment with a new bridge approximately 300 feet in length and 39 feet in width. During construction traffic will be detoured onto NC 87. Onsite mitigation is being proposed for this project and is addressed within the attached Mitigation Plan. Please note that there are minor differences between the PCE and the plan sheets. As the project design was refined, estimates for impacts totals as well as structure sizes became more precise. MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 FAX: 919-733-9794 WESSITE: WWWNCDOT.ORG LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC fi. PROPOSED IMPACTS Permanent Fill and Mechanized Clearing 3 The PCE reports wetland impacts of 0.22 acre of permanent fill and 0.38 acre of mechanized clearing. The design has been refined and the final estimate for impacts to wetlands associated with this project now consist of 0.33 acre of permanent fill and 0.21 acre of mechanized clearing. Please note that. the mechanized clearing limits are merely included on the drawings to allow room for the installation and maintenance of sediment and erosion control devices. No clearing or grubbing of marsh grasses is proposed within this five feet zone. NCDOT does not anticipate 'a permanent impact will result from the activity within this area. Bent Placements The replacement bridge will be a spanning structure. However, due to the skew of this crossing it will be necessary for Bent #3 to be placed along the edge of the stream channel and a very small portion of Bent #2 to extend into the stream as well (see attached Foundation Layout sheets). Please note that less than 0.004 acre of surface water impacts will be associated with the installation of these two bents. Therefore, negligible impacts are proposed to Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) [DWQ Index No. 18-85]; Class C Sw. Pile Installation The bridge will have drilled piers for the interior bents and steel piles for the end bents. Drilled pier excavations will be stabilized with permanent steel casing (36" dia.) and drilling slurry. The permanent casing will be installed by driving, screwing, or vibrating prior to drilling below the casing. Once the permanent casing is installed to the weathered limestone, the excavation below that will be stabilized with slurry. Drilled pier specifications require containment of the slurry and disposal of slurry off site. The drilled piers may be installed either before or after the existing embankment is removed at the Contractor's option. NCDOT has committed to a Construction Moratorium, as listed in the green sheet within the attached PCE form. There will be no in-water or in-marsh activity during the months of February 15 through September 30. This is considered the in-migration, spawning and out--migration period for the endangered shortnose sturgeon and other anadromous fish. Utility Relocation BellSouth will have to relocate their aerial phone lines and proposes to directional bore under Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) from approximately station 22+00 to station 12+00 (see attached Utilities By Others sheet). All existing buried BellSouth cable within these limits left of line -L- will be abandoned. The two existing BellSouth poles will be removed. BellSouth will cut off the poles at ground level and the contractor will remove the poles from the roadway or bridge. BellSouth expects to need about five weeks to complete their work and will not begin until after all permits have been received for this project. Time Warner Communications are in joint use with Brunswick EMC and will remain in place. ` s • 1 t l i BRIDGE DEMOLITION The project commitments green sheet attached to the PCE assumes the worst-case scenario that all the spans over the water are potential discharge. It states that removal of the existing bridge could potentially drop a maximum of 27.4 yd3 of fill into the creek. However, Best Management Practices for Bridge Demolition and Removal will be followed during Construction. Therefore, Bridge No. 56 will be removed without dropping components into Waters of the United States. To ensure the project will not adversely affect the endangered shortnose sturgeon, explosives will not be used in the bridge demolition. AVOIDANCE and MINIMIZATION Through efforts to minimize and avoid impacts to Waters of the United States, the project design has been refined. The existing 60-foot bridge will be replaced with a 300-foot bridge rather than with a shorter bridge and it will be replaced in place rather than on new location. There will be negligible impacts to surface water, because the new bridge will span the majority of Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) with one support bent being placed along the edge of the stream. There are no deck drains on the proposed bridge from station 15+50 -L- to 16+50 -L-. This eliminates deck drains from discharging directly into the creek (as is the present. case). The other drainage is as shown on the plans. A state stormwater permit application addressing all the stormwater runoff was sent to the DWQ Wilmington Regional Office for their review and approval. A State Stormwater exemption letter was received from that office, dated July 24, 2002 (see attached). Top down construction will be used so that no temporary construction access is necessary. An offsite detour will be used during construction rather than using an onsite detour, as originally proposed. Since soils within the project area are not sufficiently stable for maintaining 2:1 slopes, 3:1 slopes will be provided to lessen wetland impacts and for slope stabilization. Please note that 2:1 slopes with class II riprap will be used on the spill through slopes under the bridge only (as depicted on the profile drawing, sheet 7 of 10). All mechanized clearing limits for this project have been reduced from 10 feet in width to a minimum of 5 feet, with the exception of 10-foot wide clearing limits only at pipe outlet locations for erosion control measures. This minimization effort has cut the proposed mechanized clearing from 0.41 acre to 0.21 acre. Please note that the clearing limits beyond the slope stake line is primarily for erosion control purposes. The mechanized clearing limits are merely included on the drawings to allow room for the installation and maintenance of sediment and erosion control devices. No clearing or grubbing of marsh grasses is proposed within this five-foot zone. MITIGATION The project will permanently impact a total of 0.33 acre of wetlands. In order to mitigate for these losses, NCDOT is proposing onsite restoration and enhancement through removal of 220 feet of the existing causeway and planting Spartina alterniflora. Elevations will be restored to pre-disturbance contours, mimicking the elevation of the adjacent healthy natural areas of Spartina alterniflora. See attached Mitigation Plan for details. f L i PROTECTED SPECIES Plants and animals with federal classifications of Endangered, Threatened, Proposed Endangered, and Proposed Threatened are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of January 29, 2003, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service lists fifteen federally protected species for Brunswick County. The Biological Conclusions for.each of these species remain valid and are presented in the attached PCE form and/or NRTR. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has developed a list of "Precautions for the general construction in areas which may be used by the West Indian manatee in North Carolina." These precautions will be considered in all aspects of project construction (see final pages of the attached PCE form). To ensure the project will not adversely affect the endangered shortnose sturgeon, explosives will not be used in the bridge demolition. To protect the shortnose sturgeon and other anadromous ' fish, there will be no in-water or in-marsh activity during the months of February 15 through September 30. REGULATORY APPROVALS NCDOT requests that the proposed work be authorized under a Coastal Area Management Act Major Development Permit. A check for $400.00 for the application fee is enclosed. Copies of the green cards will be forwarded as soon as they are available. By copy of this letter, we are also requesting issuance of a United States Army Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit 23 (FR number 10, pages 2020-2095; January 15, 2002). We anticipate a 401 General Certification number 3371 will apply to this project. In compliance with Condition 1 of GC 3371 we hereby request written concurrence from the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Water Quality. Thank you for your assistance with this project. If you have any questions or need additional information please call Ms. Heather Montague at (919) 715-1456. Sincerely, U U ? Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D. Environmental Management Director, PDEA GJT/hwm cc: Ms. Cathy Brittingham, NCDCM Mr. John Dorney, DWQ, Raleigh Mr. Gary Jordan, USFWS Mr. Mike Street, NCDMF Mr. Omar Sultan, Programming and TIP Mr. David Chang, P.E., Hydraulics Mr. Mark Staley, Roadside Environmental Mr. Mason Herndon, DIV 3 DEO Mr. Dave Timpy, USACE, Wilmington Mr. Travis Wilson, NCWRC Mr. Ron Sechler, NMFS Mr. Jay Bennett, P.E., Roadway Design Ms. Debbie Barbour, P.E., Highway Design Mr. Greg Perfetti, P.E., Structure Design Mr. H. Allen Pope, PE; Division 3 Engineer t On-site Mitigation Plan . for the Proposed Replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek in Brunswick County, North Carolina. TIP No. B-3116 April 7, 2003 Overview: The NCDOT will replace the existing 60-foot long bridge over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) with a new bridge approximately 300 feet in length. The additional bridge length will allow for the removal of 220 linear feet of causeway in previously filled wetlands. The existing causeway will be removed and returned to an elevation resembling that of the adjacent wetlands. Causeway Removal: The removal of the old causeway will mean that approximately 0.24 acre of fill will be removed from wetlands associated with Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek). Approximately 1450 yd3 of existing causeway will be lifted, restoring the riverine wetland underneath. It is anticipated that the removal of the existing causeway will in turn enhance the high quality riverine wetlands upstream and downstream of the bridge, since water will be able to flow unimpeded beneath the new structure, allowing the natural wetland hydrologic conductivity to return. Therefore, in addition to the 0.24 acre of restoration, the NCDOT proposes riverine wetland enhancement extending outward from the lifted causeway. The area of potential enhancement has been calculated based on the "Cox" half- circle proposal set forth by the NCWRC, where the length of fill removed is the radius of the circle (115 feet from southern causeway section and 105 feet from the northern causeway section). Enhancement areas were calculated within the quadrants surrounding the existing bridge and causeway for a total of 0.76 acre, with 0.25 acre within the proposed right-of-way limit and 0.51 acre beyond the right-of-way limits. Vegetation: Wetland grass (Spartina alterniflora) will be planted in areas where the existing causeway fill is removed down to the adjacent marsh elevation, as directed by the Engineer. Elevations will be restored to pre-disturbance contours, mimicking the elevation of the adjacent healthy natural areas of Spartina alterniflora. NCDOT proposes to monitor vegetation through annual photographs. r ?- t ? The proposed enhancement area is currently a coastal swamp community dominated by cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora). The NCDOT does not propose any vegetative manipulation in this area as it is expected that the greatest benefit to the system will be realized through the return of the natural hydrologic processes. Hydrology: Restored elevations and the proximity of the enhancement and restoration areas to Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) ensures that both areas will be saturated and/or inundated for extended periods of time. The NCDOT requests that post construction elevation verification be allowed in place of tide gauge monitoring. Credits: With a 4:1 ratio, the 0.76 acre of enhancement would serve as 0.19 acre of proposed enhancement credit. Combined with the 0.24 acre proposed from credits from a 1:1 ratio for onsite restoration, NCDOT proposes to offer 0.43 acre of onsite mitigation to compensate for the 0.33 acre of permanent wetland fill. NCDOT does not propose to offer mitigation for the 0.20 acre of mechanized clearing as listed on Sheet 9 of 10 from the attached permit drawings. Please note that the mechanized clearing limits are merely included on the drawings to allow room for the installation and maintenance of sediment and erosion control devices. No clearing or grubbing of marsh grasses is proposed within this five feet zone. Therefore, NCDOT does not anticipate a permanent impact will result from the activity within this area and proposes confirmation of maintained jurisdictional criteria through annual photographs. 2 Form DCM-MP-1 APPLICATION (To be completed by all applicants) 1. APPLICANT a. Landowner: Name N. C. Department of Transportation Address 1548 Mail Service Center City Raleigh State NC Zip 27699 Fax (919) 733-9794 b. Authorized Agent: b. City, town, community or landmark north of Orton and north of Brunswick Town c. Street address or secondary road number NC 133 d. Is proposed work within city limits or planning jurisdiction? Yes X No e. Name of body of water nearest project (e.g. river, creek, sound, bay) Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) Day Phone (919) 733-3141 3. DESCRIPTION AND PLANNED USE OF PROPOSED PROJECT Name Address City Zip Day Phone Fax State c. Project name (if any) B-3116 (8.1231501) Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek on NC 133 NOTE: Permit will be issued in name of landowner(s), and/or project name. 2. LOCATION OF PROPOSED PROJECT a. County Brunswick a. List all development activities you propose (e.g. building a home, motel, marina, bulkhead, pier, and excavation and/or filling activities. Replacing existing bridge with a new bridge. 220 ft of existing causeway will be removed. b. Is the proposed activity maintenance of an existing project, new work, or both? new work c. Will the project be for public, private or commercial use? Public transportation d. Give a brief description of purpose, use, methods of construction and daily operations of proposed project. If more space is needed, please attach additional pages. Purpose of project is to provide public transportation. TOD down construction will be used to reduce impacts in the creek and wetlands. Revised 03/95 t i Form DCM-MP-1 4. LAND AND WATER CHARACTERISTICS in. Describe existing wastewater treatment facilities. N/A a. Size of entire tract 1.83 acre b Size of individual lot(s) N/A c. Approximate elevation of tract above MHW or NWL 5.0 feet d. Soil type(s) and texture(s) of tract Bohicket silty clay loam e. Vegetation on tract predominately Spartina alterniflora f. Man-made features now on tract existing bridge, roadway, and utilities g. What is the CAMA Land Use Plan land classification of the site? (Consult the local land use plan.) X Conservation Transitional Developed Community Rural Other h. How is the tract zoned by local government? NIA i. Is the proposed project consistent with the applicable zoning? X Yes No (Attach zoning compliance certificate, if applicable) j. Has a professional archaeological assessment been done for the tract? Yes X No If yes, by whom? k. Is the project located in a National Registered Historic District or does it involve a National Register listed or eligible property? Yes X No 1. Are there wetlands on the site? X Yes No Coastal (marsh) X Other If yes, has a delineation been conducted? YES (Attach documentation, if available) n. Describe location and type of discharges to waters of the state. (For example, surface runoff, sanitary wastewater, industrial/commercial effluent, "wash down" and, residential discharges.) surface runoff o. Describe existing drinking water supply source. N/A 5. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION In addition to the completed application form, the following items must be submitted: • A copy of the deed (with state application only) or other instrument under which the applicant claims title to the affected properties. If the applicant is not claiming to be the owner of said property, then forward a copy of the deed or other instrument under which the owner claims title, plus written permission from the owner to carry out the project. • An accurate, dated work plat (including plan view and cross-sectional drawings) drawn to scale in black ink on an 8 1/2" by 11" white paper. (Refer to Coastal Resources Commission Rule 7J.0203 for a detailed description.) Please note that original drawings are preferred and only high quality copies will be accepted. Blue-line prints or other larger plats are acceptable only if an adequate number of quality copies are provided by applicant. (Contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding that agency's use of larger drawings.) A site or location map is a part of plat requirements and it must be sufficiently detailed to guide agency personnel unfamiliar with the area to the site. Include highway or secondary road (SR) numbers, landmarks, and the like. C , Form DCM-MP-1 •A Stormwater Certification, if one is necessary •A list of the names and complete addresses of the adjacent waterfront (riparian) landowners and signed return receipts as proof that such owners have received a copy of the application and plats by certified mail. Such landowners must be advised that they have 30 days in which to submit comments on the proposed project to the Division of Coastal Management. Upon signing this form, the applicant further certifies that such notice has been provided. Name Laurence G. Sprunt Address 4528 River Rd. SE Winnabow. NC 28479 Name Address Phone Name Address Phone • A list of previous state or federal permits issued for work on the project tract. Include permit numbers, permittee, and issuing dates. N/A • A check for $250 made payable to the Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (DEHNR) to cover the costs of processing the application. • A signed AEC hazard notice for projects in oceanfront and inlet areas. • A statement of compliance with the N.C. Environmental Policy Act (N.C.G.S. 113A - 1 to 10) If the project involves the expenditure of public funds or use of public lands, attach a statement documenting compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act. 6. CERTIFICATION AND PERMISSION TO ENTER ON LAND I understand that any permit issued in response to this application will allow only the development described in the application. The project will be subject to conditions and restrictions contained in the permit. I certify that to the best of my knowledge, the proposed activity complies with the State of North Carolina's approved Coastal Management Program and will be conducted in a manner consistent with such program. I certify that I am authorized to grant, and do in fact, grant permission to representatives of state and federal review agencies to enter on the aforementioned lands in connection with evaluating information related to this permit application and follow-up monitoring of the project. I further certify that the information provided in this application is truthful to the best of my knowledge. This is the -t? day of , Print Name i Signature Landowner or Authorized Agent Please indicate attachments pertaining to your proposed project. DCM MP-2 Excavation and Fill Information DCM MP-3 Upland Development DCM MP-4 Structures Information X DCM MP-5 Bridges and Culverts DCM MP-6 Marina Development NOTE. Please sign and date each attachment in the space provided at the bottom of each form. Form DCM-MP-5 BRIDGES AND CULVERTS Attach this form to Joint Application for CAMA Major Permit, Form DCM-MP-1. Be sure to complete all other sections of the Joint Application that relate to this proposed project. 1. BRIDGES a. Public X Private b. Type of bridge (construction material) concrete - cored slab c. Water body to be crossed by bridge Allen Creek d. Water depth at the proposed crossing at MLW or NWL approximately 6 ft e. Will proposed bridge replace an existing bridge? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of existing bridge 58.6 ft (2) Width of existing bridge 24.0 ft (3) Navigation clearance underneath existing bridge 2.0 ft (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing bridge be removed? (Explain) all of the existing bridge will be removed. f. Will proposed bridge replace an existing culvert(s)? Yes X No If yes, (1) Length of existing culvert N/A (2) Width of existing culvert N/A (3) Height of the top of the existing culvert above the MHW or NWL N/A (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing culvert be removed? (Explain) N/A Revised 03/95 g. Length of proposed bridge 300 ft h. Width of proposed bridge 39 ft i. Height of proposed bridge above wetlands 2.5 ft j. Will the proposed bridge affect existing water flow? X Yes No If yes, explain The proposed bridge will enhance now in the wetlands through the removal of 220 ft of the existing causeway. k. Navigation clearance underneath proposed bridge 2.5 ft Will the proposed bridge affect navigation by reducing or increasing the existing navigable opening? Yes X No If yes, explain m. Will the proposed bridge cross wetlands containing no navigable waters? Yes X No If yes, explain n. Have you contacted the U.S. Coast Guard concerning their approval? Yes X No If yes, please provide record of their action. r Form DCM-MP-5 2. CULVERTS N/A 3. EXCAVATION AND FILL a. Water body in which culvert is to be placed a. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert require any excavation below the MHW or NWL? X Yes No b. Number of culverts proposed if yes, (1) Length of area to be excavated 220 ft + /- c. Type of culvert (construction material, style) (2) Width of area to be excavated 45-50 ft (3) Depth of area to be excavated 0.5 ft + /- d. Will proposed culvert replace an existing bridge? (4) Amount of material to be excavated in cubic Yes No yards 205 If yes, (1) Length of existing bridge b. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert (2) Width of existing bridge require any excavation within: NO (3) Navigation clearance underneath existing - Coastal Wetlands - SAVs _ Other Wetlands bridge If yes, (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing bridge be (1) Length of area to be excavated removed? (Explain) (2) Width of area to be excavated (3) Amount of material to be excavated in cubic e. Will proposed culvert replace an existing culvert? yards Yes No If yes, c. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert (1) Length of existing culvert require any highground excavation? (2) Width of existing culvert X Yes No (3) Height of the top of the existing culvert above If yes, the MHW or NWL (1) Length of area to be excavated 220 ft +/- (4) Will all, or a part of, the existing culvert be (2) Width of area to be excavated 45-50 ft removed? (Explain) (3) Amount of material to be excavated in cubic yards 1450 f. Length of proposed culvert g. Width of proposed culvert d. If the placement of the bridge or culvert involves any excavation, please complete the following: (1) Location of the spoil disposal area To be determined by contractor h. Height of the top of the proposed culvert above the MHW or NWL Will the proposed culvert affect existing water flow? Yes No If yes, explain j. Will the proposed culvert affect existing navigation potential? Yes No If yes, explain (2) Dimensions of spoil disposal area N/A (3) Do you claim title to the disposal area? Yes X No If no, attach a letter granting permission from the owner. (4) Will the disposal area be available for future maintenance? Yes X No (5) Does the disposal area include any coastal wetlands (marsh), SAVs, or other wetlands? Yes X No If yes, give dimensions if different from (2) above. (6) Does the disposal area include any area below the MHW or NWL? Yes X No If yes, give dimension if different from No. 2 above. L. ? Form DCM-MP-S e. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert result in any fill (other than excavated material described in Item d. above) to be placed below MHW or NWL? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of area to be filled 1630 ft (2) Width of area to be filled 8.5 ft (avg.) (3) Purpose of fill roadway fill f. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert result in any fill (other than excavated material described in Item d. above) to be placed within: X Coastal Wetlands _ SAVs _ Other Wetlands If yes, (1) Length of area to be filled 1630 ft (2) Width of area to be filled 8.5 ft (avg ) (3) Purpose of fill roadway fill g. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert result in any fill (other than excavated material described in Item d. above) to be placed on highground? X Yes No If yes, (1) Length of area to be filled 875 ft (2) Width of area to be filled 45 ft (3) Purpose of fill roadway fill 4. GENERAL a. Will the proposed project involve any mitigation? X Yes No If yes, explain in detail see onsite mitigation plan b. Will the proposed project require the relocation of any existing utility lines? X Yes No If yes, explain in detail Telephone lines on both sides of the bridge will be relocated. Time Warner Communications are in joint use with Brunswick EMC and will remain in place. c. Will the proposed project require the construction of any temporary detour structures? Yes X No If yes, explain in detail d. Will the proposed project require any work channels? Yes X No If yes, complete Form DCM-MP-2 e. How will excavated or fill material be kept on site and erosion controlled? Design Standards for Sensitive Watersheds Nvill be used. f. What type of construction equipment will be used (for example, dragline, backhoe or hydraulic dredge)? Standard bridge and roadway construction equipment. [Drilled pier excavations will be stabilized with permanent steel casing (36" dia.) and drilling slurry. The permanent casing will be installed by either driving, screwing or vibrating prior to drilling below the casing] g. Will wetlands be crossed in transporting equipment to project site? Yes X No If yes, explain steps that will be taken to lessen environmental impacts. h. Will the placement of the proposed bridge or culvert require any shoreline stabilization? Yes X No If yes, explain in detail dVU"VT Applican r Proje Name Signature 4-&--G Date Revised 03/95 NOB 1406 ' N cc n a ? 1407 7 inele p,l u ?I -. u New / 151e 1D6 OBJECT 51 - , , r ,52, 17 N ten 5ts _ N 29 "° ON LtJTAION 151 NS / 13 $7 7 O N SU 16?-BB' I F /? B GS D ,601 ? PROJECT DETOUR ROUTE NCDOT DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS BRUNSWICK COUNTY PROJECT: 8.1231501 (B-3116) VICINITY REPLACE BRIDGE V56 ON MAPS NC 133 OVER ALLEN CREEK SHEET I OF 10 7 / 24 / 02 NORTH CAROLINA r, 40 MI. j ,ll F? FkgIM s , : t 1 E ER 1 Iel. ? } r sa t r rf 1 1 '? ? 1 I?FfT,U Rf?_ E SIT - 11 r a t _,Y {EElCr #( 'y? }yn L Y 111 rho' Y 1 ? ' ". 5 '?.. " f77Ql?J ! C?#7011i' PT ?,• r / 16N L 117, T' I. SITE MAP f k y e WETLAND LEGEND - -WLB- - - WETLAND BOUNDARY PROPOSED BRIDGE --WLBJ WETLAND PROPOSED BOX CULVERT DENOTES FILL IN WETLAND DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER DENOTES FILL IN SURFACE WATER (POND) DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN WETLAND DENOTES EXCAVATION IN WETLAND DENOTES TEMPORARY FILL IN SURFACE WATER * * * DENOTES MECHANIZED **** CLEARING FLOW DIRECTION TB -- TOP OF BANK WE- - EDGE OF WATER - -C- - PROP. LIMIT OF CUT - -F - PROP. LIMIT OF FILL ?- PROP. RIGHT OF WAY - - NG- - NATURAL GROUND - -PL - PROPERTY LINE - TDE - TEMP. DRAINAGE EASEMENT - PDE - PERMANENT DRAINAGE EASEMENT - EAB- EXIST. ENDANGERED ANIMAL BOUNDARY - EPB- EXIST. ENDANGERED PLANT BOUNDARY - - --- - - - WATER SURFACE x x x x x LIVE STAKES x x x C2D BOULDER --- CORE FIBER ROLLS PROPOSED PIPE CULVERT 12'-48' (DASHED LINES DENOTE PIPES EXISTNG STRUCTURES) 54" PIPES & ABOVE 0 SINGLE TREE WOODS LINE DRAINAGE INLET ROOTWAD RIP RAP O ADJACENT PROPERTY OWNER OR PARCEL NUMBER IF AVAILABLE PREFORMED SCOUR HOLE (PSH) LEVEL SPREADER (LS) GRASS SWALE N. C. DEPT.OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS BRUNSWICK COUNTY PROJECT: 8.1231501 (B-3116) REPLACE BRIDGE X56 ON NC 133 OVER ALLEN CREEK SHEET 3 OF 10 7/24/02 i r O e as ? z w M oa --I- 00+W 3NII HOlbW 3 z " :° U W ? O •, GLl ? Z ? G:. ad ? a C I I ? ? 0 G?. ? ? 3 w o z? U> 10 z P-4 :D o a o z w -X-. LL- N N Ode i0 Nei I I O I J ? a j + ( I w QZ C:) O I I / oW (A N Q Z lf'1 Q ? N W .J Z u z W ¢ WX Q = J W U) -1 LLI Q:) j 1 ZD 03 ?(-u U Ln J LZ OZ O II WQ - W 1S/X? 3 Ln a / I : • N (J / ' O T -?- 00+81 3NI? H31dW z w w ,, o a ? z w ® x o v , 4 w a c C o as . ) w w O w O a a x v z rl 0 w O h H w w 9611>717 ¢? J Z F- W W 2: 3W U Ul) Z W Q ?- _ O Z ZW W ^Tjl- O W O N Z Z ¢z ¢? JO J =Z F- .-i J_ 0 U .-3¢ WQ X¢ LLI NO M MJ W? WW WU F- Cn ~ 3 t- Ow O O Z? Z Z W W W O O 0 O * * r * 0 O Lr) N_ CL O S O Ln W J Ln Q N U N --I- 00+bI 3NI? HOldW • I I C"i f z °O O LC) jN vCL- ? J W I Nq0 eRip J Q W F- :ZD 0Z 11 Ln W Z W cr ?I Q J L L ? 3m 11 A A 0 cr a E-1 z M z o ,D t W x U ? QQ® ? I-A x o U o a -? ; w p m w J O z A z ? U a U a C? w > U z c E- w ? w b b A? k? W N_ Q J = Z _Jz U. LL x ¢ J W W~ W-i LLj 03 FU z z z w W O ? ** r -?- 00+81 3NI I HOiVN O Ln O Ln _N O 2 0 II W J Ln Q N U N it ?s • 0 SD pd p z ® W I I U x M z z O ° ® x ® .-ip w GL? a o 1 00 ? o U o 1Z. W C) ° ' I CD I Z 3 cn H W Q rr , J I I o O ® .. U w U C7 N I ; ® a P5 o ( ~ z cG a, U Lf) z ; 0 z E? 0 I 1- w w m a o C:? I > a a? J In W W X O I v) ? z 0 0 Q Ln O I I Q I U 0 , > W N J W J i + I z .4- (\i N O w?Ln Q Q (pi W I- I Q? ?- :Z I N cD c/) Ln V) I - - - - - - O _ 01 I = ? O + i Q0 I I , - r. 21? W (-D ` ?Y7 9 co QD I I Z ~ I I V) X W O W C p 0 - O + ) a , 7 Ln cr- ' z°rf? 0CD U F=- z , QJ I > Q Vn Q X w I X ' wz I - I N I = W a I U) Cr ' aw I i I 0 U 0 + O O O i -r . N 0 N O IO C) CO D O r - m - O ii o m O Z O O O MM O N Z r o ? r < z m N ;a o -+ o N O ?j O Q N O O cl4 O -4 W o r z z c 4 .. 0Z o Z d C z o x ? ® o o e ?c r i ® p 0 w O N O I o co `o I O + co I 6.04 0 N O O I r„ 7?? O z O -? Z m D m z r'' v? m o N c r+ o CDi A o n -n ' @ M v' -i T z m v (D ? m? zz =v D @ (o n CL m Cf) m O z? z0 -4 z 2 C) ti 0 ` m n X0 cn z _ n m m 0 O M CC) < O O ? z ? T P Z C N O O o cn =1 3 o O = -0 D D v W Z C) cn CL (a D m r J o O _ J T ? cn o ?. o --1 . 3 O ?? j O O D r co '? in cn ? N -' N V ? n " o v o c m v I11 N = ° v a o C w w W w m -? g? ? D v ? T a ?' Z ? o v m m m ? ? v o ° ? ? m C o a D z ?' v ? 0 T =o C v Q. v? v D o n m ? ? D c P i C v C T -I ? o ? X D S ? n 0 z i xvoi ? c . 0 C: U5 -i 'r r?'k PROPERTY OWNERS NAMES AND ADDRESSES , PARCEL NO. NAMES ADDRESSES 1 LAURENCE G. SPRUNT 4528 RIVER RD. SE WINNABOW, N.C. 28479 ti• So-- 4 ST ATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTNffi-NI' OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR April 7, 2003 Laurence G. Sprunt 4528 River Rd. SE Winnabow, NC 28479 Dear Mr Sprunt: LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) proposes to replace Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) on NC 133. The project lies in Brunswick County. This project crosses an Area of Environmental Concern, as defined by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management (DCM), and must be approved by the DCM under provisions of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). One of the prerequisites to this approval is that adjacent riparian landowners be given an opportunity to comment on the proposal. A copy of the permit application is enclosed for your review. The attached form is submitted to insure that you have an opportunity to comment on the proposal. The work planned is depicted in the attached drawing. If you have no objections to the proposal, please return the form with your response within 30 days to this office. If you do have objections to the project, please forward your comments to: Mr. Bill Arrington N.C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Coastal Management 151-B Hwy 24 Hestron Plaza II Morehead City, N.C. 28557 Written comments must be received by the Division of Coastal Management within 30 days of receipt of this notice. NO RESPONSE WITHIN 30 DAYS of receipt of the correspondence will be INTERPRETED AS NO OBJECTION. Thank you for your cooperation. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact Ms. Heather Montague, at (919) 715-1456. Sincerely, Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D. Environmental Management Director, PDEA GJT/hwm Enclosure: Permit Application for Bridge No. 56 MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: 919-733-9794 PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS w=BSI,: WWW.NCDOT.ORG 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 LOCATION: TRANSPORTATION BUILDING 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET RALEIGH NC ADJACENT RIPARIAN LANDOWNER STATEMENT Replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County, NCDOT Division 3. General Statutes and Division of Coastal Management Major Development Permit approval procedures require that riparian landowners with property adjoining a proposed development in an Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) be given thirty (30) days in which to comment on the proposed development. This form allows the adjacent riparian landowner to express either: (1) that he objects to the project; or, (2) that he does not object and desires to waive his/her right to the 30-day period so that the processing of the application can progress more rapidly. Of course, the adjacent riparian landowner need not sign this form at all if he/she so chooses. I, , am an adjacent riparian property owner and am aware of the North Carolina Department of Transportation's proposed replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek (Lilliput Creek) in Brunswick County, North Carolina. I am further aware that this work will occur in one or more AEC's and therefore will require authorization from the Division of Coastal Management in accordance with the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA). I have no objection to the project as presently proposed and hereby waive that right of objection as provided in General Statute 113-229. I have objections to the project as presently proposed and my comments are attached. Signature of Adjacent Riparian Landowner Date: 1 F r 0 0 OF W AT F9 ?' ¦ V r .viv® -i r® 'C July 24, 2002 Mr. Andrew Nottingham, P.E. NC Department of Transportation 1590 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1590 Dear Mr. Nottingham: Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross, Jr., Secretary North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Alan W. Klimek, P.E., Director Division of Water Quality Wilminaton Reaionat.OWw)e, ZT. JUL 2 9 2002 DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS Subject: EXEMPTION from StormwaAYDRAULICSUMT Management Permit Regulations Stormwater Project No. SW8020632 Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek on NC 133 Brunswick County The Wilmington Regional Office received a copy of your application for the project known as Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek on NC 133. Staff of the Wilmington Regional Office have reviewed the application for the applicability of the Stormwater Management rules to the proposed activity at this project. Based on our review, you do not appear to be proposing a development activity on this site at this point in time that would be subject to the stormwater requirements as provided for in 15A NCAC 211.1000.. Please be advised that other regulations will potentially apply to your proposed activities. If your project disturbs five acres or more and has a point source discharge of stormwater runoff, then it is subject to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater discharge requirements. You are required to have an NPDES permit for stormwater discharge from projects meeting these criteria. This exemption applies only to the -Coastal Stormwater Management Permit for the currently proposed activity. If at any time in the future, development of any part of this site is planned, as defined in NCAC 211. 1000, or if the proposed activities differ in any manner from what is shown on the plans on file with the Division, you must submit the project for review of the applicability of the stormwater management rules. If you have any questions concerning this mater, please do not hesitate to Du'it. me uJ t (010) 39?-?9o0. Sincerely, Rick Shiver Water Quality Regional Supervisor RSS/arl: S:\WQS\STORMWAT\EXEMPT\020632.JJL cc: Delaney Aycock, Brunswick County Building Inspections Linda Lewis Wilmington Regional Office Central Files NCDENR N.C. Division of Water Quality 127 Cardinal Drive Extension Wilmington, N.C. 28405 (910) 395-3900 Fax (910) 350-2004 Customer Service 800-623-7748 e "? STAJF° w? STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR October 18, 2001 MEMORANDUM TO: Jay McInnis, Jr., P.E., Unit Head Bridge Replacement Unit j LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY FROM: Elizabeth L. Lusk, Environmental Biologist Natural Systems Unit SUBJECT: Amendment to the Natural Resources Technical Report for the proposed replacement of Bridge No. 56 on NC 133 over Allen Creek in Brunswick County. TIP No. B-3116, State Project No. 8.1231501; Federal Aid No. BRSTP-133(2). ATTENTION: Beverly Robinson, P.E., Project Manager The following serves to update the Natural Resources Technical Report (NRTR) for the subject project. In an effort to minimize and avoid impacts to Waters of the U.S., design of the bridge replacement has changed. The existing 60-foot bridge will be replaced with a longer 300-foot bridge in place, rather than on new location. During construction traffic will detoured off site, rather than using an onsite detour, as originally proposed. As a result of redesign, there will be minimal surface water impacts, because the new bridge will span the entire width of Allen Creek with one supporting bent placed in the creek. The new bridge will be 240 feet longer than the existing bridge and the proposed right-of-way will be the same as the current 60-foot right-of-way. Therefore rather than impacting wetlands, there will be an opportunity to restore approximately 0.3 acres of brackish marsh community currently filled with the existing causeway. This will in turn enhance the brackish marsh community directly. upstream and downstream of the bridge. Restoration would consists of removing fill from as much of the existing causeway as is available (0.3 acres). The fill will be removed down to the adjacent marsh elevation. Compacted areas of the restoration site will be sub-soiled (ripped) and re-vegetated using similar brackish marsh species found in the adjacent marshes such as giant cordgrass (Spartina cynosuroides), various rushes (Scirpus americanus, S. robustus, and S. validus), sawgrass (Cladium jamaicense), and arrowhead (Sagittaria falcata). Of course, species planted depends on availability at the time of planting. cc: Hal Bain, Unit Head •'6 •r? MAILING ADDRESS: TELEPHONE: 919-733-3141 LOCATION: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FAX: 919-733-9794 TRANSPORTATION BUILDING PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS 1 SOUTH WILMINGTON STREET 1548 MAIL SERVICE CENTER WEBSITE: IMNW DOH.DOT STATE.NC. US RALEIGH NC RALEIGH NC 27699-1548 0 3 014 9 ? ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2004 Allen Creek Bridge Mitigation Site Brunswick County TIP No. Prepared By: Natural Systems Unit & Roadside Environmental Unit North Carolina Department of Transportation December 2004 TABLE OF CONTENTS SUMMARY ...........................................................................................................1 1.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................2 1.1. Project Description .........................................................................2 1.2. Purpose .........................................................................................2 1.3. Project History ................................................................................2 2.0 Vegetation: ................................................................................................ 4 2.1. Success Criteria .............................................................................4 2.2. Description of Species .....................................................................4 2.3. Results of Vegetation Monitoring ....................................................4 2.4. Conclusions ....................................................................................4 3.0 Overall Conclusions and Recommendations .............................................4 FIGURES Figure 1 - Site Location Map ...............................................................................3 APPENDICES Appendix A - Site Photos .....................................................................................5 SUMMARY The Allen Creek Bridge Mitigation Site is located in Brunswick County. The site was planted in 2004 and was designed as wetland mitigation for impacts associated with bridge project B-3116. The mitigation encompasses approximately 0.24 acres total of wetland restoration. The restoration effort involved re-vegetating the area that was temporarily impacted due to the use of mechanized land clearing. The area that was impacted by mechanized clearing is being monitored to ensure that it re- attains wetland jurisdictional status. The restoration area was re-vegetated with Spartina alterniflora. No hydrologic monitoring is required for this project; however, vegetation monitoring is required for three years. After the first year of monitoring, the Allen Creek Bridge site shows by visual observation that the Spartina alterniflora in the wetland are surviving and that the impacted area is re-attaining jurisdictional status. NCDOT recommends continuing vegetation monitoring of this site. 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Project Description The Allen Creek Bridge Mitigation Site is located at Bridge No. 56 over Allen Creek on NC 133 (Figure 1). The site consists of approximately 0.24 acres of mitigation for wetland impacts associated with project B-3116. 1.2 Purpose In order for a mitigation site to be considered successful, the site must meet vegetation success criteria. This report details the vegetation monitoring in 2004 at the Allen Creek Bridge mitigation Site. Hydrologic monitoring was not required for the site. 1.3 Project History May 2004 1 Site planted September 2004 1 Vegetation Monitoring (1 year) r • 1t !121 ' ?t r ? ?. ? tip, " ' Y l??I +? t .?..f ?S yyJJ 11f r • r ? P . / JE t ? -- VICINITY MAP FIGURE I B-3116 BRUNSWICK COUNTY 3 2.0 VEGETATION: ALLEN CREEK BRIDGE MITIGATION SITE (YEAR 1 MONITORING) 2.1 Success Criteria Success Criteria states that the temporarily impacted area where mechanized clearing occurred shall be replanted using Sparfina alterniflora and the temporarily impacted area must re-attain jurisdictional status at the end of three years. 2.2 Description of Species The following wetland specie was planted in the Wetland Reforestation area: Spartina alterniflora, Smooth Cordgrass 2.3 Results of Vegetation Monitoring The impacted area where the mechanized clearing occurred and was re- vegetated is re-attaining jurisdictional status and the planted species is surviving. Site Notes: Other species noted: big cordgrass, juncus sp., and water grass. 2.4 Conclusions There were approximately 0.24 acres total of wetland restoration on site. There were no plots established on the site. By visual observation the Allen Creek Bridge site shows that the planted species is surviving and that the impacted area is re-attaining jurisdictional status. 3.0 Overall Conclusions and Recommendations NCDOT will continue vegetation monitoring at the Allen Creek Bridge Site. 4 APPENDIX A SITE PHOTOS Allen Creek Bridge 2004 Photo 1 Photo 3 Photo 2 Photo 4