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HomeMy WebLinkAboutUS 13/US 158 (6)NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Water Quality Beverly Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Governor Director March 15, 2010 MEMORANDUM Dee Freeman Secretary To: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator, Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs nA f From: David Wainwright, Division of Water Quality, Central Office V^" Subject: Comments on the Environmental Assessment related to the proposed widening of US 13/US 158 from existing US 158/NC 45 near Winton to existing US 158 at Tarheel, Hertford and Gates County, State Project No. 35488.1.1, TIP 2507A. State Clearinghouse Project No. 10-294. This office has reviewed the referenced document dated January, 2010. The NC Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities that impact Waters of the U.S., including wetlands. It is our understanding that the project as presented will result in impacts to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and other surface waters. The NCDWQ offers the following comments based on review of the aforementioned document: Project Specific Comments: 1. This project is being planned as part of the 404/NEPA Merger Process. As a participating team member, the NCDWQ will continue to work with the team. 2. Buckhom Creek, the UT to Folley Branch, and the UT to Jady Branch are class C; NSW; the Chowan River is class B; NSW waters of the State. The NCDWQ is very concemed with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from this project. The NCDWQ recommends that highly protective sediment and erosion control BMPs be implemented to reduce the risk of nutrient runoff to these waterbodies. The NCDWQ requests that road design plans provide treatment of the storm water runoff through best management practices as detailed in the most recent version of the NCDWQ's Stormwater Best Management Practices. 3. The DWQ prefers on-site mitigation when practical and feasible. The DWQ encourages the NCDOT to fully investigate all potential on-site mitigation possibilities. 4. The document does not discuss Indirect and Cumulative Effects in much detail. The DWQ would like to review the ICE screening tool results for this project. Transportation Pemtitting Unit 1650 Arlan Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650 Location. 2321 Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 Phone: 919-733-1786 \ FAX: 919733-6893 Internet. http.lih2o.enr-state .nc usncwetlands NorthCarolina Naturally An PLuai D vorlun.tr 1 Affai e Aerion Effmuyer General Comments: 5. Environmental assessment alternatives shall consider design criteria that reduce the impacts to streams and wetlands from storm water runoff. These alternatives shall include road designs that allow for treatment of the storm water runoff through best management practices as detailed in the most recent version of NCDWQ's Stormwater Best Management Practices, such as grassed swales, buffer areas, preformed scour holes, retention basins, etc. 6. After the selection of the preferred alternative and prior to an issuance of the 401 Water Quality Certification, the NCDOT is respectfully reminded that they will need to demonstrate the avoidance and minimization of impacts to wetlands (and streams) to the maximum extent practical. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules (15A NCAC 2H.0506[h]), mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 1 acre to wetlands. In the event that mitigation is required, the, mitigation plan should be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as wetland mitigation. 7. In accordance with the Environmental Management Commission's Rules (15A NCAC 2H.0506[h]), mitigation will be required for impacts of greater than 150 linear feet to any single stream. In the event that mitigation is required, the mitigation plan shall be designed to replace appropriate lost functions and values. The NC Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as stream mitigation. 8. Future documentation, including the 401 Water Quality Certification Application, should continue to include an itemized listing of the proposed wetland and stream impacts with corresponding mapping. 9. The NCDWQ is very concerned with sediment and erosion impacts that could result from this project. The NCDOT should address these concerns by describing the potential impacts that may occur to the aquatic environments and any mitigating factors that would reduce the impacts. 10. The NCDOT is respectfully reminded that all impacts, including but not limited to, bridging, fill, excavation and clearing, and rip rap to jurisdictional wetlands, streams, and riparian buffers need to be included in the final impact calculations. These impacts, in addition to any construction impacts, temporary or otherwise, also need to be included as part of the 401 Water Quality Certification. Application. 11. Bridge deck drains shall not discharge directly into the stream. Stormwater shall be directed across the bridge and pre-treated through site-appropriate means (grassed swales, pre-formed scour holes, vegetated buffers, etc.) before entering the stream. Please refer to the most current version of NCDWQ's Stormwater Best Management Practices. 12. Sediment and erosion control measures shall not be placed in wetlands or streams. 13. Borrow/waste areas shall avoid wetlands to the maximum extent practical. Impacts to wetlands in borrow/waste areas will need to be presented in the 401 Water Quality Certification and could precipitate compensatory mitigation. 14. The 401 Water Quality Certification application will need to specifically address the proposed methods for stormwater management. More specifically, stormwater shall not be permitted to discharge directly into streams or surface waters. 15. Based on the information presented in the document, the magnitude of impacts to wetlands and streams may require an Individual Permit (IP) application to the Corps of Engineers and corresponding 401 Water Quality Certification. Please be advised that a 401 Water Quality Certification requires satisfactory protection of water quality to ensure that water quality standards are met and no wetland or stream uses are lost. Final permit authorization will require the submittal of a formal application by the NCDOT and written concurrence from the NCDWQ. Please be aware that any approval will be . contingent on appropriate avoidance and minimization of wetland. and stream impacts to the maximum extent practical, the development of an acceptable stormwater management plan, and the inclusion of appropriate mitigation plans where appropriate. 16. If temporary access roads or detours are constructed, the site shall be graded to its preconstruction contours and elevations. Disturbed areas shall be seeded or mulched to stabilize the soil and appropriate native woody species shall be planted. When using temporary structures the area shall 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 re-vegetate naturally and minimizes soil disturbance. 17. Placement of culverts and other structures in waters, streams, and wetlands shall be placed below the elevation of the streambed by one foot for all culverts with a diameter greater than 48 inches, and 20 percent of the culvert diameter for culverts having a diameter less than 48 inches, to allow low flow passage of water and aquatic life. Design and placement of culverts and other structures including temporary erosion control measures shall not be conducted in a manner that may result in dis- equilibrium of wetlands or streambeds or banks, adjacent to or upstream and downstream of the above structures. The applicant is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is being maintained if requested in writing by the NCDWQ. If this condition is unable to be met due to bedrock or other limiting features encountered during construction, please contact the NCDWQ for guidance on how to proceed and to determine whether or not a permit modification will be required. 18. If multiple pipes or barrels are required, they shall be designed to mimic natural stream cross section as closely as possible including pipes or barrels at flood plain elevation, floodplain benches, and/or sills may be required where appropriate. Widening the stream channel shall be avoided. Stream channel widening at the inlet or outlet end of structures typically decreases water velocity causing sediment deposition that requires increased maintenance and disrupts aquatic life passage. 19. If foundation test borings are necessary; it shall be noted in the document. Geotechnical work is . approved under General 401 Certification Number 3687/Nationwide Permit No. 6 for Survey Activities. 20. Sediment and erosion control measures sufficient to protect water resources must be implemented and maintained in accordance with the most.recent version of North Carolina Sediment and Erosion Control Planning and Design Manual and the most recent version of NCS000250. 21. All work in or adjacent to stream waters shall be conducted in a dry work area. Approved BMP measures from the most current version of the NCDOT Construction and Maintenance Activities manual such as sandbags, rock berms, cofferdams and other diversion structures shall be used to prevent excavation in flowing water. 22. Riparian vegetation (native trees and shrubs) shall be preserved to the maximum extent possible: Riparian vegetation must be reestablished within the construction limits of the project by the end of the growing season following completion of construction. The NCDWQ appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on your project. Shall you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact David Wainwright at (919) 715-3415. cc: Bill Biddlecome, US Army Corps of Engineers, Washington Field Office Chris Militscher, Environmental Protection Agency (electronic copy only) Travis Wilson, NC Wildlife Resources Commission (electronic copy only) Cathy Brittingham, Division of Coastal Management Garcy Ward, NCDWQ Washington Regional Office File Copy Department of Environment and Natural Resources Project Review Form Project Number: 10-0294 County: Hertford and Gates Date Received: 02/12/2010 Due Date: 3/22/2010 Project Description: Environmental Assessment - Widening of US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel; TIP No. R-2507A is Project is Ring reviewe d as m ica e tie low: Regional Office Regional Office Area In-House Review Asheville ? Air Soil & Water ? Marine Fisheries - - _ _ Fayetteville ? Water Coastal Management - Water Resources Mooresville ? Aquifer Protection - Wildlife ? Environmental Health _ Raleigh ? - Land Quality Engineer ? Wildlife -DOT-\C??S - W :\6Dr Solid Waste Mgmt ? Washington ? Forest Resources -•\? - Radiation Protection ti?'?tE.c a Wilmington Land Resources Other ? Parks & Recreation Winston-Salem - Water Quality aterQguality-DOiT Z; 'cam l `7l? en 9^s 3u. a?wo?rzxs»+:;emv - Air Quality Sign-Off/Region: Reviewer/Agency: Response (check all applicable) _ No objection to project as proposed. - Insufficient information to complete review No Comment I/ ?ther (specify or attach comments) 5ee- u *a .J"d C,o ou,mr..4If you have any questions, please contact: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator at Melba.McGee(d,)ncdenr.eov FF9 5 G ' ?l\S n 4N?Sq?STgtl7Y US 13-158 From US 15"C 45 Near Winton to US 158 at Tarheel Hertford and Gates Counties State Project 35488.1.1 TIP Project R-2507A ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION STATE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT N. C. Department of Transportation Division of Highways In Compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act The following person may be contacted for additional information concerning this proposal and statement: Mr. Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph. D., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch NC Department of Transportation 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548 (919) 733-3141 APPROVED: 2- 110 atD e jdt2Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D. F t%? Manager, 5 1010 Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch, NC 111W.gq US 13-158 From US 158/NC 45 Near Winton to US 158 at Tarheel Hertford and Gates Counties State Project 35488. 1.1 TIP Project R-2507A ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION STATE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Documentation prepared in the Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch by: Olivia J. Farr Project Planning Engineer, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch i Ja es A. McInnis, Jr., PFD CARQj/ti?•s Project Engineer, Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch S A. lI2Z/16 TABLE OF CONTENTS PROJECT COMMITMENTS .......................................................................................................................... i SUMMARY... ..................................... ................................................. ..................... ................................... iii A. Type of Action ................................................................................................... ...................................iii B. Description of Action ......................................................................................... ...................................iii C. Summary of Purpose and Need .......................................................................... ...................................iii D. Alternatives Considered ..................................................................................... ...................................iii E. Permits Required ............................................................................................... ................................... iv F. Coordination ...................................................................................................... ...................................iv G. Contact Information ........................................................................................... .................................... v 1. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION ...................................................... ....................................1 A. General Description ........................................................................................... .................................... I B. Historical Resume and Project Status ................................................................ .................................... 1 C. Cost Estimates .................................................................................................... ....................................1 II. PURPOSE AND NEED FOR PROPOSED PROJECT ..................................... ....................................2 A. Purpose for Project ............................................................................................ ....................................2 B. Need for Project ................................................................................................. ....................................2 1. Description of Existing Conditions ............................................................... ....................................2 a. Functional Classification .......................................................................... ....................................2 b. Physical Description of Existing Facility ................................................. ....................................2 1) Roadway Cross-Section ....................................................................... ....................................2 2) Right of Way and Access Control ....................................................... ....................................2 3) Speed Limit .......................................................................................... ...................................3 4) Intersections .......................................................................................... ...................................3 5) Structures .............................................................................................. ..:................................3 6) Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities .......................................................... ...................................3 7) Utilities ................................................................................................. ...................................3 C. School Bus Usage ...................................................................................... ...................................3 d. Traffic Carrying Capacity .......................................................................... ...................................4 1) Traffic Volumes .................................................................................... ...................................4 2) Levels of Service ............................................ `.................................... ...................................4 e. Accident Data ............................................................................................ ...................................4 f. Airports ..................................................................................................... ...................................5 g. Projects in the Area ................................................................................... ...................................5 2. Transportation and Land Use Plans ............................................................... ................................... 5 a. Strategic Highway Corridors .........................................:........................... ...................................5 b. Local Thoroughfare Plans ......................................................................... ...................................5 C. Land Use Plan ........................................................................................... ...................................6 C. Benefits of Proposed Project .............................................................................. ...................................6 1. Traffic Volumes with Project ......................................................................... ...................................6 2. Levels of Service with Project ....................................................................... ...................................6 3. Safety ............................................................................................................. ...................................6 III. ALTERNATIVES .......................................................................................... ...................................7 A. Preliminary Study Alternatives ........................................................................... ...................................7 1. Alternative Modes of Transportation ............................................................. ...................................7 a. Travel Demand Management (TDM) ........................................................ ................................... 7 b. Mass Transit .............................................................................................. ...................................7 2. Transportation System Management ITSM) .................................................... .................................7 3. "No-Build" Alternative .................................................................................... .................................8 4. Widen Existing US 13-158 .............................................................................. .................................8 B. Detailed Study Alternative .................................................................................... ...............................10 IV. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS ..................................................................... ...............................10 A. Roadway Cross-Section and Alignment ................................................................ ...............................10 B. Right of Way and Access Control ......................................................................... ............................... 10 C. Speed Limit ........................................................................................................... ............................... 11 D. Design Speed ........................................................................................................ ...............................I1 E. Anticipated Design Exceptions ............................................................................. ............................... I1 F. Intersections/Interchanges ..................................................................................... ............................... 11 G. Service Roads ....................................................................................................... ...............................11 H. Railroad Crossings ................................................................................................ ............................... 11 1. Structures .............................................................................:................................ ...............................11 J. Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities .......................................................................... ...............................12 K. Utilities ................................................................................................................. ...............................12 L. Landscaping .......................................................................................................... ...............................12 M. Noise Barriers ....................................................................................................... ...............................12 V. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF PROPOSED ACTION ............................... ...............................13 A. Natural Resources ................................................................................................ ................................13 I. Biotic Resources ............................................................................................. ................................13 a. Terrestrial Communities ............................................................................. ................................ 13 b. Aquatic Communities ................................................................................. ................................ 15 C. Summary of Anticipated Effects ................................................................. ................................ 15 2. Waters of the United States ............................................................................. ................................16 a. Streams, Rivers, Impoundments ................................................................. ................................ 16 b. Wetlands ..................................................................................................... ................................17 C. Summary of Anticipated Effects ................................................................. ................................ 18 d. Avoidance, Minimization, Mitigation ........................................................ ................................ 18 e. Anticipated Permit Requirements ............................................................... ................................ 18 3. Rare and Protected Species ............................................................................. ................................ 19 a. Federally-Protected Species ....................................................................... ................................ 19 b. Federal Species of Concern/State Protected Species .................................. ................................20 4. Soils ................................................................................................................ ................................20 B. Cultural Resources ............................................................................................... .................................21 1. Historic Architectural Resources .................................................................... ................................22 2. Archaeological Resources ............................................................................... ...............................`.22 C. Farmland .............................................................................................................. ................................23 D. Social Effects ....................................................................................................... ................................23 1. Neighborhoods/Communities .......................................................................... ................................23 2. Relocation of Residences and Businesses ....................................................... ................................23 3. Title VI ............................................................................................................ ................................23 4. Recreational Facilities ..................................................................................... ................................24 5. Other Public Facilities and Services ................................................................ ................................24 E. Economic Effects ................................................................................................. ................................25 F. Land Use .............................................................................................................. ................................25 1. Existing Land Use and Zoning ........................................................................ ................................25 2. Future Land Use .............................................................................................. ................................25 3. Project Compatibility with Local Plans ........................................................... ................................26 G. Indirect and Cumulative Effects ........................................................................... .............. ...............26 H. Flood Hazard Evaluation ..................................................................................... ................................27 1. Traffic Noise Analysis ......................................................................................... ................................28 1. Traffic Noise Impacts and Noise Contours ..................................................... ................................28 2. Noise Abatement Alternatives .............................................................. ........................................... 29 a. Traffic System Management Measures ........................................... ...........................................29 b. Highway Alignment Changes .......................................................... ...........................................29 C. Buffer Acquisition ........................................................................... ...........................................29 d. Noise Barriers ................................................................................. ...........................................29 3. Summary .............................................................................................. ...........................................30 J. Air Quality Analysis ................................................................................. ...........................................30 1. Project Air Quality Effects ................................................................... ...........................................30 2. Mobile Source Air Toxics .................................................................... ...........................................30 3. Construction Air Quality Effects .......................................................... ...........................................31 4. Summary .............................................................................................. ...........................................31 K. Hazardous Materials ................................................................................. ...........................................31 vi. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION .............................................. ...........................................32 APPENDICES Appendix A - Agency Comments Appendix B - NCDOT Relocation Assistance Program/Relocation Reports Appendix C - NEPA/404 Merger Team Concurrence Forms LIST OF TABLES Page Table S 1 - Summary of Project Environmental Effects ................................................ .......... iv Table 1 - Project Cost Estimates ................................................................................. ........... 2 Table 2 - Existing Structures ....................................................................................... ........... 3 Table 3 - Accident Study ............................................................................................. ........... 4 Table 4 - Preliminary Widening Alternative Comparisons ......................................... ........... 9 Table 5 - Detailed Study Alternative .......................................................................... ......... 10 Table 6 - Proposed Structures ..................................................................................... ......... 12 Table 7 - Project Effects on Terrestrial Communities ................................................ ......... 16 Table 8 - Streams Within the Project Study Area ....................................................... ......... 16 Table 9 - Jurisdictional Wetlands in Project Area ...................................................... ......... 17 Table 10 - Wetland/Stream Impacts of Project Alternatives ........................................ ......... 18 Table 11 - Federally-Protected Species Listed for Gates and Hertford Counties ........ ...... 19 Table 12 - Federal Species of Concern in Gates and Hertford Counties ..................... ........ 20 Table 13 - Soils in the Project Area .............................................................................. ......... 21 Table 14 - Homes and Businesses to be Relocated ....................................................... ......... 23 Table 15 - Environmental Effects of Adjacent Projects ................................................ ......... 27 Table 16 - Predicted Traffic Noise Impact by Alternative ............................................ ......... 28 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 - Project Location Map Figure 2 - Aerial Photograph of Project Figure 3A - Proposed Roadway Typical Sections Figure 3B - Proposed Bridge Typical Sections (Over Chowan River and Run Swamp) Figure 4A - 2006 Existing Traffic Volumes Figure 4B - 2030 Projected Traffic Volumes Figure 5A - Estimated 2006 Level of Service without Project Figure 5B - Estimated 2030 Level of Service without Project Figure 6 - Estimated 2030 Level of Service with Project Figure 7 - Environmental Features in Project Area Figure 8 - Floodplains in Project Area PROJECT COMMITMENTS US 13-158 From US 15SINC 45 Near Winton to US 158 at Tarheel Hertford and Gates Counties State Project 35488.1.1 TIP Project R-2507A Project Development Unit, Human Environment Unit Two previously recorded archaeological sites exist in the vicinity of the project. Prior to completion of the final environmental document for this project, an intensive archaeological survey will be conducted to identify and evaluate all archaeological sites within the project limits, in accordance with 36 CFR Part 800. NCDOT will consult with the Office of State Archaeology to develop appropriate archaeological survey methodology prior to conducting this survey. The State Historic Preservation Office and NCDOT have determined the project will have an adverse effect on the Story Crossroads Historic District. A memorandum of agreement to document the resolution of adverse effects will be completed prior to completion of the final environmental document for this project. Hydraulics Unit The Hydraulics Unit will coordinate with the NC Floodplain Mapping Program (FMP), to determine whether the Memorandum of Agreement between NCDOT and the FMP is applicable or if approval of a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) and subsequent final Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) will be required for this project. Division One Construction No in-water work will be performed in the Chowan River between February 15`h and June 15`h, due to the presence of anadromous fish. NCDOT's Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage will apply to the Chowan River crossing. This project involves construction activities on or adjacent to FEMA-regulated stream(s). Therefore, the Division shall submit sealed as-built construction plans to the Hydraulics Unit upon completion of project construction, certifying that the drainage structure(s) and roadway embankment that are located within the 100-year floodplain were built as shown in the construction plans, both horizontally and vertically. Environmental Assessment - R-2507A Page 1 of 2 January 2010 Roadway Design Unit/Structure Design Unit Fifty-four inch rails will be provided on the outside of proposed bridges in order to accommodate bicycles. The rails on the east side of the existing bridge over the Chowan River will be retrofitted to accommodate bicycles. An eight-foot outside shoulder will be provided on the proposed new bridges in order to accommodate bicycles. A six-foot paved outside shoulder is proposed for the portion of US 13-158 signed as NC Bike Routes 3A and 4 (US 158 near Winton to NC 137). Environmental Assessment - R-2507A January 2010 Page 2 of 2 11 SUMMARY State Environmental Assessment Prepared by the Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch of the North Carolina Department of Transportation A. Type of Action This is a State Environmental Assessment. B. Description of Action The proposed project involves widening a section of US 13-158 between US 158/NC 45 near Winton in Hertford County and US 158 in Tarheel in Gates County from two to four lanes. An expressway type facility is recommended for this project. The proposed project is approximately 7.1 miles long (Figure 1). It is anticipated approximately 200 feet of right of way will be required for the project. Partial control of access (one access per parcel for properties with no other access) will be obtained. All intersecting roadways will cross US 13-158 at-grade, no grade separations or interchanges are proposed, with one exception. The exception is construction of an interchange at the intersection of US 13 and US 158/NC 45 north of Winton. C. Summary of Purpose and Need The purpose of the proposed project is to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel time and safety along US 13-158 in the project area. The proposed project will address the following needs: • By the year 2030, portions of US 13-158 within the project area will operate at capacity. • US 13-158 in the project area is a regionally important route, carrying a large number of trucks. • The fatal accident rate along US 13-158 in the project area exceeds the statewide average for similar facilities. D. Alternatives Considered Widening the existing roadway and the "no-build" alternative were considered for the project. (Section III) Table S 1 below presents a summary of the environmental "effects of the project. iii TABLE S1 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS Residential Relocatees 7 >y? Effect on Historic Yes r.. Properties? Receptors Impacted By Business Relocatees 5 Traffic Noise 14 Wetlands Affected (Ac.) 30.97 Forested Areas Affected 170.23 (Delineated) (Ac.) Stream Impacts (Ft.) 598 Farmland Affected (Ac.) * 37.65 Protected Species Habitat? Yes ?4, Total Length (Miles) 7.1 Effect on Protected Species? No Effect Total Cost (Millions) $56.8096 Property actually being farmed, not necessarily prime and important farmland, which will be taken by the current design of the project. E. Permits Required It will be necessary to obtain an Individual Section 404 Permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers for this project. This project will also require a Section 401 Water Quality Certification from the NC Division of Water Quality. A state stormwater permit may also be required. This project may require a CAMA permit from the NC Division of Coastal Management. If a CAMA permit is required, a CAMA Major Development permit will be required. A bridge permit will be required from the Coast Guard and a Section 10 permit will be required from the US Army Corps of Engineers for the proposed new structure over the Chowan River. The Coast Guard permit cannot be issued until the Section 401 Water Quality Certification and the Certification of Consistency with the Coastal Zone Management Act is received. F. Coordination This project was coordinated with the following federal, state and local agencies during this study: U.S. Department of the Army - Corps of Engineers U.S. Coast Guard (Fifth District) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Raleigh U.S. Geological Survey - Raleigh N.C. Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse N.C. Department of Cultural Resources rv N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources N.C. Department of Human Resources N.C. Department of Public Instruction Gates County Hertford County Peanut Belt Rural Planning Organization Town of Winton G. Contact Information The following person may be contacted for additional information concerning this proposal and statement: Mr. Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph. D., Manager Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch NC Department of Transportation 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548 (919) 733-3141 v US 13-158 From US 158/NC 45 Near Winton to US 158 at Tarheel Hertford and Gates Counties State Project 35488.1.1 TIP Project R-2507A 1. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED ACTION A. General Description The proposed project involves widening a section of US 13-158 between US 158/NC 45 near Winton in Hertford County and US 158 in Tarheel in Gates County from two to four lanes. An expressway type facility is recommended for this project. The proposed project is approximately 7.1 miles long (Figure 1). It is anticipated approximately 200 feet of right of way will be required for the project. Partial control of access (one access per parcel with no other access) will be obtained. All intersecting roadways will cross US 13-158 at-grade, no grade separations or interchanges are proposed, with one exception. The exception is construction of an interchange at the intersection of US 13 and US 158/NC 45 north of Winton. B. Historical Resume and Project Status TIP Project R-2507A is programmed as widening US 13-158 to a multi-lane facility from US 158/NC 45 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel in Hertford/Gates Counties. This is a state-funded project. A state environmental assessment was prepared in 1993 for all of R-2507, from SR 1457 to the Virginia State Line, but the project lost funding and no further work was performed. R-2507A is the only portion of R-2507 currently funded. Project studies were restarted in December 2005. TIP Project R-2507A is included in the 2009-2015 North Carolina State Transportation Improvement Program, with right of way acquisition scheduled for state fiscal year 2011 and construction scheduled for state fiscal year 2014. This schedule is subject to change based on the availability of funding. C. Cost Estimates The cost estimate for the project included in the 2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program is as follows: Right of Way Acquisition $ 6,000,000 Mitigation $ 2,030,000 Construction $48,600,000 Total Estimated Cost $56,630,000 Current cost estimates for the project are shown in Table 1 below. TABLE 1 PROJECT COST ESTIMATES Construction $50,400,000 Right of Way Acquisition $3,078,000 Utility Relocation $1,159,600 Wetland/Stream Mitigation $2,172,000 Total $56,809,600 11. PURPOSE AND NEED FOR PROPOSED PROJECT A. Purpose for Proiect The purpose of the proposed project is to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel time and safety along US 13-158 in the project area. B. Need for Project 1. Description of Existing Conditions a. Functional Classification Both US 13 and US 158 are classified as rural principal arterials in the North Carolina Functional Classification System. This section of US 13-158 is part of two Strategic Highway Corridors. Corridor Number 37 follows US 158 from Winston-Salem to Kitty Hawk/Nags Head and Corridor Number 53 follows US 13 and other routes from Wilmington to Norfolk, Virginia. The vision for this section of US 13-158 is that it would be a freeway. b. Physical Description of Existing Facility 1) Roadway Cross-Section Existing US 13-158 is a two-lane roadway within the project area. Travel lanes are approximately 12 feet wide. Shoulder widths vary from 6 feet to 8 feet. 2) Right of Way and Access Control Right of way widths along existing US 13-158 in the project area vary. Existing right of way on US 13 from south of US 158/NC 45 near Winton to the Chowan River is approximately 320 feet. Control of access and right of way for an interchange exists at the US 13 intersection with US 158/NC 45 near Winton. Existing right of way on US 13-158 is 60 feet wide from the Chowan River to US 158 in Tarheel. No control of access exists along this portion of US 13-158. 3) Speed Limit The speed limit along existing US 13-158 in the project area is 55 MPH. 4) Intersections All intersections along existing US 13-158 in the project area are at-grade. No interchanges are located along the roadway. 5) Structures Two major structures exist along US 13-158 in the project area. These structures are described in Table 2 below. TABLE 2 EXISTING STRUCTURES Clear Rdwy. Suff. Bridge No. Carries/Crosses Length Width Rating.* 32 Chowan River 40 feet 1,121 feet 71.8 Buckhom Creek/ 9 Run Swamp 28 feet 84 feet 50.3 * - Sufficiency Rating (out of 100 possible points). 6) Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities NC Bike Routes 3 Alternate and 4 are signed along US 13-158 from US 158/NC 45 near Winton to NC 137 in Gates County (Figure 1). 7) Utilities The following utilities are located within the project limits: • Fiber-optic cable is on both sides of US 13-158 • Gas line is on the west side of US 13-158 • Telephone line is on the east side of US 13-158 • Water and sewer lines are on US 158 in vicinity of US 13 near Winton • Power lines are in various locations throughout project c. School Bus Usage Five school buses use existing US 13-158 in the project area in Gates County daily. Six school buses cross US 13 at the US 158/NC 45 intersection in Hertford County. 3 d. Traffic Carrying Capacity 1) Traffic Volumes Traffic volumes for existing US 13-158 within the project area were estimated for the years 2006 and 2030. In the year 2006, traffic volumes along existing US 13-158 ranged between 6,800 and 8,600 vehicles per day. In 2030, traffic along this route is expected to range between 12,500 and 15,400 vehicles per day. Figures 4A and 4B depict the estimated average daily traffic volumes for the years 2006 and 2030 along roadways in the project area. Trucks make up between 20 to 21 percent of the total traffic. 2) Levels of Service The effectiveness of a roadway to service traffic demand is measured in terms of level of service. Level of service is a qualitative measure describing the ability of a facility to carry traffic and how individual users perceive traffic conditions. It is based on factors of speed, travel time, comfort, maneuverability, interruptions, convenience and safety. Levels of Service range from "A" to "F", with "A" representing free flow (ideal conditions), and "F" representing forced or breakdown flow (undesirable conditions). A transportation facility is considered to be operating at capacity when it is just able to accommodate the traffic demand. Once the traffic demand exceeds the facility's capacity (LOS E), excessive delays occur. - Traffic capacity analyses were conducted for the existing roadway along US 13-158 for the years 2006 and 2030. As Figure 5B shows, portions of existing US 13-158 in the project area will operate at capacity (level of service E) in the year 2030. e. Accident Data A crash study was conducted for existing US 13-158 within the project area. Between October 1, 2002 and September 30, 2005, 134 crashes occurred along these routes within the project area. Of these accidents, four were fatal with a total of seven fatalities. Injuries occurred in 76 of the crashes. Table 3 below presents the results of this crash study. TABLE 3 ACCIDENT STUDY 2001-2003 Statewide Crash Rates For 10/2002-9/2005 2002-2005 US 13-158 Rural Two-lane US Critical Rate* Crashes per 100 MVM Routes Total Fatal Total Fatal Total Fatal 171.66 2.24 129.54 3.87 193.37 5.17 *Based on statewide crash rate (95% level of confidence). 4 f. Airports No airports or other aviation facilities are located within the project area. g. Projects in the Area Other STIP projects in the area are (Figure 1): R-2507B - Widening of US 13, Gates County, from US 158 in Tarheel to SR 1202 (4.2 miles). Both right of way acquisition and construction of this project are unfunded in the 2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program. R-2507C - Widening of US 13, Gates County, from SR 1202 to the Virginia State Line (4.7 miles). Both right of way acquisition and construction of this project are unfunded in the 2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program. R-2583 - Widening of US 158, Hertford County, Murfreesboro Bypass to US 13 West of Winton (8.3 miles). Right of way acquisition for this project is scheduled for state fiscal year 2011 and construction is scheduled for state fiscal year 2013 in the 2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program. R-2205 - US 13 Ahoskie Bypass, Hertford County, from NC 42 to US 158 near Winton (14.1 miles). Project development studies for this project are currently underway. Right of way acquisition for this project is scheduled for state fiscal year 2013 and construction is unfunded in the 2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program. R-2578 - Widening of US 158, Gates County, US 13 to NC 32 in Sunbury (15 miles). Right of way acquisition and construction for this project is unfunded in the 2009-2015 State Transportation Improvement Program. 2. Transportation and Land Use Plans a. Strategic Highway Corridors This section of US 13-158 is part of two Strategic Highway Corridors. Corridor Number 37 follows US 158 from Winston-Salem to Kitty Hawk/Nags Head and Corridor Number 53 follows US 13 and other routes from Wilmington to Norfolk, Virginia. The Strategic Highway Corridors Vision Plan designates this section of US 13-158 as a freeway. b. Local Thoroughfare Plans The 1992 Hertford County Thoroughfare Plan shows widening of US 13-158 to multi-lanes. Gates County does not have a thoroughfare plan. The widening of US 13-158 is part of Gates County's growth strategy. Therefore, the subject project is consistent with local thoroughfare plans. c. Land Use Plan Hertford County and Gates County are both North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (LAMA) Counties. Hertford County is in the process of updating their 1996-1997 CAMA Land Use Plan, but the update was not available at the time of this assessment. Gates County has a Future Land Use Plan map (dated January 6, 2005), which is part of the CAMA Land Use Plan. Gates County's Future Land Use Plan was updated in November 2007. C. Benefits of Proposed Project The proposed project is expected to reduce congestion and improve safety on US 13-158. 1. Traffic Volumes with Project Traffic volumes for existing US 13-158 within the project area were estimated for the year 2030. In the year 2030, it is estimated that traffic volumes along existing US 13-158 will range between 12,500 and 15,400 vehicles per day. Figure 4B depicts the estimated average daily traffic volumes for the year 2030 along roadways in the project area. 2. Levels of Service with Project A traffic capacity analysis was conducted for the project for the year 2030. The project will operate at level of service A in the year 2030. Figure 6 depicts the estimated level of service for 2030 along US 13-158 in the project area with construction of the proposed project. 3. Safety By increasing the number of lanes on US 13-158, the proposed project will have a positive impact on vehicular safety. The proposed project will likely make it safer for large trucks and local traffic. The proposed dual lanes in each direction will allow faster traffic to pass slower moving vehicles without using the opposing traffic lane. Emergency response time should improve with construction of the project. By reducing the congestion on US 13-158, emergency vehicles traveling within or through this area would likely have a reduction in emergency response time. III. ALTERNATIVES A. Preliminarv Studv Alternatives 1. Alternative Modes of Transportation a. Travel Demand Management (TDM) Travel Demand Management (TDM) strategies include staggered work hours and ridesharing. Given the predominately rural nature of the project area, it is not expected that adjustments to work schedules or ridesharing would substantially reduce the peak hour traffic volumes within the study area. b. Mass Transit Choanoke Public Transit Authority (CPTA) provides public transportation to Hertford County. CPTA operates a dial-a-ride service throughout Hertford County from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday. Riders are required to make reservations the day before their trip. CPTA also provides transportation for out of county medical trips. Gates County Inter-Regional Transportation System (GITS) provides public transportation to Gates County. GITS will provide transportation for any county resident to various appointments. The hours of operation are 5:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Monday through Friday and Saturday upon request. GITS utilizes fixed routes and makes on-demand trips. There are regularly scheduled trips daily to Ahoskie, Edenton and a limited number of cities in Virginia. Inter-city bus service is not available to Gates County. The nearest bus station is in Ahoskie. Given the predominantly rural nature of the project area, improvements to public transportation or implementation of inter-city bus service are unlikely to result in substantial reductions in the amount of traffic along US 13-158 in the project area. 2. Transportation System Management (TSM) Transportation system management activities, such as intersection improvements, signing or traffic signalization improvements would potentially improve safety along existing US 13-158. However, such improvements would not sufficiently meet the project purpose of reducing congestion on US 13-158. 3. "No-Build" Alternative The No-Build Alternative would not provide any substantial improvements to US 13-158 within the study area; only typical maintenance activities would occur. The No-Build Alternative would not meet the purpose and need of the project. 4. Widen Existing US 13-158 Widening existing US 13-158 would reduce traffic congestion and improve travel time and safety along US 13-158 in the project area. The proposed project was divided into eight sections and both east side and west side widening were considered. The eight sections are described below: Section 1 - US 158/NC 45 to Powell Lane Section 2 - Powell Lane to just north of SR 1128 (Barfield Road) Section 3 - Just north of SR 1128 to approximately 0.4 mile north of SR 1128 Section 4 - Approximately 0.4 mile north of SR 1128 to NC 137/SR 1200 Section 5 - NC 137/SR 1200 to approximately 0.5 mile north of NC 137/SR 1200 Section 6 - Approximately 0.5 mile north of NC 137/SR 1200 to north of SR 1228 (Barfield Road) Section 7 - North of SR 1228 to north of SR 1122 (Hill Lane Road) Section 8 - North of SR 1122 to US 158 Table 4 below compares the impacts of east and west side widening for each section. TABLE 4 PRELIMINARY WIDENING ALTERNATIVE COMPARISONS Wetlands Streams Homes Businesses Section Alternative (Acres) (Feet) Relocated Relocated i, East Side ' fi r, ab ,t i4' i " W deni 20 99 : 428 , . _ = 0 p 1 i r West Side 16.73 428 0 0 Widening East Side 5.75 0 0 1 church Widening 2 West Side gK J l?? 2 {y Widen n 63 , Q, i g , East Side jj; ' W d ni 1 41, 1 ' ' t al , 3 r e ng,' i,v ,.,;t.• . ,k l West Side 2.46 0 0 0 Widening 4 tEast Side',J t 4 i? Y N 0 5 Afi--` ,a " t H a,r a ! k I W d nin I ,S 97 tO, 4 r e g West Side 4 84 0 0 0 Widening . East Side 0 0 1 1 Widening 5 J 4 WestSidek v1h, y J. ?, t? ?a , t tI J ,, ' { S i , ? {,•f? lMUM ,,, 4t{ ?`???? tai W denin O 0 r g v East Side 0.35 0 0 0 Widening 6 West Side ? ' ?e ' r W d ni ?0 28 0 '' ? 0 i e n East Side 0 0 4 2 7 Widenin West 'Side, ' 7 l, .Wldemll " ia.l., East Side 0 3 0 2 1 Widening . 8 s ,West Sides r{', W ? 3 ?r?? ss st t a ,, d (ate ' '""-l" 4e: = ?; ,i5 Wrdemn t t 6 0 p l't! 3 1 J ' ? W - ? Y . , x ,! " ?dShaded rows indicate alternatives which were dropped from further consideration by the NEPA/404 merger team. (Section VI-C) The NEPA/404 merger team agreed to a widening alternative for each of the project sections, based on anticipated impacts to wetlands, streams, homes and businesses. The selected widening alternative for each section is presented below: Section 1 - West side widening Section 2 - East side widening Section 3 - West side widening Section 4 - West side widening B. Detailed Studv Alternative Section 5 - East Side widening Section 6 - East side widening Section 7 - East side widening Section 8 - East side widening As stated previously, a widening alternative was selected for each of the eight project sections. Based on anticipated impacts to wetlands, streams, homes, businesses and historic properties, one project alternative was chosen. The impacts of the detailed study alternative are shown in Table 5 below. TABLE 5 DETAILED STUDY ALTERNATIVE Residential Relocatees 7 Effect on Historic Properties? Yes Business Relocatees 5 Receptors Impacted By Traffic 14 Noise Wetlands Affected (Ac.) 30.97 Forested Areas Affected (Ac.) 170.23 (Delineated) i? Stream Impacts (Ft.) 598 Farmland Affected (Ac.) 37.65 Protected Species Habitat? Yes j Total Length (Miles) 7.1 Effect on Protected Species? No Effect Total Cost (Millions) $56.8096 * Property actually being farmed; not necessarily prime and important farmland, which will be taken by the current design of the alternate. IV. PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS A. Roadway Cross-Section and Alignment The proposed cross-section is four 12-foot lanes with a median and 10-foot grassed shoulders. A 46-foot median is proposed for the project except at the Chowan River, where a 30-foot median is proposed. Six-foot paved outside shoulders are proposed to accommodate bicycles between US 158/NC 45 near Winton to NC 137. Four-foot paved outside shoulders are proposed from NC 137 to US 158 in Tarheel. An expressway type of design is proposed for this project. The proposed typical sections are shown on Figures 3A and 3B. B. Right of Wav and Access Control A right of way width of 200-feet is proposed for the project. This right of way width is sufficient to accommodate a four-lane roadway with a 46-foot median, although temporary easements may be required outside the proposed right of way in some areas. Partial control of access will be obtained along the proposed roadway. Access will be limited to one per 10 parcel with no other access, although additional access points may be provided for larger properties. The location of access points will be determined during the design phase of the project. The strategic highway corridor vision for this section of US 13-158 is a freeway (full control of access). A freeway facility was considered for this project. Due to the impacts to adjacent properties and the resulting increase in cost, partial control of access will be implemented instead of full control of access. This project is considered a step towards the ultimate implementation of the freeway vision for this strategic highway corridor. C. Speed Limit A posted speed limit of 55 MPH is anticipated. D. Design Speed A 60 MPH design speed is proposed for the project. This design speed is consistent with the expected 55 MPH speed limit. E. Anticipated Design Exceptions It is anticipated no design exceptions will be required for this project. F. Intersections/Interchanges Except for the southern terminus, all intersections will be at-grade, with the side streets being stop-sign controlled. Traffic signals are not proposed at any intersections within the project area. Directional crossovers with median u-turns will be provided at intersections. An interchange is proposed at the intersection of US 13 and US 158/NC 45 near Winton. Ramps are proposed in the northwest and southwest quadrants of the interchange and a loop and ramp is proposed in the southeast quadrant. US 158 will be carried over US 13 on a bridge. SR 1218 (Industrial Park Road) and entrance roads to subdivisions in the northeast and northwest quadrants of the interchange will be relocated and tied in to either US 158 or NC 45. to provide access to these properties. G. Service Roads There are no service roads planned for this project. H. Railroad Crossings There are no railroad crossings on the project. 1. Structures ,Table 6 below presents the structures proposed for the project. 11 TABLE 6 PROPOSEDSTRUCTURES Stream Location Existing Structure Recommendation Retain existing bridge. Chowan River 0.7 mile north or Bridge No. 32 Construct new 1,121-foot junction w/ US 158 1,121 feet in length long bridge with a 36-foot clear roadway width. Buckhom Creek/ 0.05 mile south of Bridge No. 9 Replace with dual bridges, Run Swamp junction of SR 84 feet in length 110-foot long with a 36- 1128 foot clear roadway width. The Chowan River in the project area is classified as navigable water under Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbor Act. The proposed new structure will maintain the same vertical and horizontal clearances over the river as the existing structure. A bridge permit will be required from the Coast Guard and a Section 10 permit will be required from the US Army Corps of Engineers for the proposed new structure over the Chowan River. Fifty-four inch rails will be provided on the outside of proposed bridges in order to accommodate bicycles. The rails on the east side of the existing bridge over the Chowan River will be retrofitted to accommodate bicycles. An eight-foot outside shoulder will be provided on the proposed new bridges in order to accommodate bicycles, as well. J. Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities A six-foot paved outside shoulder is proposed for the portion of US 13-158 signed as NC Bike Routes 3A and 4 (US 158 near Winton to NC 137). This wider shoulder is proposed due to the high speed traffic and large number of trucks on US 13-158 in the project area. On the outside 54-inch rails and eight-foot shoulders will be provided on proposed bridges in order to accommodate bicycles. K. Utilities Utilities along the project will be relocated prior to construction. Care will be taken to prevent damage to water and sewer lines and fiber-optic cables in the area. L. Landscaping No special landscaping is proposed for this project. Shoulder areas will be seeded with grass. M. Noise Barriers No noise barriers are proposed along this project (Section V-I). 12 V. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF PROPOSED ACTION A. Natural Resources 1. Biotic Resources a. Terrestrial Communities Eight terrestrial communities were identified within the project area: Coastal Plain Bottomland Hardwood Forest (blackwater subtype), Cypress-Gum Swamp (blackwater subtype), Coastal Plain Small Stream Swamp (blackwater subtype), Mixed Hardwood-Pine Forest, Pine Plantation - Successional Pine Forest, Pine/Scrub Oak Sandhill, Cropland and Maintained-Disturbed. The Coastal Plain Bottomland Hardwood forest community makes up most of the Chowan River floodplain within the project area. In the past, the majority of the floodplain was probably a gum-cypress swamp but much of it is now dominated by red maple, likely the result of timbering. Other tree and shrub species present in the bottomland hardwood forest community include American elm, overcup oak, swamp tupelo, loblolly pine, sweet pepperbush, sweet bay and highbush blueberry. Vines present include laurel greenbriar and poison ivy. The herbaceous layer is sparse and includes species such as netted chainfern, cinnamon fern and green arrow arum. Much of the community within the project area is jurisdictional wetland. The Cypress-Gum Swamp community is associated with parts of the Chowan River floodplain and with flats between the river and the NC 137 intersection. The swamp forest is diverse, consisting of shrub and tree species that include bald and pond cypress, water tupelo, black willow, red maple, Carolina ash, sweet pepperbush and the occasional Atlantic white cedar. Vines and herbaceous species present include greenbriar, woolgrass and cinnamon fern. The entire community within the project area is jurisdictional wetland. The Coastal Plain Small Stream Swamp community is found along the floodplain for Buckhorn Creek, a small blackwater stream. Trees and shrubs that characterize this community include bald cypress, red maple, American holly and sweet pepperbush. The vine and herb layer.consists of netted chain fern, coastal dogbobble, giant cane, poison ivy and soft rush. The entire community within the project area is jurisdictional wetland. The Mixed Hardwood-Pine forest community type encompasses both dry and wet sites and is scattered throughout the project area. Dominant tree and shrub species include loblolly pine, sweet gum, tulip poplar, red maple, white oak, water oak, black gum, sourwood and witch hazel. On wetter sites, other species such as redbay, sweet bay, wax myrtle and coastal doghobble are more common. Vines and herbs typical of this community include muscadine grape, greenbriar, cross-vine, bracken fern and giant cane. Portions of this community are within jurisdictional wetlands. 13 The Pine Plantation - Successional Pine forest community is moderately open to dense loblolly pine stands that range in age from 10 to 50 years. Trees may either be planted or regenerating naturally. The canopy is dominated by loblolly pine, with scattered red maple and sweet gum individuals in older stands. The Pine/Scrub Oak Sandhill community is found at the NC 137 intersection and is a remnant of an unusual geomorphic feature known as the Chowan Sand Banks, which runs from Gates County northward into Virginia. The Natural Heritage Program recognizes the sand banks as a significant natural heritage area because it is the northernmost area with sandhills type vegetation and contains an extensive stand of old growth loblolly pine. Longleaf pine also occurs in this habitat, although few still remain in the project area. In addition to the pines, hardwoods such as southern red oak, turkey oak, American beech, southern magnolia and sassafras are found in this community. The Cropland community represents agricultural fields within the project area that are currently under cultivation. The Maintained - Disturbed community encompasses various types of habitats that have recently been or are currently impacted by human disturbance. This community consists primarily of roadside shoulders, cut-over areas, maintained lawns and utility easements. These are habitats that are either regularly maintained or are currently in a low-growing, early successional state. Herbaceous species expected in these communities include fescue, ryegrass, horseweed, dogfennel, dandelion, poison ivy, Japanese honeysuckle and greenbrier. In wetter areas, species such as woolgrass, cattail and beakrush are also expected. Shrubs, saplings and trees from surrounding habitats may also be present in these communities. Portions of this community are within jurisdictional wetlands. Faunal Component - Many animal species are highly adaptive and may utilize all biotic communities previously discussed. Maintained roadsides and residential communities adjacent to forested tracts provide foraging and cover areas. Forested areas provide forage and cover for wildlife dependent on mature forests with mast producing hardwoods. Many opportunistic species use both habitats to find food and shelter. White-tailed deer and marsh rabbit were seen in the project study area. Other mammals expected include the gray fox, black bear, southeastern shrew and Virginia opossum. Reptiles and amphibians observed or heard in the project area include the copperhead, black racer; eastern fence lizard, southern cricket frog, southern leopard frog and carpenter frog. Other reptiles and amphibians expected in this area are the cottonmouth, ground skink, marbled salamander and the southern toad. Many bird species were observed or heard within and around the project area, examples include: pileated woodpecker, downy woodpecker, yellow-throated warbler, Swainson's warbler, prothonotary warbler, red-eyed vireo, osprey and the northern bobwhite. 14 b. Aquatic Communities Numerous anadromous fish species use the Chowan River. The primary anadromous species expected to occur in these waters are blueback herring, alewife, American shad, hickory shad and striped bass. Other species found in the Chowan River include largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, lake chubsucker and tessalated darter. These fish feed on a variety of living and organic matter including other fish, algae, insects, wonns, crustaceans, snails and detritus. No in-water work will be performed in the Chowan River between February 15`h and June 15th, due to the presence of anadromous fish. In addition, NCDOT's Stream Crossing Guidelines for Anadromous Fish Passage will apply to the Chowan River crossing. In addition to the Chowan River, there is a crossing of Buckhorn Creek in the project area. Buckhorn Creek is an example of a small, coastal swamp stream, which can support a wide variety of fish species due to the complex habitat structure provided by underwater tree roots and leaf and branch litter. Fish species likely to occur in these waters include mud sunfish, eastern mudminnow, swamp darter, golden shiner and the bluespotted sunfish. Other animals likely present include several of the previously mentioned amphibian species and some of the mammalian species that inhabit both aquatic and terrestrial communities. c. Summary of Anticipated Effects Project construction will have various impacts to the previously described terrestrial and aquatic communities. Table 7 presents the expected effects of the project on terrestrial communities. 15 TABLE 7 PROJECT EFFECTS ON TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES Community Area (acres) Coastal Plain Bottomland Hardwoods 16.93 Cypress-Gum Swam 7.38 Coastal Plain Small Stream Swamp 1.22 Mixed Hardwood-Pine Forest 23.49 Pine Plantation-Successional Pine Forest 16.32 Pine/Scrub Oak Sandhill 2.17 Agriculture 12.55 Maintained-Disturbed 29.49 Total Area: 109.55 * Figures presented are one-third the amount of each community within the study area. 2. Waters of the United States Wetlands and surface waters fall under the broad category of "Waters of the United States" as defined in 33 CFR§328.3 and in accordance with provisions of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1344). These waters are regulated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Any action that proposes to dredge or place fill material into surface waters or wetlands falls under these provisions. a. Streams, Rivers, Impoundments The project is located in the Chowan River basin (sub basin 03-01-01, HUC 03010203). Besides the Chowan River, three jurisdictional streams occur in the project area, Buckhorn Creek, an unnamed tributary to Folly Branch (S 1), and an unnamed tributary to Jady Branch (S2). (Table 8) % No water resources classified as High Quality Waters (HQW), Water Supplies (WS-1 or WS-1I), or Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) are located within one mile of the project study area. TABLE 8 STREAMS WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Stream Intermittent/Perennial Status S-1 Perennial Chowan River Perennial Buckhom Creek Perennial S-2 Perennial 16 b. Wetlands Jurisdictional wetlands are also present in the study corridor. Wetland sites in the project area are presented below. (Table 9) TABLE 9 JURISDICTIONAL WETLANDS IN PROJECT AREA Wetland Riverine/Non- Riverine NWI* Class Wetland Rating Impact (Acres) WNEla Non-Riverine PF02B 18 1.92 WNElb Non-Riverine PEMIA 18 0.02 WNEI Riverine PF01C 69 6.89 WSEI Riverine PFO1C 69 0.34 WSEld Non-Riverine PFOIA/PEM1F 22 0.06 WNE2a Non-Riverine PFOIA 18 0.16 WNE2 Riverine PF06F 30 5.05 WSE2 Riverine PF06F 30 2.63 WSE3a Non-Riverine PFOIAA 18 0.02 WSE3c Non-Riverine PF0I/4A 18 1.01 WSE3d Non-Riverine PFOIA 18 0.21 WSE3e Non-Riverine PF01A 18 1.87 WSE3f Non-Riverine PFO1/4A 18 0.68 WNE3a Non-Riverine PFO1/4A 18 0.52 WNE3b Non-Riverine PF06F 24 0.02 WNE3c Non-Riverine PF06F 24 0.51 WNE3d Non-Riverine PF01F 24 0.22 WB Riverine PF06C 55 1.19 WBb Non-Riverine PEM2B 18 0.15 WNE4 Riverine PF0I/4C 22 0.59 WSE4 Riverine PFOIC 22 0.17 WNE5 Riverine PF06C 22 1.61 WSE5a Non-Riverine PF0I/4A 18 0.10 WNE6 Riverine PSS1C 20 2.71 WSE6 Non-Riverine PF0I/4C 16 0.61 WSE6b Non-Riverine PSS1C 20 1.15 WSE7 Non-Riverine PF01A 18 0.30 WNE8 Riverine PF01A 46 0.26 TOTAL Non-Riverine = 9.53 ac Riverine = 21.44 ac 17 c. Summary of Anticipated Effects Project construction cannot be accomplished without infringing on wetlands and surface waters. Table 10 below presents anticipated project effects on wetlands and streams (Figure 7). TABLE 10 WETLAND/STREAM IMPACTS OF PROJECT ALTERNATIVES Wetlands Affected (Delineated) 30.97 ac. Stream Impacts 598 ft. d. Avoidance, Minimization, Mitigation Given the number of streams and wetlands in the project area, total avoidance of surface waters and wetlands by this project is not feasible. The alternative for the project has been retained because it has lower impacts on wetlands and streams. The project alignment has been developed to minimize impacts to wetlands and streams within the corridor. Additional minimization measures will be considered as the project progresses. It is expected that wetland and stream mitigation will be required for the project. Final decisions regarding wetland and stream mitigation requirements will be made by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the NC Division of Water Quality. On-site mitigation will be used as much as possible. The Ecosystem Enhancement Program (EEP) will be used for remaining mitigation requirements beyond what can be satisfied by on-site mitigation. e. Anticipated Permit Requirements The proposed project will likely require an Individual Section 404 Permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers. Final permit decisions rest with the US Army Corps of Engineers. This project will also require a 401 Water Quality Certification from the NC Division of Water Quality prior to issuance of the Individual 404 Permit. A state stormwater permit may also be required. This project may require a CAMA permit from the NC Division of Coastal Management. If a CAMA permit is required, a CAMA Major Development permit will be required. A bridge permit will be required from the Coast Guard and a Section 10 permit will be required from the US Army Corps of Engineers for the proposed new structure over the Chowan River. The Coast Guard permit cannot be issued until the Section 401 Water Quality Certification and the Certification of Consistency with the Coastal Zone Management Act is received. 18 3. Rare and Protected Species a. Federally-Protected Species Plants and animals with a federal classification of Endangered (E), Threatened (T), Proposed Endangered (PE), and Proposed Threatened (PT) are protected under provisions of Section 7 and Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. As of January 2008, the US Fish and Wildlife Service lists two species under federal protection for Gates and Hertford Counties. These species are listed in Table 11. TABLE 11 FEDERALLY-PROTECTED SPECIES LISTED FOR GATES AND HERTFORD COUNTIES Federal Biological Common Name Scientific Name County Habitat Status Conclusion Alligator Threatened American alligator Gates Yes N/A misstssi iensis (S/A) Red-cockaded Gates & Picoides borealis Endangered Yes No Effect woodpecker Hertford The US Fish and Wildlife Service lists the American alligator as Threatened to protect those endangered animals whose skin has a similar appearance. The American alligator is not biologically endangered or threatened and is not subject to Section 7 consultation. Suitable habitat for the American alligator occurs within the project area. Aerial surveys conducted in 2000 identified three red-cockaded woodpecker clusters (two active, one inactive) within one-half mile of the study area. All were near the US 13-158 and NC 137 intersection. According to the Natural Heritage Program database, a red-cockaded woodpecker was observed in the southeast quadrant of this intersection in 1995 and in the northwest quadrant in 2000. Surveys of potential red-cockaded woodpecker nesting and foraging habitat within one-half mile of the project area were performed in May and August of 2007. No red-cockaded woodpeckers were observed or heard. During the surveys, it was discovered that much of the nesting habitat where the three clusters were found in the earlier survey,had been either clear cut or thinned and allowed to regenerate a thick understory. A.stand of old growth loblolly pine still remains in the southeast quadrant of the US 13-158 and NC 137 intersection; however, the understory is thick with invading hardwoods and its suitability as red-cockaded woodpecker nesting habitat has decreased. One relic nesting cavity was found in this stand. There is also a strip of older loblolly pines between SR 1200 and an agricultural field in the northeast quadrant of the intersection. One inactive nest cavity was found in this area, also. Since no red-cockaded woodpeckers or active cavities were observed within one-half mile of the project area and nesting habitat within the project area has decreased or been 19 appreciably degraded, it can be concluded that the project will not affect this endangered species. b. Federal Species of Concern/State Protected Species Federal Species of Concern (FSC) are not legally protected under the Endangered Species Act and are not subject to any of its provisions, including Section 7, until they are formally proposed or listed as Threatened or Endangered. Table 12 includes FSC species listed for Gates and Hertford Counties and their state classifications. Organisms that are listed as State Endangered (E), Threatened (T), or Special Concern (SC) on the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program List of Rare Plant and Animal Species are afforded state protection under the State Endangered Species Act and the North Carolina Plant Protection and Conservation Act of 1979. However, the level of protection given to state-listed species does not apply to NCDOT activities. TABLE 12 FEDERAL SPECIES OF CONCERN IN GATES AND HERTFORD COUNTIES Common Name Scientific Name Habitat NC Counties of Present Rank Occurrence American eel Anguilla rostrata Yes None Gates, Hertford Ammodramus henslowii Eastern Henslow's sparrow No SR Gates susurrans Black-throated green warbler Coastal Plain population) Dendroica virens waynei Yes SR Gates Rafinesque's big-eared bat Corynorhinus rafinesquii (Coastal Plain subspecies) macrotis Yes T Gates Southeastern m otis Myotis austrori arius Yes SC Gates Chowanoke crayfish Orconectes virginiensis Yes SC Hertford Grassleaf arrowhead Sagittaria weatherbiana Yes SR-T Gates Ponds ice Litsea aestivalis No SR-T Gates Raven's boxseed* Ludwigia ravenii Yes SR-T Gates Virginia least trillium Trillium pusillum var. Yes E Gates virginianum Sources: Franklin and Finnegan, eds., 2006; LeGrand et. al., eds., 2006 Key: T = Threatened, E = Endangered, SC = Special Concern, SR = Significantly Rare * indicates Historic Record No FSC species were observed during any of the site visits. The Natural Heritage Program has a recorded occurrence of grassleaf arrowhead within the project area, near the Chowan River bridge in Gates County; however, as it was recorded more than 50 years ago, this observation is considered historic. 4. Soils Information about soils in the project area is based on soils mapping for Hertford County (USDA 1984) and Gates County (USDA 1996). 20 TABLE 13 SOILS IN THE PROJECT AREA Soil Map Symbol Map Unit Name Hydric Slope % Drainage Class AaB Alaga sand Yes 0-5 Well drained BaA Ballahack loam Yes 0-2 Very poorly drained BnA Bladen loam Yes 0-2 Poorly drained CrA Craven fine sandy loam No 0-1 Moderately well drained CrB Craven fine sandy loam Yes 1-4 Moderately well drained CrD2 Craven fine sandy loam, eroded No 8-12 Moderately well drained DoA Dorovan mucky peat Yes 0-2 Very poorly drained ExA Exum very fine sandy loam Yes 0-2 Moderately well drained GoA Goldsboro fine sandy loam Yes 0-2 Moderately well drained LeA Lenoir loam Yes 0-2 Somewhat poorly drained LF Leaf loam Yes 0-2 Poorly drained Ln Lenoir loam Yes 0-2 Somewhat poorly drained LoA Leon sand Yes 0-2 Poorly drained LyA Lynchburg fine sandy loam Yes 0-2 Somewhat poorly drained PaA Pactolus sand Yes 0-3 Moderately well drained RaA Rains fine sandy loam Yes 0-2 Poorly drained RoA Roanoke loam Yes 0-2 Poorly drained Ud Udorthents, sandy No 0-6 Well drained WT Winton Yes 12 - 60 Moderately well drained B. Cultural Resources The proposed project is subject to North Carolina General Statute 121-12(a) and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Although no federal funds will be used for the construction of the proposed project, the project will require a permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers. Section 106 applies to federal permit areas along the project and requires federal agencies to take into account the effect of their undertakings (federally-funded, licensed, or permitted) on properties included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places and to afford the Advisory Council a reasonable opportunity to comment on such undertakings. 21 1. Historic Architectural Resources No properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places are located within the project area of potential effect (APE). One property, the Story Crossroads Historic District has been placed on the state study list and determined eligible for the National Register. The State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) requested a historic structures survey for the project area in a letter dated February 15, 2006 (see Appendix A). Since the lead Federal Agency is the US Army Corps of Engineers, NCDOT asked for input from the Corps of Engineers on the permit areas subject to cultural resources review. The Corps of Engineers recommended the entire project area for Section 106 survey in a letter dated July 26, 2007 (see Appendix A). NCDOT architectural historians surveyed the APE of the proposed project in 2006. As a result, two historic properties were identified as eligible for the National Register. They are the Story Family Farm and Cemetery. The properties are proposed to be included in the Story's Crossroads Historic District. The State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) concurred with these eligibility determinations by their letters dated January 16, 2009 and June 16, 2006 (see Appendix A). Figures 2 and 7 depict the historic district in the project area. At a meeting held on May 26, 2009, HPO and NCDOT agreed the project would have an adverse effect on the historic district. Construction of the project requires acquisition of right of way and easements and construction activities within the district's boundaries and impact the historic setting and contributing structures. The Corps of Engineers was informed about the adverse effect and did not disagree with the effects assessment. A memorandum of agreement to document the resolution of adverse effects will be completed prior to completion of the final environmental document for this project. 2. Archaeological Resources A preliminary archaeological background investigation of the project's area of potential effect was performed in order to assess the potential impacts of the project on archaeological resources. Two previously recorded archaeological sites exist in the vicinity of the project. Prior to completion of the final environmental document for this project, an intensive archaeological survey will be conducted to identify and evaluate all archaeological sites within the project limits, in accordance with 36 CFR Part 800. NCDOT will consult with the Office of State Archaeology to develop appropriate archaeological survey methodology prior to conducting this survey. 22 C. Farmland North Carolina Executive Order Number 96 requires all state agencies to consider the impact of land acquisition and construction projects on prime farmland soils, as designated by the US Natural Resources Conservation Service (MRCS). Land planned or zoned for urban development is not afforded the same level of preservation as rural, agricultural areas. A Farmland Conversion Rating Form (Form NRCS-CPA-106) has been completed for this project (see Appendix). Since this project received a total point value of less than 160 points on the form, this project falls below the NRCS minimum criteria and will not be evaluated further for farmland impacts. D. Social Effects 1. Neighborhoods/Communities The project area is composed of scattered residences, commercial properties and farms. 2. Relocation of Residences and Businesses All of the alternatives studied in detail for the proposed project will require the relocation of homes and businesses. Table 14 below presents relocations required for the project. TABLE 14 HOMES AND BUSINESSES TO BE RELOCATED Minority Owned or Total Occupied Homes 7 3 Businesses 5 1 Appendix B discusses the NCDOT Relocation Assistance Program and presents the relocation reports for the project alternatives. 3. Title VI Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, prohibits discrimination in federally assisted programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability. The project area, Hertford County and Gates County all had a higher percentage of minorities than North Carolina in 2000. The percentage of minorities within the project area (52.9 %) was somewhat lower than that of Hertford County (63.9 %), while it was somewhat higher than that of Gates County (41.5 %). 23 The project area had a lower percentage of people living below the poverty level (14.2%) than Hertford or Gates Counties (18.3% and 17.0% respectively) in 1999. The project area and the two counties all had a higher percentage of people living below the poverty level than North Carolina. Despite the fact that the percentage of minorities in the project area was substantially higher than in North Carolina as a whole, it was not out of line with the percentages in Hertford or Gates Counties, indicating that the project area does not have a disproportionately high minority population relative to the region. The percentage of people living below poverty is lower than in Hertford County and Gates County. It does not appear that there are specific low-income populations or communities in the project area. Although over 50% of the project area is minority, only 43% of the homes and 25% of the businesses to be relocated by the project are minority-owned or occupied. A citizens informational workshop was held for the project on September 11, 2006 (see Section VI-A). This workshop was advertised in local newspapers and newsletters announcing the workshop were mailed to area property owners. A public hearing will be held for this project following distribution of this document. This hearing will be advertised in local newspapers and newsletters announcing the hearing will be mailed to area residents. Citizen comments will be taken into consideration in the selection of the preferred alternative. Through the public involvement program, citizens have been kept informed of the proposed project. Citizen comments have been considered in the development of the project, without regard to the race, color, national origin, age, sex or disability of the commenter. This project is being implemented in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. 4. Recreational Facilities The Chowan Swamp Game Lands are located along the Chowan River, adjacent to US 13-158. These game lands are owned by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, and are open for hunting, fishing, paddling and other recreational uses. Public boat access and parking are located south of US 13-158 on the east side of the Chowan River at the end of SR 1211 (Shoups Landing Road). 5. Other Public Facilities and Services No schools, fire stations, post offices or other public facilities are located along US 13-158 in the project area. 24 E. Economic Effects A widened roadway may make it more likely that new businesses could appear at key intersections along US 13-158; however, large-scale growth is not anticipated. Relatively long distances to major urban centers, lack of public sewer service, and sluggish population growth limits the opportunity for large-scale growth as a result of the project. Most economic effects will be related to the construction of the new road, which could help the economy temporarily by creating local jobs. Businesses along the corridor may be temporarily affected by reduced visibility or access due to construction activities. Access to all properties along the project will be maintained during construction. Additionally, four businesses and/or community facilities may need to be relocated due to the widening of the roadway. F. Land Use 1. Existing Land Use and Zoning Much of the land surrounding US 13-158 in the project area is wooded, with scattered homes and agricultural fields. A few businesses are located along the roadway, as well. Several active and vacant commercial buildings are located at Tarheel. The Chowan Swamp Game Land is located along both sides of US 13-158 on the east side of the Chowan River. 2. Future Land Use The Hertford County CAMA Land Use Plan was adopted in 1997. The plan includes recommendations to maintain existing land use patterns. The plan established several goals relating to natural resource protection, management of resources, economic and community development, and continuing public involvement. This plan also lists several potential constraints and issues for potential future development within Hertford County, including soils (due to wetland issues and poor suitability for septic systems) and water quality issues related to storm water runoff. According to the plan, the majority of the project area in Hertford County is classified as "rural with services", while Winton fell into the "municipal jurisdiction" classification. The plan identified environmentally sensitive areas designated Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC). Lands that are within public trust AECs (including the Chowan River) are subject to the issuance of minor CAMA permits for construction activities. Development is limited in the undeveloped forestlands within 75 feet of the Chowan River. Developments in these areas are also required to obtain CAMA permits from the County. The Gates County CAMA Core Land Use Plan Update (2003-2004) was adopted in 2005 by Gates County and the Coastal Resources Commission. The policies, objectives and future land use map included in the document help to guide the County's decisions about land use and development. The vision statement included in the document indicates that Gates County desires to remain a "slow paced, rural area" by balancing residential and commercial 25 uses, protecting the natural environment and discouraging strip development along state-maintained roads. According to the land use plan, land uses are divided into six different categories: Developed and hr-fill Development Areas, Growth and Town-Like Transition Areas, Limited Growth and Transition Areas, Community Areas, Rural Areas, and Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation Areas. A majority of the project area falls within the Rural and Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation area designations. Two Community Areas, or crossroads communities designated for low density development with some sort of commercial, public or semi-public use as a focal point, exist along the project. These areas are Storys (near the intersection of NC 137 and Sandbank Road), and Tarheel near the northern US 158 intersection. Limited Growth and Transition Areas are shown along US 13-158 between SR 1201 (Tinkham Road) and Tarheel. Limited Growth and Transition Areas are defined in the Gates County Future Land Use Map as areas on the fringes of Growth and Town-like Transition Areas, or on the fringes of Developed and In-fill Development Areas or Community Areas. Low density residential and/or commercial developments are likely to occur in these areas. 3. Project Compatibility with Local Plans This project is generally consistent with existing local land use plans. G. Indirect and Cumulative Effects This project is one of several highway projects planned for US 13 and US 158 in the area (see Section II-B-1-g). A cumulative effect of these projects is that traffic flow and travel time through the region will be improved. Table 15 below presents the estimated environmental effects of these other projects in the area. 26 TABLE 15 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF ADJACENT PROJECTS TIP Project TIP Project TIP Projects TIP Project R-2583 R-2205 R-2507 B and C R-2578 (US 158 from (US 13 Ahoskie (US 13 from US (US 158 from Murfreesboro Bypass from NC 158 at Tarheel to 'US 13 at Tarheel Bypass to 42 to US 158 the Virginia to NC 32)** US 13) near Winton) State Line) Detailed Environmental Surveys Yes No No No Complete? Homes Relocated 19 31-44* 54 N/A Businesses Relocated 2 4-8* 3 N/A Wetlands Affected 4.8 24-44* 74.5 N/A (Acres) (NWI) . Streams Affected (Feet) 1,890 2,765-5,002* N/A N/A No. of Historic Properties 0 0 3 N/A Affected Forested Land Affected 26 N/A N/A N/A (Acres) Project Length 8.1 miles 13.5-18.7* 8.9 miles 15 miles N/A - Not available. *Range of impacts of alternatives selected for detailed study. Detailed environmental surveys have not been completed for R-2205. **Project is currently unfunded. It is expected that the cumulative environmental effect of these projects will be limited to the sum of each project's individual effects. It is not expected that the projects will have a synergistic effect which would increase the overall cumulative effect beyond each project's direct effects. H. Flood Hazard Evaluation Hertford and Gates Counties are both participants in the National Flood Insurance Regular Program. The Chowan River and Buckhorn Creek/Run Swamp crossings are both located within a special 100-year flood hazard zone which is within a limited detailed flood 27 study reach, having a regulated 100-year non-encroachment width regulated as a floodway. The proposed bridges will provide equivalent or greater conveyance than that of the existing bridges. Figure 8 shows the approximate limits of the 100-year floodplain for streams in the project area. NCDOT will coordinate with the Floodplain Mapping Program (FMP), the delegated state agency for administering FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program, to determine whether the Memorandum of Agreement between NCDOT and the FMP is applicable or if approval of a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) and subsequent final Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) will be required. This project involves construction activities on or adjacent to a FEMA-regulated stream. Therefore, NCDOT Division One shall submit sealed as-built construction plans to the Hydraulics Unit upon completion of project construction, certifying that the drainage structures and roadway embankment that are located within the 100-year floodplain were built as shown in the construction plans, both horizontally and vertically. I. Traffic Noise Analvsis Traffic noise impacts were determined from the current procedures for the abatement of highway traffic noise and construction noise found in Title 23 CFR 772, which also includes provisions for traffic noise abatement measures. When traffic noise impacts are predicted, examination and evaluation of alternative noise abatement measures must be considered for reducing or eliminating these impacts. A copy of the unabridged version of the full technical report entitled Highway Traffic Noise/Construction Noise Analysis can be viewed in the Transportation Building, I South Wilmington Street, Raleigh. 1. Traffic Noise Impacts and Noise Contours The maximum number of receptors predicted to become impacted by future traffic noise is shown in Table 16 below. The table includes those receptors expected to experience traffic noise impacts by either approaching or exceeding the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria or by a substantial increase in exterior noise levels. TABLE 16 PREDICTED TRAFFIC NOISE IMPACTS BY ALTERNATIVE* Alternative Homes Impacted Business Impacted No Build 14 0 Widening 9 0 *Per TNM''2.1 and in accordance with 23 CFR Part 772 The maximum extent of the 72 and 67 dBA noise level contours measured from the center of the proposed roadway are 78.5 feet and 141.3 feet, respectively. 28 2. Noise Abatement Alternatives Measures for reducing or eliminating traffic noise impacts were considered for all impacted receptors in each alternative. Noise abatement measures evaluated include highway alignment changes, traffic system management measures, buffer acquisition and noise barriers. For each of these measures, benefits versus costs, engineering feasibility, effectiveness and practicability, land use issues and other factors were considered. Benefits versus costs are evaluated based on cost per benefitted receptor. The cost of noise abatement is considered reasonable if it does not exceed $35,000 per benefited receptor plus an incremental increase of $500 per dBA average increase in the predicted exterior noise levels of the impacted receptors in the area. a. Traffic System Management Measures Traffic system management measures are not considered viable for noise abatement due to the negative impact they would have on the capacity and level of service of the proposed roadway. b. Highway Alignment Changes Substantially changing the highway alignment to minimize noise impacts is not considered to be.a viable option for this project due to engineering and environmental factors. c. Buffer Acquisition Costs to acquire buffer zones for impacted receptors will exceed the NCDOT abatement cost threshold. Therefore, this abatement measure is unreasonable. d. Noise Barriers Noise barriers include three basic types: vegetative barriers, earthen berms and noise walls. These structures act to diffract, absorb and reflect highway traffic noise. For this project, the cost of acquiring additional right of way and planting sufficient vegetation is estimated to exceed the NCDOT abatement threshold. Also, for this project, earthen berms are not viable abatement measures because the additional right of way, materials and construction costs are estimated to exceed the NCDOT abatement cost threshold. This project will maintain partial control of access, meaning that most commercial establishments and residences will have direct access connections to the proposed project, and all intersections will be at-grade. Businesses, churches and other related establishments require accessibility and high visibility. Noise barriers do not allow uncontrolled access, easy accessibility or high visibility, and would therefore not be acceptable abatement measures for this project. 29 3. Summary Based on this preliminary study, traffic noise abatement is not recommended and no noise abatement measures are proposed. This evaluation completes the highway traffic noise requirements of Title 23 CFR Part 772. No additional noise analysis will be performed for this project unless warranted by a substantial change in the project scope, vehicle capacity or alignment. In accordance with NCDOT Traffic Noise Abatement Policy, the Federal/State governments are not responsible for providing noise abatement measures for new development for which building permits are issued after the Date of Public Knowledge. The Date of Public Knowledge of the proposed highway project will be the approval date of the State Finding of No Significant Impact (SFONSI). For development occurring after this date, local governing bodies are responsible for insuring noise compatible designs are utilized along the proposed facility. J. Air Quality Analysis 1. Project Air Quality Effects This project is located in Hertford and Gates Counties, both of which have been determined to comply with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. The proposed project is located in attainment areas; therefore, 40 CFR Parts 51 and 93 are not applicable. This project is not anticipated to create any adverse effects on the air quality of this attainment area. 2. Mobile Source Air Tonics Mobile source air toxics (MSATs) are a subset of the 188 air toxics defined by the Clean Air Act. MSATs are compounds emitted by highway vehicles and non-road equipment. This document includes a basic analysis of the likely MSAT emission impacts of this project. However, project specific health effects of the emission changes associated with the project alternatives cannot be predicted with available technical tools. Evaluating the environmental and health impacts from MSATs on a proposed highway project would involve several key elements, including emissions modeling, dispersion modeling in order to estimate ambient concentrations resulting from the estimated emissions, exposure modeling in order to estimate human exposure to the estimated concentrations, and then final determination of health impacts based on the estimated exposure. Each of these steps is encumbered by technical shortcomings or uncertain science that prevent a more complete detenmination of the MSAT health impacts of the proposed project. Research into the health impacts of MSATs is ongoing. 30 For each alternative, the amount of MSATs emitted is proportional to the vehicle miles traveled (VMT), assuming other variables such as fleet mix are the same for each alternative. The VMT estimated for each of the detailed study alternatives will likely be higher than that for the no-build alternative, because the additional capacity provided by the project increases the efficiency of the roadway and attracts rerouted trips from elsewhere in the transportation network. The increased VMT would lead to higher MSAT emissions for the action alternative along the highway corridor, along with a corresponding decrease in MSAT emissions along other routes. The emissions increase is offset somewhat by lower MSAT emission rates due to increased speeds. According to EPA's MOBILE6 emissions model, emissions of all of the priority MSATs except for diesel particulate matter decrease as speed increases. The extent to which these speed-related emissions decreases will offset VMT-related emissions increases cannot be reliably predicted due to the inherent deficiencies of technical models. Because the estimated VMT for each of the alternatives is nearly the same, it is expected there would be no appreciable difference in overall MSAT emissions among the various alternatives. Also, regardless of the alternative chosen, emissions in the design year will likely be lower than present levels as a result of EPA's national control programs that are projected to reduce MSAT emissions by 57 to 87 percent between 2000 and 2020. Local conditions may differ from these national projections in terms of fleet mix and turnover, VMT growth rates and local control measures. However, the magnitude of the EPA- projected reductions is so great (even after accounting for VMT growth) that MSAT emissions in the.study area are likely to be lower in the future in nearly all cases. 3. Construction Air Quality Effects During construction of the proposed project, all materials resulting from clearing and grubbing, demolition or other operations will be removed from the project, burned or otherwise disposed of by the Contractor. Also during construction, measures will be taken to reduce the dust generated by construction when the control of dust is necessary for the protection and comfort of motorists or area residents. 4. Summary This evaluation completes the assessment requirements for air quality of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments, and no additional reports are necessary. The complete project Air Quality Analysis is available for review in the Transportation Building, I South Wilmington Street, Raleigh. K. Hazardous Materials Six sites potentially containing underground storage tanks (UST) were found to exist in the project limits. There is the possibility unregulated USTs may exist within the proposed right of way limits. No landfills were identified within the project limits. There is one unregulated junkyard and one automotive repair facility within the project limits. A preliminary site assessment will be performed on sites containing USTs or other potentially contaminated sites prior to right of way acquisition. 31 VI. COMMENTS AND COORDINATION A. Citizens Informational Workshop A citizens informational workshop for the subject project was held on September 11, 2006, in the Hertford County Cooperative Extension Office in Winton. Approximately 45 citizens attended. Maps showing the project were displayed and NCDOT staff were available to answer questions and receive comments regarding the project. Comment sheets were provided for citizens to write down their questions or remarks. Few people attending the workshop were opposed to the project. Most of the comments made were concerning the project's effect on individual properties. Several attendees were concerned about the project being presented to the public and not being built. A previous workshop was held in February 1992. Comments and concerns of citizens have been taken into consideration during the development of alternatives for the proposed widening. B. Public Hearing A public hearing for this project will be held following distribution of this document. Comments received at the public hearing will be taken into consideration as project development continues. C. NEPA/404 Merger Process This project has followed the NEPA/404 merger process. The merger process is an interagency procedure integrating the regulatory requirements of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act into the National Environmental Policy Act or State Environmental Policy Act decision-making processes. 32 Representatives of the US Army Corps of Engineers and NCDOT served as co-chairs for the merger team. The following agencies also participated on the NEPA/404 merger team for this project: US Fish and Wildlife Service US. Environmental Protection Agency National Marine Fisheries Service NC Department of Cultural Resources NC Division of Marine Fisheries NC Division of Water Quality NC Wildlife Resources Commission NC Division of Coastal Management The merger team has concurred on the purpose and need, alternatives to be studied in detail and wetlands/streams to be bridged. The merger team will select the least environmentally damaging preferred alternative for the project following the public hearing. The team will also concur on further avoidance and minimization measures for the project. D. Agency Coordination NCDOT has coordinated with appropriate federal, state, and local agencies throughout the project planning study. Comments on the project have been requested from the agencies listed below. Asterisks indicate a response was received. Copies of the comments received are included in Appendix A. U.S. Department of the Army - Corps of Engineers (Wilmington District) U.S. Coast Guard (Fifth District) * U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Raleigh U.S. Geological Survey - Raleigh * N.C. Department of Administration - State Clearinghouse N.C. Department of Crime Control and Public Safety * N.C. Department of Cultural Resources * N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources N.C. Department of Human Resources N.C. Department of Public Instruction Hertford County * Gates County Peanut Belt Rural Planning Organization Town of Winton 33 FES ' ?'2ttGB Ady,26, 2007 Kpgttlatory, Div isiott SUB) EC:T :lcilcm In?HOOP.)JX11.2dot2h{:aroiinaDepartnlc•ntofTrapsportationPrnject.R- ?507:v. Hertford and Gate's Counties; %Videni g ail ImproveinentS to L.TS 1 3 Pi' in' :7S 105 liear Winton to CIS 155 niTa hcel;.State Project - i5455 Renee G!ediiill- six C obrdinntor North Carolinaff..istoric-Preservation Ofiice 4617-MaiI Senicc Center R2 Icigh NC; 27699-46:17 f)Lar?\ns. Cledhill=Larlea; By IU:er.daMi.Jamta 291 2007; we received -a request from the%!N6Flh Carolina Depampent of Transportation to define the undctta6in'J and t.stablirh the Are.t(sj oftPotential Effcets (APE) .ni' permit area for both lttslo is striictures'tlnd .rcL•iieofo_>y fora proposed milli-lane improvement of 11S I i from`US 158 near Winton to US 15s in Tancccl. Heliford and,Gates Sides, the plojot does net utilize-fedcrel fulids the Coius of Lngirnu; will Sere as;ilie. leach,( ecletal agency wt }i rt4pc?Liii comphttj:ce witit Seaton 106 of the Ttiauotl tl HistJaic 1'rc^SBI WtlJn`.1e1 ;i ECCtioil 4 '01 :herntii will be tequircd for ceilscntction:af 21? hi-DJ BCt 'Ia iiC; utid' ti l} ina will Consist of the discharge cfFtll that trial into nuiii tons tJ,3 cs oFtile `Unitezl S#ntes Ltlron<?hcart [t e:corridor-: Based on our rec t te,of the available it'f6rtnationwe llav.- detcmltne t 14t11 the Petailn Arca Ors dclined in Appendix C ofoiit tec«Ia(ioits v .-ill he the eiitir_' coritr elto.l ccrtFdor'fruiit the heiiming todLe end of the R-lid? \ ptojtct.antl extend to tile, limits otthc right of iya; a1Jn?, U is disc trace. A mao-is attachcil for.pourre r6:iexv,, Plea that as fiaaLdeign has t of been coin Itcteci,for this pr jest o}irdetcnintiation.ofl:uilen kinv imii Perm t 1t ea are based solely on 'the in fot rntinn .ve received From t\CbCa'C !''rchinin+r?^'coiisitltation bet 3e?•n Ci.)OT i1nd the State Historic Preservation C)lfcc (STIPC?) lias?occurred [or this prt?ject. Based on your 1-cbruary 15, 20M nlemdri if3dum to \CD0`f,;pqu dcterniined that 6p olect area historic struetures.Sut,ev is put of dale and theretorc recofnmcucleii-a new,arch'Iectural sun^cv'bc conducted For the I'rojecrarca. AtIilc,youirr memorandum identifedseveral arch cR .. toaF,czl utcs-bas?d on the 1994 t'epotl bZ' IZoEiinion entit led "Artllae6ltrgictl Study; Widening of US 1' Conn SR 14 1 in Hertford =COLHI ..ut the ?titginia State line in Gaston ("ounw.'L1P ' RZ)S07; by copy ofthk letter. ,?e are requesting, dint \TCi )n`I pr6cldc tuc results 01 *2 ne,v itrchiieciui tl s.trvcy pursuata io VOur febnt tr}° ! i', 2006 utentorandunt so that we,tnay make t pr.lintin u. dcterntinati n if any prop rhz, lined, or eligible for listing btt, [lie NTRER niav be iiiipacLed y-thc'propos6d'pr6joct Yrc eitit{t, un?tiiowii arch uloeical s6ienti6c prcliistoric, or hisu heal mtat t map be located within the project area an(Vor COUM he affected LW Llle.prppo;ed ago k. hia-]ditidn. iii an e reyit 'sting dial uit gru Tile tts tvttlt any, addirional tutor atibn you m by regarding the pfczcnce of ar'chacoloeical resources. as defined in CFP? Part SK located in or nt he ?vicinity of. (h pemtitarea. as-.dzf lied above so that we may'fully ."0 1 bU o6lir.ttiolts Pur;itanI to Section 106 of the His'M ic_ l'rtcecrvatinn acct.. It-is requested,bat Yitiu respond by let:ar.vithin45?d ys. Ii ,idditibnal'stu-icti- studies are warrnrucda a re in 01' Illeititoitiiauun tCreived f_roiit V66 and iVCl ar, it ts: our intention to Pi:rther.:cpordiitaea with your otlfice in order to Iitlnll our -ohliQ:ti'ons in the Section 10.6 proc-Ss. If you have turthcr;qu?sttons,-please contact me'ai (2:52 1 j 975 61,6::_"c?Ecutirii 26. Sinccrc4v. 1t%illiai»'1t t?iddlccontc: 12eRulatory Project Mmager FnclOsurei C'copicS furnisher! (it.rbut ekI6suic) Nlr: Carl B. Geode Jr.,.PE: North Carulint I cpal-Lmeat ofTransjbonation FlUman Environment Unit I58 1l-lailScrvici Center RAeigh. Norib Carotin t 37699 1533. <7 United States,gD'e partment of the Interior j_ FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Raleigh Field Office Post Office Box 33726 Raleigh, North Carolina 27636-3726 January 18, 2006 Gregory J. Thorpe, Ph.D. North Carolina Department of Transportation Project Development and Environmental Analysis 1548 Mail Service Center Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1548 Dear Dr. Thorpe: This letter is in response to your request for comments from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) on the potential environmental effects of the proposed widening of US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel, Hertford and Gates Counties, North Carolina (TIP No. R- 2507A). These comments provide scoping information in accordance with provisions of the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16 U.S.C. 661-667d) and section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531-1543). Extensive forested wetlands exist along the existing US 13. Based on a January 4, 2006 field inspection by Service biologist Gary Jordan, it appears that some of the road widening could be accommodated by previously cleared right-of-way. However, substantial linear wetland impacts are still likely. Because of the value of the swamp forest to wildlife species, the Service is very concerned with the potential impacts. It appears that some of these impacts would occur within the Chowan Swamp Game Land. If these impacts are unavoidable, the Service recommends that compensatory mitigation options adjacent to the Chowan Swamp Game Land be explored. Strong consideration should be given to obtaining mitigation sites that could be transferred to the Game Land for protection and management in perpetuity. Another consideration regarding the Chowan Swamp is the significant number of black bears (Ursus anericanus) in the area. Widening US 13, to four lanes and potentially increasing the posted speed could lead to greater black bear mortality via road kill and increased direct, indirect and cumulative effects to bear habitat. Increased black bear road kill also translates to increased danger to the traveling public. The environmental analysis of the project must address the issue of black bears and means of avoiding and minimizing impacts to the species. If the environmental analysis determines (through animal collision data or through observation of black bear crossing points) that black bears are crossing the existing US 13 in significant numbers, consideration should be given to constructing large wildlife crossings. However, the flatness of the terrain and other considerations may limit the opportunity for such crossings. In addition to impacting habitat for black bears, many other forest species will likely be affected through the direct loss of forest habitat and through increased forest fragmentation. The effects of forest habitat fragmentation usually extend well beyond the project footprint and can lead to, local extirpation of forest interior species and wildlife species which require large home ranges or that travel extensive distances for all or part of their life. Roads often act as physical barriers to wildlife movement and/or cause significant wildlife mortality in the form of road killed animals. Forest fragmentation can lead to increased predation of some species and increased brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) parasitism of the nests of neotropical migrant birds. Habitat fragmentation also often facilitates invasive and/or nonnative species colonization of fragmented lands. For road improvement projects such as widening, realignment, bridge replacement and culvert replacement, the Service recommends the following general conservation measures to avoid or minimize environmental impacts to fish and wildlife resources: Wetland and forest impacts should be avoided and minimized to the maximal extent practical. Areas exhibiting high biodiversity or ecological value important to the watershed or region should be avoided. Proposed highway projects should be aligned along or adjacent to existing roadways,. utility corridors or other previously disturbed areas in order to minimize habitat loss and fragmentation. Highway shoulder and median widths should be reduced through wetland areas; 2. Crossings of streams and associated wetland systems should use existing crossings and/or occur on a bridge structure wherever feasible. Bridges should be long enough to allow for sufficient wildlife passage along stream corridors. Where bridging is not feasible, culvert structures that maintain natural water flow and hydraulic regimes without scouring or impeding fish and wildlife passage should be employed; Bridges and approaches should be designed to avoid any fill that will result in damming or constriction of the channel or flood plain. To the extent possible, piers and bents should be placed outside the bank-full width of the stream. If spanning the flood plain is not feasible, culverts should be installed in the flood plain portion of the approach to restore some of the hydrological functions of the flood plain and reduce high velocities of flood waters within the affected area; 4. Bridge designs should include provisions for roadbed and deck drainage to flow through a vegetated buffer prior to reaching the affected stream. This buffer should be large enough to alleviate any potential effects from run-off of storm water and pollutants;' 5. Off-site detours should be used rather than construction of temporary, on-site bridges. For projects requiring an on-site detour in wetlands or open water, such detours should be aligned along the side of the existing structure which has the least and/or least quality of fish and wildlife habitat. At the completion of construction, the detour area should be entirely removed and the impacted areas be planted with appropriate vegetation, including trees if necessary; 6. If unavoidable wetland or stream impacts are proposed, a plan for compensatory mitigation to offset unavoidable impacts should be provided early in the planning process. Opportunities to protect mitigation areas in perpetuity via conservation easements, land trusts or by other means should be explored at the outset; 7. Wherever appropriate, construction in sensitive areas should occur outside fish spawning and migratory bird nesting seasons. In waterways that may serve as travel corridors for fish, in-water work should be avoided during moratorium periods associated with migration, spawning and sensitive pre-adult life stages. The general moratorium period for anadromous fish is February 15 - June 30; and 8. Best Management Practices (BMP) for Construction and Maintenance Activities should be implemented. Section 7(a)(2) of the Endangered Species Act requires that all federal action agencies (or their designated non-federal representatives), in consultation with the Service, insure that any action federally authorized, funded, or carried out by such agencies is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any federally-listed threatened or endangered species. A biological assessment/evaluation may be prepared to fulfill the section 7(a)(2) requirement and will expedite the consultation process. To assist you, a county-by-county list of federally protected species known to occur in North Carolina and information on their life histories and habitats can be found on our web page at http://nc-es.fws.2ov/es/countyfr.htmi . The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program database indicates two relatively recent occurrences of the federally endangered red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) near the project area. If suitable habitat occurs within the project vicinity for this or any or federally listed species, surveys should be conducted to determine presence or absence of the species. For the red-cockaded woodpecker, the survey for cavity trees should extend out 0.5 mile from the project limits. If you determine that the proposed action may affect (i.e., likely to adversely affect or not likely to adversely affect) a listed species, you should notify this office with your determination, the results of your surveys, survey methodologies, and an analysis of the effects of the action on listed species, including consideration of direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, before conducting any activities that might affect the species. If you determine that the proposed action will have no effect (i.e., no beneficial or adverse, direct or indirect effect) on listed species, then you are not required to contact our office for concurrence. We reserve the right to review any federal permits that may be required for this project, at the public notice stage. Therefore, it is important that resource agency coordination occur early in the planning process in order to resolve any conflicts that may arise and minimize delays in project implementation. In addition to the above guidance, we recommend that the environmental documentation for this project include the following in sufficient detail to facilitate a thorough review of the action: 1. A clearly defined and detailed purpose acid need for the proposed project, supported by tabular data, if available, and including a discussion of the project's independent utility; A description of the proposed action with an analysis of all alternatives being considered, including the upgrading of existing roads and a "no action" alternative; A description of the fish and wildlife resources, and their habitats, within the project impact area that maybe directly or indirectly affected; The extent and acreage of waters of the U.S., including wetlands, that are to be impacted by filling, dredging, clearing, ditching, or draining. Acres of wetland impact should be differentiated by habitat type based on the wetland classification scheme of the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI). Wetland boundaries should be determined by using the 1987 Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual and verified by the U.S. Army Corps . of Engineers; The anticipated environmental impacts, both temporary and permanent, that would bt likely to occur as a direct result of the proposed project. The assessment should also include the extent to which the proposed project would result in secondary impacts to natural resources, and how this and similar projects contribute to cumulative adverse effects; Design features and construction techniques which would be employed to avoid or minimize impacts to fish and wildlife resources, both direct and indirect, and including fragmentation and direct loss of habitat; 7. Design features, construction techniques, or any other mitigation measures which would be employed at wetland crossings and stream channel relocations to avoid or minimize impacts to waters of the US; and, 8. If unavoidable wetland or stream impacts are proposed, project planning should include a compensatory mitigation plan for offsetting the unavoidable impacts. The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on this project. Please continue to advise us during the progression of the planning process, including your official determination of the impacts of this project. If you have any questions regarding our response, please contact Mr. Gary Jordan at (919) 856-4520, ext. 32. ices Supervisor cc: Bill Biddlecome, USAGE, Washington, NC Travis Wilson, NCWRC, Creedmoor, NC Chris Militscher, USEPA, Raleigh, NC Brian Wrenn, NCDWQ, Raleigh, NC e s Fn1F o ?7 North Carolina Department of Administration Michael F. Easley, Governor January 3, 2006 Mr. Jay McInnis NCDOT Transportation Building 1548 Mail Service Center Interoffice Dear Mr. McInnis: Gwynn T. Swinson, Secretary Subject: Scoring - Widening of US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel; TIP No. R-2507A The N. C. State Clearinghouse has received the above project for intergovernmental review. This project has been assigned State Application Number 06-E-4220-0209. Please use this number with all inquiries or correspondence with this office. Review of this project should be completed on or before 02/03/2006 . Should you have any questions, please call (919)807-2425. Sincerely, Ms. Cluys Baggett Environmental Policy Act Coordinator Mailing Address: Telephone: (919)807-2425 Location Address: 1301 Mail Service Center Fax (919)733-9571 116 West Jones Street Raleigh, NC 27699-1301 State Courier 95 1-01 -00 Raleigh, North Carolina e-mail: Chrys.Baggett©ncmail.net An Equal Opportune ylAffirmative Action Employer 5?tuc)"roj cr-; 6.079002T 7rf;r R-2507A C-c:o,_v: Hertford/Gates CONCURR::SVC P FORa7 FOR ASSFSS\ EN I' Oi? IT, I C-1'S Prn;.:cr t?csc,-iprio?r. Vviden US 13/158 to.a multi-lane facility with median from US 158 near Winton (Hertford County) to US 158 in Tarneel.(Gates County) - state funded, USACOE Permits' On flay 26, 2009 represent iiyrs of the x North 6a1-01imi Dep t-tr::cnt oi`I7ans>onmion (\CCD(Yl') ? redemlHighvayAdniii*.istratiaa(E'II1'??7 X_ Nortlt1-.:m Iina State Hisloric Mcscrvati0n Office (11110) ? other 1{<r:;c ercf Jte subject projc..t vu's agreed ? There;ir:; w ctft icts cin the Mo:6n,d ltcgistcr-listcd piopcnyipfopcnics located within the project's ::ea of po1cn:iA effccCiind listed on the rcversc. ? - f lie Z arena cltcrts nn the Nation it Kc,;isle n iblc Xopie p!properncs luc tied with:a the projcct'c s r:t OFpr Ic it:ii d'efC Lt ind listed OIL the reverse. - - ? There is an effect i:n thcVation2l 1{e3istcr-Id:<tcd prnpc t.'rritpeities located withill the pcolc i s area of patentf j cflect. The pr0pc „'pmncrttc s ah d the cffc<:I(s)ag listed On ihz rep ersc. Thcre is an eftect on the-Na:ional Ruf;is!er-clir;it±fe proltnrµ!prop::rties Iccited withic. the srojecl's ii-ca of{rotentril affect. The propc t} propcrtics t ;d cjTc(;t(,,) ;i c listed on the seacrse. Si<-,red: 4 h A ?_ l n t-? -D 9 Rcpra:scntntirc, n°C'DO'I' Da;e N IWA, flor the Division i Athni i .tratnr, or ollicr hcdcc.l Agency llirc fem. Rei?rescntnfi?r.; [?pO 'Stale HisionC-hrC?C^?'aeiOn Olltccr Datc Date i I S7a1ePr•q,cci 6.079002T 7YP=: R-2507A Coronly: Hertford/Gates i f rCi lErf e,5 kvithin Ill arc8 of pritcntia7l cl?cci for which -Lime is no efteCt- InCh.;ILe';i 11 'Q(e5!v is Natiotml Register-t_'sCCd (NR) or deice nmed eligible'(DR). Properics:within the atca of potential c.' ccE Cdr which ihcre is an eflext. tni c.rcprope ,? $Lulls 1:K,.gf Dh) and describe life. ef'icct. // 37 v a /5 J r, ?z.?/ve rse efr/e c?`?' / / ? Co'% .-Me?•'?9? {' a S 'ran STS l GfiLt? ICO XU E,YtGYAaG.GL /7w 016?1-f"1 Cyr?/?r?+Lile5 h ;17,'f c- >r,40#1'.4I/ 4c-Jlfri6ur/?q Rca,tion(s) wity iitc cficct is not nd%Fcrse (i`•npplicanlc), Initialcc NCDO V -,1 0 FilWA 1IP0 o n C?',?t 1 JJ Yx :3ch d F 's;ie?, 6,gv=,nd 100h '. T[ NI EN. 10 B9NDUM Norila Carolina Department of Cultural Resources SIAte Historic Preser%'ad011 Office csi B. 5^rdacc'; al:uur..;r_?n: .eccu 1 •u:rs:a?a ? I'C); C?rc:gtan' I-itorrr,. I'lta.; llirencs ! Proicr.t Dcvelop:oclit_anc r.1 1 virn1rtuo1 Ica] At,td. s:<',''ranch N(:I:)( 15ivi ion.oE 14EL:! wars FRONT: Peter Sandkck, ?Yi(ClJ tF ?" 1slt'( Ii:; r>t;e,8ichttcr'utal MEMO Find Idc:ir It : i?'ard F; al a6 n. E iS 1 Fro ra I. 5 i a$ ne WAn:on to US 158 1:7 K=_']h A, i:iaLwid? and I Hmv c.,t W is above. rcltelxnced u?urr. pr<<,>[cd b.,.- .-: na P:: % and lo'l'l-dLfivcial tutor office: n \tq>•,.nUcc 24, 2000. P: e ar Aof ze or we delay up r ffe.r: Or ;t ll„ t i 4; c;. stnien[s. %Vc c nkur'ccirh The report c ti:i: ngs that: The Store''' Crossroads HAtolir Ilistriet rs cl ble• is Ilse tg V the Abdunal-Reps= of Maude lWas, undukCAMc is C. The chgGI.. dim'icc SAM PrCpe;tt ''i S!01?? I .rrn :,'(-,A g ) ind C anti,;` 31 v vch are on the Mate RA I iq, as 'fell a< Prr I e ar i a h ,t . c ass- c:a.rd wi?l --he -'- ,,6t,i am- gyn. "1 l.ct `t ntnd ihe= of A Whir appca Tprapr.tte, We concur dt ai cit crlk;it inq tnnhc ui:v: arc rut eltt_I:ble fur l: u t : uor the rr iti )ns ,t rli irci in ttrerbpurt. Prop::. td ? -.1 f once I> njnny '- Flury 1:: P?roe IICUSe A( :\ 352) 1Cr Wo 1,ree.dm dwmd:crp Tc..,iics -it oohed in .he repel (< not ; ,pc : t.:.rtblc fur iisdnse nora::"rcm liriclnel 2,-1?'. lia ing uea: a tc rn? A, o Me c n ata'. hi Ih: font-e., plt asc. p t: i:ic c.iit+niW I+nungrap -,t roc c alnn,ed h_ e per'des, is ?t ,mgle Tl 3? r?y?;'sti z i ai?:' u,es not p ey jit ark. jimir in,r:nnanon for t .al. ng e .duhmis We woul i Ad at that you •, .r d n 2n.1 t., :tier -NUmby. 1u.':hc propi rdes a 1d,.e.aed I le ri'pe'r' : :is In h ng, tsi_at for „L•i.•t an further scud: WIRS rcconinicndcd. hmc vivid W Prcpurnc , :i, and ! n i c T WA c 9by rat Or Rj a e:.e lir c ded,? Plc rc nr7 icie ofd c repo[ ti.. is for,: ur The three cOmIrwnt_ ara,rt ec pc.:t.anr Sec o 106 or the \ar mm! l ieuvic Yr c ¢i ±n.\u ^znc he \r;isoR'. Council on 1 liStonc Pr"Cn31ic n S R< ggi:t* ,t.n AW c r t thMWC WIL11 Sccs.Cm P.M) codified rzt 36 CFR Tan 8(ii"j. . _Uv d. rut Or eoui.cmpcmhon cud Lew uh:: bu I u hn t amt t 'c-i ni the aboaL Lnitllt:ut?, ue.:;:: Rcn : G1.cdhll L: lec. nt cn?n^t7 .al ce';ie ct,rrt:di'la, t, .,t 91° `7-65-9. ]n all furlui- c t tinroicndon concur n j this p'oiecc, pheas cis the sho :. c uenud Hacking nornbcoz. _? 'Parr ??-irrllii , a\I 1)(i) Michael F. Easley, Governor Gsbeth C. Evans, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Deputy Secretary North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office Ptter B. Sandbeck, Untnistrator Office of Archives and History Division of Historical Resources David Brook, Director November 17, 2006 MEMORANDUM TO: Matthew T. Wilkerson NCDOT - Human Environment Unit FROM: Peter Sandbeck vs? i-?{/'as'dLO& SUBJECT: US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel, R-2507A, Hertford and Gates Counties, ER 06-0004 Thank you for your letter of October 30, 2006.. We have reviewed this project and offer the following comments. Based on our recent discussions with Paul Moler of your staff, we have reevaluated this project and our recommendations outlined in a letter of February 15, 2006. Given our present understanding of the project, sites 31 GA92**, a family cemetery associated with 31 GA92**, and 31 GA104** will not be adversely affected by the associated work.. We concur with these findings. Based on the current design plans, the NCDOT Archaeology Group reconunends no further work be conducted in regards to this project. We concur with this recommendation. The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-733-4763, ext. 246. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number. cc: Paul J. Mohler, NCDOT Lncatioo Mailing Address Telephone/Fax ADNENISTRATION 507 N. Blount Street, Raleigh NC 4617 Mad Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 (919)733-4763/733-8653 RESTORATION 515 N. Blount Sweet, Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 (919)733-6547/715-4801 SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. Blom Street, Raleigh, NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 (919)733-6545/715-4801 NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW MS RENEE GLEDHILL-EARLEY CLEARINGHOUSE COORD DEPT OF CUL RESOURCES ARCHIVES-HISTORY BLDG - MSC 5617 RALEIGH NC REVIEW DISTRIBUTION ALBEMARLE REG PLANNING COMM CC&PS - DEM, NFIP DEHNR - COASTAL MGT DENR LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS DEPT OF AGRICULTURE DEPT OF CUL RESOURCES DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION MID EAST COMMISSION STATE NUMBER: 06-E-4220-0209 F02 DATE RECEIVED: 01/03/2006 AGENCY RESPONSE: 01/30/2006 REVIEW CLOSED: 02/03/2006 ame1y) noo _ O? W A /?/L?G (j CLA S wr,. FES 2006 / PROJECT INFORMATION APPLICANT: NCDOT TYPE: State Environmental Policy Act ERD: Scoping DESC: Widening of US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 15B in Tarheel; TIP No. R-2507A The attached project has been submitted to the N. C. State Clearinghouse for intergovernmental review. Please review and submit your response by the above indicated date to 1301 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NO 27699-1301. If additional review time is needed, please contact this office at (919)807-2425. AS A RESULT OF THIS REVIEW THE FOLLOWING IS SUBMITTED: ? NO COMMENT COM S ATTACHED SIGNED BY: DATE: JAN 13 2000 JAN 0 ' ;_006 laenx H GHIRMIE North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources State Historic Preservation Office Peter B. Sandbeck, Administeator Michael F. Easley, Governor Lisbeth C. Evans, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Deputy Secretary February 15, 2006 MEMORANDUM Office of Archives and History Division of Historical Resources David Brook, Director TO: Gregory J. Thorpe NCDOT - Project Development and Analysis FROM: Peter Sandbeck SUBJECT: US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel, Hertford and Gates Counties, State Project 6.079002T, TIP Project R-2507A, ER 06-0004 Thank you for your Memorandum of December 22, 2005. We have reviewed this project and offer the following comments. We have reviewed the submitted material and find that the project area historic structures survey is out of date. The initial survey was conducted in 1994. Therefore, we are requesting a new architectural survey for the project area. Ken Robinson surveyed the US 13 corridor for archaeological resources at 1994. This survey was in association with proposed widening of this corridor. Several archaeological sites were recorded within the boundaries of the proposed project area. These sites include: 31GA42, 31GA61, 31GA92, 31GA93, 31GA95, 31GA101, 31GA102, 31GA103, and 31GA104. Information regarding these sites appears in a 1994 report by Robinson entitled: Archaeological Suudy: Widening of US13 From SR1451 in Hertford County to The Virginia State line in Gaston County, TIP #R-2507. This document is on file at the OSA as Bib. #3457. Of these, two sites (31 GA 104 and 31GA92) bear attention in regards to the presently proposed undertaking. Site 31GA104 is associated with the Henry Fletcher Parker House. Robinson recommended that an archaeological assessment would be needed in additional areas of the site in the event that NCDOT plans changed. We recommend that this site be evaluated once again for archaeological significance in light of the presently existing design plans. In the event that the present design plans depart from the 1994 originals we recommend that additional archaeological work be conducted within the updated APE. Site 31GA92 is the Story Family Cemetery and Farmstead. We recommend that this site be evaluated once again in terms of archaeological significance and in light of the presently existing design plans. In the event that the present design plans depart from the 1994 originals we recommend that additional archaeological work be conducted within the updated APE. We also recommend that any potential impacts to the associated family cemetery be evaluated by this study. ADMINISTRATION - 507 N, Blount Steeet, Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Seevice Cente,, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 RESTORATION 515 N. Blount Saecq Raleigh NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 SURVEY & PLANNING 515 N. Blount Street, Raleigh, NC 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 5-4801 5-4801 n The above comments are made pursuant to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Advisorv Council on Historic Preservation's Regulations for Compliance with Section 106 codified at 36 CFR Part 800. Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-733-4763. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number. cc: Chrys Baggett, State Clearinghouse Mary Pope Furr, NCDOT Matthew T. Wilkerson, NCDOT Jay McInnis, NCDOT it A NCDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross Jr., Secretary MEMORANDUM January 25, 2006 TO: Melba McGee (-PL FROM: Harry LeGrand, Natural Heritage Program ??? 2QQca SUBJECT: Widening of US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel; Gates and Hertford counties State Project 6.079002T, WBS Element 35488.1.1, TIP Project R-2507A REFERENCE: Project No. 06-0209 This project has the potential to slightly impact several natural areas, managed areas, and rare species. Our Program has records of one or two clusters of the Federally Endangered red- cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) in the vicinity of the community of Storys, where US 13/158 intersects NC 137. Consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Raleigh Field Office - will be needed, if not already done; a field survey likely will be required for the woodpecker and its habitat. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission's Chowan Swamp Game Land abuts US 13/158 on both sides for approximately 1.0 mile in the floodplain of the Chowan River in Gates County. Thus, it is important that NCDOT coordinate the project with NCWRC to minimize impacts to these State lands. These lands are part of the State-significant Chowan Swamp Natural Area, which extends for over a dozen miles along this river and includes lands owned by NCWRC and the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation (Chowan Swamp State Natural Area). A number of rare mussels - all of which are State Threatened, have been found in the Chowan River at the US 13/158 bridge. These are: tidewater mucket (Leptodea ochracea) eastern pondmussel (Ligumia nasuto) triangle floater (Alasmidonta undulata) eastern lampmussel (Lampsilis radiata radiata) 1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601 One Phone: 919-733-4984 • FAX: 919-715-3060 • Internet: www.enr stale.nc us NOIrthiC la+r7olina An Equal Opportunity - Affirmative Action Employer-50%Recycled •10% Post Consumer Paper _ Aah Kl[y Because of the populations of these species, our Program considers the Chowan River Aquatic Habitat to be a State-significant site. Thus, if there is a widening of the bridge over the river, it is essential that coordination with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission be done to avoid impacts to these rare mussels. Our Program also has an historic record (from 1958) of the grassleaf arrowhead (Sagittaria weatherbiana) from the Chowan River swamp at US 158. You may wish to check the Natural Heritage Program database website at <w,?vw.ncsparks.net/nhp/search.html> for a listing of rare plants and animals and significant natural communities in the county and on the topographic quad map. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 919-715-8697 if you have questions or need further information. DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH Inter-Agency Project Review Res-OD-4 7 ZOOS Project Name: Project # 06-0209 courity Hertford/Gates Type of Project: Proposed proiect is Comments provided by: Regional Program Person Regional Supervisor for Public Water Supply Section Central Office program person Name: Fred Hill/ Harry Bailey Telephone #: (252) 946-6481 Program within Division of Environmental Health: Date Rec'd: 1/25/06 Date Rev'd: 2/03/06 Public Water Supply El Other, Name of Progra Response (check all applicable): E No objection to project as proposed El No comment Insufficient information to complete review Comments attached See comments below The project has the potential to impact several public water systems distribution lines. The Public Water Systems that may be impacted are the Gates County Water System (PWS ID # 04-37-020) on the northern portion of the project area and the Town of Winton Water System (PWS ID# 04-46-020) on the southern portion. Plans and specifications must be submitted to the Public Water Supply Plan Review Section prior to construction if any modifications occur to the distribution systems. Return to : Public Water Supply Section Environmental Review Coordinator for the Division of Environmental Health Cl-- raw State of North Carolina Reviewing Office: NCDENR Department of Environment and Natural Resources ??jj..__//yy2??? Project Number: Due Date: L 13 U INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW - PROJECT COMMENTS After review of this project it has been determined that the DENR permit(s) and/or approvals indicated may need to be obtained in orderfor this project to comply with North Carolina Law. Questions regarding these permitsshould be addressed to the Regional Office indicated on the reverse of this form. All applications, information and guidelines relative to these plans and permits are available from the same Regional Office. PERMITS I Normal Process Time SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURE or REQUIREMENTS (StatutoryTime Limit) ? Permitto construct&operate wastewater treatment Application 90 days before begin construction or award ofconstnrction rence usual f i l h 30 days facilities, sewer system extensions & sewer systems . con n ca e contracts. On-site inspection. Pon-application tec (90 days) not discharging into state surface waters. ? NPDES-permit to discharge into surface water and/or Application 180 days before begin activity. On-site inspection preapplication it to conswa wastewater treatment i ll b i - 90-120 days permit to operate and construct wastewater facilities n perm ona y, o ta conference usual. Addit l i (N/A) discharging into state surface waters. ans or ssue facility-granted after NPDE5. Reply time,30 days after receipt of p of NPDES permit-whichever is later, ? Water Use Permit - Preapplication technical conference usually necessary - 30 days IN/A) i Complete application must be received and permit issued prior to the 7days ? t Well Construction Perm installation of a well. (15 days) ? Dredge and Fill Permit Application copy must be served on each adjacent riparian property owner. On-site inspection. Preapplicatian conference usual- Filling may require Easement 55 days (90 days) _ to Fill from N,C. Department of Administration and Federal Dredg^ and Fill Permit ? Permit to construct & operate Air Pollution Abatement N/A 60 days facilities and/or Emission Sources as per 15 A NCAC 600 ) (2Q.0100,20.0300,21-1.0 Any open burning associated with suolect propoeai 'x °.- must be in compliance with 15 A NCAC 2D.1900 ry0 P? 700?y f N d Demolition or renovations ofstruaurescontaining liance with i b 60 days N/A n comp e asbestos material must 15 A NCAC 2D.1110 (a) (1) which requires notification I90 days) and removal prior to demolition. Contact Asbestos 919 . Control Group ? Complex Source Permit required under 15 A NCAC ZS7 b? ??2?` - . ZD.O800 y. An erasion &sedimentation tation Pollution Control Act of 1973 must be properly addressed for any land disturbing aaiv i 20 days ?I men The Sed d control plan will be requited if one or more acres to be disturbe. Plan filed with proper Regional Off¢e !land Quality SeRicn; at leis; 30 (30 days) days before beginning activity. A fee of S50 for the first acre or any part of an acre. The Sedimentarion Pollu(ion Control ACt of 1973 must he addressed with respect to the referenced Local Ordinance. - 30days n and erosion control must be addressed in accordance with NCDOTs approved program. Particular attention should be i ? o Sedimggmat iven 15 design and installation of appropriate perimeter sediment trapping devices as well as stable starmvater conveyancas and outlets. g ? Permit On-site inspection usual. Surety bond fled with DENR Bondamoum varies with Minin th n i d s 30 da g cr=ater a ne type mine and number of acres of affected land. Any are m y one acre must be permitted. The appropriate bond must be received before (60 days) the permit can be issued North Carolina Burning permit I On-site inspection by N.C. Division of Forest Resources if perch exceeds S days I Iday (N/A) Special Ground Clearance Burning Permit-22 counties I On-site inspection by N.CDivision of Forest Resource; requires `"r.--more tan five I 1day in coastal N.Cwith organic. soils. acres of ground clearing activities are involved Irup^:rions should be requested (N/A) at least ten days before actual burn is planned.' N/A I 90.120 days n n,i oafi ninn Facilities (N/A) ? Dam Safety P?ermit 13 ? Permit to dill I exploratory oil or gas well Geophysical Exploration Permit State Lakes Construction Permit 401 Water Quality Certification CAMA Permit for MAJOR development CAMA Permit for MINOR development Abandonment of any wells, if required must be in accordance with Title 15A. Subchapter X.0100, SPECIAL APPLICATION PROCEDURES or REQUIREMENTS 1by mit required, application 60 days before begin con=cd hire N.C. qualified engineer to: prepare la °n. Applicant ruction is according to DENR a p ??? CD???On ce?fY rmh txtder uito control program, and a 404 per m¢ Go 2M May also Corps of Engineers. pection of site is necessary to verify Hazard Classification A min imum $200.00 must accompany the application, An additional processing fee on a percentage or the total proiect cost will be required upon completion. rety bond of $5,000 with DENR running to State of NC conditional that any pened by drill operator shall, upen abandonment. be plugged according NR rules and regulations. ation filed with DENR at least l0 days prior to issue orpennit Application er. No standard application form Several geodetic monuments are located in or near the project area. If any monument needs to be moved or destroyed, please notify: N.C.Geodetic Survey, Box 27687 Raleigh, N.C. 27611 Normal Process Tim Statuto= Lm, 30 days (50 days) 10 days (N/A) 10 days (N/A) 15 - 20 days (N/A) 55 days (130 days) 60 days (130 days) 2222 d (25 days) Notification of the proper regional office is requested if "Orphan' under Compliance with 1 ground storage tanks (LISTS) are discovered during any excavation cparation. 5A NCgC ZH 1000 (Coastal Stormwater Rules) is required. Othermmments (attach additional pages as necessarybeing certain to cite comment authority) 59 Woodfin Place Asheville, N.C.28801 (828) 251-6208 45 days (N/A) REGIONAL OFFICES Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to the Regional office marked below. ? Asheville Regional Office ? Mooresville R ? Fayetteville Reg'io'nal Off ce 225 Green Street, Suite 714 Fayetteville, N.C.28301 (910) 486-1541 Application fees based on structure size is charged. Must include descriptions & drawings of structure & proof of ownership of riparian property. N/A $250.00 fee must accompany application $50.00 fee must accompany application eglonaloffice 919 North Main Street Mooresville, N.C.28115 (704) 663-1699 ? Wilmington Regional Office 127 Cardinal Drive Exterl;ion Wilmington, N.C.28405 (910) 395-3900 Raleigh Regional Office 3800 El Winston-Salem Regional Office Barrett Drive, P.O. Box 27687 Raleigh, N.C.27611 585 Waughtown Street Winston-Salem, N.C.27107 (919) 57 i -4700 (336) 771-4600 ? Washington Regional Office 943 Washington Square Mall Washington, N1C.27889 r'o- Department of Em'ironmznt and I.- North Carolina ?? Natural Resources FOREDivision of Forest Resources SERVICE NCDENR Michael F. Easley, Governor N (? Stanford M. Adams, Director 1, v \Gilhim G. Ross Jr., Secretary 2411 Old US 70 West Clayton, NC 27520 January 13, 2006 1 FEB 2006 lr tt'e?°? .;i MEMORA !)EM TO: Melba McGee, Office of Legislative Affairs FROM: Bill Pickens, NC Division Forest Resources! Gxr? SUBJECT: DOT Scoping for Widening US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarhell in Gates and Hertford Counties PROJECT #: 06-0209 and TIP # R-207A The North Carolina Division of Forest Resources has reviewed the referenced Scoping document and submits the following con nients conceming impacts to woodlands to address in the EA. 1. List, by timber type, the total forest land acreage that is removed or taken out of forest production as a result of the project so that we can evaluate construction impact. If no impacts will occur, please state so in the document. The widening of an existing roadway usually has fewer impacts to forest resources than a new location project. Additionally, efforts should be made to align corridors to minimize impacts to woodlands in the following order of priority: • Managed, high site index woodland • Productive forested woodlands • Managed, lower site index woodlands • Unique forest ecosystems • Unmanaged, fully stocked woodlands • Unmanaged, cutover woodlands • Urban woodlands 3. The EA should include a summary of the potential productivity of the forest stands affected by the proposed project. Potential productivity is quantified by the soil series, and is found in the USDA Soil Survey for the county involved. 4. The provisions the contractor will take to utilize the merchantable timber removed during . construction. Emphasis should be on selling all wood products. However, if the wood products cannot be sold then efforts should be made to haul off the material or turn it into mulch with a tub grinder. This practice will minimize the need for debris burning, and the risk of escaped fires and smoke management problems to residences, highways, schools, and towns. 1616 Mail Service Center, Ralei,h, North Carolinn 27699-1601 Phone: 919 - 733-2162 \ FAX: 919 - 733-0135 \ Internet: tcti\a}..drr,sl;llc.nc.us AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY \ AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER - 50V RECYCLED / 10% POST 5_ If woodland burning is needed, the contractor must comply with the laws and regulations of open burning as covered under G.S. 113-60.21 through G.S. 113-60.31. Gates and Pasquotank Counties are classified as high hazard counties, and G.S. 113-60.23 requiring a special burning pernvt would apply. This permit is issued by the local Forest Service Ranger 6. The provisions that the contractor will take to prevent erosion and damage to forestland outside the right-of-way. Trees, particularly the root system, can be permanently damaged by heavy equipment. Efforts should be to avoid skinning of the tree trunk, compacting the soil, adding layers of 511, exposing the root system, or spilling petroleum or other substances. 7. The impact upon any existing greenways in the proposed project area should be addressed. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the proposed project, and encourage the impact on our forestland be considered during the planning process. Contact me at 919-553-6178 x 233 or by email at bill.pickens@ncmail.net. cc: Barry New NC©ENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Michael F. Easley, Governor Division of Marine Fisheries Preston P. Pate Jr., Director William G. Ross Jr., Secretary MEMORANDUM: • TO: Jay McInnis, NCDOT Project Engineer FROM: Sara E. Winslow, Northern District Managerx4/) SUBJECT: US 13/US158 - Winton/Tarheel, Hertford and Gates Counties, TIP Project R-2507A DATE: January 6, 2006 The North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries provides the following comments relative to the proposed widening of US 13/158 in Hertford and Gates Counties. Chowan River is a documented spawning and nursery area for alewife, blueback herring, American shad, hickory shad and striped bass. Resident species, such as white perch, yellow perch, and catfishes also utilize the area as a spawning and nursery area. This agency would request an in-water construction moratorium from February 15 through September 30. However, depending on proposed construction methods the time period may be modified. The moratorium will ensure the environmental integrity of the area is protected during critical times of usage by the above mentioned species. A large portion of the project area is wetlands. The Division would be concerned with loss and/or impacts to these wetlands. Mitigation should be proposed for associated wetland impacts. There are currently several bridges over small creeks/tributaries in the project area. The Division would recommend that these areas remain bridges. This agency would like to participate in the scoping meeting for this project. If you have any questions you can contact me (252-264-3911). 1367 U.S. 17 South, Elizabeth City, North Carolina 27909 one North Qarolina Phone: 252 264-3911 1 FAX: 252 264-37231 Internet ?r?ww.ncdmf.net NatiaallIy North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division of Soil and Water Conservation Michael F. Easley, Governor William G. Ross Jr., Secretary Manly S. Wilder, Director lk 11 1, Irf B 2006 MEMORANDUM: t e a;;/rte 'r TO: Melba McGee FROM: David Harrison A ? A NCDENR January 25, 2006 SUBJECT: US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tar Heel, Gates And Hertford Counties. Project # 06-0209. The NC Department of Transportation is proposing improvements to US 13 in Gates and Hertford Counties. If construction is restricted to existing right-of-ways, there should be no impact to Prime or Statewide Important Farmland. Any acquisition of additional right-of-ways for increase size, capacity or changes in approach could affect Prime or Statewide Important Farmland. In that case, the environmental assessment should include information on adverse impacts. The definition of Prime or Statewide Important Farmland is based on the soil series and not on its current land use. Areas that are developed or are within municipal boundaries are exempt from consideration as Prime or Important Farmland. For additional information, contact the soils specialists with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA, Raleigh, NC at (919) 873-2141. , 1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601 Phone: 919 - 733-4984 \ FAX: 919 - 715-3060 \ Internet: www.enr.state.nc.us/ENR/ AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY \ AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER - 50 % RECYCLED / 10% POST CONSUMER PAPER v ry O? QG r > _ y O Y MEMORANDUM William G. Ross Jr., Secretary North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Alan W. Klimek, P.E. Director Division of Water Quality January 20, 2006 To: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator, Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs From: Brian L. Wrenn, Transportation Permitting Unit, NCDWQ ? Subject: Request for Scoping Comments for the Proposed Widening of US 13 from US 158 in Hertford County to US 158 in Gates County, State Project No. 6.079002T, WBS Element 35488.1.1, TIP Project No. R-2507A, State Clearinghouse Project No. 06-0209. This office has reviewed the referenced document. The Division of Water Quality (DWQ) is responsible for the issuance of the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for activities that impact Waters of the U.S., including wetlands. Based on a preliminary review of the project study area, tributaries, wetlands and riparian buffers associated with the following named streams could be impacted by the proposed . project: Stream Name River Basin Stream Classification Stream Index Number Folley Branch Chowan C; NSW 2545 Chowan River Chowan B; NSW 25 Buckhorn Creek Chowan C; NSW 25-2 DWQ has the following comments: Project Specific Comments: A large amount of riverine wetlands are located northeast of the Chowan River in the project study area. DOT should avoid and minimize impacts to these wetland areas. This may include narrower travel lanes, steeper fill slopes, retaining walls, bridging, reduced median widths, etc. It is unclear from the Scoping notice if the existing road would be widened to a multi-lane facility. Currently, the US 13 is a major bike route in the area. DWQ assumes that US 13 would'continue to function in this capacity. DWQ supports the construction of bike lanes and access when balanced properly with potential impacts to streams and wetlands. 2. Because this project will be constructed in coastal counties and will disturb more than one acre of land, it will require a state storm water permit. All storm water plans should be designed to meet the requirements of 15A NCAC 2H .1005. All storm water BMPs in the project area should meet the requirements for Nutrient Sensitive Waters of the State. General Comments: 1. DWQ prefers 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 strucf-ure, does not block fish passage, and does not block navigation by canoeists and boaters. ,, NoonhCarolina Transportation Permitting Unit Natumllly 1650 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1650 2321 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 250, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 Phone: 919733-1786 / FAX 919.7336893 / Internet: htto://h2o.enr. state.nc.us/ncwetlands An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer-50% Recycled/10% Post Consumer Paper Page 3 pc: Bill Biddlecome, USACE Washington Field Office Garcy Ward, NCDWQ, Washington Regional Office Chris Militscher, USEPA Travis Wilson, NCWRC Gary Jordan, USFWS File Copy i FEB 2006 6 Fa 9 North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission 0 _ MEMORANDUM Pvchard 11, llamilton, Executive Dircccor TO: Melba McGee Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, DENR FROM: Travis Wilson, Highway Project Coordinator - Habitat Conservation Program DATE: January 30, 2006 SUBJECT: Response to the start of study notification fiom the N. C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) regarding fish and wildlife concerns for the proposed widening of US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel, Hertford and Gates Counties, North Carolina. TIP No. R-2507A, SCH Project No. 06-00209. This memorandum responds to a request from Gregory J, Thorpe of the NCDOT for our concerns regarding impacts on fish and wildlife resources resulting from the subject project. Biologists on the staff of the N. C. Wildlife Resources Cotnntission (NCWRC) have reviewed the proposed improvements. Our comments are provided in accordance with certain 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). \ The Chowan Swamp Game Land is located within the Vicinity of this,project; NCDOT should obtain accurate boundary line data for this resource to avoid and mitrimize impacts to this area. Shoups Landing Road is the only access to Shoups landing, a WRC boating access to the Chowan River. DOT should insure access to this facility remains open during any construction activities. To help facilitate document preparation and the review process, our general informational needs are outlined below: 1. Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, including a listing of federally or state designated threatened, endangered, or special concern species. Potential borrow. areas to be used for project construction should be included in the inventories. A listing of designated plant species can be developed through consultation with: The Natural 14-ritage Program N. C. Division of Parks and Recreation 1615 Mail Service Center E9 39dd 6E868Z56i6 Ez:zl 999Z/9E/t9 Memo January 30, Raleigh, N. C. 27699-1615 (919) 733-7795 WWW.ncsparks.net/nhi) and, 4?,_ to 2006 lik-A NCDA Plant Conservation Program P. 0. Box 27647 Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919)733.3610 2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the project. The need for channelizing or relocating portions of streams crossed and the extent of such activities. Cover type maps showing wetland acreages impacted by the project. Wetland acreages should include all project-related areas that may undergo hydrologic change as a result of ditching, other drainage, or filling for project construction. Wetland identification may be accomplished through coordination with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE). If the COE is not consulted, the person delineating wetlands should be identified and criteria listed. 4. Cover type maps showing acreages of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the proposed project. Potential borrow sites should be included. 5. The extent to which the project will result in loss, degradation, or fragmentation of wildlife habitat (wetlands or uplands). 6. Mitigation for avoiding, minimizing or compensating for direct and indirect degradation in habitat quality as well as quantitative losses. 7. A cumulative impact assessment section which analyzes the environmental effects of highway construction and quantifies the contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation. 8. A discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources which will result from secondary development facilitated by the improved road access. 9. If construction of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, municipal, or private development projects, a description of these projects should be included in the environmental document, and all project sponsors should be identified. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input in the early planning stages for this project. If we can further assist your office, please contact me at (919) 528-9886. t b9 30Vd 6E868Z56T6 EZ:ZT 9992/0E/T9 GATES COUNTY RANDALL K. CAHOON, PLAN PR N.II X006 INSPECTIONS & PLANNING DEPARTMF?Z?1T"? nn n7rdoF P.O. Box 411 Gatesville, NC 279 o <? r;,ct;rvovs Ph: (252) 357-0122 Fax(252)357 4577 ?F4 %Il gra???tcv gatescoplanner@earthlink.net January 4, 2006 NC Department of Transportation ` Project Development and Environmental Analysis 1548 Mail Service Center t Raleigh, NC 27699-1548 a Re: US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel, Hertford & Gates Counties, State Project 6.079002T, WBS No. 35488.1.1, TIP Project No. R-2507A Dear Dr. Thorpe: This letter is in response to your request for information regarding the widening of US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel. In assessing the environmental impacts of this proposed project, you need to take the Chowan River into consideration (in terms of additional runoff being introduced once the pavement is widened), but you also need to bear in mind that most of the roadside from the bridge over the Chowan River to the area identified as "Corner High" is marshland, wetlands, and what laypersons refer to as "swamp." Looking at the map you enclosed in your proposal package,, the streams and other lines on the drawing that denote tributaries of the river represent habitat for numerous aquatic species and waterfowl. Care should be taken to impose' minimal environmental impact on those areas. Some portions of US 13/158 (especially the portion of the road between the Chowan River bridge and the smaller bridge near SR 1128) have oversized, cleared shoulder areas and are uniquely suitable for widening to four lanes or more without creating an environmental impact of any sort. From SR 1128 (the southernmost entry) to the area identified as "Tarheel," the shoulder narrows markedly, the marshy wetlands begin a few feet from the shoulder of the road and disappear into wooded portions of adjacent parcels of land. Any construction taking place in this segment will entail displacement of wildlife, will introduce increased stormwater runoff, and could potentially negatively impact the surrounding area. On the other hand, like many Gates County roadways, this corridor is narrow, suffers from reduced visibility (particularly at night) due to the heavy canopy of low growing trees and marsh-type vegetation, and could become a safer road if widened dramatically and some portion of the native vegetation were to be eliminated. The US Army Corps of Engineers should be contacted by NC DOT to delineate the wetlands located in this corridor, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service should be consulted to identify the exact types of wildlife that will be impacted by this proposed project. Among the threatened, endangered, and Federal Species of Concern found in Gates County there are the following: American alligator Alligator mississippiensis T(S/A) Henslow's sparrow Ammodramus henslowii FSC Rafinesque's big-eared bat Red-cockaded woodpecker Invertebrates Tidewater interstitial amphipod Vascular Plants Conferva pondweed Long beach seedbox Pondspice. Virginia least trillium Corynorhinus (=Plecotus) rafinesquii FSC Picoides borealis Endangered Stygobromus araeus FSC Potamogeton confervoides FSC Ludwigia brevipes FSC` Litsea aestivalis FSC Trillium pusillum var. virginianum FSC The American Alligator is threatened due to similarity of appearance with other rare species and is listed for its protection. These species are not biologically endangered or threatened and are not subject to Section 7 consultation. However, the Red-cockaded Woodpecker, a type of bird that makes its home in fallen pine trees, is on the Endangered Species list. The balance of .the species noted on the table above, including vascular plants, are federally protected species of concern. All are native to Gates County but they are not all necessarily native to the corridor in question. It is for this reason I urge you to contact the US Fish & Wildlife Service for specific information regarding the actual habitats of these creatures and regulations regarding construction of roadways within those habitats. If you have any questions, please call me at (252) 357-0122. Sin ly, Randall K. Cahoon, County Planner ?i Y APPENDIX B DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS RELOCATION PROGRAM/ RELOCATION REPORTS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS RELOCATION PROGRAMS It is the policy of NCDOT to ensure comparable replacement housing will be available prior to construction of state and federally-assisted projects. Furthermore, the North Carolina Board of Transportation has the following three programs to minimize the inconvenience of relocation: • Relocation Assistance • Relocation Moving Payments • Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement As part of the Relocation Assistance Program, experienced NCDOT staff will be available to assist displacees with information such as availability and prices of homes, apartments, or businesses for sale or rent and financing or other housing programs. The Relocation Moving Payments Program provides for payment of actual moving expenses encountered in relocation. Where displacement will force an owner or tenant to purchase or rent property of higher cost or to lose a favorable financing arrangement (in case of ownership), the Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement Program will compensate up to $22,500 to owners who are eligible and qualify and up to $5,250 to tenants who are eligible and qualify. The relocation program for the proposed action will be conducted in accordance with the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646), and/or the North Carolina Relocation Assistance Act (GS-133-5 through 133-18). The program is designed to provide assistance to displaced persons in relocating to a replacement site in which to live or do business. At least one relocation officer is assigned to each highway project for this purpose. The relocation officer will determine the needs of displaced families, individuals, businesses, non-profit organizations and farm operations for relocation assistance advisory services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The NCDOT will schedule its work to allow ample time, prior to displacement, for negotiations and possession of replacement housing which meets decent, safe and sanitary standards. The displacees are given at least a 90-day written notice after NCDOT purchases the property. Relocation of displaced persons will be offered in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial facilities. Rent and sale prices of replacement property will be within the financial means of the families and individuals displaced and will be reasonably accessible to their places of employment. The relocation officer will also assist owners of displaced businesses, non-profit organizations and farm operations in searching for and moving to replacement property. All tenant and owner residential occupants who may be displaced will receive an explanation regarding all available options, such as (1) purchase of replacement housing, (2) rental of replacement housing, either private or public, or (3) moving existing owner-occupant housing to another site (if possible). The relocation officer will also supply information concerning other state and federal programs offering assistance to displaced persons and will provide other advisory services as needed in order to minimize hardships to displaced persons in adjusting to a new location. The Moving Expense Payments Program is designed to compensate the displacee for the costs of moving personal property from homes, businesses, non-profit organizations and farm operations acquired for a highway project. Under the Replacement Program for Owners, NCDOT will participate in reasonable incidental purchase payments for replacement dwellings such as attorney's fees, surveys, appraisals, and other closing costs and, if applicable, make a payment for any increased interest expenses for replacement dwellings. Reimbursement to owner-occupants for replacement housing payments, increased interest payments and incidental purchase expenses may not exceed $22,500 (combined total), except under the Last Resort } Housing provision. A displaced tenant may be eligible to receive a payment, not to exceed $5,250, to rent a replacement dwelling or to make a down payment, including incidental expenses, on the purchase of a replacement dwelling. The down payment is based upon what the state determines is required when the rent supplement exceeds $5,250. It is a policy of the State that no person will be displaced by NCDOT's state or federally- assisted construction projects unless and until comparable replacement housing has been offered or provided for each displacee within a reasonable period of time prior to displacement. No relocation payment received will be considered as income for the purposes of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 or for the purposes of determining eligibility or the extent of eligibility of any person for assistance under the Social Security Act or any other federal law. Last Resort Housing is a program used when comparable replacement housing is not available, or when it is unavailable within the displacee's financial means, and the replacement payment exceeds the federal/state legal limitation. The purpose of the program is to allow broad latitude in methods of implementation by the state so that decent, safe and sanitary replacement housing can be provided. It is not believed this program will be necessary on the project, since there appear to be adequate opportunities for relocation within the area. EIS RELOCATION REPORT X E.I.S.Q CORRIDOR ? DESIGN 20.40M 1$0-250 40-- 70m 1 zso-aoo 100M 3 40G-600 r 0 UP 2 60o UP T AL 6 WBS: 35488.1 .1 couNTY Gates/Hertford Alternate 1 of 1 Alternate I. D. NO.: R-2507A F.A. PROJECT N/A DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: US13 From US158 Near Winton to US158 At Tarheel ESTIMATED DISPLACEES ' INCOME LEVEL Type of Displacees Owners Tenants Residential 6 1 Businesses 4 0 Farms 0 0 Non-Profit 1 0 Yes X IX LX Total Minorities 0-15M 15-25M 7 3 1 4 1 VALUE OF DWELLING 0 0 Owners Tenants 1 0 0-20M S o-150 ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS No Explain all "YES" answers. X 1. Will special relocation services be necessary? 2. Will schools or churches be affected by displacement? X 3. Will business services still be available after project? 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, indicate size, type, estimated number of employees, minorities, etc. X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? 6. Source for available housing (list). X 7. Will additional housing programs be needed? X 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? X 9. Are there large, disabled, elderly, etc. families? X to. Will public housing be needed for project? N/A 11. Is public housing available? 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing housing available during relocation period? X 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financial means? 14. Are suitable business sites available (list source). 15. Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION? 12-24 MONTHS _,..- North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REMARKS 2 - God's Healing Cathredral 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP 4 2 DSS DWELLING AVAILABLE For Sale For Rent 0-20m $0-150 20-40M 4 150-250 1 40.70M 3 zso-aoo 3 70.1 00M 7 40D-600 3 100 up 22 600 up 2 I 36 8 4 - Powell Lane Birdcages - 750 sf - 2 employees - G and L Variety - 5,000 sf - 2 employees - ABC Store - 4,000 sf - 4 employees - Triangle Drive In - 7,000 sf - 2 employees 6 - Newspapers, MLs and Realtors 8 - It will be provided where necessary. 14 -Newspapers, MLS and Realtors 11/25/08 12-1-08 t 1 Date` Relocation Coordinator Right of Way Agent FRM 15-E Revised 09-02 Orioinal 8 1 Coov: Relncatinn Cor 2 Copy Division Relocation File NEPA/404 MERGER TEAM MEETING AGREEMENT Concurrence Point No. 1: Purpose and Need 8 Study Area Defined PROJECT NO.rrIP NOJ NAMEIDESCRIP71ON Federal Aid Project Number NA State.ProjectNumber. WBS Element 35488, 1,1 TIP Project Number. R-2507A .. -- TIP Description Widening. US13 from US 158. near Winton to US 158 in Tarheei,' Hertford and Gates Counties l The Project Team concurred on this date of July 19, 2007 with the purpose of and need for the proposed project as stated below and the project study area ea described below and shown in the attached ezhlbtG ?uippyUnd Nq-9d of PDno^ed Ptolec? The purpose. of the pro/act is to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel time and safety along US 13-158 in tfin project area. - P.roiect 9tudV Area The project study area boundaries are shown in the attached exhibit. e US Army Corps of Engineers US Environmental Protection Agency" US Fish and Wildlife Service NC Wildlife Resources Commission NC Deoartmentof Guttural Resources NCDENR, Division of Water Quality NC Division of Coastal Management NC Department of Transportation I??7n i/?Y?2/n1e F.rXe11e-r SerYece NC Owicmn of MnM, Rshones NEPA/404 MERGER TEAM MEETING AGREEMENT Concurrence Point No. 2: Alternatives for Detailed Study PROJECT NO./TIP NOa NAME/DESCRIPTION: - Federal Aid Project Number NA State Project Number: WBS Element 35488.1.1 TIP Project Number: R-2507A TIP Description: Widening US 13 from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarheel, Hertford and Gates Counties Purpose and Need of Proposed Project The purpose of the project is to reduce traffic congestion and improve travel time and safety along US 13-158 in the project area. Alternatives to Studv in Detail Section 1 *5 t Section 5 fat t Section 2 A" ! Section 6 Ayr Section 3 t Section 7 EQSf Section 4 ]*St Section 8 fsst The Project Team concurred on this date of February 21, 2008 with the alternatives to be carried forward for the proposed project as indicated above. Agency US Army Corps of Engineers US Environmental Protection Agency l US Fish and Wildlife Service NC Wildlife Resources Commission NC Department of Cultural Resources NCDENR, Division of Water Quality NC Division of Coastal Management NC Department of Transportation Name Date 2 &7?r4/, AT t t7 I -/? 01/I/V. 12 - R ` 0 5 d SONH-11319-Clio:3WUN £6e9M6T6:_)31 9T:P.T i_IHl 6002-LT-J30 Section 4041NEPA IntQrugcncy Agreement Concurrence Point 2A - Bridgtng (Decisions Project Title; US 13.158, From US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarhooi, Hertford & Gates Counties, TIP Project R-2507A, WBS Element 35488.1.1 Proicct Description: The proposed project is widening existing two-lane US 13-158 to a multilane facility from US 158 near Winton to US 158 in Tarhecl. Typical Section: 4-lane divided w/46' median except a.tChowan River Crossing where median will be 30'. Ci6j o c°?``^= lrv g ?lL aLr<) Bridging Decisions: The merger tenln concurred on the following minimum bridge lengths for the project: Chowan River - Length of the proposed bridge should be the scone as the existing (1,121 feet). Buckhom Creek - Dual 11.0 foot bridges The project team has unconditionally concurred on this date of August 20, 2009. I b6L6?8LET6 10CJtJ :'»?-?? 22: TT COOP_-LI-_3C NAMB AGENCY Y LINE SHEET 4 ? ++ .yam . Fow ? IW K y, ifto . :AlikJlti?•wAs. ^wt_?S ?( "t?'y`? "? `?' oev ctl 41 ?. wp??oM .ll ?, Y, .-r• , 1.CoS?K?t . ri - '=?• ?? .?? ?^.? it -?-y. tiT, .. ?. F III n a. _ U -51 -. v J. l A. 'fy' ' y? J y>y ? 1 - ar Cn •.,y??w. ,; ski-??,•c" !: " ?vWt-r M i l * ';•-ef,,`r L.rh .ti?:n r1 14 ? ?` "510?'1`R?i7wS?7'.t1?15.?•Sf low 4 s y = i„?? t -?'':k2.>a, ?'? fir, y? R•?.,?R.. :-x? +'y'? *?3? r ' "?'•? c.; . ,? 7.. `l ,.p• ,r"??4'?„?44 ?°r? ? W r?rl=?ti - 7^'X . ? Rr-ri. 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"'.,`.-.'`"t,Nepat?-"ra.:w.i-?Ri ::;"?.??;?? i'Mr.-?" ?:i9.Rai'??-?... ^'._?1t`'.'x.• AOR, j y +C Vq 3 Ate' ?, 'Y'. ??• Y _ ac •Y ? • F co c: 7 a yr ;4• eft "? }..???• ? i.s' i :. c t?h ^-tµ 4F'? a t 1 . ya?« I I i\ M T BEGIN PROJECT l ' R-2 R-2507B END PROJECT 13 \.. \ R•2578 ? tford 1,?f Gates inty County 5 s Tarheel 158 `1 t Chowan Swamp Corner High sR Game Lends 1 1122 Story's Crossroads SR 1126 Historic District tiro 137 h I ` ?o 13 B` SR??2B s ` _. 13 Miles Legend 0 0.5 1 2 0 Historic_District I i i l Gameland y r? 4OR IN CCROL?VA OCPARTMENT Of 'RANSPORTATION 1 P OIV-';rON 04 H GNWA : PROTECT )EVE CORNETT A4D E'IV110NMCNTAL ANAIYSIi 1RAYCM US 13 US 13-158 WIDENING GATES AND HERTFORD COUNTIES TIP PROJECT R-2507A FIGURE I MIN. 200' R/W GGl ld W1 GROUND 46' 2 4' 6' 30'** 6' 24' 10' 30' 2' 2' ?k I t t PROPOSED US 13 WIDENING * 6' PAVED SHOULDER FROM US 158 /NC 45 TO NC 137 4' PAVED SHOULDER FROM NC 137 TO US 158 IN TARHEEL * * USE 30' MEDIAN APPROACHING CHOWAN RIVER CROSSING FIGURE 3A 1 1 8' 12' 36' 30' 24' 8' 4' 2'1 - 14' 2' 8' MIN. t t ---------------.-------- - - - - - - - - - - -Exist. Bnd ------1J -1----?-e - CHOWAN RIVER STRUCTURES W/30' WIDTH MEDIAN t t 12' 4' 4' 12' 12' 8' 36' TYPICAL BRIDGE SECTION OVER BUCKHORN CREEK /RUN SWAMP FIGURE 313 r ? M , f'^+ fo T N U) N D O ti ? ? N ?j W-) nr 1- e? ?sv N N N C T J 4 f T r?^ v. y) T 1 Q E ? SSAL 70 ? NTT N Of9 N = CB U oo ? j it fv,,?ss N N N U) m 00 CO C) C O tt I'.lf 11 55? -11 t- ( ? ?? r W-j co COZ U) c6 N T co 00 c- W-) 01 ?09 m 'O N N ?) M r L C:) - rmr ss?--ff co N ..1? T ) N U) IL ?i CY) CD 00 ? r C 80? 15 7 r oY l ?? N Q _ r Cl) C O i )U V ? Cn >a co W 55.4 Fhf (". 13If 60-4 IM 10 Ti 12) CY) 00 4 _ 4 ? Y old r Cn C f2) L U Z 0 a ? N C O ? " CG ? OJ K V L lJ ` ?1 Ij? 00 w a? ? y C•r r O N C a a W Q U) w O C N w+ N X w sl O ? :>> wF JO Y 0 Z ?^?. W ?F•, ?""s W ?IL a y o OUP "?? ?,C a:tLO ?C :a] co r? ,tC4 Ss? PSf 4 (J, r.) 00 LO s c+7 (D u N ? T r ?s9 M ? 04 rvd J _ N co 00 N t ?- C 4r"-' 35 ro CI) T it'cl or -?09 p7 N 2 D C? Df l• LN LOco " ? co o U Lo N r T 'C? ir'sl rr e ?ss 00 01 N r f _ [? 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SR 1230 Powell Rd US NC 45 13 0 MILES 1 I I I NORM CAJtO1JNA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIpN I PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND .. EAMIRONMEMAL ANALYSES SW CH TIP PROJECT R-2507A 2008 EXISTING LEVEL OF SERVICE FIGURE 5A ,,,ttt NORTH LAROU14A DEPARTMENT OF y1 TRANSPORTATION T PROJECT DEVElOPENT AND ENVBIONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH TIP PROJECT R-2507A 2030 LEVEL OF SERVICE WITHOUT PROJECT FIGURE 5B LOS-A LOS- B ® LOS-c LOS-0 LOS-E i l LO6-F I LEVEL OF SERVICE US 13 Taftel SR 1201 Tlrddr Rd. US 158 `SR 1122 SR 1128 Caron HVh Rd. NC LOS - A -LOS-B 0 LOS - C ? LOS - D LOS-E LOS-F LEVEL OF SERVICE US 13 Tarheel SR 1201 Tlnkham Rd. ` US 158 SR 1230 Powell Rd. HERTFORD r GATES ` COUNTY COUNTY r US 13/158 , 0, Rivera SR 1131 % US 158 Edge SD Snap. Land SR 1218 InduehJal Park Rd. N(r' 45 yus 13 0 MILES 1 I I I _SR 1122 SR 1200 Hills Lane Rd. Sand Banks Rd. SR 1128 Comer High Rd. SR 1128 Barfield Rd. NC 137 SR 1128 Barfield Rd. 0 LOS•A ® LOS -B 0 LOS - C 0 LOS - D 0 LOS - E 0 LOS - F LEVEL OF SERVICE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECT DEVELOPMENT AND t?-.. ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS BRANCH TIP PROJECT R-2507A 2030 LEVEL OF SERVICE WITH PROJECT FIGURE 6 1 . r r •ly,• 1 ........ rte. -r•.'f•/r•},r?-,t-. .??•?.-j.-. v.. ? ?'.- 11 C 4• Y ' r _ ti,.•ti } MATCH LINE SHEET 2 , ?..r.F 1: -,?`_ ;.,t F.ti.,., ? ?Jry,•,.ti ,r`' ti'•. ?tiT •r: r: ?'..,. :i .,r} . ?. "?:}-??• •,r''''- r/_ r. •: 11 ti -ti. .. f'•. ? .'S.? -5. r•..1 ? ?:• •..'. •' -_• - E I? WAN Riv ;_. S 1151 ,? •, •1•' ••1. 7 •= 1R•r .•?•' _L. -I .1 •-L•?: 1L / ,1 .I.r _ .' _ •Y: .''_ •''-`. l-• '' I 't 1 ?., - .1.'-ti, ti. ? 0 1? M co ?LO I T VJ vJ 2 11? 1..L O H I..L I..L r O Q Zr'- () O 00 C-4 N ?U Uw w )O O? ?a Mz 03 zw z 0 LO co co W C7 W w r • AW ¦ T r :L M 1,k r 4f woo- ' LL ff r JJ.?r?I'LL w?•fIW J.+X MATCH LINE SHEET 3 oil' i +++ _SrL y 00 r?T M w V ? 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