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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20121107_Environmental Assessment_20111129 (2)�-�;�� � •�';� _ � •' -• :. -• -� �-� '• ' � • • . ;: - • ' •' . . ,, �•• . � � - . - � . - . - � . � - - � ;- � , � - - . . STATE VlIBS NO. 52000.1.STR02T2 TIP NO. P-5206 Administrative Action: Environmental Assessment Submitted Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act, 42 U.S.C. 4332 (2)(c) � Q Zv Zv l j Date United States Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration & Federal Railroad Administration North Carolina Department of Transportation Rail Division � Marc Harriel ! Rail Project Development & Environmental Evaluation Rail Division, Environmental and Planning Branch The following person may be contacted for additional information concerning this document: Mr. Marc Hamel Rail Environmental Programs Manager North Carolina Department of Transportation 1553 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 (919) 733-7245 Comments on this environmental document must be received by Mr. Marc Hamel, NCDOT Rail Project Development & Environmental Evaluation Program Manager by . See contact information above. .. � . � � � � � � � - � ; '� : - � � - � '• ' � • •: � :' ' � �� 1 .�� � � �� �•�;, . . •�,� =- i� • � � • . • � : . , �fl �Z� � Z�1\ Date ST�4TE WBS fVO. 52000.1.STR021'2 TIP NO. P-520C �►dministrative Action: Environmen#al Assessment October 2011 Documentation Prepared by: Stantec Consulting Services Inc. Paul R. Koch, PE, AICP � Project Manager Stantec Consulting Services Inc. GARO(%°'Ba ,.a..sa,os � ;&,r_,��..�a 9 �°oO�!otla; p�/'� � �VL R. Y+O� �itl BroSl00S1 t e tAO��` Documentation Prepared for: NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, RAIL DIVISION ��a�d,� . d� .s���� d � 0 r o � Q ��1 i�/Z t�/ �Q/ f :. �--- � 1 _�' � Z � Date yan hite, PE � o° � Rail Project Development Engineer ��� �eQ � o Q�� ��°� Rail Division, Environmental and Planning Br� L, e,o°���° Oft�tR��an�. PROPOSED ADDITIONAL TRACK & RAIL CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS FROM REID (SOUTH OF SALISBURY) TO NORTH KANNAPOLIS ALONG THE NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD (NCRR) /NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY (NS) STATE WBS NO. 52000.1.STR02T2 TIP NO. P-5206 PROJECT COMMITMENTS In addition to the Section 404 Permit Conditions, Nationwide Permit Conditions, Regional Conditions, Section 401 Water Certification Conditions, and measures detailed in NCDOT's Best Management Practices for the Protection of Surface Waters, the following special commitments have been agreed to by the NCDOT. The NCDOT Geotechnical Unit will: • During the right-of-way phase, conduct detailed geo-environmental evaluation to identify impacts and risk associated with hazardous materials sites in the project study area. The NCDOT Human Environment Unit will: Coordinate the development of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to address mitigation strategies for impacts associated with the Lutheran Chapel parking lot, in accordance with Section 4(� and Section 106 procedures. The MOA will be included in the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI). Project Commitments Page 1 of 1 Environmental Assessment October 2011 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY S.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 2009-2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) includes the construction of an additional railroad track along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR) line between Reid and North Kannapolis in Rowan County. The proposed project is designated as TIP Project No. P-5206 (formerly P-3414P) and shown on Exhibit 1.1.1. The proposed project would include the construction of approximately 11-miles of second main track on the former roadbed on the west side of the existing track from south of Salisbury to north of Kannapolis. Three new roadway grade separations are also proposed as integral components of the project at Peeler Road, Kimball Road Extension, and 24`h Street extension. The proposed improvements begin approximately half a mile north of Peach Orchard Road (SR 2359) and extend to just south of East 18`h Street in Kannapolis. The purpose of the proposed project is to improve passenger train schedule reliability, provide additional capacity to support the introduction of up to 12 daily (six round trip) additional passenger trains to the NCRR Piedmont Corridor, and enhance the safety of the railroad within the study area. The proposed improvements will improve passenger train schedule reliability by allowing freight and passenger trains to quickly and efficiently maneuver around each other, help accommodate future growth in passenger train traffic, and provide tracks that will be able to support higher speed passenger service. Train/vehicle conflicts will be eliminated by closing selected at-grade road crossings and providing grade-separated crossings (bridges). Improved safety measures are proposed where at-grade road crossings cannot be closed. The NCDOT Piedmont Corridor is part of the federally designated Southeast High Speed Rail (SEHSR) corridor connecting New York/Boston south to Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and Miami, FL, and southwest to Atlanta, GA, ultimately connecting to the Gulf Coast High Speed Rail Corridor extending to Louisiana. NCDOT, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, and FRA have already completed a Tier I EIS and FRA issued a Record of Decision for the portion of the SEHSR S-1 corridor between Charlotte and Washington, DC. This project is one of several Tier II studies being undertaken for the portion of the SEHSR corridor between Charlotte and Raleigh. The 3rd and 4th frequency program includes projects which must be completed in order to provide more frequent passenger rail service along the NCRR Piedmont Corridor. These projects comprise improvements to part of the SEHSR, and will also benefit the host railroads on the corridor, including Norfolk Southern Railway (NS), CSX Transportation (CSXT), and NCRR. S.2 OTHER GOVERNMENTAL ACTIONS REQUIRED Pursuant to the Clean Water Act (16 USC 1344), Clean Water Act (CWA) Section 404 and 401 permits authorize activities from the perspective of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the NC Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ). Construction of the Build Alternative would impact Waters of the United States; therefore, it is anticipated that a USACE Section 404 Nationwide Permit, a NCDWQ Section 401 Water Quality Certification, and a NCDWQ Isolated Wetlands Permit would be required for this project. Other federal, state, or local permits, approvals, or authorizations may also be required. S.3 ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED No-Build Alternative — The No Build Alternative was considered but eliminated from further consideration. The No Build Alternative does not meet the primary purpose and need for the proposed project. Freight train volume is projected to increase beyond current year levels as the market dictates, regardless of the addition of capacity within the project limits. If the proposed improvements are not implemented, reliability of the existing passenger service will diminish as freight train volume increases. Existing passenger service will experience reduced train speed due to congestion. The passenger trains will also experience increased delay while waiting for other trains to clear the existing single track section between control points Haydock and Junker. The purpose of the proposed project is also to provide capacity for future passenger train service on the NCRR Piedmont Corridor. NCDOT and the FRA are proposing to add up to 12 daily (six round trip) passenger trains along the corridor, including the introduction of four additional daily (two round trip) NCDOT Piedmont Service trains, and eight daily (four round trip) SEHSR corridor trains The existing infrastructure will not be able to support the additional S-2 passenger trains and the expected increase of freight traffic without negatively impacting the ability of NS to efficiently operate their freight trains along the corridor. The congestion will result in increased locomotive idling and reduced fuel efficiency. Also, the existing infrastructure does not support higher speed operations as dictated by the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 and the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act. The proposed project also proposes to improve safety within the project limits by closing a number of at-grade crossings and replacing them with grade separations. Without these improvements, at-grade crossings within the project limits will experience additional queuing of vehicles at railroad crossings, resulting in an increase in auto emissions. Also, the crossings will experience an increase in accident potential due to the increase in train volume. Preliminary Build Alternative: P/ace Additional Track on East Side of Rail Corridor — Although the original second track that was removed in the 1960's was on the west side, replacing the track on the east side was initially evaluated. In evaluating the potential impacts of adding a second track and improving some curve alignments, it was determined that substantially greater impacts to the human and natural environment are anticipated if track is added on the east side. After the original second track was removed, both sides of the NCRR corridor experienced encroachment from development. The presence of the remnant road bed limited this effect on the western side but not on the eastern side. As such, placing the second track on the eastern side of the rail corridor would affect more existing development than replacing the track on the western side of the rail corridor. Therefore this preliminary alternative was eliminated from further consideration. Preliminary Build Alternative: P/ace Additional Track on West Side of Rail Corridor — Since the 1960's, the NCRR corridor has experienced development encroachment on both sides of the existing track. The presence of the remnant railroad bed from the original second track has limited the amount of encroachment on the west side and therefore, this effect is more prominent on the east side of the corridor. Additional track on the west side would utilize the existing roadbed for the most part, which minimizes potential impacts by requiring the least amount of earthwork and disruption to the existing terrain. In addition, the characteristics of the remnant roadbed are not conducive to the presence of natural environmental concerns. Adding track on the west side was projected to cause fewer impacts to the human and natural S-3 environment while still satisfying the purpose and need. Therefore, adding track on the west side was carried forward as the Build Alternative. Build Alternative: P/ace Additional Track on West Side of Rail Corridor — The proposed track would be located 14-feet (center-to-center) from the existing track on a parallel alignment. In order for the project to accommodate high-speed train service (speeds of 90 mph), alignment improvements and elimination of at-grade roadway crossings (where feasible) are also needed. The Build Alternative, shown in Exhibit 2.3.1, includes the construction of three grade separated crossings and the closing of 14 crossings. Alignment improvements are anticipated to stay within the NCRR corridor with the exception of one location. Improvement of the existing rail curve just southwest of Centerview Street is anticipated to require right-of-way beyond the NCRR corridor. Grade separation improvements are all projected to require additional right-of-way. The 24�n Street grade separation begins at a proposed intersection with US 29/601, bridges the railroad and ties directly into Main Street in a T-intersection configuration. The height needed to bridge the railroad would create a steep grade from the bridge to the intersection with US 29, requiring the elevation of US 29 be raised to reduce the grade along the new road. The addition of turn lanes and the need to raise the elevation of US 29 would require the placement of fill material along US 29 and would increase the roadway footprint. It would also require the closure of the US 29 intersections with Westview Street and Blackwelder Avenue. Due to the proposed closure of several crossings in the Landis and China Grove area, the Kimball Road extension and grade separation is proposed to accommodate modified vehicular travel patterns. The new extension would extend Kimball Road south from its intersection with US 29 (Main Street), running underneath a proposed railroad bridge, and intersecting with Chapel Street south of the railroad. The Peeler Road relocation and grade separation would bridge the railroad and US 29, and connect to Cedar Springs Road. Secondary roads are proposed from Cedar Springs Road to US 29. This grade separation provides the best opportunity for direct connection to the Rowan County Airport and is consistent with the area's Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP). There are also two additional crossing closure projects within the project study area that are being studied separate from the proposed improvements. Evaluations and recommendations S-4 for the closure of Juke Box Road and Ethel Road were originally included in the Private Crossing Safety lnitiative (NCDOT, 2003) and have since been combined into one design study and environmental document (NCDOT TIP Project No. P-4405). The project proposes to close the two existing crossings and provide new access for the properties between the railroad and I-85. Additional details on this project can be found in Sections 2.3.1 and 3.5. S.4 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS Summary descriptions of the anticipated impacts for the Build Alternative are provided in the following section. Table S.1 quantifies the impacts associated with the Build Alternative. Land Use — The project is consistent with local land use and transportation plans and would not affect land use patterns within the primarily urban project study area. Relocations — Anticipated relocation impacts were estimated by overlaying the Build Alternative on aerial photography and field checking the information. The results of this evaluation indicate that there would be a total of 28 residential relocations and 59 business relocations. Table S.1 shows the relocations associated with the project including and also itemized for the 24`h Street Grade Separation, Kimball Road Extension, and Peeler Road Grade Separation. A majority of the project study area is within the NCRR corridor. The 1849 Charter for the NCRR specified a 200-foot corridor, providing the right to NCRR to use the land within the corridor for railroad uses (NCRR: Understanding the Corridor Management and Protection Program, 200�. Residential and business relocations within the 200-foot corridor would be addressed by NCRR. For properties outside the NCRR corridor, it is the policy of the NCDOT to ensure that comparable replacement housing for residents and suitable locations for displaced businesses would be available prior to construction of projects. This topic is discussed in Section 3.4. Farmlands — The NCRR rail corridor between Kannapolis and Salisbury is identified as an "urbanized area" on US Census mapping and does not require the submittal of a Farmland Conversion Impact Rating Form, under the Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA). Any farmland impacts associated with the proposed project would be in compliance with the FPPA and do not require further consideration for protection. S-5 Community Facilities — No schools, parks, recreation areas, or emergency services facilities will be impacted by this project. One church would be relocated by the project and parking for two other churches would be affected by the proposed project. lndirect and Cumulative Effects (ICEsJ — The proposed project does not have the potential to result in substantial ICEs as defined by NEPA. This conclusion is based on evaluation of the projecYs design concept and scope, including purpose and need, type, and facility function, in combination with evaluation of the project study area's demographic, land use, and growth management tools. As discussed in Section 3.1, the project study area is primarily urbanized, with development continuing to occur regardless of the proposed realignment. The type and extent of development expected to occur on a long-term basis is not anticipated to change as a result of the project. See Section 3.5 for a summary of ICEs discussed in the Tier I EIS for the SEHSR Program from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC. Environmental Justice — The residential relocations associated with the proposed project would not create direct disproportionate effects to minority or low-income populations. Minority populations on Rice Street, however, are likely to experience an increase in traffic as a result of altered travel patterns associated with the US 29 intersection closures (part of the Recommended Option for the 22"' Street grade separation). However, travel patterns throughout the project study area would be affected by elimination of at-grade crossings and construction of grade separations. Because many roads in the project study area would experience changes in traffic volumes associated with these altered travel patterns, there would not be a disproportionate impact on any single group or community. Air Quality — The project is located in Rowan County, which is within the Charlotte-Gastonia- Rock Hill nonattainment area for ozone (03) as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This area was designated moderate nonattainment for 03 under the eight-hour ozone standard effective June 15, 2004. No substantial impacts to air quality are associated with the proposed project. Noise — The proposed project would have a slight change on the average number of train trips, but it would remove a number of roadway at-grade rail crossings through road consolidations and grade separations, providing a substantial reduction of horn noise in the project area. There would also be a slight change in noise in areas where the alignment of the rail tracks or S-6 the placement of the double track moves the train operations closer to residences. There are no anticipated noise impacts associated with the proposed roadway grade separations. The proposed combination of roadway improvements and at-grade crossing closures should have a net reduction of impacted noise receptors in the study area. Vibration — Perceived vibration is not expected to be measurably affected by the addition of a second track. However, associated track alignment changes will bring the tracks closer to some receptors and move it farther from others. Predicted vibration levels are based on the distance from the tracks to particular land uses along the corridor. For Category 2 receptors (residences and buildings where people normally sleep) there were 134 impacts for the No Build scenario (existing track and alignment) and 152 for the Build scenario, an increase of 18 receptors. For Category 3 receptors (institutional uses such as offices, businesses, schools and churches) it was determined that 84 receptors would be impacted by the No Build scenario and 91 for the Build scenario, an increase of 7 receptors. Water Quality — The addition of a second track and the new grade separated crossings would increase the total amount of impervious surface within the project study area, which would in turn create an increase in stormwater runoff. The increase in stormwater runoff would be limited, however, by the fact that the project study area is located in an urbanized area with a fairly high amount of existing imperviousness. Biotic Communities — The proposed project is within an urban area and would primarily affect maintained/disturbed land (167.4 acres); however, the Build Alternative would also affect 39.6 acres of Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest community. These impacts would primarily involve the clearing of vegetation and earthwork (i.e., the placement of fill material, grading, etc.) associated with the construction of the second track and crossing improvements. Waters of the United States — The Build Alternative is anticipated to impact 0.17-acre of wetlands and 600 linear feet of jurisdictional streams. Rare and Protected Species — Suitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower occurs along utility corridors, roadside shoulders, woodland edges, and the margins of the railroad corridor. Systemic surveys were performed during September 2010 for this species (optimum survey window late August to frost) and resulted in a determination of No Effect. A review of North S-7 Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) records, updated December 1, 2008, indicates no known Schweinitz's sunflower occurrences within 1.0 mile of the project study area. Utilities — The proposed project may require the relocation of existing underground and overhead utilities with the possibility of short-term interruptions to service during construction; however overall impacts to public utilities are anticipated to be low. Archaeological and Historic Architectural Resources — The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and Office of Archaeology concurred on January 12, 2010 and January 7, 2010 respectively, that no further archaeological work is required for the proposed project. Should the study corridor change prior to construction, additional consultation with the State Office of Archaeology would be required. This correspondence is contained in Appendix A. The Historic Architectural Resources Survey Report (Mattson, Alexander and Associates, Inc., 2010) prepared for the proposed project identified four historic properties and two historic districts as eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Through coordination with the State Historic Preservation OFfice (SHPO), it was determined that the proposed project would have No Effect on one of these properties and No Adverse Effect on two other properties and the two districts. The proposed project would, however, have an Adverse Effect under Section 106 of the Historic Preservation Act, on the Lutheran Chapel, a historic property subject to Section 4(� requirements. The curve realignment and addition of the second track would affect the church's parking lot, which is located within the 200-foot NCRR right-of-way. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for mitigation of impacts to the church's parking lot is being developed and will be included in the subsequent Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for this project. Grading work would encroach on the historic boundaries for the Chapel; however, all construction would be within the 200-foot NCRR right-of-way and would not affect any structures on the property. The proximity of the project would not create constructive use impacts, as the project would not affect the historic nature or functionality of the Lutheran Chapel. Because there are no direct or constructive use impacts, no formal Section 4(� evaluation is required. Additional discussion of historic resources is contained in Sections 3.3.6, 3.3.9, and 3.12. S-8 Hazardous Material Sites/Underground Storage Tanks — Database surveys indicate that the rail corridor is flanked with numerous underground storage tanks (USTs) and leaking underground storage tanks (LUSTs) plus one Superfund site (EDR, 2010), as shown in Exhibit 3.13.1. Based on the preliminary designs, it is anticipated that portions of the properties corresponding to seven locations along the project will be directly impacted. The NCDOT Geotechnical Engineering Unit will conduct additional studies and perform field reconnaissance along the project corridor to determine the presence of any hazardous materials sites or underground storage tanks. Any potential issues will be identified and addressed during the right-of-way acquisition phase. Mineral Resources — There are no mineral production operations within the project study area; therefore, the proposed project does not pose any impacts to mining or mineral resources. Preliminary Cost Estimate — The total estimated cost for the project is $105,800,000. This cost includes $71,200,000 for construction of the second track, grade separations and associated roadway improvements, and $34,600,000 for additional right-of-way acquisition. S-9 TABLE S.1 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS FOR THE BUILD (RECOMMENDED) ALTERNATIVE CONSTRUCTION FACTORS Mainline Length — miles 11.16 Existing At-Grade Roadway Crossings' 20 Proposed At-Grade Roadway Crossing Closures' 16 Proposed Roadway Grade Separations 3 Construction Cost $71,200,000 Right of Way & Utilities Cost $34,600,000 Total Cost $105,800,000 SOCIOECONOMICFACTORSZ Inside NCRR Outside NCRR Total Corridor Corridor Residential relocations along railroad corridor 3 11 14 Residential relocations at 24�" Street Grade Separation 0 10 10 Residential relocations at Kimball Road Grade Separation 0 3 3 Residential relocations at Peeler Road Grade Separation 1 0 1 Total Residential Relocations 4 24 28 Business relocations along railroad corridor 7 40 47 Business relocations at 24�" Street Grade Separation 0 6 6 Business relocations at Kimball Road Grade Separation 0 1 1 Business relocations at Peeler Road Grade Separation 1 4 5 Total Business Relocations 8 51 59 Church impacts along railroad corridor 0 1 1 Church impacts at 24�" Street Grade Separation 1 1 2 Church impacts at Kimball Road Grade Separation 0 0 0 Church impacts at Peeler Road Grade Separation 0 0 0 Total Church Impacts' 1 2 3 Cemeteries Impacted 0 0 0 Schools Impacted 0 0 0 Parks Impacted 0 0 0 Residential Receptors Impacted by Noise — No Build 1,241 Residential Receptors Impacted by Noise — Build 415 Reduction in Impacted Receptors (Noise) $26 Residential / Business Receptors Impacted by Vibration — 134/84 No Build Residential / Business Receptors Impacted by Vibration — 152/91 Build Increase in Impacted Receptors (Vibration) 18 / 7 CULTUR.4L RESOURCE FACTORS Archaeological Sites 0 Historic Properties Affected ° 1 S-10 TABLE S.1 (cont.) SUMMARY OF IMPACTS FOR THE BUILD (RECOMMENDED) ALTERNATIVE JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES Protected Species Impacted 0 Stream Crossings 7 Wetland/Aquatic Systems — acres 5 0.17 Jurisdictional Streams — linear feet 5 600 UPLAND COMMUNITIES — acresb Pine Forest 0.0 Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest 39.6 Disturbed/Maintained 167.4 PHYSICAL FACTORS 100-year Floodplain — acres 0.0 Prime and Unique Farmland — acres NA Hazardous Materials Sites (UST, LUST) 8 Number of Exceedances of CO NAAQS NA NOTES: 1 This number includes two closures within the study area that are part of a separete project. 2 Relocation reports included in Appendix D for impacts outside the NCRR Corridor. 3 Parking for two churches is impacted. One church at 22ntl Street is anticipated to be relocated. 4 The Build Alternative would have an Adverse Effect on the Lutheran Chapel. Anticipated impacts and mitigation are discussed in Section 3.3.9 and Section 3.12. 5 Impact quantities based on construction limits of the Build Alternative plus 25 feet. 6 Impact quantities based on a 100-foot corridor. Actual design footprint is anticipated to be approximately 50% of this width. S-11 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................S-1 1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR PROJECT ........................................................................ 1-1 1.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 1-1 1.2 PROPOSEDACTION ..........................................................................................1-2 1.3 SUMMARYOFPROJECTNEED .......................................................................1-3 1.4 SUMMARY OF PROJECT PURPOSE ................................................................ 1-6 1.5 PROJECT SETTING ........................................................................................... 1-6 1.6 SYSTEM LINKAGE .............................................................................................. 1-7 1.6.1 Existing Rail System ................................................................................. 1-7 1.6.2 Existing Road System ............................................................................... 1-7 1.6.3 Existing Public Transportation System ...................................................... 1-8 1.6.4 Existing Air System ................................................................................... 1-8 1.7 SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS .......................................................... 1-8 1.7.1 Existing Development ............................................................................... 1-8 1.7.2 Future Development ................................................................................. 1-8 1.8 TRANSPORTATION PLANS ............................................................................... 1-9 1.8.1 NCDOT Projects ....................................................................................... 1-9 1.8.2 Long Range Transportation Plan ............................................................ 1-10 1.8.3 NCRRCorridor .......................................................................................1-10 1.8.4 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plans ................................................................. 1-11 1.9 SAFETY .............................................................................................................1-11 1.10 SUMMARY .........................................................................................................1-12 2.0 ALTERNATIVES ............................................................................................................. 2-1 2.1 NO-BUILDALTERNATIVE ..................................................................................2-1 TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.) SECTION 2.2 PRELIMINARY BUILD ALTERNATIVES ......................................... 2.2.1 Additional Track East ............................................................. 2.2.2 Additional Track West ............................................................ 2.3 BUILD ALTERNATIVE ...................................................................... 2.3.1 Grade Separations and Closures ........................................... 2.3.2 Traffic Analysis ...................................................................... 2.4 RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE (BUILD ALTERNATIVE)........... 2.5 RAILROAD DESIGN CRITERIA ....................................................... 2.6 ROADWAY (GRADE SEPARATION) DESIGN CRITERIA ............. 2.7 COST ESTIMATES ........................................................................... PAGE ............. 2-2 ............. 2-2 ............. 2-3 ............. 2-3 ............. 2-4 ........... 2-13 ........... 2-17 ........... 2-17 ........... 2-18 ........... 2-18 3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES ................ 3-1 3.1 LAND USE ............................................................................................................3-1 3.1.1 Existing Land Use .....................................................................................3-1 3.1.2 Development Trends ................................................................................ 3-1 3.1.3 Consistency with Land Use and Transportation Plans .............................. 3-1 3.2 FARMLANDS ....................................................................................................... 3-2 3.3 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ....................................................................................3-3 3.3.1 Population Characteristics ........................................................................3-3 3.3.2 Employment and Economic Characteristics .............................................. 3-5 3.3.3 Neighborhoods and Community Cohesion ............................................... 3-6 3.3.4 Multimodal Travel Patterns and Accessibility ............................................ 3-7 3.3.5 Schools .....................................................................................................3-8 3.3.6 Churches and Cemeteries ........................................................................ 3-8 3.3.7 Emergency Services ................................................................................. 3-8 3.3.8 Businesses ............................................................................................... 3-9 3.3.9 Section 4(� and Section 6(� Properties .................................................... 3-9 3.3.10 Specific Social Groups ............................................................................ 3-11 3.4 RIGHT-OF-WAYAND RELOCATION IMPACTS .............................................3-11 3.5 INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ....................................................... 3-14 � TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.) SECTION PAGE 3.6 ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ............................................................................ 3-17 3.7 AIR QUALITY ..................................................................................................... 3-19 3.8 NOISE AND VIBRATION ANALYSES .............................................................. 3-23 3.8.1 Train Horn Noise Analysis .................................................................. 3-23 3.8.2 Traffic Noise Analysis ......................................................................... 3-25 3.8.3 Analysis Results ................................................................................. 3-28 3.8.4 Construction Noise .............................................................................3-29 3.8.5 Noise Analysis Summary ................................................................... 3-30 3.8.6 Vibration Impact Assessment ............................................................. 3-30 3.9 NATURAL RESOURCES ..................................................................................3-36 3.9.1 Soils ................................................................................................... 3-36 3.9.2 Water Resources ............................................................................... 3-37 3.9.3 Biotic Resources ................................................................................ 3-39 3.9.3.1 Terrestrial Communities ..................................................................... 3-39 3.9.3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife ............................................................................... 3-41 3.9.3.3 Aquatic Communities ......................................................................... 3-41 3.9.3.4 Invasive Species ................................................................................ 3-42 3.9.4 Jurisdictional Issues ........................................................................... 3-42 3.9.4.1 Clean Water Act Waters of the United States ..................................... 3-42 3.9.4.2 Clean WaterAct Permits ....................................................................3-44 3.9.4.3 Construction Moratoria .......................................................................3-45 3.9.4.4 N.C. River Basin Buffer Rules ............................................................ 3-45 3.9.4.5 River and Harbors Act Section 10 Navigable Waters ......................... 3-45 3.9.4.6 Wetland and Stream Mitigation .......................................................... 3-45 3.9.4.7 Endangered Species Act Protected Species ...................................... 3-46 3.9.5 Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act ..................................... 3-47 3.9.6 Endangered Species Act Candidate Species ..................................... 3-47 3.10 HYDRAULIC IMPACTS ..................................................................................... 3-47 3.11 FLOODPLAINS ..................................................................................................3-47 3.12 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL PROPERTIES...... 3-48 3.13 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SITES AND UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS ..................................................... 3-49 3.14 MINERAL RESOURCES ...................................................................................3-50 3.15 ENERGY ............................................................................................................3-50 3.16 VISUAL IMPACTS .............................................................................................3-50 � TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont.) SECTION 3.17 UTILITIES ......................................................................................... 3.18 CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS ............................................................ 3.18.1 AirQuality .............................................................................. 3.18.2 Noise and Vibration ............................................................... 3.18.3 Water Quality ......................................................................... 3.18.4 Maintenance of Traffic ........................................................... 3.18.5 Construction Materials and Waste ......................................... 3.19 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS ................................................................ PAGE ............ 3-51 ............ 3-51 ............ 3-51 ............ 3-52 ............ 3-53 ............ 3-53 ............ 3-54 ............ 3-54 4.0 COMMENTS AND COORDINATION ............................................................................. 4-1 4.1 SCOPING LETTER ..............................................................................................4-1 4.2 NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD (NCRR) MEETING (July 24, 2009) ................ 4-2 4.3 FIRST CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP (July 28, 2009) .................. 4-2 4.3.1 Mailing List ................................................................................................ 4-2 4.3.2 Newsletter#1 ............................................................................................4-2 4.4 SECOND CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP (November 12, 2009)...4-3 4.5 DIVISION OFAVIATION/ROWAN COUNTYAIRPORT MEETING (December 9, 2009) .........................................................................4-4 4.6 ROWAN COUNTY/ROWAN COUNTYAIRPORT MEETING (January26, 2010) .............................................................................4-4 4.7 MARIETTA MATERIALS MEETING (April 6, 2010) ........................................... 4-4 4.8 SMALL GROUP MEETING (March 16, 2010) .................................................... 4-4 4.9 SMALL GROUP MEETING (March 7, 2011) ...................................................... 4-4 4.10 SMALL GROUP MEETING (March 22, 2011) .................................................... 4-5 4.11 PUBLIC HEARING (Date TBD) ...........................................................................4-6 iv APPENDICES A. COORDINATION A.1 Scoping Letter A.2 Agency Comments A.3 State Historic Preservation OFfice Concurrence A.4 Public Involvement Materials B. TRAFFICANALYSIS FIGURES C. D. E. F. PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE FOR THE JUKE BOX ROAD AND ETHEL LANE CLOSURES (NCDOT PROJECT NO. P-4405) RIGHT-OF-WAY RELOCATION REPORTS (OUTSIDE NCRR CORRIDOR) MOBILE SOURCE AIR TOXICS (MSATs) ANALYSIS NATURAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT F.1 Figures F.2 Scientific Names G. ROADWAY MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC H. REFERENCES EXHIBITS PAGE Exhibit 1.1.1 Project Vicinity .............................................................................................1-13 Exhibit 1.8.1 Transportation Projects in Project Vicinity ...................................................1-14 Exhibit 2.3.1 a Exhibit 2.3.1 b Exhibit 2.3.1 c Exhibit 2.3.1 d Exhibit 2.3.1 e Exhibit 2.3.1f Exhibit 2.3.2 Exhibit 2.3.3a Exhibit 2.3.3b Exhibit 2.3.4 Exhibit 2.3.5a Exhibit 2.3.5b Exhibit 2.3.5c Exhibit 2.5.1 Exhibit 3.1.1 Exhibit 3.1.2 BuildAlternative ...........................................................................................2-19 BuildAlternative ...........................................................................................2-20 BuildAlternative ...........................................................................................2-21 BuildAlternative ...........................................................................................2-22 BuildAlternative ...........................................................................................2-23 BuildAlternative ...........................................................................................2-24 Build Alternative Crossings ..........................................................................2-25 Roadway Grade Separation — New Connector near 22"' Street ...................2-26 Roadway Grade Separation — New Connector near 22"' Street ...................2-27 Roadway Grade Separation — Kimball Road Extension ................................2-28 Roadway Grade Separation — Peeler Road Extension .................................2-29 Roadway Grade Separation — Peeler Road Extension .................................2-30 Roadway Grade Separation — Peeler Road Extension .................................2-31 Typical Rail and Roadway Cross Sections ...................................................2-32 Rowan County Zoning Map ..........................................................................3-57 Cabarrus-Rowan MPO Long-Range Transportation Plan .............................3-58 v Exhibit 3.3.1 Exhibit 3.8.1a Exhibit 3.8.1 b Exhibit 3.8.1c Exhibit 3.8.1d Exhibit 3.8.1e Exhibit 3.8.1f Exhibit 3.8.1g Exhibit 3.8.2 Exhibit 3.8.5 Exhibit 3.11.1 Exhibit 3.13.1 TABLES Community Facilities ................................................................................ Grade Crossing Noise Impact Zones ....................................................... Ryder Avenue Grade Crossing Noise Impact Zones ................................ Centerview Drive & Church Street Grade Crossing Noise Impact Zones.. Webb Road Grade Crossing Noise Impact ............................................... Grade Separation — New Connector near 22"' Street Noise Impact......... Grade Separation — Kimball Road Extension Noise Impact ...................... Grade Separation — Peeler Road Extension Noise Impact ....................... Typical Levels of Ground-Bourne Vibration .............................................. Generalized Ground Surface Vibration Curves ......................................... Flood HazardAreas ................................................................................. Hazardous Materials Sites ....................................................................... ..3-59 ..3-60 ..3-61 ..3-62 ..3-63 ..3-64 ..3-65 ..3-66 ..3-32 ..3-34 ..3-67 ..3-68 PAGE Table S.1 Summary of Impacts for the Build (Recommended) Alternative ................... S-10 Table 1.8.1 2009-2015 TIP Projects in the Project Study Area Vicinity ...........................1-10 Table 2.3.1 Build Alternative Roadway Crossings: Recommended Treatments ................2-5 Table 2.3.2 Logic and Rationale for Roadway Crossing Treatments .................................2-6 Table 2.5.1 Rail Design Criteria ......................................................................................2-17 Table 2.6.1 Roadway Design Criteria .............................................................................2-18 Table 2.7.1 Build Alternative Cost Estimates ..................................................................2-18 Table 3.3.1 Table 3.3.2 Table 3.3.3 Table 3.3.4 Table 3.3.5 Table 3.4.1 Table 3.8.1 Table 3.8.2 Table 3.8.3 Table 3.8.4 Table 3.8.5 Table 3.9.1 Table 3.9.2 Table 3.9.3 Table 3.9.4 Table 3.9.5 Table 3.9.6 Table 3.9.7 Table 3.19.1 Population Trends ......................................................................... Racial Characteristics ................................................................... Age Characteristics ....................................................................... Occupational Data ........................................................................ Economic and Demographic Data ................................................. Relocations Associated with the Build Alternative ......................... Noise Abatement Criteria .............................................................. Noise Level Impacts Summary ...................................................... Noise Level Increase Summary .................................................... Ground-Borne Vibration (Gbv) And Ground-Borne Noise (Gbn) Impact Criteria for General Assessment ........................................ Construction Vibration Damage Criteria ........................................ Soil Series in the Study Area ......................................................... Jurisdictional Streams in the StudyArea ....................................... Physical Characteristics of Streams in the Study Area ................. Coverage of Terrestrial Communities in the Study Area ................ Jurisdictional Characteristics of Streams in the Study Area........... Jurisdictional Characteristics of Wetlands in the Study Area ......... Federally Protected Species Listed for Rowan County .................. Summary of Impacts for the Build (Recommended) Alternative..... vi ....3-3 ....3-4 ....3-4 ....3-5 ....3-6 ..3-11 ..3-27 ..3-29 ..3-29 ..3-33 ..3-35 ..3-36 ..3-38 ..3-39 ..3-41 ..3-43 ..3-44 ..3-46 ..3-55 1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR PROJECT 1.1 INTRODUCTION The North Carolina Department of Transportation proposes to construct an approximately 11- mile section of second main track to be placed on the old roadbed along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern (NS) line in Rowan County. The project also proposes to construct grade separations at Peeler Road/Cedar Springs Road, Kimball Road Extension, and 24`h Street in Kannapolis. The proposed project is designated as TIP Project No. P-5206 (formerly P-3414P). Exhibit 1.1.1 shows the project location and the study area which is situated between control points "Reid" (south of Salisbury) and "North Kannapolis" in Rowan County. The proposed improvements begin approximately half a mile north of Peach Orchard Road (SR 2359) and extend to just south of 18th Street in Kannapolis. The study area associated with this project is mostly contained within the 200-foot NCRR corridor which is roughly centered on the existing track. The study area extends beyond the NCRR corridor in locations of proposed grade separations and substantial curve improvements. This document was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 as amended. It includes the disclosure of relevant environmental information regarding the proposed project and is intended for use by both decision-makers and the public. The contents of this statement conform with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) guidelines regarding the implementation of NEPA, as well as the Federal Railroad Administration's (FRA) Procedures for Considering Environmental lmpacts (64 Federal Register 28545, May 26, 1999) (FRA, 1999) and Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) technical advisory, Guidance for Preparing and Processing Environmental and Section 4(� Documents (FHWA, 1987). The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is the lead Federal agency for the environmental review for the proposed project under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and NCDOT is the lead State agency. FRA and NCDOT are responsible for preparing the Environmental Assessment (EA). The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is a Cooperating Agency under NEPA, and will be participating with the FRA in preparing the EA. 1-1 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRAJ of 2009 — The proposed project meets criteria outlined in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 and is therefore eligible for transportation infrastructure funding under the Act. Guidance from the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regarding implementation of the ARRA encourages state and federal agencies to ensure that environmental reviews and informed decision-making guide the implementation of the ARRA (CEQ, 2009). In accordance with NEPA and in acknowledgement of the CEQ's ARRA implementation guidance, this environmental document was prepared to assess potential impacts associated with the proposed project. Piedmont lmprovement Program — The Piedmont Improvement Program is an initiative by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), the Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) and the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR) to improve passenger and freight railroad operations along the NCRR Piedmont Corridor from Raleigh to Charlotte. The NCRR Piedmont Corridor consists of the Greensboro to Charlotte portion of the NS Mainline from Washington to Atlanta, and the Greensboro to Raleigh portion of the NCRR H-line. The proposed project (TIP Project P-5206) is one of three double track replacement projects proposed on the NS Mainline between Greensboro and Charlotte. The other two double track projects are the 4.2 mile Thomasville to Lexington project (TIP # C-4901A) and the 12.3 mile Concord to Charlotte project (TIP # P-5208). Completion of the proposed project, along with the other two projects, will result in a 92 mile long segment of continuous double track on the NS Mainline between Greensboro and Charlotte. Along the connecting NCRR H-line between Greensboro and Raleigh, NCDOT has two projects which propose to add passing sidings to increase capacity and realign curves to increase passenger train speeds. TIP Project P-5205 proposes to realign four curves and construct a 1.9 mile long passing siding between Graham and Haw River in Alamance County. TIP Project U-4716 proposes to realign the tracks and construct a 3.5 mile long passing siding from Durham to Morrisville in Durham and Wake Counties. 1.2 PROPOSED ACTION The proposed action would provide an additional railroad track along the existing NCRR/NS line between Reid and North Kannapolis in Rowan County. This is one of three proposed projects where 1-2 Important Points • Project funding source is 2009 ARRA. • The proposed action one of three double-track projects included in the Piedmont Improvement Program. former double-track sections are being rebuilt to create a 92-mile section of double-track railroad between Charlotte and Greensboro. Due to the long distances between each of these projects, it was determined that they would be studied as three separate projects. 1.3 SUMMARY OF PROJECT NEED The purpose of the proposed project is to improve passenger train schedule reliability, provide additional capacity to support the introduction of up to 12 daily (six round trip) additional passenger trains to the NCRR Piedmont Corridor, and enhance the safety of the railroad within the study area. Increased usage of North Carolina's highway system has led to congestion and increased emissions. To address congestion and emissions concerns, the NCDOT Rail Division is improving passenger rail service by upgrading the existing rail infrastructure. Ultimately, these improvements will benefit the infrastructure for high-speed and traditional passenger rail service in the state of North Carolina. The proposed improvements will improve passenger train schedule reliability by allowing freight and passenger trains to quickly and efficiently maneuver around each other, help accommodate future growth in passenger train traffic, and provide tracks that will be able to support higher speed passenger service. Train/vehicle conflicts will be eliminated by closing selected at-grade road crossings and providing grade-separated crossings (bridges). Improved safety measures are proposed where at-grade road crossings cannot be closed. The estimated current and future 20-year service levels for intercity passenger and freight service on the NCRR Piedmont Corridor between Charlotte, Greensboro and Raleigh are described below. lntercity Passenger Service — The NCRR Piedmont Corridor between Greensboro to Charlotte currently hosts eight daily (four round trip) intercity passenger trains, including the four daily (two round trip) NCDOT Piedmont Service trains, twice daily (one round trip) Amtrak Carolinian trains, and the twice daily (one round trip) Amtrak Crescent service. 1-3 Important Points • NCDOT and Amtrak both expect to incrementally increase passenger service through this rail corridor by 2030. • The proposed project is along the Preferred Alterna6ve corridor identified in the Tier 1 SEHSR EIS. Upon completion of the proposed project, NCDOT plans to add six daily (three round trip) NCDOT Piedmont Service trains to the NCRR Piedmont Corridor between Charlotte and Raleigh. The current and future intercity passenger rail trains serve the following nine stations, including five between Charlotte and Greensboro, at Greensboro, High Point, Salisbury, Kannapolis, and Charlotte, and three between Greensboro and Raleigh, including Raleigh, Cary, Durham, and Burlington. Two additional stations are planned on the NCRR Piedmont Corridor, including Lexington between Charlotte and Greensboro, and Hillsborough between Greensboro and Raleigh. Southeastern High-Speed Rail Corridor (SEHSRJ — The proposed project is along the Preferred Alternative for the SEHSR corridor determined by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) in the Record of Decision for the Tier I SEHSR Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). That document analyzed the entire SEHSR corridor from Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC, including numerous alternative alignment combinations and modal choices. Subsequently, NCDOT undertook a Tier II EIS for the middle segment of the SEHSR corridor between Raleigh, NC and Richmond, VA. As of the date of this Environmental Assessment (EA), that document is still being prepared. For the southern portion of the SEHSR corridor between Charlotte and Raleigh, NCDOT is preparing individual project-level NEPA documents, including this EA. FRA and NCDOT have determined that the individual projects each have independent utility; that is, each project will provide tangible benefits to existing freight and passenger rail service even if no additional investments are made for high speed-service. Regardless of future high-speed rail development, the proposed projects would provide benefits to schedule reliability, train speeds, and overall rail capacity and safety. The respective NEPA documents provide more details on the independent utility of each project. For the northern portion of the SEHSR corridor between Richmond and Washington, DC, FRA recently announced a$44.3 million grant to the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) that will fund the completion of preliminary engineering and a Tier II EIS (The SEHSR Tier I EIS and ROD can be found at http://www.fra.dot.qov/rpd/freiqht/1611.shtml). 1-4 The SEHSR corridor is planned to include eight daily (four round trip) high-speed trains to the network between Charlotte and Raleigh, with service extending beyond the NCRR Piedmont Corridor northward to Richmond, VA and Washington, DC, and southward to Atlanta, GA and points south. This includes a Piedmont Service train that will be extended north beyond Raleigh upon completion of the proposed Raleigh to Richmond segment of the SEHSR. Ultimately, the NCRR Piedmont Corridor is expected to host up to 20 daily (ten round trip) passenger trains between Charlotte and Raleigh by 2030, including the current and proposed Amtrak, NCDOT Piedmont Service and SEHSR corridor trains. The proposed project is expected to provide the capacity necessary to support the operation of up to 20 daily (ten round trip) passenger trains; however, if NCDOT is unable to immediately utilize the additional capacity being created for either for NCDOT Piedmont Service or SEHSR corridor service, the additional capacity will be preserved for such use in the interim. Freight Service — Prior to the economic downturn, NS was operating nearly 60 freight trains per day along the Greensboro to Charlotte corridor, as opposed to current volumes of 34 trains per day. Thus, the current track layout provides enough capacity to accommodate significant growth in freight volumes. It is estimated that the future volumes will be approximately double current volumes, 68 trains per day or greater. These volumes will not be induced by the proposed improvements, but will rather follow economic necessity from the freight railroad's viewpoint. The freight traffic can increase to a certain threshold with the existing infrastructure before the efficiency of operation along the corridor is substantially reduced. This would result in reduced train speeds, increased train waiting times for cleared signals, increased locomotive idling and reduced fuel efficiency. Other impacts of the potential increased congestion would include additional long-haul freight traffic on highways, additional vehicular delays at at-grade railroad crossings, and increased emissions from locomotives and road vehicles. Note: A network capacity analysis was conducted by NS to ensure that the additional intercity passenger trains with increased speeds and the proposed capacity increases would not prevent NS from operating freight trains at the current or projected volumes. 1-5 Important Points • The current single-track layout in this study area is not sufficient to meet the anticipated passenger and freight demands of the corndor. • There are 20 at-grade roadway crossings present in the study area. Safety — The study area currently has 20 at-grade crossings. The potential for train/vehicle conflicts will continue to increase with the growth of both highway and rail traffic. 1.4 SUMMARY OF PROJECT PURPOSE The purpose of the proposed project is to improve passenger train schedule reliability, provide additional capacity to support the introduction of up to 12 daily (six round trip) additional passenger trains to the NCRR Piedmont Corridor, and enhance the safety of the railroad within the study area. Increased usage of North Carolina's highway system has led to congestion and increased emissions. To address congestion and emissions concerns, the NCDOT Rail Division is improving passenger rail service (as well as freight) by upgrading the existing rail infrastructure. Ultimately, these improvements will benefit the infrastructure for high-speed rail in the state of North Carolina. In the more immediate future, the proposed improvements will enhance the efficiency of both passenger and freight train movements. The proposed improvements will improve passenger train schedule reliability by allowing freight and passenger trains to quickly and efficiently maneuver around each other, help accommodate future growth in freight and passenger train traffic, and provide tracks that will be able to support higher speed passenger service. In addition, train/vehicle conflicts will be eliminated by closing 14 existing crossings and constructing grade separations at three locations. Detailed descriptions of the proposed closures and grade separations are provided in Section 2. Improved safety measures are proposed where at-grade road crossings cannot be closed. 1.5 PROJECT SETTING As shown in Exhibit 1.1.1, the study area is situated between control points "Reid" (south of Salisbury) and "North Kannapolis" in Rowan County. The study area is characterized by relatively dense established development that is accessed primarily by US 29. US 29 runs parallel to the existing track and functions as "Main StreeY' for the towns of China Grove and Landis. Much of the development is situated within the 200-foot NCRR corridor, making impacts to properties and access an important consideration. As mentioned, the development is well- established and consists of commercial, residential, and public uses. The proximity of US 29 to 1-6 the track also presents geometric challenges for grade separation options. Specifically, implementing roadway crossings over the existing and proposed track, and then bringing the grade back down to US 29 is often constrained by relatively short spacing between the track and the roadway. 1.6 SYSTEM LINKAGE This section discusses the major elements of the transportation system traversing and surrounding the study area. 1.6.1 Existinq Rail Svstem Most of the traffic along this rail corridor comes from Norfolk Southern (NS) freight trains and Amtrak passenger trains. This section of track lies on the Washington to Atlanta Mainline which is NS' primary Atlantic Coast north-south route. This route is used to connect major northeastern metropolitan areas via Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to the major metropolitan areas of the Southeast and Gulf Coast via Atlanta, Georgia. This section of the NCRR Piedmont Corridor is part of a larger NS initiative. The Crescent Corridor seeks to improve intermodal services along the I-20, I-40, I-59, I-85, and I-81 corridors between Memphis, Tennessee and New Orleans, Louisiana in the south and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in the northeast. This initiative proposes to increase corridor capacity and construct or enlarge intermodal facilities along the corridor. Amtrak operates passenger rail service in the project corridor. Eight passenger trains pass through the corridor per day. The Crescent, route offers service between New York and New Orleans with stops at major cities in between, including Charlotte and Greensboro. The Carolinian offers service between New York and Charlotte and the Piedmont offers two daily round trips between Charlotte and Raleigh. 1.6.2 Existinq Road Svstem The rail corridor is adjacent to US 29 throughout the study area. US 29 is a critical north-south corridor that parallels I-85. I-85 is a main artery through the state and is vitally important for regional connection to the communities and towns along US 29 in Rowan County. Because the NCRR corridor runs parallel to 1-7 Important Points • A substantial amount of existing development is located within the 200- foot NCRR corridor. • Most of the existing rail traffic is composed of NS freight trains and Amtrak passenger trains. and between I-85 and US 29, the proposed improvements were developed to maintain accessibility and connectivity with the existing road system. 1.6.3 Existinq Public Transportation Svstem The counties of Cabarrus and Rowan are serviced by Concord/Kannapolis Area Transit, Salisbury Transit, Rowan Transit System, RIDER Transit System, Concord Express, and various smaller agencies for special need populations. 1.6.4 Existinq Air System The Rowan County Airport is a general aviation airport located at the north end of the study area, just west of Salisbury. The airport serves primarily business commuter travel. Ground transportation services to and from the airport link to the regional road system via l-85 which runs parallel to the rail corridor through Rowan County. 1.7 SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CONDITIONS The following sections describe existing and projected social and economic elements of the project setting. 1.7.1 Existinq Development Most of the proposed improvements would be contained within the 200-foot NCRR corridor. There is a substantial amount of established commercial, residential, and public development encroaching within this corridor. Development is centered around the Towns of China Grove and Landis in the middle portion of the study area. At the north and south ends of the study area, development is associated with the cities of Salisbury and Kannapolis, respectively. 1.7.2 Future Development Population growth in the Cabarrus-Rowan Metropolitan Planning Area (CR MPA) is expected to be a steady 3% annual rate over the next 25 years. The associated average rate of employment growth is also projected to be approximately 3% with a 2035 distribution of: industrial/manufacturing (30%), banking (2%), service jobs (30%), retail (21 %), education (6%), and office/government (11 %). (CRMPO LRTP 2035, 2009). Specific to the study 1-8 Important Points • The rail line in the study area parallels US 29 and 1-85, which is a determining factor when considering crossing closures or improvements. • A mix of development is present in the study area and includes areas within North Kannapolis, Landis, and China Grove. corridor, the level of existing development adjacent to the railroad and along US 29 is well established and mostly built out in and around the towns. Substantial changes in the type and amount of development in this corridor are therefore not anticipated within the 2035 design period. 1.8 TRANSPORTATION PLANS This section describes planned and programmed improvements to the transportation system in the general vicinity of the proposed action. This includes projects planned by NCDOT and others. Exhibit 1.8.1 shows the planned and programmed projects in the vicinity of the proposed action. 1.8.1 NCDOT Prolects The NCDOT 2009-2015 TIP includes schedules (planning, design, right-of-way acquisition, and construction) for several projects in the general vicinity of the study area. The two most relevant TIP projects are the other "double-track" projects that would complete a dual track section between Charlotte and Greensboro. These projects are designated as P-5208 (Haydock to Junker, 12.5 miles between Charlotte and Concord) and C-4901A (Bowers to Lake, 4.5 miles between Lexington and Thomasville). Two at-grade crossings within the project limits are being studied as part of a separate project, NCDOT TIP Project No. P-4405A. Closure of the Ethel Road and Jukebox Road crossings is being evaluated as part of the NCDOT Private Crossing Safety Initiative for the rail corridor between Raleigh and Charlotte. Additional details on this project can be found in Sections 2.3.1 and 3.5. Other relevant programmed roadway and infrastructure improvement projects related to the railways in this area are listed in Table 1.8.1 and are shown in Exhibit 1.8.1. Important Points • Over the next 25 years, steady growth is projected for the region. • There are a total of three "double-track" projects that would re-establish dual track between Charlotte and Greensboro. 1-9 TABLE 1.8.1 2009-2015 TIP PROJECTS IN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA VICINITY TIP LOCATION PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS NO. Airport Parkway Extension — New location, two-lane roadway (on U-3821 Salisbury/Rowan four-lane right-of-way) from Jake Alexander Boulevard at Harrison Road to Peach Orchard Road at I-85. 7.7 miles (Division 9) NC 152 Bypass— Upgrade existing facility from the I-85/US 601 R-4062 China Grove/Rowan Interchange to Relocated US 52 (R-2903) near Rockwell. (9.2 Miles) (Division 9) FS- Kimball Road Extension — Construct new location connector for 0309A Landis/Rowan extension of SR 1211 (Kimball Road) from SR 2739 (Main Street) to SR 1221 (Bostian Road). (0.7 Mile) (Division 9) U-4702 Kannapolis/Cabarrus SR 1766 (Universal Street) —SR 1625 (Rogers Lake Road) Construct Railroad Grade Separation (Division 10) B-2085 Salisbury/Rowan North Ellis Street Over Southern Railway, Replace Bridge No. 393 (Division 9) B-2086 Salisbury/Rowan East Fisher Street Over Southern Railway, Replace Bridge No. 138 (Division 9) B-3236 Salisbury/Rowan Southern Railway, Replace Bridge No. 381, SR 2200 (E. Innes St.) (Division 9) P4902 Spencer/Rowan Rail Track Replacement and Construction-Transportation Museum (Division 9) U-3459 Salisbury/Rowan SR 2541 (Klumac Road), Construct a Grade Separation with the NCRR (Division 9) SR 1002 (Bringle Ferry Road) — US 29 (Main Street), Widen to Multi- U-3460 Salisbury/Rowan Lanes, Grade Separation Over NCRR and Norfolk Southern Railroads and an Access Road to Long Street (Division 9) U-3822 Spencer/Rowan SR 2120 (Long Ferry Road), Grade Separation at Southern Railway (Division 9) U-4416 Landis/Rowan Construct Grade Separation at Rice Street over Piedmont High Speed Rail Corridor (Division 9) NOTE: Table inclutles unfuntletl as well as funtletl projects. 1.8.2 Lonq Ranqe Transportation Plan The CRMPO Long Range Transportation Plan currently shows the Airport Parkway Extension and NC 152 (described above) as major thoroughfare projects. Both of these currently unfunded projects are anticipated to include grade separations over the NCRR railroad. In addition to the above-mentioned major thoroughfares, the Kimball Street extension is proposed to provide a new local connection and railroad grade separation in the Landis area. 1.8.3 NCRR Corridor The majority of the study area for this project is within the NCRR corridor. The NCRR corridor is 200 feet wide, 317 miles long and extends from the Morehead City Port to Charlotte. Specific to this project, the corridor is roughly centered on the existing railroad tracks parallel to I-85 1-10 through Rowan County. The 1849 Charter for the NCRR specified the 200-foot corridor, providing the right to NCRR to use the land within the corridor for railroad uses (NCRR: Understanding the Corridor Management and Protection Program, 200�. For this project, any business or residential relocations within the 200-foot corridor would be addressed by NCRR. 1.8.4 Bicvcle and Pedestrian Plans Although there are no special accommodations for bicycles (such as paved shoulders or bicycle lanes), the Rowan County Bicycling Map (NCDOT, 2009) identifies Corriher Gravel Road and Mount Hope Church Road as a county bicycle route. The Salisbury Comprehensive Bicycle Plan (Wilbur Smith, 2009) designates SR 1514 (Airport Road) as a county bicycle route and recommends the addition of a wide shoulder and sidewalk to accommodate the high number of low-income and transportation-challenged citizens living in the area. It also recommends adding signage for a designated bicycle route along US 29 in south Salisbury. The Kannapolis Walkable Community Plan (HSMM, 2007) does not contain any recommendations for the portion of the project study area under its jurisdiction. There is no bicycle or pedestrian plan for the Town of China Grove; however, provisions for sidewalks are contained in the Town's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) (Town of China Grove, 2010). The UDO requires developers to construct sidewalks under certain conditions such as the presence of sidewalks on adjacent parcels or the particular type of roadway. The Town of Landis does not have a bicycle or pedestrian plan. 1.9 SAFETY In order to implement increased speed and reliability for trains along this corridor, potential conflicts with automobiles at roadway crossings need to be minimized to the extent possible. Within the study area betv�een Reid and North Kannapolis, there are 20 at-grade roadway crossings. Traffic Separation Studies (TSSs) have been previously developed by the NCDOT Rail Division to examine potential closures and consolidation of crossings in Salisbury (NCDOT, 1994), China Grove (NCDOT, 1997a), Kannapolis (NCDOT, 1997b) and Landis (NCDOT, 1997c). The TSSs recommended closure of seven at-grade crossings and proposed two new roadway grade separations to aid in improving safety along the NCRR corridor. 1-11 Important Points • There are two planned roadway projects that would cross the rail line at a grade- separated crossing. • Any proposed relocations within the NCRR corridor would be addressed by the NCRR. • Traffic separa6on studies (TSSs) were conducted in 1994 and 1997 to examine options for crossing closures, consolidations, orotherimprovements. • A second track would allow trains to quickly and efficiently maneuver around each other, improving overall corridor capacity and train schedule reliability. 1.10 SUMMARY The NCDOT Rail Division proposes to construct an additional railroad track along the NCRR line between Reid and North Kannapolis in Rowan County. This additional track replaces a second track that was previously removed in the 1960's, and generally follows the location of the previously-removed track and railroad bed. The need for this project is based on current and projected needs along the corridor between Greensboro and Charlotte which has recently exhibited use by as many as 60 passenger and freight trains per day. Since the 1960's track removal, rail traffic has greatly increased and additional capacity and service reliability are needed. The NCRR Greensboro to Charlotte corridor currently hosts 8 daily (4 round trip) intercity passenger trains, including the 4 daily (2 round trip) NCDOT Piedmont Service trains, twice daily (1 round trip) Amtrak Carolinian trains and the twice daily (1 round trip) Amtrak Crescent service. NCDOT plans to add 4 daily (2 round trip) Piedmont Service trains between Charlotte and Raleigh. Amtrak and NCDOT may introduce 8 daily (4 round trip) Southeast High Speed Rail (SEHSR) Corridor trains to the network extending beyond the Piedmont Corridor northward to Richmond, VA and Washington, DC, and southward to Atlanta, GA and points south. In total, the NCRR Corridor is expected to host up to 20 daily (10 round trip) passenger trains between Greensboro and Charlotte by 2030 Prior to the economic downturn, NS was operating nearly 60 freight trains per day along the Greensboro to Charlotte corridor, as opposed to current volumes of 34 trains per day. Thus, the current track layout provides enough capacity to accommodate significant growth in freight volumes. It is estimated that the future volumes will be approximately double current volumes, 68 trains per day or greater. These volumes will not be induced by the proposed improvements, but will rather follow economic necessity from the freight railroad's viewpoint. The purpose of the proposed project is to improve passenger train schedule reliability, provide additional capacity to support the introduction of up to 12 daily (six round trip) additional passenger trains to the NCRR Piedmont Corridor, and enhance the safety of the railroad within the study area. 1-12 2.0 ALTERNATIVES 2.1 NO-BUILD ALTERNATIVE The No Build Alternative was considered but eliminated from further consideration. The No Build Alternative does not meet the primary purpose and need for the proposed project. Freight train volume is projected to increase beyond current year levels as the market dictates, regardless of the addition of capacity within the project limits. If the proposed improvements are not implemented, reliability of the existing passenger service will diminish as freight train volume increases. Existing passenger service will experience reduced train speed due to congestion. The passenger trains will also experience increased delay while waiting for other trains to clear the existing single track section between control points Reid and North Kannapolis. The purpose of the proposed project is also to provide capacity for future passenger train service on the NCRR Piedmont Corridor. NCDOT and the FRA are proposing to add up to 12 daily (six round trip) passenger trains along the corridor, including the introduction of four additional daily (two round trip) NCDOT Piedmont Service trains, and eight daily (four round trip) SEHSR corridor trains The existing infrastructure will not be able to support the additional passenger trains and the expected increase of freight traffic without negatively impacting the ability of NS to efficiently operate their freight trains along the corridor. The congestion will result in increased locomotive idling and reduced fuel efficiency. Also, the existing infrastructure does not support higher speed operations as dictated by the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 and the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act. The proposed project also proposes to improve safety within the project limits by closing a number of at-grade crossings and replacing them with grade separations. Without these improvements, at-grade crossings within the project limits will experience additional queuing of vehicles at railroad crossings, resulting in an increase in auto emissions. Also, the crossings will experience an increase in accident potential due to the increase in train volume. 2-1 Important Points • The No-Build Altemative provides a basis for comparison of the build altematives butwouldnotmeetthe projectpurpose. • Track removed in the 1960's was on the westside of the rail corridor. • Placing the second track on the east side of the rail corridor would create considerably higherimpacts than replacing the track on the west side. 2.2 PRELIMINARY BUILD ALTERNATIVES The Build Alternative meets the primary purpose and need for the proposed project. The implementation of the proposed project, will improve the reliability of the existing passenger service by providing additional capacity and constructing crossovers which will enable the faster passenger trains to maneuver around the slower freight trains. The additional capacity will also allow for the introduction of up to 12 daily (six round trip) future passenger trains along the corridor without hindering NS's ability to operate the future freight train volumes required to meet the needs of their business model. The capacity improvements proposed by the proposed project are designed to directly relate to the increase in passenger service that is planned for the NCRR Piedmont Corridor. Any capacity that is constructed, but not immediately utilized for passenger service, will be preserved for future passenger train use, subject to the need for the completion of additional operational and capacity improvements along the corridor. The proposed improvements will also enable passenger trains to operate at higher speeds, thus meeting the requirements of the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2008 and the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act. The passenger trains will be limited to 79 mph through the project area under the current operating environment, but the project is designed to accommodate speeds up to 90 mph when additional operational and capacity improvements are installed on the corridor. By eliminating the majority of the existing at-grade crossings within the project limits and replacing them with grade separations, rail and vehicular safety will be significantly improved. Also, the grade separations will reduce the amount of delay experienced by vehicles while waiting for trains to pass. This will result in less vehicular idling and ultimately, improved air quality for the area. Preliminary alternatives to add track either east or west of the existing track alignment were evaluated. This section describes the preliminary alternatives. 2.2.1 Additional Track East Adding track on the east side of the existing track was initially evaluated. The original second track that was removed in the 1960s was on the west side. Although the track was removed, the railroad bed and former earthwork are relatively intact. The NCRR corridor has experienced development encroachment since the 1960s on both sides of the existing track. However, the physical presence of the remnant roadbed has prevented the same degree of encroachment on 2-2 the west side. In addition, the presence of the remnant roadbed reduces the potential for impacts to natural resources. In evaluating the potential impacts of adding a second track and improving some curve alignments, it was determined that substantially greater relocation impacts would be anticipated if track were added on the east side. An example of this anticipated impact is that track alignment improvements on the east side would cause relocation of a substantial segment of Central Avenue through the Town of China Grove, severely reducing roadway connectivity within this area. After the original second track was removed, both sides of the NCRR corridor experienced encroachment from development. The presence of the remnant road bed limited this effect on the western side but not on the eastern side. As such, placing the second track on the eastern side of the rail corridor would affect more existing development than replacing the track on the western side of the rail corridor. Therefore this preliminary alternative was eliminated from further consideration and was not carried into a preliminary design phase, where detailed quantification of impacts would be prepared. 2.2.2 Additional Track West As described above, adding track to the east side was eliminated from further consideration because it was expected to have greater impacts than adding track on the west side. There are a few exceptions east realignments are necessary to improve curve alignments, such as in the China Grove area. Additional track on the west side would utilize the existing roadbed for the most part. This minimizes potential impacts as it would require less earthwork and disruption to the existing terrain when compared to other options. Adding track on the west side was projected to cause fewer impacts to the human and natural environment while still satisfying the purpose and need. Therefore, adding track on the west side was carried forward as the Build Alternative. 2.3 BUILD ALTERNATIVE The Build Alternative would provide a second track on the former roadbed on the west side of the existing NCRR/NS track between Reid and Kannapolis. Exhibit 2.3.1 shows the Build Alternative for the 2-3 • Replacing the track on the west side would use the old roadbed and require less earthwork than adding a new track to the east side. • The second track would be placed 14-feet (center-to-center) from the existing track. • Alignment and crossing improvements are included in the Build Altemative to maintain consistency with NCDOT plans far the SEHSR. proposed project within the NCRR/NS corridor. The proposed track would be located 14-feet (center-to-center) from the existing track on a parallel alignment. In order for the project to accommodate high-speed train service (speeds of 90 mph), alignment improvements and elimination of at-grade roadway crossings (where feasible) are also needed. Alignment improvements are anticipated to stay within the NCRR corridor with the exception of one location. Improvement of the existing rail curve just southwest of Centerview Street is anticipated to require right-of-way beyond the NCRR corridor. The proposed project also includes the construction of two sidings. A 1,500-foot siding is proposed on the north side of the rail corridor between the existing Peeler Road at-grade crossing and the proposed Peeler Road grade separation. A 300-foot siding is proposed on the south side of the rail corridor near the proposed Mt. Hope Church Road crossing closure. Grade separation improvements are all projected to require additional right-of-way. These specific elements are discussed in the following sections. 2.3.1 Grade Separations and Closures Crossing closure is the most effective way to eliminate safety issues at at-grade crossings. Crossings within a quarter-mile of each other that connect to the same street network are considered redundant and are often good candidates for crossing consolidation. Consolidation of two or more crossings into one crossing can be accomplished by utilizing roads that parallel the railroad or building service roads to a central crossing location. As presented in Section 1.9, there are 20 at-grade roadway crossings within the study area. Each of these crossings was evaluated based on automobile traffic volumes, preliminary railroad design geometry for the Build Alternative, and previous traffic separation studies. Table 2.3.1 lists each of the at-grade roadway crossings along with its recommended treatment associated with the Build Alternative. Exhibit 2.3.2 shows each of the crossing locations. Due to physical constraints, many of the crossings had a single reasonable and feasible improvement option. Crossings with more than one reasonable and feasible option are noted in the table and described in the following paragraphs. Exhibits 2.3.3 though 2.3.5 show the proposed grade separation locations. 2-4 TABLE 2.3.1 BUILD ALTERNATIVE ROADWAY CROSSINGS: RECOMMENDED TREATMENTS Crossing Included in' TSS Long Term Build Alternative Previous TSS. Recommendation Recommendation 18�" Street Kannapolis Close Close 22"a Street Kannapolis Close Close 24t6 Street (new crossing) Kannapolis Grade Separate Grade Separate 29�" Street Kannapolis Close Close Mill Street Landis Close Close Ryder Street Landis Retain/Improve Retain/Improve Central Avenue Landis Close Close Kimball Road E�ctension -- -- Grade Separate Eudy Road China Grove Close Close Thom Street China Grove Retain/Improve Close Centerview Street China Grove Retain/Improve Retain/Improve Church Street China Grove Retain/Improve Retain/Improve US 29/US 601 (Grade Separated) China Grove Retain Retain Juke Box Road (N, of Collins Rd.) -- -- Close Ethel Road (S, of Reece Ridge Rd.) -- -- Close Mt. Hope Church Road --- --- Close Private (S. of Webb Road) --- --- Close Webb Road --- --- Retain/Improve Private (N. of Grace Church Rd.) --- --- Close PeelerRoad -- -- Grade Separate Peach Orchard Road -- -- Close Private (S. of Airport Road) --- --- Close Private (N. of Airport Road) --- --- Close NOTE: Crossings with more than one reasonable and feasible option are noted in italics and described in the following paragraphs. In addition to summarizing the rationale and likely effects associated with each proposed crossing improvement, Table 2.3.2 includes brief descriptions of the existing conditions at each crossing evaluated as part of this project. In many cases, vehicles queuing across the tracks is noted as an issue. In this scenario, vehicles stopped at an intersection with a paralleling roadway will line up across the tracks. The potential for queuing varies based on an intersection's distance from the rail crossing and traffic volumes. Another condition noted in the table is called a"humped" crossing. A crossing is considered humped if the elevation of the railroad crossing is higher than that of the roadway approaches. If severe enough, this condition can cause vehicles, especially low-suspension trucks, to become stuck on the tracks. Maintenance of the crossing can contribute to this condition, raising the crossing by as much as one foot over a ten year period. 2-5 TABLE 2.3.2 LOGIC AND RATIONALE FOR ROADWAY CROSSING TREATMENTS CROSSING PROPOSED RATIONALE ASSOCIATED EFFECTS TREATMENT • Humped crossing . Traffic will be routed to the • Fatal accident' new grade separation at 24�" • Closure allows for curve Street 18�" Street Close realignment south of crossing � • Close proximity to proposed grade separation' • Below standard grades on • Traffic will be routed to the both approaches' new grade separation at 24�" • Potential for vehicles at US Street 29A intersection to queue 22"a Street Close across tracks' • Three accidents with two fatalities' • Close proximityto�roposed grade separation • New grade separation needed • Due to the amount of traffic as part of crossing expected to utilize the new consolidation program in this crossing, the intersections with area' US 29 and US 29A were assumed to be signalized in 24t6 Street Grade the design year h Separate . Existing US 29 and 24 Street intersection would be closed to minimize need for roadway improvements to US 29; 24�" Street would be accessed via 25�" Street • Below standard grades on • Traffic will be routed to the eastbound approach' new grade separation at 24�" • Potential for vehicles at US Street 29�" Street Close 29A intersection to queue across tracks' • One "pro�perty damage only" accident • Potential for vehicles at US • Traffic would be routed to 29A intersection to queue Ryder Street crossing across tracks Z • Three accidents with one Mill Street Close fatality Z • Close proximity to Ryder Street Z • Closure allows for track curve realignment Z • Ryder Street is primary • Crossing consolidation would connector between US 29A, increase traffic at Ryder Street Ryder Street Retain/Improve Landis central business crossing, which could cause district, and US 29 Z vehicles to queue across • Im roved crossin would tracks at intersection with US � TABLE 2.3.2 LOGIC AND RATIONALE FOR ROADWAY CROSSING TREATMENTS CROSSING PROPOSED RATIONALE ASSOCIATED EFFECTS TREATMENT minimize the potential for 29A vehicles at US 29A . Intersection improvements, intersection to queue across including additional turn lanes tracks Z and an alternate intersection configuration, would be required at the US 29A and Central Avenue intersections • A new signal and turn lanes would be required at the Ryder Street and North Chapel Street intersection • Closure allows for track curve • Traffic would be routed to realignment Ryder Street crossing • Potential for additional traffic volumes to cause vehicles at Central Avenue Close intersection with US 29A to queue across tracks • Intersection improvements, including additional turn lanes, would be required at the US 29A intersection • New grade separation needed • Kimball Road would be as part of crossing extended over the railroad to a consolidation program in this new intersection with North area Z'' Chapel Street Kimball Road Grade • A fourth leg would be added to Extension Separate the existing intersection of Kimball Road and US 29A • Based on anticipated volumes, Kimball Road and US 29A intersection would likely be si nalized in the future • One "property damage only" • Traffic would be routed to new Eudy Road Close accident ° grade-separated Kimball Road extension • Potential for vehicles at US • Traffic would be routed to new 29A intersection to queue grade-separated Kimball Road Thom Street Close across tracks ° extension • Closure allows for track curve reali nment • Serves China Grove central • Reconfigure the intersection of business district ° Harris Street and Centerview Centerview • Potential for vehicles at US Street to right-in/right-out Retain/Improve 29A intersection to queue operation. This change would Street across tracks ° likely send additional traffic to • Fatal accident ° the intersection of Centerview • Hum ed crossin ° Street and Bostian Street Church Street Retain/Improve ' Humped crossing ° . The intersection of Harris Street and Church Street 2-7 TABLE 2.3.2 LOGIC AND RATIONALE FOR ROADWAY CROSSING TREATMENTS CROSSING PROPOSED RATIONALE ASSOCIATED EFFECTS TREATMENT would be reconfigured so that no traffic would approach the intersection of Harris Street and Church Street from the east • Traffic that would be rerouted due to the conversion of the intersection of Harris Street and Church Street would use Bostian Street as its most likel alternative • No change to existing grade • Existing roadway will NC 152 Retain separated crossing accommodate additional traffic volumes from nearby crossing closures • Site distance obscured by� • Traffic would be rerouted to Juke Box Road vegetation and buildings crossings at Webb Road and (N. of Collins Close • Proximity to Ethel Road NC 152 Rd.) crossing allows for both crossings to be serviced by a new access road 5 • Humped crossing 5 • Traffic would be rerouted to Ethel Road (S. • One accident with injury 5 crossings at Webb Road and of Reece Ridge Close • Proximity to Jukebox Road NC 152 Rd.) crossing allows for both crossings to be serviced by a new access road 5 Mt. Hope • Proximity to Webb Road • Traffic would be rerouted to Church Road Close allows crossing consolidation crossings at Webb Road and NC 152 Private (S. of . Closure allows for track curve • Traffic would be rerouted to Webb Road) Close realignment 5 crossin at Webb Road • No changes to existing at- • Traffic from Ethel/Jukebox Webb Road Retain/Improve grade crossing Road would be rerouted to crossin at Webb Road • Crossing does not serve • Future access across the rail Private (East of s Grace Church Close developed parcels corridor would be provided at Road) • Crossing is poorly maintained Peeler Road or Webb Road and not in use • New grade separation needed • Traffic would be routed along as part of crossing an extension of Peeler Road to consolidation program in this a new grade-separated area crossing that would connect to PeelerRoad Grade . Closure allows for track curve Cedar Springs Road Separate realignment • New intersections on Cedar Springs Road and Long Meadow Drive to provide access to US 29. One si nalized intersection is 2-8 TABLE 2.3.2 LOGIC AND RATIONALE FOR ROADWAY CROSSING TREATMENTS CROSSING PROPOSED RATIONALE ASSOCIATED EFFECTS TREATMENT proposed atthe northern intersection where Cedar Springs Road connector intersects with US 29 • Closure allows for track curve • Hayder Street would be realignment extended to the new grade- • Proximityto Peeler Road separated crossing onthe allows crossing consolidation Peeler Road extension Peach Orchard Close • Traffic along Hayder Street Road would increase by 4,470 vehicles/day due to the addition of traffic that previously used the Peach Orchard Road crossing • Crossing does not serve many • Traffic would be rerouted to Private (S. of developed parcels 5 new Peeler Road grade- Air ort Road Close � p ) 5 rossing is poorly maintained separated crossing • Crossing is poorly maintained • Traffic would be rerouted to 5 new Peeler Road grade- Private (N. of Close • Steep eastbound approach to separated crossing Airport Road) crossing • Poor site distance on roadway a roaches 5 iv� i t�i��urccts vvnere nocea, imormanon was rererencea rrom me rouowing sources: 1 Kannapolis Traffc Separetion Study (NCDOT, 1997b) 2 Landis Traffc Separetion Study (NCDOT, 1997c) 3 Kimball Road Feasibility Study (NCDOT, 2008) 4 China Grove Traffc Separetion Study (1997a) 5 Private Crossing Safety Initiative: Crossing Evaluations and Recommendations (NCDOT, 2003) 24�" Street (Exhibit 2.3.3) — Four options for a new grade separation were evaluated as part of the crossing consolidation program in the segment between 22"' Street and 26`h. The options focused on an undeveloped area in the vicinity of 24`h Street to minimize direct impacts to residences and businesses. Currently 24`h Street does not cross the railroad, but the majority of these options would effectively be an extension of 24`h Street across the tracks. Therefore, the new connector is referred to in this document as 24`h Street. • Option 1(Grade separate 22"' Street) — The first option was to grade separate 22"' Street over the railroad and utilize the existing alignment of 22"a Street as much as possible. A conceptual design 2-9 Important Points • Due to physical constraints, most crossings have a single feasible option for improvements. • Three roadway grade separations are proposed. was developed for this option. Anticipated impacts for this option include several residential and business relocations as well as rerouting a substantial amount of traffic through neighborhood streets. It is estimated that this option would result in 10 residential and four business relocations. In addition, it would require traffic traveling between US 29 and Main Street to be routed through neighborhood streets which was deemed to be an undesirable effect. The daily traffic volume in the residential neighborhood would increase from approximately 200 vehicles to over 7,000 vehicles in the 2035 design year. • Option 2(Candy-cane aliqnment on new location) — A second option was evaluated with the purpose of avoiding re-routing relatively high traffic volumes through the residential street network. From a proposed intersection with US 29, this option would bridge over the railroad and Main Street and then loop back to a proposed intersection with Main Street. Although this configuration minimizes traffic impact to local streets, it has a large footprint and associated relocation impacts (12 residences and one church). This option also would impact a wetland just south of Blackwelder Avenue. The loop configuration introduces an atypical configuration that could violate driver expectancy, specifically cresting the bridge and immediately approaching a tight curve. • Option 3(New location T-intersection connector, Recommended Option) — The third option for the grade separation begins at a proposed intersection with US 29/601, bridges over the railroad and ties directly into Main Street in a T-intersection configuration. Compared to the other options, this configuration requires a steeper grade on the approach to Main Street but is still within design criteria. The anticipated relocation impacts for this option are similar to Options 1 and 2(13 residences and one church). However, this option does not route major thoroughfare traffic through the local street network and does not affect the wetland south of Blackwelder Avenue. Therefore, Option 3 is recommended as the grade separation configuration for the new 24`h Street connection. • Option 4(New connector tyinq to Summit Avenue — The fourth option would construct a new connector east of 22"' Street that would intersect with US 29/601 at its eastern terminus, bridge over the railroad and Main Street, and tie in 2-10 Important Points • Four options were studied for the 24�^ Street grade separation. • The recommended 24�^ Street option is a new connector from US 29/601 to Main Street, bridging over the railroad. to Summit Avenue. This option was beneficial from a design constraint perspective as it allows a greater horizontal distance for more gradually tying the vertical profile of the proposed bridge back to the existing roadway. This option also has the fewest anticipated relocations (three residences). However, this option requires traffic bound for US 29 to use Summit Avenue and the existing local street network, which would create a substantial increase in traffic volumes along these local residential streets. 2035 traffic volumes would be 7,300 vehicles per day with Option 4 versus 260 cars per day with Option 3. A traffic increase of this magnitude would affect the character and conte� of these neighborhoods. 2035 traffic projections are contained in Appendix B. Option 4 also impacts the wetland south of Blackwelder Avenue. The Recommended Option for the 24"' Street grade separation (Option 3) was developed to a preliminary design level. The height needed to bridge the railroad would create a steep grade from the bridge to the intersection with US 29, requiring the elevation of US 29 be raised to reduce the grade along the new road and limiting the segment to a 40 mph design speed, which is consistent with the in-town stop-controlled context. The addition of turn lanes and the need to raise the elevation of US 29 would require the placement of fill material along US 29 and would increase the roadway footprint. It would also require the closure of the US 29 intersections with Westview Street and Blackwelder Avenue. Kimball Road Extension (Exhibit 2.3.4) — Due to the proposed closure of several crossings in the Landis and China Grove area, a new grade separation is needed to accommodate revised travel patterns for vehicle traffic. The roadway and track geometry, and potential footprint impacts, made grade separating the existing roadways (Eudy Road, Central Avenue) an undesirable option. Therefore a new connector is proposed which would extend Kimball Road south from its intersection with US 29 (Main Street), running underneath a proposed railroad bridge, and intersecting with Chapel Street south of the railroad. As described in Section 1.8.2, this extension is included in the LRTP. Peeler Road & Peach Orchard Road (Exhibit 2.3.5) — Peeler Road and Peach Orchard Road both have interchanges with I-85 and provide access between I- 85 and US 29 in the vicinity of the Rowan County Airport. As discussed in Section 1.8.2, the LRTP 2-11 Important Points • The Kimball Road Extension is a grade separation under the railroad. • Three options were evaluated for the Peeler Road / Peach Orchard Road area. identifies the need to construct a new thoroughfare providing a direct connection from the Rowan County Airport to I-85 (Airport Parkway Extension). Based on these long-range plans and the need to add a grade separation along this segment of the project, options for a grade separation at either Peeler Road or Peach Orchard Road were evaluated. Three options were studied and are presented below: • Option 1(Grade Separate Peeler on Existinq Aliqnment) - The first option evaluated was a grade separation of Peeler Road in essentially its existing alignment. Because US 29 is very close to the railroad on the north side, Peeler Road would bridge over US 29 and loop back. This alignment would allow sufficient distance from the proposed bridge to return to grade at US 29. As shown in Exhibit 2.3.5a, a service road is proposed to connect with Peach Orchard Road to mitigate the closing of the Peach Orchard Road at-grade crossing. This alignment would necessitate approximately two business relocations north of US 29 and impact a stream where the loop alignment is proposed. This alignment does not provide for a direct connection to the Rowan County Airport as shown in the LRTP. Therefore this option was eliminated from further consideration. • Option 2(Extend and qrade-separate Peeler Road with new connection to Cedar Sprinqs Road, Recommended Option) This option (Exhibit 2.3.5b) relocates Peeler Road, bridges over the railroad and US 29, and ties into Cedar Springs Road. Similar to Option 1, this alignment would provide a service road connection to Peach Orchard Road. Option 2 is anticipated to create four business relocations and would impact a stream north of US 29. Option 2 is recommended because it provides the best opportunity for direct connection to the Rowan County Airport and is therefore consistent with the LRTP. • Option 3(Grade Separate Peach Orchard Road) — This option, shown in Exhibit 2.3.5c, primarily follows the existing Peach Orchard Road alignment south of the railroad, bridges over the railroad and US 29, and intersects with Cedar Springs Road. As with the other options, roadway e�ension north of US 29 is necessary in order to tie the elevation from the bridge back down to existing roadways at a reasonable grade. A service road 2-12 • The Peeler Road Realignment to Cedar Springs Road grade separa6on option is consistent with the LRTP and Rowan County Airport plans. • Closures of Juke Box Road and Ethel Lane are included in a separate project would be provided to Peeler Road to mitigate the closing of its at-grade crossing. This option has potentially six residential and two business relocation impacts in addition to a stream impact north of US 29. The Division of Aviation also noted in a December 9, 2009 meeting that this alignment and grade could present a constraint to future runway expansion at the Rowan County Airport. Based on the impacts relative to the other options, and possible constraints to the airport, this option was eliminated from further consideration. Juke Box Road and Ethel Lane — Although the closure of these two crossings is being studied as part of a different project (NCDOT TIP Project No. P-4405), the crossings are located along the project corridor, as shown in Exhibit 2.3.1. The project proposes to close the two existing crossings and provide new access for the properties between the railroad and I-85. The Preferred Alternative for Project No. P-4405 includes two new service roads that connect to an extended SR 2672 (Hope Road) which intersects SR 1505 (Mount Hope Church Road) (NCDOT, 2010b). The Preferred Alternative for Project No. P-4405 is shown in Appendix C. 2.3.2 Traffic Analysis A traffic capacity analysis (Gibson Engineers, 2010) was prepared to assess the effects of the proposed closures and consolidations and to identify roadway improvements necessitated by these changes in access. The following paragraphs summarize travel pattern changes and required roadway improvements. Appendix B contains the traffic volume exhibits contained in the traffic capacity report. Pee/er Road/Peach Orchard Road Crossing Consolidations — The proposed project proposes to consolidate the Peach Orchard Road highway-railway crossing and the Peeler Road highway-railway crossing into a single, grade-separated crossing that would be located between the two. The new crossings would include a new connection (Peeler Road Extension) that would relocate Peeler Road beginning around midway between US 29 (Main Street) and I-85, and carry the extension over the railroad track and over US 29 (Main Street). The Peeler Road Extension would connect to Cedar Springs Road east of US 29 (Main Street). Traffic from the Peeler Road Extension would access US 29 (Main Street) by way of two new 2-13 Important Points • Traffic analysis was conducted to predict travel pattem changes and associated roadway capacity deficiencies due to at-grade roadway closures. connections. One would serve traffic traveling on westbound Peeler Road Extension, allowing a right turn onto the new facility to access US 29 northbound and southbound, as well as US 29 traffic wishing to travel westbound on Cedar Springs Road. The second would allow traffic on eastbound Cedar Springs Road to access US 29 northbound and southbound, as well as allow US 29 traffic to access Cedar Springs/Peeler Road Extension eastbound. The purpose of this configuration was to convert all turns from Cedar Springs Road/ Peeler Road Extension to right-only. This cost-saving measure was a result of earlier traffic analysis that showed the need for additional bridge width to accommodate left turning traffic from the Peeler Road Extension westbound desiring to access Long Meadow Road and US 29. While the proposed configuration does create the need for two new signalized intersections on US 29, those signals would be either two-phase or three-phase signals. The configuration also reduces the number of lanes on the bridge over US 29, and likely eliminates the need for a traffic signal at the intersection of Peeler Road Extension/Cedar Springs Road and the access roads to US 29. Mount Hope Road Crossing Closure — The majority of traffic currently using this crossing was assumed to relocate to the nearby Webb Road crossing. Therefore, the Webb Road intersection with US 29 (Main Street) was analyzed assuming an increase in traffic based on the rerouted volumes. No additional laneage is required, however, an additional 25 feet of storage is needed for the southbound left-turn lane at the Webb Road/US 29 intersection. Thom Street/Eudy Road Crossing Consolidation and Kimball Road E�ctension — The Rail Double Track project proposes to consolidate the existing Thom Street highway-railway crossing, as well as the Eudy Road crossing into one new crossing. The new crossing constructed by the project would be a new grade separated crossing (south of the existing Eudy Road crossing) and extension of Kimball Road under the track to connect to Chapel Street. This plan would revise the existing three-leg intersection of Kimball Street and US 29A (Main Street) to a 4-leg intersection, as an approach from the south would be added. Traffic that currently uses the Thom Street crossing or the Eudy Street crossing would likely relocate to the new facility. Therefore, the revised Kimball Road intersection with US 29A (Main Street) was analyzed with the revised traffic. 2-14 Additionally, the intersection of Harris Street and Church Street would be converted from a full movement intersection to allow only right-in/right-out access for the Harris Street approaches. Harris Street would be further modified to allow one-way travel from Church Street towards Liberty Street for a short distance. As such, no traffic would approach the intersection of Harris Street and Church Street from the east. Based on count data, it was assumed that the change in traffic resulting from the Rail Double Track plan in this section would be relatively minor. Traffic that would be rerouted due to the conversion of the intersection of Harris Street and Church Street would use Bostian Street as its most likely alternative. The intersection of Harris Street and Centerview Street would also be converted to right- in/right-out operation. This change would likely send additional traffic to the intersection of Centerview Street and Bostian Street. However, based on count data, the change in traffic was assumed to be minimal. The proposed project would close the existing eastbound approach of the Harris Street and Ketchie Street intersection. This intersection was not included in this analysis due to its low vehicular volume. The traffic that did exist will most likely use Centerview Drive and Bostian Street to access Ketchie Street. Mill Street Crossing Closure — Traffic currently utilizing the existing Mill Street and Central Avenue crossings was assumed to reroute to the Ryder Avenue crossing located just north of Mill Street. Intersections in this area were analyzed based on rerouted traffic to determine the need for mitigation. The US 29A (Main Street) and Ryder Street intersection is currently signalized, and operates under the same signal controller as the Ryder Street and Central Avenue intersection. Additional traffic is expected to utilize this intersection, as vehicles that use the Central Avenue and Mill Street crossings would likely reroute their trip through this intersection. While the traffic analysis showed that the existing laneage was sufficient, the need for additional turn lane storage was identified. The Ryder Street and North Central Avenue intersection is currently signalized, and operates under the same signal controller as the Ryder Street and US 29A intersection. As with the intersection of US 29A and Ryder Avenue, additional traffic is expected to utilize the 2-15 intersection of Ryder Avenue and Central Avenue due to nearby crossing closures. Traffic simulations showed a queuing issue, with vehicles frequently backing up across the rail crossing. Thus, a number of intersection configurations were tested at this location to facilitate the additional traffic. To help reduce the potential of vehicles queuing across the rail crossing, the recommendation for this intersection is to convert the northeast-bound and southwest-bound Central Avenue approaches to right-in/right-out operation, and remove the traffic signal. The Ryder Street and North Chapel Street intersection is a stop-controlled intersection with the stop condition on the Chapel Street approaches. Additional traffic will be added to this intersection due to the closures of the rail crossings at Central Avenue and Mill Street. Due to the high delay expected for the northeast-bound approach in the 2035 Build scenario with stop-control, a signal was assumed to be installed at this location by the design year. Also, based on the traffic analysis, separate left-turn lanes were recommended for the southeast- bound and northeast-bound approaches. The Mill Street and South Central Avenue intersection is a stop-controlled intersection with the stop condition at the Central Avenue approaches. While the closure of the Mill Street rail crossing would cause traffic to change its current path through this intersection, the intersection would still operate at a high level of service and as such, no further mitigation is recommended. The Mill Street and Chapel Street intersection is a stop-controlled intersection with the stop condition at the Mill Street approach. Due to the close proximity to the proposed signal at Ryder Street and Chapel Street and the rerouted volumes, traffic volumes at this intersection were estimated based on the counts at the adjacent intersections. Also, an estimation was made regarding the traffic that would reroute through this intersection due to the Mill Street crossing closure. All movements would operate at an acceptable level of service and no mitigation is recommended for this intersection. The US 29A and West Round Street intersection is a stop-controlled intersection with the stop condition at the West Round Street approach. The project was not assumed to alter future traffic volumes at this intersection. As such, no mitigation was proposed for this location. 2-16 The US 29A and East Round Street intersection is a stop-controlled intersection with a stop condition at the East Round Street approach. The project was not assumed to alter future traffic volumes at this intersection. As such, no mitigation was proposed for this location. 24th Street Crossing Consolidations and New Grade-Separated Crossing — The proposed project would consolidate the existing 18th Street highway-railway crossing, the existing 22nd Street crossing, and the existing 29th Street crossing into a single, new crossing. A new, grade-separated crossing would be constructed by extending 24th Street westward to tie into US 29A (Main Street). The connection on Main Street would be located just south of the intersection of Main Street and Blackwelder Avenue. Due to the amount of traffic expected to utilize the new crossing, the intersections with US 29 (Cannon Boulevard) and US 29A (Main Street) were assumed to be signalized in the design year. 2.4 RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE (BUILD ALTERNATIVE) The Build Alternative, as described in the previous section and shown in Exhibits 2.3.1 through 2.3.5, was selected as the Recommended Alternative because it meets the purpose and need of the project. Because the alignment of the new track for the most part follows the roadbed of previously-removed track, impacts to the surrounding human and natural environments are minimized to the extent possible. 2.5 RAILROAD DESIGN CRITERIA The track design for the proposed improvements is based on a 90 mph design speed. Table 2.5.1 shows the general railroad design criteria used in setting the horizontal and vertical alignment of the Build Alternative. A typical section for the proposed track is shown in Exhibit 2.5.1. TABLE 2.5.1 RAIL DESIGN CRITERIA DESIGN SPEED HORIZONTAL CURVATURE (MAX.) SUPERELEVATION (MAX., ACTUAL) VERTICAL GRADE (MAX.) 90 mph 1 degree 20 mins* 4.0 inches 1.3 percent ;urves ot 1 degree 3U mins or 1 degree 41 mins are propos project where constraints render 1 degree 20 mins infeasible. 2-17 2.6 ROADWAY (GRADE SEPARATION) DESIGN CRITERIA The proposed right-of-way for the grade-separated crossings is variable based on the existing constraints. Typically the design speed is 50 mph. Design criteria are shown in Table 2.6.1. Exhibit 2.5.1 shows the typical section for the proposed roadway crossings. TABLE 2.6.1 ROADWAY DESIGN CRITERIA TYPE OF TERRAIN Rolling TYPE OF FACILITY Two-lane rural local DESIGN SPEED 50 mph PAVEMENT WIDTHS 12 ft SHOULDER 4ft (full depth) HORIZONTAL CURVATURE Minimum Radius: 50 mph � 833 ft VERTICAL CURVATURE Vertical Curvature Rate: Crest K= 84 Sag K= 96 GRADE 8.0% maximum SUPERELEVATION 06 ft/ft maximum To maintain consistency with the USDOT's Policy Statement on Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodation (USDOT, 2010), the new grade-separated connectors include additional width to accommodate future bicycle/pedestrian facilities as applicable and based on input from the NCDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Unit. These widths are reflected in the typical sections (Exhibit 2.5.1). 2.7 COST ESTIMATES Table 2.7.1 shows the preliminary cost estimate for the Build Alternative. As the level of design is refined, the cost estimate will also be revised. TABLE 2.7.1 BUILD ALTERNATIVE COST ESTIMATES Construction Cost $71,200,000 Right-of-Way and Utilities Cost $34,600,000 TOTAL PROJECT COST $105,800,000 2-18 3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES This sedion of the report presents a discussion on the existing conditions and the probable effects, both positive and negative, for the Build Alternative. 3.1 LAND USE The following sedions describe the existing land use in the area, anticipated land use trends, consistency of the proposed adion with local plans and policies, and the potential effeds of the proposed adion. 3.1.1 Existina Land Use The land use adjacent to the rail corridor is primarily urban in nature, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial land uses. Most residential areas are concentrated in northem Kannapolis, Landis, and China Grove with a majority of commercial and industrial uses concentrated along the rail corridor from north of China Grove to the projed limit south of Salisbury. Exhibit 3.1.1 illustrates the existing land uses within the projed study area. 3.1.2 Develooment Trends A large portion of the rail corridor is flanked by development, with commercial and residential properties predominant. The towns and cities along the rail corridor have experienced considerable residential growth in recent years, particularly in areas near I-85. Salisbury's growth in the I-85 area is within a"secondary" growth area, which is anticipated to grow when the City eMends services further into these areas. 3.1.3 Consistencv with Land Use and Transoortation Plans The proposed projed is included in the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) 2009-2015 TIP and is consistent with the policies presented in the Salisbury Land Management and Development DepartmenYs Salisbury Vision 2020 Comprehensive Plan (SLMDD, 2001), Kannapolis 2015 Land Use Plaq (City of Kannapolis, 2004), and the goals of the Cabarrus-Rowan �maatalrtPanls Metropolitan Planning Organization 2035 Long-Range Transportation Plaq (Exhibit 3.12)(CRMPO LRTP 2035, 2009), which lists NCDOT goals and objedives forthe rail corridor between Charlotte and Raleigh. 3-1 • The reil corridor behveen nath Kanlwpolis and Salisbury is flanked by a varietyW resideMial and bus'mess laml uses. • Thepropasedprojectisconsistentwith area laml use and transportation plans. To maintain consistency with the Rowan County Land Use Plan for Areas West of I-85 (Rowan County, 2009), the proposed projed was developed in cooperation with the NCDOT Transportation Planning Branch, NCDOT Aviation Division, Rowan County government, and Rowan County Airport representatives. 3.2 FARMLANDS In accordance with the federal Farmland Protedion Policy Act (FPPA) and state Executive Order 96, the impact of the proposed adion on prime, unique, and statewide important farmlands has been assessed. As defined by the US Council on Environmental Quality (1976), prime farmland is land having the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops. These soils are those having the soil quality, growing season and moisture supply needed to economically produce sustained high yields of crops when properly managed. Prime farmland includes cropland, pastureland, rangeland and forestland; but not land converted to urban, industrial, transportation or water uses. Unique farmlands are those whose value is derived from their particular advantages for growing specialty crops. Statewide and locally important farmlands are defined by the appropriate state or local agency. Development in most areas typically requires the submittal of a Farmland Conversion Impad Rating Form (U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] Form AD-1006) to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS); however, there are areas that are considered exempt under the FPPA. If a property is classified as urban by NRCS cntena, a Farmland Conversion Impad Rating Form is not required by the NRCS. Lands that are not covered by the act include, but are not limited to: areas shown as "urban built-up" on USDA Important Farmland Maps; lands identifed as "urbanized area" on Census maps; and lands with a tint overprint on a United States Geological Survey (USGS) topographical map [7 CFR 6582(a)]. The NCRR rail corridor between Kannapolis and Salisbury is identifed as an "urbanized area" on US Census mapping and does not require the submittal of a Farmland Conversion Impad Rating Form. Any farmland impads associated with ImaataMPo'mts the proposed project would be in compliance with the • Due lo tlie urban nahue of the project Farmland Protedion Policy Ad and do not require �y�aamltheabse�emfarmlaml further consideration for protedion. �ses, a deaikdassessmeMmfarmlaml impacts is notrequired for complia�e witli tlie FxmlandProtectron PolicyAct 3-2 3.3 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT 3.3.1 Pooulation Characteristics Kannapolis experienced above state average growth between 1980 and 2000 and is projeded to continue this trend. Landis and China Grove have had above state average growth from 1990 to 2000. Salisbury and Rowan County have experienced below state average growth since 1980, however Rowan County is projeded to have steady growth of approximately 7% until 2020. TABLE 3.3.1 POPULATION TRENDS POPULATION 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 Landis 2,092 2,333 2,996 ChinaGrove 2,081 2,732 3,616 Salisbury 22,677 23,626 2Q462 Kannapolis 3Q303 29,709 3Q910 RowanCoun[y 99,180 11Q605 13Q063 139,176 149,285 NorthCarolina 5,88Q095 6,632,448 8,049,813 9,502,904 1Q96Q956 GROWfH GROWTH GROWfH GROWfH 1980-1990 1990-2000 2000-2010 2010-2020 Landis 11.5% 28.4% ChinaGrove 31.3% 32.4% Salisbury 4.2 % 12.0 % Kannapolis -2.0% 242% RowanCoun[y 11.5% 17.6% 7.0% 7.3% NorthCarolina 12.8% 21.4% 18.1% 15.4% SOURCE� NoRh Carolina State Data Center 2008. As shown in Table 3.3.2, a majority of the population is either white and African-American. The racial charaderistics of the study area are similar to the county and state statistics. China Grove has the largest Hispanic and other races populations of 9.4% and 5.4% respedively, almost twice the state's population percentile. Table 3.3.3 contains age demographic data for Landis, China Grove, Salisbury, Kannapolis, Rowan County, and North Carolina. The largest age group for all demographic areas is the 3�44 range, which represents approximately 15% of the population in 3-3 . Popula(ion gravth in the projectsWdy area has ge�reqy been above statewide averages. • GrowNiisprojectedlobesteadybut bNowsta(ewide avereges in the fulure. • MastresideMs in the Kanlwpolis- Salisbury xea are while andAfrican- American. • The lart�est age group is peopk behveen 35 am144 yexsW age. Rowan County. The median age of the Kannapolis-Salisbury area is near (within 1.5 years o� the state median age of 36.4 years. TABLE 3.3.2 RACIAL CHARACTERISTICS CHINA ROWAN NORTH RACIAL GROUP LANDIS GROVE SALISBURY KANNAPOLIS COUNN CAROLINA White 92.0% 85.7% 57.3% 77.7% 80% 72.1% African-American 2.5% 7.0% 37.6% 16.5% 15.8% 21.6% Native American/ 0.2% 0.3% 0.3% 0.3% 0.3% 1.2% Alaskan Native Asian/Pacific Islander 1.6% 1.0% 1.5% 0.9% 0.8% 1.4% Other 2.5% 5.4% 1.9% 3.4% 2.0% 2.3% Multi-�acial 1.1% 0.6% 1.5% 1.2% 1.0% 1.3% Hispanic (of any race) $.3% 9.4% 4.3% 6.3% 4.1 % 4.7% ��urcct: u� eureau or me census �u�e�c�, �uuu. TABLE 3.3.3 AGE CHARACTERISTICS N N � j p Z = Z AGE GROUP z � y ¢ � � O J Z Q Q � Z U V N Y Percent of Population Under 5 years 6.1 % 6.7% 6.4% 7.0% 6.6% 6.7% 5-9Years 6.8% 7.1% 6.3% 6.9% 7.0% 7.0% 10-14Yea�s 7.2% 6.9% 5.9% 6.6% 7.2% 6.8% 15-19Yea�s 6.4% 7.8% 7.2% 6.0% 6.6% 6.7% 20-24 Yea�s 6.8% 7.0% 9.1 % 6.7% 6.4% 7.2% 25-34 Years 12.4% 14..3% 12.4% 15.1 % 12.8% 15.1 % 34-44Years 15.4% 15.6% 12.7% 15.4% 15.9% 16.0% 45-54Years 12.3% 12.5% 11.9% 12.0% 13.3% 13.5% 55-59Years 4.8% 4.6% 4.4% 4.8% 5.0% 5.0% 60-64 Yea�s 5.0% 3.9% 3.8% 4.0% 4.1 % 4.0% 65-74Yea�s 9.0% 6.9% 8.3% 7.6% 7.2% 6.6% 75-84 Yea�s 6.2% 5.0% 8.0% 6.0% 5.1 % 4.1 % 85+Yea�s 1.6% 1.7% 3.6% 2.0% 1.7% 1.3% Total 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% SOURCE: US Bureau of the Census, 2000. 3-4 3.3.2 Emolovment and Economic Characteristics The top employers, in all demographic areas, are manufacturing, retail, health, social services and education. Table 3.3.4 displays the occupational distribution for Landis, China Grove, Salisbury, Kannapolis, Rowan County, and North Carolina. TABLE 3.3.4 OCCUPATIONALDATA PERCENT OF WORKFORCE y `� J G OCCUPATION N Q w j O �� _? p z> m a Z�� Q = rc N z O� O rc J �� a Q � V Z U N Y Agricul[ure 0.6% 0.5% 0.1% 0.6% 0.8% 1.6% Cons[ruc[ion ��8� 9.6% 5.7% 9.1% 8.6% 82% Manufac[uring 27.2% 24.5% 24.4% 24.7% 28.1% 19.7% WholesaleTrade 2.8% 2.2% 2.2% 3.7% 3.1% 3.4% Re[ailTrade 14.3% 12.9% 11.5% 12.1% 11.8% 11.5% Transporta[ion,WarehousingandU[ili[ies 6.5% 4.9% 2.9% 4.8% 5.4% 4.6% Informa[ion 1.4% 0.5% 1.9% 2.4% 1.2% 2.3% Finance, Insurance and Real Es[a[e 3.1 % 5.6% 3.1 % 6.0% 3.6% 6.0 % ProfessionalServices 6.0% 3.7% 6.6% 5.7% 5.0% 7.7% Educa[ional,Heal[handSocialServices 17.6% 20.8% 24.8% 16.6% 17.9% 192% Arts,En[ertainmen[,Recrea[ion,Tourism 4.8% 5.1% 7.5% 6.9% 6.3% 6.9% PublicAdminis[ra[ion 5.8% 6.0% 5.3% 4.3% 4.8% 4.6% O[herServices 2.0% 3.0% 3.8% 3.1% 3.3% 4.1% SOURCE� US Bureau of the Census, 2000. As shown in Table 3.3.5, the current unemployment rate for Rowan County is slightly higher than the state average of 10.7%. The individual per capita income within the projed study area is lower than the state average. The percent of citizens with a high school education is slightly lower than the state average. Landis has the smallest population of adults with a college education; however, Salisbury's percent of college educated is slightly higherthan the state average. 3-5 ImportantPaMs • Topempbymentcategoryintheareais mam�facWring. • Countyunemploymentreteis131% which is higher than the sta(e average of1oJ%. TABLE 3.3.5 ECONOMIC AND DEMOGRAPHIC DATA PERCENT OF WORKFORCE w J G o � m a Q Z r 7 g a `-' z o' orc Z J Z rc O Z Q 2 y Y � V U Curren[ UnemploymeM Ra[e - - 13.2 % 132 % 10.7 % PerCapi[alncome�$) $1Q642 $17,040 $18,864 $17,539 $18,071 $2Q307 %AlI Persons Living in Poverty 10.1 % 12.8 % 16.0 % 10.5 % 10.6 % 12.3 % % Atlul[s wi[h High School Etluca[ion 70.2 % 70.0 % 75.7 % 69.4 % 742 % 78.1 % % Atlul[s wi[h College Etluca[ion 8.6 % 12.0 % 24.1 % 12.0 % 142 % 22.5 % SOURCES�.EmploymentSecuntyCOmmissionofNORhCamlina,2009. USBUreauoftheCensus,2000. 3.3.3 Neiahborhood and Communitv Cohesion As discussed in Sedion 2.3.1, the Build Alternative assessed the improvement or closure of 21 existing rail crossings within the projed study area. The recommended treatments for each crossing were determined based on a range of factors, including traffic volumes, travel pattems, accident data, safety, and current design standards. The recommendations were developed to maintain mobility across the rail corridor and throughout the projed study area. Construction of a second track within the established rail corridor would not create negative neighborhood or community cohesion effeds; however, the closure of 14 existing crossings would alter established access points across the rail corridor. As shown in Exhibit 2.3.1, three new grade separated crossings are proposed to accommodate future traffc volumes and to mitigate the effeds of adjacent closures. These new grade separations, along with the retention of existing grade-separated crossings and the improvements of four at-grade crossings, will im rove overall mobility across the rail corridor and P improve safety conditions for vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic alike. Travelers may experience temporary, negative effects as they adjust to new travel pattems; however, no long-term, adverse effects to neighborhoods or community cohesion are anticipated from the proposed projed. 3-6 • EBectsoftheproposedcrossilg clasures woukl be of/set by tlie improvemeMW exisfmg cross'mgs aml new gradrsepara(ed cross'mgs. • No longterm, nega(ive ef/ects to neighborhoods or communily cohesron are associatedwith the proposed project 3.3.4 Multimodal Travel Patterns and AccessibiliN As stated in Sedion 3.3.3, travelers may experience temporary, negative effeds as they adjust to new travel pattems; however, the proposed crossing improvements were developed to improve overall mobility across the rail corridor and throughout the projed study area. Four of the 15 proposed closures are private roads, which limits the effeds of these closures to residents along these roads and travelers accessing these locations. Access to US 29 from these locations will be provided by new secondary road connedions, where necessary. Accessibility at the remaining 11 proposed closures would be provided at adjacent grade-separated crossings or improved at-grade crossings. As stated in Sedion 2.3.1, the Recommended Option for the 24`" Street grade separation would include the closure of the intersedions of US 29 with Westview Street and Blackwelder Avenue due to the improvements required to raise the elevation of US 29. Travelers in the area would access US 29 via 24`" Street or Rice Street. Although travel pattems would be altered by the proposed projed, vehicular accessibility throughout the projed study area would be maintained by the crossing improvements associated with the Build Altemative. As discussed in Sedion 1.8.4, there are several designated bicycle facilities planned for the projed study area. The county-designated bicycle route along Corriher Gravel Road and Mount Hope Church Road would be affeded by the closure of the at-grade crossing at the intersedion of the two roads. The existing bicycle route should be re-designated to nearby roads to maintain east-west connedivity. Rowan County should consider utilizing the improved at-grade crossing at Webb Road and Roseman Road, which will include four-foot paved shoulders to better accommodate bicycles and pedestrians. To accommodate bicycle and pedestrian traffc, the proposed grade separations and associated roadway improvements incorporate wider paved shoulders and/or graded berms for future bicycle facilities or sidewalks, as applicable. The proposed grade separation at Kimball Road would provide clearance under the railroad bndge for future sidewalk. The proposed 24`" Street and Peeler Street grade separations would provide additional width to accommodate bicycles and pedestrians. Exhibit 2.5.1 shows the typical cross sedions for these locations. 3-7 . RoadwayimprwemeMsassociatedwitli the B uild Alternative would aller existilg travel pa(terns; havever, the imprwemenCs wcre devNoped lo imprwe werell mobilily acrass the reil corridor. 3.3.5 Schools As shown in Exhibit 3.3.1, there are schools located on the west side of the rail corridor in Landis and on both sides of the rail corridor in China Grove. No construdion impads to area schools are associated with the proposed projed and accessibility across the rail corridor would be maintained by the proposed projed. In Landis, access from the east would be provided at the improved Ryder Street crossing and the new grade-separated crossing at 24`" Street. Access across the rail corridor in China Grove would be provided at the new grade-separated Kimball Road eutension and the improved Centerview Street and Church Street at-grade crossings, as well as the existing grade-separated US 29/US 601 crossing. No negative effeds to area schools would be associated with the proposed projed. 3.3.6 Churches and Cemeteries The proposed project would impad three churches within the project study area. Two of these impads are associated with the proposed 24`" Street grade separation. Impacts to Blackwelder Park Baptist Church are limited to the church's parking lot along US 29 and would not require relocation of the church or its other facilities on the property. The proposed 24`" Street grade separation would require the relocation of God's Tabernacle Baptist Church on US 29. The parking lot of the Lutheran Chapel (also a historic property) would be affected by the proposed projed. A meeting was held with Lutheran Chapel church members on March 22, 2011 as the first step in the development of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for mitigation of impacts to the church's parking lot. The MOA will be included in the subsequent Finding of No Significant Impad (FONSI) for this projed. Grading work would encroach upon the histonc boundanes for the Chapel; however, there would be no impads to the strudures on the property or the fundion of the church. Additional information on historic resources is contained in Sedions 3.3.9 and 3.12. 3.3.7 Emerqencv Services Rowan County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) dispatch locations and fre stations are shown in Exhibit 3.3.1. Access across the corridor would be provided at the improved at-grade crossings, new grade-separated crossings, and existing grade-separated crossings. In China Grove, emergency services are located on the � � ImpaYdMPanls • The park'mg IotW tlie LiMieren Chapel WWIfI AC diACCt4M A}� IVIC jM0(10.S4M project NCDOT is developilg a plan lo miligate these impacts. • Noschodsorcemeterreswouldbe af/ected by tlie propasedproject • The8ui1dAlternaHvewouldnothimler the mobilily of emerge�yservice vehick through the proJed sludy area. west side of the rail corridor and would access areas to the east at either the improved Centerview Street or Church Street crossings. EMS services for the China Grove area could also be dispatched from locations east of the rail corridor in Landis. The proposed project would aid in the redudion of emergency response times by providing three new grade-separated crossings that could be utilized when gates at closer at-grade crossings are activated (either due to passing or delayed trains, maintenance vehicles, etc.). Construdion of crossing improvements associated with the Build Altemative would be coordinated to avoid and/or minimize delays for emergency service vehicles. In general, construdion of the proposed projed would have minor, temporary effeds on emergency response times due to possible delays caused by construdion at rail crossings. 3.3.8 Businesses There are 59 business relocations associated with the proposed projed, with eight of these occurring within the NCRR corridor. As stated in Sedion 1.8.3, a majonty of the projed study area is within the NCRR corridor. The 1849 Charter for the NCRR specifed a 200-foot corridor, providing the right to NCRR to use the land within the corridor for railroad uses (NCRR: Understanding the Conidor Management and Protection Program, 2005). Business relocations within the 200.foot corridor will be addressed by NCRR in accordance with Federal and State law, and NCDOT policies. 3.3.9 Section 4(fl and Section 6(fl Prooerties Section 4(� Propenies — Sedion 4(f) of the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) Ad of 1966 states that the Secretary of Transportation will not approve the use of land from a signifcant publicly owned park, recreation area, orwildlife and watertowl refuge, or any significant historic site, unless a determination is made that there is no feasible and prudent altemative to the use of such land; and that the proposed adion includes all possible planning to minimize harm to the property. There are no city, state, or national parks within the ImportantPaMs projed study area. The proposed projed would not impact any publicly owned recreation area, or wildlife • 59businessrelceationsarearsceiated with the BuildAlternaHve. fefUge. . The8uildAlternativewouldnotal/edany cily, stde, a Iwtiolwl parks. 3-9 Sedion 6006 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Effcient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) amends Sedion 4(f) requirements to allow the US Department of Transportation (USDOT) to find that a 4(f) use of an histonc resource is de minimis if the State Historic Preservation Offcer concurs, in accordance with Sedion 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (Section 106), in the determination that the proposed project will have either no effect or no adverse effect on a resource. As stated in Section 3.12, the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) concurred that the proposed projed would have No Effect on the Mount Zion Reformed Church and No Adverse Effect on the Landis Post Offce, Landis Southem Railway Passenger Station, China Grove Cotton Mills Historic Distnct, and China Grove Historic District. These determinations are the basis of a de minimis finding for the above-mentioned properties. SHPO concurrence is contained in Appendix A.3. The proposed project would have an Adverse Effect on the Lutheran Chapel, a historic property subject to Section 4(f) requirements. The curve realignment and addition of the second track would affed the church's parking lot, which is located within the 200-foot NCRR right-of- way. In order to satisfy Section 106, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for mitigation of impads to the church's parking lot is being developed and will be included in the subsequent Finding of No Significant Impad (FONSI)forthis projed. Grading work would encroach on the historic boundanes for the Chapel; however, all construction would be within the 200-foot NCRR right-of-way and would not affed any structures on the property. There is no dired Sedion 4(f) use because the proposed project is contained within the NCRR corridor. The proximity of the project would not create construdive use impacts, as the projed would not affect the historic nature or fundionality of the Lutheran Chapel. Because there are no direct or constructive use impads, no formal Sedion 4(f) evaluation is required. Additional discussion of historic resources is contained in Sedion 3.12. Section 6(� Propenies — These properties are open space and recreation areas purchased with federal funds that are governed by the Land and Water 3-10 ImpaYdMPanls • The8ui1dAlternaHvewouldhavean adverse ef/ecton the Lutheren Ch�N pxlung lot. • NCDOT is devebping aMemoremlum of Agreement(INOA) for mitiga(ion of impacts to the LiMieren Ch�N park'mg lot • ImpactstotheLiMierenCh�Npark'mg lotare witliin the 200-footNCRR rgM-W- way aml xe Irotconsidered use W a Section4(nresouree. Assuch,Iro Section 4(n evalualron is required. • No Section 6(fJ impacts are associated with tlie Build Altema(ive. Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act of 1965. There are no properties within the projed study area that were purchased with LWCF funds. Therefore, there are no Section 6(f) impads associated with this project. 3.3.10 Soecific Social Grouos No specifc social groups would be impaded by the proposed projed. There are no cultural centers or singularly ethnic neighborhoods located along the rail corridor within the projed study area. 3.4 RIGHT OF WAY AND RELOCATION IMPACTS Residential and businesses relocations associated with the Build Alternative are shown in Table 3.4.1. Relocation reports for impads outside the NCRR Corridor are included in Appendix D. TABLE 3.4.1 RELOCATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE BUILD ALTERNATIVE As stated in Sedion 1.8.3, a majority of the projed study area is within the NCRR corridor. The 1849 Charter for the NCRR specified a 200-foot corridor, providing the right to NCRR to use the land within the corridor for railroad uses (NCRR: Understanding the Corridor Management and Protection Program, 2005). Residential and business relocations within the 200-foot corridor would be addressed by NCRR. Relocation Assistance— It is the policy of the NCDOT to ensure that comparable replacement housing for residents and suitable locations for displaced businesses would be available prior to construdion of projeds. The NCDOT has three programs available to 3-11 ImportantPoiMs • AmaprityoltheprojectiswiNxnthe200- footNCRR mrridor. • Rebcalron assistance wiq be povided by NCDOT aml the NCRR. minimize the inconvenience of relocation: Relocation Assistance, Relocation Moving Payments, and Relocation Replacement Housing Payments or Rent Supplement. With the Relocation Assistance Program, experienced NCDOT staff would be available to provide displaced residents and businesses with information pertaining to financing and housing programs and the availability and prices of homes, apartments, or businesses for sale and rent. The Relocation Moving Payments Program generally provides payment of actual moving expenses encountered during relocation. Where displacement would force an owner or tenant to purchase or rent property of higher cost or to lose a favorable financing arrangement (in cases of ownership), the Relocation Replacement Housing Payments and Rent Supplement Program would 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 established for the proposed action would be conducted in accordance with the Federal Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Public Law 91-646) and 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 determines the needs of displaced families, individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and farm operations for advisory services without regard to race, color, religion, gender, or national origin. The NCDOT would schedule its work to allow ample time, prior to displacement, for negotiations and possession of replacement housing which meets decent, safe, and sanitary standards. Those who are displaced are given at least a 90-day written notice after NCDOT purchases the property. Relocation of displaced persons and businesses would be offered in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and commercial facilities. Rent and sales prices of replacement property offered would be within the financial means of the families and individuals displaced and would be reasonably accessible to their places of employment. The relocation officer would assist owners of displaced residences, businesses, nonprofit organizations and farm operations in searching for and moving to replacement property. 3-12 All residential tenants and owner-occupants who may be displaced would receive an explanation regarding 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 would also supply information concerning other state and federal programs offering assistance to displaced persons and would provide other advisory services as needed in order to minimize hardships to displaced persons in adjusting to a new location. The Moving Expenses Payments Program is designed to compensate for the costs of moving personal property from homes, businesses, nonprofit organizations and farm operations acquired for a highway project. Under the Replacement Program for Owners, NCDOT would participate in reasonable incidental purchase payments for replacement dwellings such as attorneys' fees, surveys, appraisals, and other closing costs. If applicable, the NCDOT also makes a payment for any increased interest expenses for replacement housing payments, increased interest payments, and incidental purchase expenses. Reimbursement to owner- occupants for replacement housing payments, increased interest payments, and incidental expenses may not exceed a combined total of $22,500, except under the Last Resort Housing Provision. A displaced tenant may be eligible to receive a payment to rent a replacement dwelling or to make a down payment, including incidental expenses, on the purchase of a replacement dwelling. This payment would not exceed $5,250. The down payment is based upon what the state determines is required when the rent supplement exceeds $5,250. It is the state's policy that no person would be displaced by the NCDOT's federally-assisted construction projects unless and until comparable or adequate replacement housing has been offered or provided for each person displaced within a reasonable period of time prior to displacement. No relocation payment received would 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 federallaw. 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 3-13 exceeds the federal and state legal limitations. This program allows broad latitude in methods of implementation by the state so that decent, safe, and sanitary replacement housing can be provided. Since opportunities for replacement housing appear adequate within the study area, it is not likely that the Last Resort Housing Program would be necessary for the proposed projed. However, this program would still be considered as mandated by State law. 3.5 INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE IMPACTS In accordance with the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) guidelines, this EA was prepared to consider the overall cumulative impacts of the proposed action and the consequences of subsequent related actions. According to the CEQ, cumulative impacts represent the "impad on the environment which results from the incremental impad of the adion when added to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, regardless of what agency (Federal or Non-federal) or person undertakes such other adions. Cumulative impads can result from individually minor but collectively significant adions taking place over a period of time." (40 CFR 1508.8) This EA was prepared to meet the above requirements regarding cumulative impacts. This study considered, to the eutent reasonable and pradical, the possible impads of the proposed adion and other developments that are related in terms of time and proximity. Localized Impacts - The improvements proposed by TIP Project P-5206 will have immediate positive impads within the projed area. The closures of 15 at-grade crossings (Table 2.3.1) in conjundion with the grade separations proposed at 24`" Street, Kimball Road Eutension, and Peeler Road will signifcantly increase safety in the area by reducing the potential for automobileftrain collisions. The removal of the at-grade crossings within the projed limits will also eliminate the need for trains the blow their horns as they are approaching the crossings. The grade separations will enable vehicular traffic moving between the north and south of the railroad tracks to remain fluid despite the increase in train volumes. The proposed projed will not introduce any new access, thus the project is not expeded to result in changes to the existing land use patterns within the projed vicinity. The additional passenger and freight train volumes �mpataMPo'mts associated with the improved operating effciencies and • Thepropasedprojectdcesnothavethe roadway crossing closures listed above will have some po(eMia1(oresuttinsubstantiallCEsas negatiVe impaCis Within the pfOjeCt ViCinity. The �finedbyNEPA. 3-14 increased train volumes will result in an increase in vibration impacts as described in Section 3.8. Local travel patterns for drivers crossing the rail corridor will also be affected as drivers adjust to closure of 15 existing at-grade crossings and use the three new grade separations. The overall effect will be positive as grade separations will eliminate waiting at crossings for trains to pass. In addition, the projected volumes along all of these roads are relatively low, so altered travel patterns are not anticipated to result in congestion. Regional lmpacts - The improvements proposed as part of TIP Project P-5206 are part of the NCDOT Piedmont Improvement Program (PIP), which is a larger effort to increase capacity and improve operations along the NCRR between the cities of Charlotte and Raleigh. This section of the NCRR is also part of the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor (SEHSR). The SEHSR is a 477-mile high-speed corridor running from Washington, D.C. through Richmond, VA, Raleigh, Greensboro, and on to Charlotte, NC (For more information on SEHSR, see http://www.sehsr.org/). This corridor has been designated by the Department of Transportation as one of ten high speed rail corridors authorized under either the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 or the Transportation Equity Act for the 21 �` Century (For more information on the authorized and designated high speed rail corridors, see http://www.fra. dot. gov/rpd/passe nge r/618. shtml.) The proposed project from Control Point (CP) Reid to CP North Kannapolis is one of three proposed projects where former double-track sections are being rebuilt to create a 92-mile section of double-track railroad between Charlotte and Greensboro. The other two double track projects are the 4.2 mile Thomasville to Lexington (TIP # C-4901A Bowers to Lake) project and the 12.3 mile Concord to Charlotte (TIP # P-5208 Haydock to Junker) project. Between Greensboro and Raleigh, along the Norfolk Southern H-line (NCRR), NCDOT has two projects which propose to add passing sidings to increase capacity and realign curves to increase passenger train speeds. The Graham to Haw River Passing Siding and Curve Realignment Project (TIP # P-5205) proposes to realign four curves and construct a 1.9 mile long passing siding between Graham and Haw River in Alamance County. The Clegg to Nelson Passing Siding Project (TIP # U-4716 Clegg to Nelson Passing Siding) proposes to realign one curve and construct a 3.5 mile long passing siding from Durham to Morrisville in Durham and Wake Counties. 3-15 The proposed projects along the Piedmont Corridor will result in operational efficiencies for freight and passenger rail service between the two largest economic centers in North Carolina; Charlotte and Raleigh. The proposed projects are being implemented to facilitate the addition of the 3'' and 4`h Frequency of the Raleigh to Charlotte Piedmont Service in the immediate future. The additional capacity provided by the proposed projects will also enable NCDOT and Amtrak to add additional frequencies to the Piedmont, Carolinian and Crescent services and allow the implementation of SEHSR passenger services prior to 2030. The efficiencies will also enable Norfolk Southern to run additional freight service along the corridor as their business model dictates. The additional freight service will likely result in fewer trucks traveling the I-40/I-85 corridor, as freight trains can typically move freight at a lower cost than trucks. The increased passenger train frequencies will provide travelers with more convenient travel options. The increase in arrival and departure frequencies and competitive travel times between cities along the corridor should result in more travelers choosing to use passenger rail service between Raleigh and Charlotte instead of driving. This will have a positive impact on air quality for all counties along the Piedmont Corridor. Most of these counties are currently in a Non-Attainment status for the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) criteria pollutants. The improved freight service may make the cities along the corridor more attractive to rail dependent industries. This may also increase economic activity resulting from the addition of industries relocating to cities along the corridor to benefit from the improve freight access. Though new businesses may be attracted to the area, the availability of vacant industrial sites along the rail corridor will negate the need for newer large scale industrial sites to be constructed. It is not anticipated that the improvements along the entire corridor would result in significant land use changes. The PIP projects also propose to eliminate numerous at-grade crossings and consolidate and replace others with grade separations. This will have immediate safety benefits, as it will significantly lower the possibility of auto/train collisions. Communities adjacent to the new grade separations will experience the immediate reduction in the train horn noise along the corridor. At-grade crossings that remain open along the corridor will experience an incremental growth in the number of trains as the increased capacity enables more trains to utilize the corridor. The at-grade crossings remaining open upon completion of the Reid to North Kannapolis improvements (as shown in Table 2.3.1) are: Ryder Street, Centerview Street, Church Street, 3-16 and Webb Road. Properties and communities adjacent to these crossings will experience more noise pollution as the number of trains blowing their horns will increase. Also, these crossings will experience incremental growth in traffic delays associated with the increased number of times the crossings close to allow for a train to pass and possibly increased vehicular use due to diversions from closed crossings. Structures along the corridor, close to the tracks will experience an increase in the number of vibration incidents due to increased train volume. The cumulative impact of the foreseeable future actions is considered positive from a regional standpoint. They will improve the safety and efficiency of the transportation system and enhance the potential for economic growth in the region. Indirect impacts are those expenditures or investments not directly resulting from the project, but derived primarily from the increased mobility provided by the project. Induced socioeconomic impacts are additional economic activity within the region resulting from the proposed action. Induced or secondary economic activity is the result of additional industries providing goods and services to supply those industries primarily related to the project. Overall, impacts would be positive when assessed from a regional perspective. 3.6 ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE Executive Order (EO) 12898, Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice to Minority and Low-/ncome Populations and the United States Department of Transportation (USDO� Order 5610.2, Final Order to Address Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-/ncome Populations have been set forth to (1) avoid, minimize, or mitigate disproportionately high and adverse human health and environmental effects, including social and economic effects, on minority populations and low-income populations; (2) ensure the full and fair participation by all potentially affected communities in the transportation decision-making process and; (3) prevent the denial of, reduction in, or significant delay in the receipt of benefits by minority and low- income populations (FHWA, 2000). In compliance with this EO, the following analysis was conducted to ensure that no minority or low-income populations were disproportionately affected by the proposed project. To determine the presence of minority populations within the project study area, 2000 US Bureau of the Census (USBOC) demographic databases were reviewed. The USBOC 3-17 database illustrates minority population variation within individual census trads, which allowed for a more precise analysis of the projed study area. Descriptions in the following paragraphs conform to the terminology of the USBOC data classes. Minoriry Populations — Residences are charaderized as a minority community in the area bounded by Airport Road to the north, West A Street to the west, US 29 (Main Street) to the east, and West 22ntl Street to the south. According to the 2000 Census, approximately 577% of residents in this area (732 of a total 1,268) are of a minority population. Over half of the residents in this area (50.4% of the total) are identifed as Afncan-American. All other areas within the projed study area have minority populations with ranges lower than the county's total minority population average of 20%. Relocation impacts to this minority community were avoided by the seledion of Option 3 for the 24`" Street grade separation, as descnbed in Sedion 2.3.1. However, minority populations on Rice Street are likely to experience an increase in traffic as a result of altered travel patterns associated with the US 29 intersedion closures (part of Option 3 for the 24th Street grade separation). However, travel pattems throughout the project study area would be affected by elimination of at-grade crossings and construdion of grade separations. Because other roads in the project study area would also experience changes in traffic volumes associated with these altered travel patterns, there would not be a disproportionate impad to the minority population along Rice Street. Low-income Populations — In Landis and China Grove, 2000 Census data indicates that respedively 15.9% and 16.8% of residences east of the rail corridor have per capita incomes below the poverty level. The poverty level for Rowan County is 8.1%. This data is based on a 1- in-6 weighted sample, which precludes the examination of more detailed information; however, based on this information and feld surveys, it is concluded that no disproportionately high impads to low-income populations are associated with the proposed projed. Summary of Impacts to Minority and Low-Income Populations — The residential relocations associated with the proposed project would not create direct 3-18 ImportantPoiMs Clasure of the US 29 iMersections with Weslview Street and BlaclavNder Avem�e may i�rease traffic vdumes along Rice Street, an areawith a high perce�Rage W milrorityresrdents. Haveverthesexe Irotconsidereddispropalrolw(e impacts as similx travN pallem chalges wiq cecur ablg othersegmentsW tlie mrridor. disproportionate effects to minority or low-income populations. Relocation impads to this minority community were avoided by the seledion of Option 3 for the 24`" Street grade separation. 3.7 AIRQUALITY The project is located in Rowan County, which is within the Charlotte-Gastonia-Rock Hill nonattainment area for ozone (03) as defined by the Environmental Protedion Agency (EPA). This area was designated moderate nonattainment for O, under the eight-hour ozone standard effedive June 15, 2004. Section 176(c) of the Clean Air Ad Amendments (CAAA) requires that transportation plans, programs, and projeds conform to the intent of the state air quality implementation plan (SIP). The current SIP does not contain any transportation control measures for Rowan County. The Cabarrus-Rowan Metropolitan Planning Organization 2035 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) (CRMPO LRTP 2035, 2009) and the 2009-2015 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) conform to the intent of the SIP (or base year emissions, in areas where no SIP is approved or found adequate). The USDOT made a conformity determination on the LRTP on May 3, 2010 and the TIP on May 3, 2010. The current conformity determination is consistent with the fnal conformity rule found in 40 CFR Parts 51 and 93. There are no significant changes in the projecYs design concept or scope, as used in the conformity analyses. Mobile Source AirToxics (MSATs) Analysis — Recently, concerns for air toxics impads are more frequent on transportation projeds during the NEPA process. Transportation agencies are increasingly expected by the public and other agencies to address MSAT impads in their environmental documents as the science emerges. MSATs analysis is a continuing area of research where, while much work has been done to assess the overall health risk of air toxics, many questions remain unanswered. In particular, the tools and techniques for assessing projed-specifc health impads from MSATs are limited. These limitations impede the ability to evaluate how mobile source health risks should factor into projed-level decision-making under the National Environmental Policy Ad (NEPA). Also, the United State Environmental Protedion Agency (USEPA) has not established regulatory concentration targets for the six relevant MSAT pollutants appropriate for use in the projed development process. The Federal Highway �mnataMPanls Administration (FHWA) has several research projects • ihepropasedprojectisnotarticipated to create adveae air qualily ef/ects. No undenvay to more clearly defne potential risks from substaMialimpactsroa'aquali(yare MSAT emissions associated with transportation �ociatedwiaimepropasedproject. 3-19 projects. While this research is ongoing, FHWA requires each NEPA document to qualitatively address MSATs and their relationship to the specific highway project through a tiered approach. The FHWA will continue to monitor the developing research in this emerging field. A qualitative analysis of MSATs for this project appears in its entirety in Appendix E. In sum, small-scale changes in travel patterns will occur based on elimination of at-grade crossings and replacement with grade separations. These changes primarily affect local streets and short trips. Due to the local network which is characterized by parallel alternatives and in some cases a grid system, the effect on VMT is expected to be negligible. However, with the addition of grade separations and associated access roads and other improvements, roadways may move closer to receptors and the localized level of MSAT emissions for the Build Alternative could be higher relative to the No Build Alternative. This could be offset due to increases in speeds and reductions in congestion (which are associated with lower MSAT emissions). Also, MSATs will be lower in other locations when traffic shifts away from them and higher where the road shifts to new location. However, on a regional basis, EPA's vehicle and fuel regulations, coupled with fleet turnover, will, over time, cause substantial reductions that, in almost all cases, will cause region-wide MSAT levels to be significantly lower than today. Summary — This project is not anticipated to create any adverse effects on the air quality of this attainment area. No substantial impacts to air quality are associated with the proposed project. A discussion of temporary air quality effects associated with construction of the proposed project is contained in Section 3.18.1. General Conformity — The General Conformity requirements included in the Code of Federal Regulations, 40 CFR 51 Subpart W and 40 CFR 93 Subpart B, apply to all "Federal actions" except Federal Highway and transit actions to which the transportation conformity requirements apply. Projects funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)/Federal Transit Administration (FTA) need to follow 40 CFR 51 Subpart T. The proposed action is primarily funded by the FRA, thus it falls under the General Conformity Rules. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) first issued the General Conformity Regulations in 1993. Since that time, several federal agencies have shared suggestions with EPA regarding ways to improve the General Conformity Regulations. Based on these 3-20 suggestions antl input from states antl ihe public, EPA revisetl ihe Generel Conformity Regulations in an April 5, 2010 Fetlerel Register notice. In an area with a SIP, conformity can be tlemonsiretetl in one of four ways: • By showing ihat ihe emission increases causetl by an action are inclutletl in ihe SIP, • By tlemonsireting ihat ihe State agrees to inclutle ihe emission increases in ihe SIP, • Through offsetting ihe action's emissions in ihe same or nearby area, • Through mitigation to retluce ihe emission increase, or . Through an air quality motleling tlemonsiretion in some circumstances. EPA createtl tle minimis emission levels to limit ihe neetl to contluct conformity tleterminations for actions with minimal emission increases. When ihe total tlirect antl intlirect emissions from ihe project/actions are belowihe tle minimis levels,ihe project/action woultl not be subjecito a conformity tletermination. voimea�e A�ea TYVe Se�ious nonattainmen[ Severe nonattainmen[ Oxone (VOC o� NOZ) Exheme nonattainmen[ O[Fe� areas ou[side an oxone hansport region Oxone (NOZ) Ma�ginal and mode�a[e nonattainmen[ Insitle an oxone hansport region Main[enance Ma�ginal antl motle�a[e nonattainmen[ Insitle an oxone hansport region Oxone(VOQ � Main[enanceWiMinanoxonehansportregion Main[enan[e ou[side an oxone hansport region Ca�bon monozitle� 502 antl NO2 All nonattainmen[ ftmain[enance SPn0u5 nOndttdlnmPn[ PM-10 Motle�a[e nonattainmen[ antl main[enanre Leatl(Pb) Allnonattainmen[ft main[enance ro�:/rear 50 25 10 100 100 100 50 50 100 100 ]0 100 25 A Recortl of Non-applicability (RONA) has been preparetl for ihis project antl is currently untler review by ihe Norih Carolina Division of Air Quality (NCDAQ). An action is regionally signifcant if ihe total tlirect antl intlirect emissions of an intlivitlual pollutant amount to 10% or more of a nonattainment or maintenance area's emissions ofihat pollutant. Basetl on information given by NCDENR personnel, any project in ihe Charlotte-Gastonia-ROCk Hill area ihat is below 3-21 threshold (less than 100 tons per year) will also be less than the 10% significance level. Thus, since the project is below threshold, it will be regionally insignificant as well. VOC, NOx, and CO thresholds are each 100 tons per calendar year based on the location of the proposed action and attainment status classifications of the area. The Applicability Analysis as part of the General Conformity process shows that the proposed action is below threshold and regionally insignificant. To demonstrate that VOC, CO, and NOx emissions are each below the 100 tons per calendar year threshold, construction phase emissions are summarized as follows: Summary of Construction Phase Emissions Pollutant VOC (tpy) CO (tpy) NOx (tpy) = tons per year The Record of Non-applicability was prepared as documentation of a General Conformity Applicability Analysis and concludes that further General Conformity review is not required. Although the Record of Non-applicability (RONA) is currently under review by the North Carolina Division of Air Quality (NCDAQ) it should be noted that a Record of Non-applicability was prepared for the nearby double-track project from control point (CP) Haydock to CP Junker in Cabarrus and Mecklenburg Counties (NCDOT TIP Project No. P-5208). That project included the construction of 12.2 miles of additional track, four new bridges carrying new roads over the rail corridor and the construction of numerous roadway improvements and connector roads to facilitate the new grade separations. The Applicability Analysis for Project No. P-5208 showed the project to be below the 100 tons per calendar year threshold for VOC, CO and NOX and regionally insignificant. As P-5208 is two miles longer and has an additional grade separation, it is larger in scope of construction and overall impacts than this project. Therefore, it is anticipated that the project will not have a negative impact air quality and upon concurrence from NCDAQ, further General Conformity analysis will not be necessary. 3-22 3.8 NOISE AND VIBRATION ANALYSES The railroad has been a mainstay in the projed study area since the mid 1800's. Much of the development in the region was due to the proximity of the railroad. Noise from the railroad has been a part of life to study area residents for many years. This sedion of rail previously contained two tracks but portions of the double track were removed in the 1960's when improvements were made in signalization. Since that time, however, rail traffic has increased substantially, making it one of the most heavily travelled sedions of railroad in the state. Increased train traffic brings congestion, safety issues and additional rail noise. Adding the second track would help accommodate future growth in freight and passenger traffc and provide a facility that will be able to support higher speed passenger service. In order to accommodate faster speeds care must be taken to maximize safety measures throughout the corridor. To avoid train and vehicle conflicts, each railroad crossing was evaluated and recommended to be either improved, closed, or a grade separation developed. Noise impads to the projed area were evaluated by first studying the effeds the grade separations and crossing closings would have on horn noise. Secondly, the noise impads from traffc on the proposed grade separations to the surrounding area were studied. 3.8.1 Train Horn Noise Analvsis Train noise comes from the sound of the homs, wheel-rail interaction, diesel engines and vehicle cooling fans. The train horn noise is the loudest of these fadors. Train horns are installed on locomotives to warn motorists or pedestrians of an approaching train. Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) safety standards require trains to sound their homs as they approach every railroad crossing (FRA, 2006). Often automobiles operate with the windows rolled up and air conditioning systems on and radio in use. FRA requires freight trains to sound their horns at 110 decibels in order to be heard within the vehicles. Other requirements include the following: • The horn noise level must be in the 9Cr110 decibel range at 100 feet in front of the train and 15 feet above the rail; • Homs must be sounded 15-20 seconds before the train reaches a crossing, but not beyond a quarter of a mile away; and, • The hom sequence must consist of two '9ong", one "short", and one '9ong" sound before the train reaches the crossing (FRA, 2006). 3-23 ImpaYdMPanls • The crassing imprwemeMs arsceiated with tlie Build Altema(ive woukl noticeabty improve the lotal souml level eMirolxneMW tlie proJectarea by elimilwting hom nase at tlie �v gredr separded crass'mgs and closeA crossilgs. • Elimina(ion of at-grade crossilgs aml associated hom Iroise reduces estimaledresideMial receptas within impactzo�s irom 1,241 to 415. Unfortunately, when the locomotive horn is loud enough to be heard within an approaching vehicle it can disturb those living or working near the railroad crossing, particularly if there are a numerous trains per day sounding the horns. A substantial lessening of the existing noise environment would be created by the proposed project around the vicinity of at-grade crossings that are being consolidated or separated. At these locations, locomotives would no longer use their warning horns. FRA's Horn Noise Model (FRA, 2006) was used to determine the noise impacts that would occur as a result of the train horns in the future conditions. Exhibit 3.8.1a shows the comparison between the at grade train noise impact zones for the No Build and Build scenarios. With the proposed grade separations and at-grade crossing closings, the horn noise will be reduced substantially. It is estimated that 1,241 residential receptors are located within the No- Build impact zone. For the Build condition, which eliminates at-grade crossings and associated horn noise, there are an estimated 415 residential receptors within the noise impact zone. Therefore the project will reduce the number of potentially impacted receptors by two-thirds. The noise from the horns is computed in terms of Ldn and is compared with prior ambient noise. (Ldn or Day-Night Sound Level describes the cumulative noise exposure from all events over a 24 hour period, with events occurring between 10 pm and 7 am being increased by 10 dB to account for greater nighttime sensitivity to noise. (Ldn is the descriptor most commonly employed in environmental noise assessments) According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, the typical ambient level in a suburban residential area is Ldn = 55 dBA. The model assesses the impact of the change in the noise environment categorizes the impacts as No Impact, Impact or Severe Impact. Exhibits 3.8.1 b— 3.8.1d show the impact zones surrounding the grade crossings that will remain open. The following assumptions were used in the horn noise analysis: • Horns are present under existing and future conditions • Horn Lmax (dBa) at 100 feet is 104 • Horns on locomotives are mounted in the middle • The non-train noise environment is suburban • The type of shielding near at grade crossings by building rows is considered light suburban • The length of the impact area is Ya mile along the track • Existing number of trains per day is 42 (34 freight trains and 8 passenger trains) 3-24 • Future number of trains per day is 90 (70 freight trains and 20 passenger trains) • Existing average train speed is 57.6 mph (34 freight trains @ 50 mph + 8 passenger trains @ 90 mph/42 - total # of trains) • Future average train speed is 58.8 mph (70 freight trains @ 50 mph + 20 passenger trains @ 90 mph/90 - total # of trains) • Existing number of day trains during normal daytime hours of 7 AM to 10 PM is 26 • Existing number of night trains during normal nighttime hours of 10 PM to 7 AM is 16 • Future number of day trains during normal daytime hours of 7 AM to 10 PM is 56 • Future number of night trains during normal nighttime hours of 10 PM to 7 AM is 34 • Existing average number of cars is 90.4 (34 freight trains with 110 cars and 8 passenger trains with 7 cars/42 — total number of trains) • Future average number of cars is 87.1 (70 freight trains with 110 cars and 20 passenger trains with 7/90 — total number of trains) • Existing average number of locomotives is 2.6 (34 freight trains with 3 locomotives and 8 passenger trains with one locomotive/42 — total number of trains) • Future average number of locomotives is 2.6 (70 freight trains with 3 locomotives and 20 passenger trains with one locomotive /90 — total number of trains) The proposed project would increase the number of passenger train trips by 12 and the number of freight trains by 36, but it would remove a number of roadway at-grade rail crossings through road consolidations and grade separations, providing a substantial reduction of horn noise in the project area. There would also be a slight change in noise in areas where the alignment of the rail tracks or the placement of the double track moves the train operations closer to residences. 3.8.2 Traffic Noise Analvsis An analysis was also performed to determine the effect of the proposed grade separations on noise levels in the immediate area. The investigation includes a comparison of predicted and ambient noise levels to determine if traffic noise impacts are expected from the proposed project. Highway noise, or traffic noise, is usually a composite of noises from engine exhaust, drive train, and tire-roadway interaction. Traffic noise impacts are determined using the current procedures for the abatement of highway traffic noise and construction noise, appearing as Part 772, Title 23 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The magnitude of noise is usually described by its sound pressure. Since the range of sound pressure varies greatly, a logarithmic scale is used to relate sound pressure to some common 3-25 reference level, using the decibel (dB). Sound pressure levels described in decibels are often defined in terms of frequency weighted scales (A, B, C, or D). The A-weighted scale approximates the frequency response of the human ear by placing most emphasis on the frequency range of 1,000 to 6,000 Hertz. Because the A-weighted scale closely describes the response of the human ear to sound, it is used almost exclusively in vehicle noise measurements. Sound levels measured using A-weighting are often expressed as dBA. Throughout this discussion, references will be made to dBA, which means an A- weighted decibel level. Sound pressure levels are referred to as Leq (h). The Leq, or equivalent sound level, is the levels of constant sound which in a given situation and time period has the same energy, as does time-varying sound. In other words, the fluctuating sound levels of traffic noise are represented in terms of a steady noise level with the same energy content. • Ambient Noise Levels Ambient noise results from natural and mechanical sources of human activity normally present in a particular area. In the beginning of the analysis, ambient noise levels are determined to quantify the existing acoustic environment and to provide a base for assessing the impact of noise levels for residences and other noise sensitive receivers. For areas adjacent to existing roadways, ambient noise was estimated using the Federal Highway Administration Traffic Noise Model, version 2.5 (TNM). TNM was also used to predict future noise levels in this study. TNM uses the number and type of vehicles on the planned roadway, their speeds, the physical characteristics of the road (curves, hills, depressed, elevated, etc.), receiver location and height, terrain, ground cover type, and, if applicable, barrier type, barrier ground elevation, and barrier top elevation. • Noise Abatement Criteria To determine if highway noise levels are compatible with various land uses, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has developed noise abatement criteria and procedures to be used in the planning and design of highways. These abatement criteria and procedures are set forth in accordance with Title 23 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 772, U.S. Department 3-26 of Transportation, FHWA, Procedures for Abatement of Highway Traffic Noise and Construction Noise. A summary of the noise abatement criteria for various land uses is presented in Table 3.8.1. One factor for considering traffic noise mitigation is when future noise levels either approach or exceed the criteria levels for each activity category. Title 23 CFR, Section 772.11a states, "In determining and abating traffic noise impacts, primary consideration is to be given to exterior areas. Abatement will usually be necessary only where frequent human use occurs and a lowered noise level would be of benefit." TABLE 3.8.1 NOISE ABATEMENT CRITERIA (Hourly A-Weighted Sound Level - decibels (dBA)) Activity ActivityCriteria2 Evaluation q�ivityDescription Category Le (h) L10(h) Location Lands on which serenity and quiet are of extraordinary significance and serve an important A 57 60 Exterior public need and where the preservation of those qualities is essential if the area is to continue to serve its intended ur ose. B 67 70 Exterior Residential Active sport areas, amphitheaters, auditoriums, campgrounds, cemeteries, daycare centers, hospitals, libraries, medical facilities, parks, picnic C' 67 70 Exterior areas, places of worship, playgrounds, public meeting rooms, public or nonprofit institutional structures, radio studios, recording studios, recreation areas, Section4(f) sites, schools, television studios, trails, and trail crossin s Auditoriums, day care centers, hospitals, libraries, medical facilities, places of worship, public meeting D 52 55 Interior rooms, public or nonprofit institutional structures, radio studios, recording studios, schools, and television studios Hotels, motels, offices, restaurants/bars, and other E' 72 75 Exterior developed lands, properties or activities not included in A-D or F Agriculture, airports, bus yards, emergency services, industrial, logging maintenance facilities, F - - - manufacturing, mining, rail yards, retail facilities, shipyards, utilities (water resources, water treatment, electrical), and warehousing G - - - Undeveloped lands that are not permitted Either Leq(h) or L10(h) (but not both) may be used on a project. ` I he Leq(h) or L1U(h) Hctivity C;riteria values are tor impact determination only, and are not design standards for noise abatement measures. ' Includes undeveloped lands permitted for this activity category 3-27 The NCDOT Noise Abatement Guidelines state that noise abatement must be considered when either of the following conditions exists: 1. The predicted traffic noise levels for the Design Year approach (reach 1 dBA less than) or exceed the FHWA Noise Abatement Criteria (NAC) contained in 23 CFR 772 as shown in Table 3.8.1. or 2. The predicted design year noise levels substantially exceed existing noise levels as follows: Existin Le h Increase 50 or less dBA 15 or more dBA 51 dBA 14 or more dBA 52 dBA 13 or more dBA 53 dBA 12 or more dBA 54 dBA 11 or more dBA 55 or more dBA 10 or more dBA NCDOT uses a 10 dBA to 15 dBA increase of future predicted noise levels above existing noise levels to define "substantial increase" in exterior noise levels. This sliding scale allows a greater increase at a lower existing noise level before a"substantial" increase is defined. As noise walls generally reduce volumes by 5 dBA their use is usually not as effective in less noisy areas. A 10 dBA change in noise levels is judged by most people as a doubling or halving of the loudness of the sounds. Based on the guidelines above, a traffic noise impact occurs when either of the previous conditions is satisfied. Consideration for noise abatement measures can be applied to receivers that fall in either category. 3.8.3. Analysis Results TNM was utilized to determine the number of Category B land use receivers that, during the peak hour in the design year, would meet either of the conditions described above. 39 receivers were analyzed. Noise impacts were determined based on the FHWA and NCDOT criteria previously discussed. 3-28 Table 3.8.2 shows a summary of impacts predicted for the project study area and Table 3.8.3 summarizes the number and degree of noise level increases predicted. Exhibits 3.8.1 e-g show the receiver locations and the sound levels for existing year (2009), No-Build (2035) and Build (2035) for each. According to the analysis, it is anticipated that no receivers will be impacted due to the construction of the grade separations. Under design year 2035 traffic conditions, no Category B receivers, from a total of 39 analyzed locations, are predicted to be impacted based on FHWA criteria and NCDOT guidelines. TABLE 3.8.2 NOISE LEVEL IMPACTS SUMMARY (Number of receivers considered as impacts per alternative) Approach or Substantial Increase vs. Total Impacts Exceed NAC Existing Noise Levels Existing (2009) 0 N/A 0 No Build (2035) 0 0 0 Build (2035) 0 0 0 TABLE 3.8.3 NOISE LEVEL INCREASE SUMMARY (Number of receivers experiencing listed noise level increases) dBA Increase <1-1 2 3 4 5 6 7 >7 No-Build 0 39 0 0 0 0 0 0 Build 5 9 15 5 3 1 0 1 3.8.4 Construction Noise General construction noise impacts, such as temporary speech interference for passersby and those individuals living and working near the project, can be expected particularly from earth moving equipment during grading operations. However, considering construction noise is relatively short in duration, these impacts are not expected to be substantial. The transmission loss provided by nearby structures and vegetation should be sufficient to moderate the effects of intrusive construction noise. 3-29 The NCDOT specifications limit noise levels to 80 dBA Leq in sensitive areas adjacent to project construction. The NCDOT may require abatement where limits are exceeded. The NCDOT limits work that produces objedionable noise during normal sleeping hours. 3.8.5. NoiseAnalvsisSummarv Potential noise impacts were analyzed for the No-Build scenario and for the Build Alternative. The analysis included 39 receivers and resulted in no anticipated impads based on 2035 traffic projedions. 3.8.6 VibrationlmoactAssessment Ground-bome vibration can be a concern for nearby neighbors of a railroad. In contrast to air- borne noise, ground-bome noise is not a common environmental problem. It is unusual for vibrations to be perceptible, even in locations close to the tracks. The effeds of ground-borne vibration include discernable movement of the building floors, rattling of the windows, shaking of objects on shelves or hanging on walls, and rumbling sounds. In extreme cases, the vibration can cause damage to buildings. Annoyance from vibration often occurs when the vibration exceeds the threshold of perception by only a small margin. A vibration level that causes annoyance will be well below the damage threshold for most buildings. Vibration caused by trains is the result of wheels rolling on steel rails. This energy is then transmitted through the track support system into the transit strudure, through the ground, to the foundations of nearby buildings, and finally throughout the remainder of the building structure. The level of vibration received at the building is a function of the type of trains, their speeds, track system, strudure, support and condition, distance from the tracks, geological conditions and the receiving strudure. Ground-bome vibration is almost never annoying to people who are outdoors. Although the motion of the ground may be perceived, without the effects associated with the shaking of the building, the motion does not produce the same human readion. In addition, the rumble noise that usually accompanies the building vibration is perceptible only inside buildings. 3-30 ImportantPoiMs • There are no aMicipated Iroise impacts assceiatedwith the poposeAroadvay grede sepxa(ions. • Theproposedcomb'ma(ionofroadvay imprwemenCs and at-grede crassing dasures should have a netreAuctron of impacled nase receptas in the sWdy xea. The motion due to ground-borne vibration is described in vibration velocity levels, measured in decibels referenced to 1 micro-inch per second. To avoid confusion with the decibel used to describe sound levels, the abbreviation VdB is used. Exhibit 3.8.2 illustrates common vibration sources and the human and strudural response to ground-borne vibration. The FTA has published the most recent guidance model for the assessment of noise and vibration impads in transportation projeds, Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment, May 2006. The FTA impad assessment procedure does not require the measurement of baseline vibration levels to determine if vibrations from line operations will result in an impact to the adjoining communities. Potential vibration impads from the operation movements are determined based on vibration threshold levels which must be exceeded. The FTA's experience with community response to ground-borne vibrations indicate that when there are only a few train events per day, it would take higher vibration levels to evoke the same community response that would be expeded from more frequent events. This is taken into account in the FTA criteria by distinguishing between projects with frequent, occasional and infrequent events. Frequent events are described as more than 70 vibration events per day; occasional events are defined as between 30 and 70 vibration events per day; and infrequent events are described as fewer than 30 vibration events per day. The vibration criteria levels shown in Table 3.8.4 are defined in terms of human annoyance for different land use categories such as high sensitivity (Category 1), residential (Category 2) and institutional (Category 3). In general, the vibration threshold of human perceptibility is roughly 65 VdB. ImpaYdMPanls • Vibretron IevNs 'm reside�es would increase by 18 more tlian tlie No-Buikl scenario. • VibretronlevNs'mbusi�sseswoukl increase by7 more than the No-Build scenario. 3-31 EXHIBIT 3.8.2 TYPICAL LEVELS OF GROUND-BORNE VIBRATION Human/ShucWralResponse T�msM1Oldmin0 mettcaemege � ���egoe ounei.�es olnruTywl�n2skssucnas � re amg x m screen aezae�na�ao�oya��e,�m,aq��e eventc(e.g,commmerralp � Paaitlen6ale�myanco�IreGuen� � erents�eg-rapitl�rznsit) LI�nI11piNL�T.Inn �Si411NC � Wuipnenl. NpOI�IA.Illiee11o101IX M1w�dO W�WpINnVIN6�d11V0 Velocity Tyv���Saurces LeveP (W It tram murce) � 81asOng�mmconslmcLOnpml��5 -- ewioo:aaa�eomernea.yva�r.�e � mrsvunioneqwpment � Commulerrail.upperran9e W � Fep104anNtuppenange � commwe<<a�lyn�=ai � Busonmckovei�ump ]0 r FOpiCIl�09itly(i021 � 0ucorbuak,��ploal W � TyVIwl�ckgiountldb�Llbn � mue v,e�no� ueio�iyeerei m vae ��ri� ro ro-s inrnesr��e 3-32 TABLE 3.8.4 GROUND-BORNE VIBRATION (GB� AND GROUND-BORNE NOISE (GBN) IMPACT CRITERIA FOR GENERAL ASSESSMENT GBV Impact Levels GBN Impact Levels Land Use CategOry (VdB re 1 micro-inch / sec) (dB re 20 micro Pascals) Frequent Occasional Infrequent Frequent Occasional Infrequent Events' Events2 Events' Events' Events2 Events' Category 1 Buildings where vibration would 65 VdB° 65 VdB° 65 VdB° N/A° N/A° N/A° interfere with interior o erations Category 2 Residences and buildings 72 VdB 75 VdB 80 VdB 35 dBA 38 dBA 43 dBA where people normally sleep Category 3 Institutional land uses with 75 VdB 78 VdB 83 VdB 40 dBA 43 dBA 48 dBA rimaril da ime use NOTES: 1. "Frequent Events" is tlefnetl as more than 70 vibretion events of the same source per tlay. Most rapitl transit projects fall into this category. 2 "Occasional Events" is defned as between 30 and 70 vibretions of the same source per day. Most commuter trunk lines have this many operetions. 3. '9nfrequent Events" is defned as fewer than 30 vibretion events of the same kind per day. This category includes most commuter rail branch lines. 4. This criterion limit is based on levels that are acceptable for most moderately sensitive equipment such as optical microscopes. Vibration-sensitive manufacturing or research will require detailed evaluation to defne the acceptable vibration levels. Ensuring lower vibration levels in a building often requires special design of the HVAC systems and stiffened floors. Vibration-sensitive equipment is generally not sensitive to ground-borne noise. The major existing source of vibration in the project corridor is from existing trains and traffic on local roads. As described previously, existing vibration measurements were not used to determine the potential impact of the project. As this project will have approximately 90 vibration events per day in the design year, this assessment uses the criteria for frequent events. The project related vibration was estimated using the generalized ground surface vibration curves from the FTA Guidance Manual (Exhibit 3.8.5). The curve was then adjusted to account for project specific factors. It was assumed that the entire corridor would use continuous welded rail, with an average train speed of 60 mph (58.8 average speed rounded up). The vibration analysis would not be measurably affected by the addition of a second track. The predicted vibration levels are based on changes in vibration levels at particular land uses at various distances from the track. The analysis takes into account freight and passenger service train vibrations, whether they occur in succession (i.e. a single track, where one train follows another), or if the trains are operating on separate tracks (i.e. where the trains may be operating simultaneously along the line on dual tracks). In both scenarios, the same number of freight and passenger trains would pass a given point, albeit at different times, but within the same rail 3-33 corritlor antl at similar tlistances from nearby uses. While ihere may be some atltletl cumulative vibretion at a particular momeM when one irein passes another, ihis is not expectetl to occur very often antl for a very short tluretion antl is not expectetl to atltl measurebly to ihe pretlictetl vibretion levels. The FTA impact ihresholtl applicable to resitlences is 72 tlecibels (VtlB), since ihere woultl be more ihan 70 irein eveMS per tlay. For institutional antl commercial lantl use ihe ihresholtl is 75 VtlB. Basetl upon ihese assumptions, ihe impact tlistance for resitlences woultl be 160 feet from ihe center of ihe irecks antl ihe impact tlistance for institutional antl commercial builtlings woultl be 120 feet from ihe centerline of ihe irecks. 100 95 w c 90 � 85 v 80 m a > 75 w � 70 D 0 65 w > � 60 K I55 50 10 EXHIBIT 3.8.5 GENERALIZED GROUND SURFACE VIBRA710N CURVES 20 30 40 50 60 80 100 150 200 300 Distance from irack centerline, k (USe diagonal tlistance for untlergmuntl systems) �1 In addition to ground-borne vibration criteria for humans in residential, institutional and special buildings and vibration-sensitive equipment, there are ground-borne vibration criteria for potential damage to structures. The limits of vibration that buildings can withstand are substantially higher than those for humans and sensitive equipment. It is extremely rare for vibration from train operations to cause any sort of building damage, including minor cosmetic damage. Table 3.8.5 presents criteria for assessing the potential for vibration damage to structures based on the type of building construction. It is not anticipated that any buildings within the project vicinity would experience vibration levels capable of producing damage. TABLE 3.8.5 CONSTRUCTION VIBRATION DAMAGE CRITERIA Assessment Results Using aerial photography and preliminary design files, impacts were calculated for both the No Build and Build scenarios. For Category 2 receptors (residences and buildings where people normally sleep) there were 134 impacts for the No Build scenario and 152 for the Build scenario, an increase of 18 receptors. For Category 3 receptors (institutional uses such as offices, businesses, schools and churches) it was determined that 84 receptors would be impacted by the No Build scenario and 91 for the Build scenario, an increase of 7 receptors. Church members from the historic Lutheran Chapel expressed concern about vibration from trains causing damage to their 150 year old main chapel, which is constructed with handmade bricks. Detailed projections of ground-borne vibration require professionals with experience in performing and interpreting vibration propagation tests and are usually performed during the final design phase of a project when there is sufficient reason to suspect adverse vibration impact from the project. The NCDOT is working with the Lutheran Chapel and the State Historic Preservation OFfice on a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that will address mitigation of effects to the Lutheran Chapel property. Any vibration mitigation measures recommended during the development of the MOA to satisfy Section 106 and, if applicable, will be included in 3-35 the commitments and FONSI for this project. It is not anticipated that mitigation measures will be evaluated on a site-specific basis for any other location along this project. 3.9 NATURAL RESOURCES The following paragraphs summarize sections from the Natural Resources Technical Report prepared for the proposed project (NCDOT, 2010). A natural resources study was conducted for the project study area from May 2009 through September 2010. Streams and wetlands within the project study area are shown in Appendix F. The project study area lies within the Southern Outer Piedmont ecoregion of the Piedmont physiographic region of North Carolina. Topographically, the project vicinity is generally comprised of low, rounded hills and ridges, and low to moderate gradient streams with mostly cobble, gravel, and sandy substrates. Topography within the study area is generally level and aligned along the ridge which gradually increases in elevation from north to south. Elevations within the study area range from 762 -872 feet above sea level. 3.9.1 Soils The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) mapping identifies 19 soil types within the project study area. Table 3.9.1 details the soils found in the project study area. TABLE 3.9.1 SOIL SERIES WITHIN THE PROJECT STUDY AREA Soil Series Mapping Drainage Class Hydric Status Unit Appling sandy loam Ap Well-Drained Non-hydric Armenia loam Ar Poorly-Drained Hydric Cecil sandy loam Cc Well-Drained Non-hydric Cecil sandy clay loam Ce Well-Drained Non-hydric Cecil-Urban land complex Cf -- Non-hydric Enon fine sady loam En Well-Drained Non-hydric Enon-Urban land complex Eu -- Non-hydric Helena sandy loam He Moderately Well-Drained *Hydric Hiwassee clay loam Hw Well-Drained Non-hydric Mecklenburg loam Mb Well-Drained Non-hydric Pacolet sandy clay loam Pa Well-Drained Non-hydric Packolet-Udorthents complex Pc Well-Drained Non-hydric 3-36 NOTE� *Hydnc=SOilswhicharepnmanlynonhydnqbutmaycontainhydncindusions. 3.9.2 Water Resources The study area is located within the Yadkin River basin (United States Geological Survey [USGS] Hydrologic Units [HU's] 03040103 and 03040105). Twenty streams were identified within the projed study area, listed in Table 3.9.2. Locations of these water resources are shown in Appendix F. Physical characteristic of streams within the study area are listed in Table 3.9.3. The reach of GranYs Creek that receives waters from the study area is rated C and is located approximately 1 to 2 miles downstream from the study area. The reach of Town Creek that receives waters from the study area is rated C and is located approximately 0.1 to 0.5 mile downstream from the study area. The reach of Cold Water Creek that receives waters from the study area is rated WS-IV and is located approximately 3 to 5 miles downstream from the study area. Additionally, the reach of Cold Water Creek that receives waters from streams SQ, SR, and ST has been assigned the supplemental classification of CA, indicating drainage into a water-supply reservoir within one-half mile; in this case, Lake Fisher. No designated anadromous fish waters or Primary Nursery Areas are present in the study area. No designated High Quality Waters (HQW), Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW), or water supply watersheds (WS-I or WS-II) are located within 1.0 mile downstream of the study area. ImportantPoiMs • Thereilcorridorislocatedalongarrdge on Irolrlrydric, wNldrei�dsoils. • StreamsintheprojectsWdyxeaare wiNiin awater suppy wateahed. 3-37 TABLE 3.9.2 JURISDICTIONAL STREAMS WITHIN THE STUDY AREA Stream Name Map ID Figure NCDWQ Stream Best Usage Nos. Index Number Classification UT to Town Creek SA 4A 12-115-3 C UT to Town Creek SB 4A 12-115-3 C UT to Town Creek SC 4A 12-115-3 C UT to GranYs Creek SD 4C 12-110 C UT to GranYs Creek SE 4D 12-110 C UT to Town Creek SF 4E 12-115-3 C UT to Town Creek SG 4E 12-115-3 C UT to Town Creek SH 4E 12-115-3 C UT to Town Creek SI 4E 12-115-3 C UT to GranYs Creek SJ 4F 12-110 C UT to GranYs Creek SK 4F 12-110 C UT to Town Creek SL 41 12-115-3 C UT to Town Creek SM 4G 12-115-3 C UT to Cold Water Creek SN 4J 13-17-9-4-(0.5) WS-IV UT to Cold Water Creek SO 4K 13-17-9-4-(0.5) WS-IV UT to Cold Water Creek SP 4K 13-17-9-4-(0.5) WS-IV UT to Cold Water Creek SQ 4L 13-17-9-4-(1) WS-IV; CA UT to Cold Water Creek SR 4L 13-17-9-4-(1) WS-IV; CA UT to Irish Buffalo Creek SS 4M 13-17-9-(2) C UT to Cold Water Creek ST 4N 13-17-9-4-(1) WS-IV; CA SOURCE: NRTR, NCDOT, November 2010 According to the North Carolina 2008 Final 303(d) List, all North Carolina Waters are considered to be listed due to statewide Fish Consumption Advice for Mercury. In addition, each named stream that receives waters from the study area is listed individually on the North Carolina 2008 Final 303(d) List. Town Creek is listed due to "Fair" fish and benthos bioclassification ratings. The reach of GranYs Creek beginning approximately 6 to 8 miles downstream from the study area is listed due to turbidity and fecal coliform bacteria. The reach of Cold Water Creek located immediately downstream of Lake Fisher and beginning approximately 5 to 7 miles downstream of the study area is listed due to turbidity and a"Fair" Benthos bioclassification rating. The reach of Irish Buffalo Creek that receives waters from the study area is listed due to high levels of copper and a"Fair" Benthos bioclassification rating. No benthic or fish sampling stations are located within 1.0 mile of the study area. 3-38 TABLE 3.9.3 PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF STREAMS WITHIN THE STUDY AREA Bank Bankful Water Channel Map ID Height width Depth Substrate Velocity Clarity feet feet inches UT to Town Creek SA 1-2 3 0.5-1 Silt, sand Slow C UT to Town Creek SB 1-4 2-3 1-3 Silt, sand, gravel, Moderate ST cobble UT to Town Creek SC 1 2 0-2 Silt, sand, gravel Moderate C UT to GranYs Creek SD 3 3 2_g Sand, gravel, Moderate C cobble UT to GranYs Creek SE 3 4 2_g Sand, gravel, Moderate T cobble UT to Town Creek SF 1-2 2-3 2-6 Silt, sand, gravel Slow C UT to Town Creek SG 0.5-1 5 4-6 Silt, sand Slow ST UT to Town Creek SH 0.5 3 *1 Silt None N/A UT to Town Creek SI 0.5 3 1-2 Silt Moderate C UT to GranYs Creek SJ 2 1-2 0-4 Silt, sand, gravel, Moderate ST cobble UT to GranYs Creek SK 0.5-1 2-3 1-2 Silt, sand Slow ST UT to Town Creek SL 0.5-1 2-3 2 Silt, sand Moderate C UT to Town Creek SM 0.5-2 3 2 Silt, gravel Slow C UT to Cold Water Creek SN 1-2 2-4 1-3 Silt, sand, gravel Moderate C UT to Cold Water Creek SO 3 3 1-3 Silt, sand, gravel, Slow ST cobble UT to Cold Water Creek SP 3 3 �� Silt, sand, gravel, None N/A cobble UT to Cold Water Creek SQ 6 10 4 Sand, gravel, Moderate C cobble UT to Cold Water Creek SR 4 3 1 Gravel, cobble Moderate C UT to Irish Buffalo Creek SS 0.5-2 3-5 2-3 Sand, gravel Moderate C UT to Cold Water Creek ST 2 2-5 3-6 Sand, gravel, Moderate ST cobble ��urcct: ivrc i rc, ivcu� i, ivovemoer �viu NOTE: *Clarity: C=Clear, ST=Slightly Turbid, T=Turbid 3.9.3 Biotic Resources 3.9.3.1 Terrestrial Communities The project study area includes three distinct terrestrial communities: maintained/disturbed land, mixed pine/hardwood forest, and pine forest. Brief descriptions of each community are presented below. Table 3.9.4 shows the coverage, and anticipated project-related impacts, for these communities. 3-39 Maintained/Disturbed Land This community occurs throughout the study area in the form of railroad and roadside shoulders, agricultural fields, residential development including maintained lawns, and several power line corridors. Frequently, narrow hedgerows generally consisting of saplings and shrubs such as Chinese privet, eastem red cedar, sweet gum, northem read oak, and lobolly pine with woody vines such as poison ivy and grape separate the rail corridor from abutting properties. Maintained laws and roadside shoulders generally consist of low-growing grasses and weedy forbs such as fescue, crab grasses, white clover, dandelion, and wild onion with occasional omamental saplings such as black gum, Bradford pear, and crepe myrtle. Vegetation is sparse along railroad shoulders, generally growing along the margins with some encroachment towards the rail, and consists of weedy forbs such as fescue, geranium, dandelion, and wild onion. Wthin residential logs and along the margins of agricultural fends, vegetation generally consists of low, weedy forbs including fescue, dandelion, fox-tail grass, vasey-grass, beggar's ticks, and broomsedge. Along forest edges and power line corridors similar grass and forbs species tend to be present, but vegetation is dominated by saplings and shrubs of sweetgum, red maple, lobolly pine, eastem red cedar, black cherry, winged elm, blackberries, box elder, redbud, Chinese privet, smooth sumac, slippery elm, silky dogwood, and by vines such as poison ivy, grape, and Japanese honeysuckle. Mixed PineMardwood Forest Small fragmented areas of this community occur generally along the margins of the rail line and include forested communities of varying ages. Canopy trees include sweetgum, tulip poplar, red maple, southem read oak, white oak, sounvood, and loblolly pine, with the inclusion of sycamore, American elm, willow oak, and cottonwood in mesic areas near streams and wetlands. Saplings present include canopy species as well as sassafras, flowenng dogwood, and eastem red cedar, with some paw-paw and box elder in mesic areas. Shrub layers are thickest along woodland edges and in mesic areas and include spicebush, multiflora rose, Chinese privet, and American elder. Vines present include poison ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, crossing, trumpet creeper, and greenbrier, while herbs include Christmas fern and violets. Pine Forest Several small stands of this community occur within 3-40 • TheseimpactswouldprimarityiMOlve the clex'mg of vegetdion mM grdding�f'dlilg. • The'maeaseinstormwaterrulroBwould be limiled by tlie factthatthe poject sludy xea is Iceated'm an urbanizeA areawith a fairty hgh amouMW existing imperviousness. the study area and appear to be managed and currently support a relatively open stand of loblolly pine with no competing sub-canopy. Shrubs and herbs in this community are generally sparse and include Chinese privet, eastern red cedar, red maple, poison ivy, and grape. TABLE 3.9.4 COVERAGE AND IMPACTS OF TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITIES WITHIN THE STUDY AREA Community Total Coverage (acres) Projected Impacts (acres) Maintained/disturbed land 744.2 167.4 Mixed pine/hardwood forest 198.8 39.6 Pine forest 16.3 -- Total 959.2 207.0 3.9.3.2 Terrestrial Wildlife Terrestrial communities in the study area are comprised primarily of disturbed habitats that may support a limited diversity of wildlife species due to the urban nature of the study area (an asterisk indicates if a species or sign of a species was actually observed). Mammals that commonly exploit habitats found within the study area include gray squirrel', eastern cottontail', raccoon', white-tailed deer, coyote, groundhog, and Virginia opossum. Birds that commonly use forest and forest edge habitats include American crow', blue jay', Carolina wren', northern mockingbird', cedar waxwing', Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse', common yellow-throat', indigo bunting', eastern towhee', northern cardinal', red-eyed vireo', red-headed woodpecker', sharp-shinned hawk, and white eyed vireo. Birds that may use the open habitat within the study area include house finch', goldfinch', barn swallow', European starling', mourning dove', blue- gray gnatcatcher', chimney swift', common grackle', song sparrow', killdeer', American robin, eastern bluebird, American kestrel, red-tailed hawk', and turkey vulture'. Reptile and amphibian species that may use terrestrial communities locate in the study area include marbled skink', black racer, rate snake, corn snake, eastern ribbon snake, eastern garter snake, copperhead, and timber rattlesnake. 3.9.3.3 Aquatic Communities Aquatic communities in the study area are supported by one small open water pond, one perennial warm-water stream, and several small intermittent warm-water streams. The pond and perennial stream may include gizzard shad, redfin pickerel, common carp, golden shiner, rosyside dace, eastern silvery minnow, bluehead chub, creek chub, redbreast sunfish, crayfish, and various benthic macroinvertebrets. Intermittent streams in the study area are relatively small in size and may support aquatic communities of spring peeper, crayfish, and various 3-41 benthic macroinvertebrets. Aquatic-dependent wildlife expected to utilize this community include great blue heron and northern water snake. No sampling was undertaken in jurisdictional streams of the study area to determine fishery potential as no designated anadromous fish waters or Primary Nursery Areas are present in the study area. No benthic or fish sampling stations are located within 1.0 mile of the study area. 3.9.3.41nvasive Species Four species from the NCDOT's Invasive Exotic Plants of North Carolina were found to occur within the study area: Chinese privet and multiflora rose (Threat level 1), Japanese honeysuckle (Threat level 2), and Bradford pear (Threat level 3). The NCDOT will follow the DepartmenYs BMP's for the management of invasive plant species. Summary of lmpacts to Biotic Resources — The proposed project is within an urban area and would primarily affect maintained/disturbed land (109.2 acres); however, the Build Alternative would affect 0.2 acres of the Pine Forest community and 26.0 acres of Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest community. These impacts would primarily involve the clearing of vegetation and earthwork (i.e., the placement of fill material, grading, etc.) associated with the construction of the second track and crossing improvements. The addition of a second track and the new grade separated crossings would increase the total amount of impervious surface within the project study area, which would in turn create an increase in stormwater runoff. The increase in stormwater runoff would be limited, however, by the fact that the project study area is located in an urbanized area with a fairly high amount of existing imperviousness. Impacts to jurisdictional streams and wetlands are discussed in the following section. 3.9.4 Jurisdictionallssues 3.9.4.1 Clean Water Act Waters of the U.S. The study area is located within the Yadkin River Basin in USGS Hydrologic Unit (HU) 03040103 and 03040105. A total of four jurisdictional streams were identified within the study area. The physical characteristics and water quality designations of each jurisdictional stream are detailed in Section 3.9.2. Table 3.9.5 summarizes jurisdictional characteristics of each stream within the study area, as well as anticipated impacts associated with the Build 3-42 Alternative. All jurisdictional streams in the study area have been designated as warm water streams for the purposes of stream mitigation. All jurisdictional streams in the study are located in HU 03040105. TABLE 3.9.5 JURISDICTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF STREAMS WITHIN THE STUDY AREA Ma Length USGS Compensatory NC �Prr°�a�sd ID (linear Classification Hydrologic Mitigation Riparia (I near feet) Unit Required n Buffer feet) SA 195 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No -- SB 951 Perennial 03040103 Yes No -- SC 79 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No -- SD 44 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No 14 SE 498 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No -- SF 829 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No 173 SG 78 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No -- SH 289 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No 121 SI 217 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No 73 SJ 743/30 Intermittent/Perennial 03040103 Undetermined/Y No -- SK 356 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No -- SL 292 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No -- SM 90 Intermittent 03040103 Undetermined No -- SN 250 Intermittent 03040105 Undetermined No -- SO 438 Intermittent 03040105 Undetermined No 131 SP 11 Intermittent 03040105 Undetermined No -- SQ 77 Perennial 03040105 Yes No 53 SR 42 Intermittent 03040105 Undetermined No 35 SS 323 Intermittent 03040105 Undetermined No -- ST 404 Intermittent 03040105 Undetermined No -- Total Project Impacts 600 A total of 24 wetlands and two small open water ponds were identified within the study area (NRTR Exhibits Figures 3 and Figures 4A through 4N, Appendix F). Five of these wetland areas (Wetlands WM through WQ) are isolated and not subject to Section 404 jurisdiction; however, the NCDWQ may assert jurisdiction over these resources. Open Water OWA is a small farm pond located in the northern portion of the study area that drains to Wetland WB and Stream SA. Open Water OWB is located entirely within Wetland WO and is therefore isolated. Wetland classification and quality rating data are presented in Table 3.9.6. All wetlands within the study area are located within USGS HUs 03040103 and 03040105. 3-43 Descriptions of project study area wetland sites are presented in Section 3.9.3.1. Wetland data and anticipated impacts associated with the Build Alternative are presented in Table 3.9.6. TABLE 3.9.6 JURISDICTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF WETLANDS WITHIN THE STUDY AREA Cowardin DEM Wetland Area Impacted by Map ID Figure Classification Rating' Area (acres) Build Alternative (acres) WA 4A PF01A 41 2.67 -- WB 4A PSS1A 38 0.05 -- WC 4B PF01A 42 0.67 -- WD 4B PF01A 42 0.26 -- WE 4B PF01A 84 0.05 -- WF 4D PF01C 40 0.47 -- WG 4D PF01C 40 0.24 -- WH 4E PF01A 67 0.86 -- WI 4E PF01E 57 0.16 -- WJ 4E PF01 E 57 0.09 0.09 WK 4F PF01E 39 0.19 -- WL 4F PF01A 35 0.01 -- WM 4G PF01B 48 0.05 -- WN* 4H PF01A 33 0.10 -- WO* 4H PF01A 20 0.44 -- WP* 41 PF01C 40 0.22 0.05 WQ* 41 PSS1A 15 0.04 -- WR* 41 PSS1A 15 0.02 -- WS 41 PF01C 45 0.07 0.02 WT 41 PF01 C 45 0.08 <0.01 WU 41 PF01C 45 0.09 -- WV 41 PF01A 30 <0.01 -- WW 4K PF01A 40 0.15 -- WX 4M PF01 E 63 0.50 -- iv� i t: �i H SCOfZ Oi U-33 = IOW qU211[Y WZ[I2f105, 33-bb = f11Z01Ufll qU211[Y WZ[I2f105, > bb = f11Jf1 qU211[Y WZ[I2f105. 3.9.4.2 Clean Water Act Permits It is anticipated that impacts to Section 404 jurisdictional areas will likely be authorized and the following permits will apply: NWP No. 3 for maintenance of currently serviceable structures, NWP No. 14 for linear transportation projects, NWP No. 18 for minor discharges, and NWP No. 33 for temporary construction activities such as stream dewatering, work bridges, or temporary causeways that are often used during bridge construction or rehabilitation. The USACE holds final discretion as to what permits will be required to authorize project construction. In addition, Section 401 Water Quality Certifications including GC 3687 for maintenance, GC 3704 for linear transportation projects, GC 3705 for minor discharges, and GC 3688 for 3-44 temporary construdion access and dewatering; and a NCDWQ Isolated Wetlands Permit may be required. Isolated wetlands may require an NCDWQ General Permit for impacts to isolated and other non-404 jurisdidional wetlands and waters QWGP100000) when the USACE determines that a wetland to be potentially impaded is not subjed to Section 404jurisdiction. 3.9.4.3 Construction Moratoria No anadromous fish spawning areas or other areas of special consideration have been identifed within the study area. Therefore, no construction moratoria are anticipated for the proposed projed. 3.9.4.4 N.C. River Basin Buffer Rules No streams within the study area are subject to any North Carolina river basin buffer rules. 3.9.4.5 Rivers and Harbors Act Section 10 Navigable Waters No waters in the study area have been designated by the USACE as a Navigable Water under Sedion 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Ad. 3.9.4.6 Wetland and Stream Mitigation Avoidance and Minimization of Impacts The NCDOT will avoid and minimize impacts to streams and wetlands to the greatest extent practicable in choosing a Preferred Alternative and during projed design. Current wetland impads are limited to 0.17-acre, with additional opportunities to minimize impacts by adjusting slopes during fnal design. Compensatorv Mitipation of Impacts The NCDOT, USACE, and NCDWQ will finalize stream and wetland mitigation opportunities once a final decision has been rendered on the location of the Build Alternative. Mitigation opportunities may be provided by North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Ecosystem Enhancement Program (EEP). In accordance with the "Memorandum of Agreement Among the North Carolina Department of 3-45 ImpaYdMPanls • FeAerel ami stde permils woukl be required for the proposed proJed. • Compensataymitiga(ionwouklbe providedinsuBicientquaMity and quality lo of/setproject impacts in accordance with the Clean WalerAct 0/1970, as amended. Transportation, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Wilmington DistricY' (MOA), July 22, 2003, and amended June 2004 and March 2007, the EEP will be requested to provide off-site mitigation to satisfy the federal Clean Water Act compensatory mitigation requirements for this project. 3.9.4.7 Endangered Species Act Protected Species As of May 19, 2009 and again September 28, 2010, the USFWS lists one federally protected species for Rowan County, Schweinitz's sunflower (Table 3.9.7). A brief description of this species' habitat requirements follows, along with the Biological Conclusion rendered based on survey results in the study area. Habitat requirements for this species are based on the current best available information as per referenced literature and USFWS correspondence. TABLE 3.9.7 FEDERALLY PROTECTED SPECIES LISTED FOR ROWAN COUNTY Scientific Name Common Name Federal Habitat Biological Status** Present Conclusion Helianthus schweiitcii Schweinitz's sunflower E Yes No Effect * Federal Status: E=Endangered The Schweinitz's sunflower This plant species is endemic to the Piedmont of North and South Carolina. The few sites where this rhizomatous perennial herb occurs in relatively natural vegetation are found in Xeric Hardpan Forests. The species is also found along railroad corridors, roadside right-of-ways, maintained power lines and other utility right-of-ways, edges of thickets and old pastures, clearings and edges of upland oak-pike hickory woods and Piedmont long leaf pine forests, and other sunny or semi-sunny habitats where disturbances help create open or partially open areas for sunlight penetration to the ground. Biological Conclusion: No Effect Suitable habitat for Schweinitz's sunflower occurs along the margins of roadways and the rail lines, along woodland edges, and within utility line corridors. However, no individuals of this species were identified by systematic surveys performed in all areas of suitable habitat on September 29 and 30, 2009 and September 29, 2010. Individuals of this species were observed at the North Carolina Herbarium in Chapel Hill, NC immediately prior to all surveys in order to confirm that this species remained identifiable through form and flower throughout the � survey window. In addition, a review of North Carolina Natural Heritage Program (NCNHP) records, updated December 1, 2008, indicates no known Schweinitz's sunflower occurrences within 1.0 mile of the study area. 3.9.5 Bald Eaqle and Golden Eaqle Protection Act As of May 15, 2009, and again September 28, 2010, the USFWS lists one species protected by the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act for Rowan County, bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). Habitat for the bald eagle primarily consists of mature forest in proximity to large bodies of open water for foraging. Large, dominant trees are utilized for nesting sites, typically within 1.0 mile of open water. The study area contains no suitable nesting or foraging habitat for bald eagle due to the absence of large open water bodies. No bald eagles or bald eagle nests were observed during field investigations. Based on field observations and NCNHP documentation, this project will have no effect on bald eagle. 3.9.6 Endanqered Species Act Candidate Species As of May 15, 2009 and again September 28, 2010, the USFWS lists one Candidate species for Rowan County, the Georgia aster (Symphyotricum georgianum). Suitable habitat is present within the study area along utility corridors, roadside shoulders, woodland edges, and the margins of the railroad corridor. However, reviews of NCNHP records indicate no known occurrences of this species within 1.0 mile of the study area. 3.10 HYDRAULIC IMPACTS The four streams identified in Section 3.9 (WS-IV classified streams, identified as SA, SC, and SD in Tables 3.9.2, 3.9.3, and 3.9.5) are all currently crossed by the existing track. At the preliminary design phase, it is assumed that each of the existing culverts would be extended or replaced at their existing location. The existing pipe sizes are all 48-inches or less, so none of these pipes is considered a major drainage structure. Sizing will be verified during hydraulic design to ensure adequacy for existing and proposed development conditions and to ensure that upstream water levels are not increased during flood events. No hydraulic impacts, in the form of upstream flooding, are anticipated. 3.11 FLOODPLAINS Regulatory floodplains were identified in accordance with Executive Order 11988: Floodplain Management. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) determined the regulatoryfloodways, 3-47 floodplains, and other flood hazard areas for Rowan County. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regulates adivities associated within these designated areas. Exhibit 3.11.1 details the flood hazard areas in the vicinity of the projed study area. There are no flood hazard areas within the projed study area. As shown in Exhibit 3.11.1, the flood hazard area associated with Beaver Creek is close to the eastem side of the rail corridor, but ends outside the projed study area. In addition, construdion of the Build Altemative would occur on the western side of the existing rail corridor and would not affed this flood hazard area. 3.12 ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL PROPERTIES Sedion 106 of the National Historic Preservation Ad (16 USC 470 et. seq.) requires federal agencies to consider the effects of their undertakings on historic properties and to allow the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) an opportunity to comment on the proposed adion. Historic properties proteded under Section 106 include prehistoric [archeological] or historic distrids, sites, buildings, strudures, or objeds included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. Section 4(f) of the US Department of Transportation Ad requires consideration of histonc sites that are eligible for listing or listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sedion 4(f) regulations and anticipated effeds are discussed in Sedion 3.3.9. A Histonc Architedural Resources Survey Report (Mattson, Alexander and Associates, Inc., 2010) was prepared for the proposed projed. This report identifed four historic properties and two historic distrids as eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. At a meeting on December 22, 2009, the Histonc Preservation Offcer (HPO) concurred that the Landis Post Office, the Landis Southern Railway Passenger Station, Mount Zion Reformed Church, the Lutheran Chapel, and the China Grove Cotton Mills Histonc Distrid are eligible for listing in the National Register, but stated that additional information was needed to make an eligibility determination for the proposed China Grove Cotton Mills Historic Distrid. A supplemental Historic Architedural Resources Survey Report (Fearnbach History Services, Inc., 2010) was submitted to the HPO for concurrence. Based on this additional information, it was confrmed that the China Grove Cotton Mills Historic Distrid is eligible for listing on the National Register and the 3-48 ImpaYdMPanls • No mapr dre'mage modifica(rons are associatedwitli tliepropasedproject. . No ibodpla'm impacts are assceiated with the propasedproject boundaries for the historic distrid were finalized. The location of eligible historic architedural properties and historic distrids are shown in Exhibits 2.3.1a-f. Through coordination with the State Historic Preservation Offce (SHPO), it was determined that the proposed projed would have No Effect on the Mount Zion Reformed Church and No Adverse Effect on the Landis Post Offce, Landis Southem Railway Passenger Station, China Grove Cotton Mills Historic Distrid, and China Grove Historic Distnd. The proposed projed would have an Adverse Effect on the Lutheran Chapel. The curve realignment and addition of the second track would affed the church's parking lot. A meeting was held with Lutheran Chapel church members on March 22, 2011 as the frst step in the development of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for mitigation of impads to the church's parking lot. Mitigation strategies discussed include the construdion of new parking areas and the potential closure/abandonment of Eudy Road to create additional space for parking. The final MOA will be included in the Finding of No Signifcant Impad (FONSI). Grading work would encroach upon the historic boundanes for the Chapel; however, there would be no impads to the strudures on the property or the fundion of the church. The proposed projed would not affed the historic nature or fundionality of the Lutheran Chapel. SHPO concurrence is contained in Appendix A.3. The SHPO and Offce of Archaeology concurred on January 12, 2010 and January 7, 2010 respedively, that no further archaeological work is required for the proposed projed. Should the study corridor change prior to construction, additional consultation with the State Offce of Archaeology would be required. This correspondence is contained in Appendix A. 3.13 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SITES AND UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS Land use in the project study area adjacent to the railroad track includes areas of light industrial and commercial development. Database surveys indicate that the rail corridor is flanked with numerous underground storage tanks (USTs) and leaking underground storage tanks (LUSTs) plus one Supertund site (EDR, 2010), as shown in Exhibit 3.13.1. The Superfund site is west of US 29 outside the rail corridor and would not be affeded by the proposed project. 3-49 • The 8uikl Allema(ive would have an adveae ef/ed on tlie Lutheren Chapel parkilg lot • NCDOTisdevNopilgaMemorandumW AgreemeM(MOA) formiligatronW impacCs lo tlie Lutlieren Chapel pxlulg lar. Based on the preliminary designs, it is anticipated that portions of the properties corresponding to seven locations along the project will be diredly impaded. These locations (numbers correspond to Exhibit 3.13.1) are: 1) LUST Site: NCDOT 4700 S. Main Street, Salisbury 2) LUST Site: Walk-on Produds , Inc. 200 Peeler Street, Salisbury 3) LUST Site: Fred's One-Stoq 1117 S. Main Street, China Grove 4) UST Site: Concord Telephone Co., 1525 S. Main Street, Landis 5) UST Site: National Teutiles, 308 E. Thom Street, China Grove 6) UST Site: Taylor Clay Produds, 185 Peeler Road, Salisbury 7) UST Site: Corriher Plant, 501 S. Main Street, Landis 8) LUST Site: Dominion Yam Employee Center, 2607 N. Main Street, North Kannapolis The NCDOT Geotechnical Engineering Unit will condud additional studies and pertorm feld reconnaissance along the project corridor to evaluate these and other locations and to determine the presence of any hazardous materials sites or underground storage tanks. Any potential issues will be identified and addressed during the right-of-way acquisition phase. 3.14 MINERAL RESOURCES There are no mineral produdion operations within the projed study area. The proposed projed does not pose any impacts to mining or mineral resources. 3.15 ENERGY Construdion of the Build Altemative is expeded to result in less total energy utilization than the No-Build Altemative. The proposed adion would improve capacity along the rail corridor and subsequently facilitate passenger use along the larger SEHSR corridor while still maintaining the more energy effcient freight transport of goods in lieu of truck transport. Replacement of at-grade crossings with grade separations will reduce the frequency of stopped automobiles waiting to cross the railroad. This will in tum reduce the energy use required to accelerate stopped vehicles to travel speed. 3.16 VISUALIMPACTS ImaortantPoiMs Given the presence of the existing rail corridor, no • Additrolwlgeoenvirolxnentalsludieswill visual impacts are anticipated from the proposed becomluc(edamlalryissuesaddressed projed. Visual impacts of the Build Alternative would duringrigM-mivayacquisition. 3-50 primarily be limited to the temporary loss of vegetation due to the minimum clear-cutting required to construct the projed. 3.17 UTILITIES Due to the urban setting of the projed study area, a number of utilities are present within the area. Overhead power lines as well as underground telephone, cable, and fiber optics lines are also present within the NCRR corridor. Water lines and sewer lines are likely along US 29 and other roads in the projed study area. The proposed project may require the relocation of existing underground and overhead utilities with the possibility of short-term interruptions to service during construdion; however overall impads to public utilities are anticipated to be low. 3.18 CONSTRUCTIONIMPACTS The construdion activities associated with building a new railroad track would create environmental impads. These impacts, generally short-term in nature, can be controlled, minimized, or mitigated through conformance with Best Management Practices (BMPs) and standard NCDOT procedures. 3.18.1 Air QualiN Construction adivities could have a short-term impad on air quality, primarily during site preparation. Particulate matter (dust) is the pollutant of primary concern during the construction period. Dust would be generated during earth moving activities, handling of cement, asphalt, or aggregate, and equipment travel over unpaved haul roads. Wind erosion of exposed areas and material stockpiles would also generate particulate matter. The amount of dust generated would vary, depending on the construction activity and local weather conditions. Where excess dust is anticipated to be a problem, effedive dust control measures would be implemented in accordance with ImaortantPoiMs standard NCDOT procedures. Dust control would be , Noperma�Mimpactsroutili(iesare the responsibility of the contrador and may include assceiatedwiththeeuimaltenwtive. thefollowing: • BestManagementPractices(BMPs) would be utilized lo milAmize temporary impacCs associatedwitli tlieproject's • Minimizing exposed earth surface CO1S�`�O°� 3-51 • Temporary and permanent seeding and mulching • Watering work and haul areas during dry periods • Covering, shielding, or stabilizing material stockpiles • Using covered haul trucks Emissions from construction equipment are regulated by federal standards. Any burning of cleared materials would be conducted in accordance with applicable state and local laws, regulations, and ordinances. Specifically, a Burning Permit from the NC Division of Forest Resources would be obtained for burning within woodlands or within 500 feet of woodlands under the protection of the Division of Forest Resources. 3.18.2 Noise and Vibration Construction of the Build Alternative would result in temporary increases in noise levels within the vicinity of the project. Noise would be generated primarily from heavy equipment used to transport materials and to construct the railroad spur. Sensitive receptors located close to the construction activities may temporarily experience increased noise levels. Regulating the hours of construction and equipping machinery with noise reduction devices can control construction noise. Certain construction activities could also be limited during the evening, weekends, and holidays. Storage and staging areas would be located as far from noise sensitive areas as practicable. The NCDOT specifications limit noise levels to 80 dBA Leq in sensitive areas adjacent to project construction. The NCDOT may require abatement where limits are exceeded. The NCDOT limits work that produces objectionable noise during normal sleeping hours. Construction of the project could result in short-term increases in vibration levels at the properties in the immediate vicinity of construction activities. Common vibration-producing equipment includes jackhammers, pavement breakers, hoe rams, auger drills, bulldozers and backhoes. Typical vibration source levels for construction equipment range from 58 -104 VdB. Pavement breaking and soil compaction would probably produce the highest levels of construction-related vibration. Generally, annoyance effects may be expected during construction near sensitive sites within approximately 200 feet of the construction activity. 3-52 Actual distances at which the effects would occur would depend on the type of construction equipment used and the soil characteristics of the area. 3.18.3 WaterQuality Erosion and sedimentation caused by construction activities would affect drainage patterns and water quality. In accordance with the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Control Act (15A NCAC 4B .0001 through .002�, an erosion control plan would be developed and implemented prior to construction. The plan would incorporate measures to control non-point source impacts as recommended in the NCDOT's Best Management Practices for Protection of Surface Waters (NCDOT, 1997b). These Best Management Practices include, but are not limited to the use of berms, dikes, silt barriers, catch basins, seeding and mulching, and conforming with proper clean-up practices. 3.18.4 Maintenance Of Traffic During construction of the proposed project, all local and through traffic would be adequately and safely accommodated. All construction operations would be scheduled to keep traffic delay minimized, and the contractor should conform to the standards of the Manual of Uniform Tra�c Control Devices for Streets and Highways. Appendix G contains a summary of temporary, offsite detour needs. Construction would be performed to comply with all federal, state, and local laws governing safety, health, and sanitation. Procedures would apply all safeguards, safety devices, protective equipment, and any other action reasonably necessary to protect the life and health of employees on the job, the safety of the public, and the property in connection with the performance of the work. The following items would be utilized, where necessary, to maintain public safety and the flow of traffic: • Constructing and maintaining temporary detours, temporary structures, temporary approaches, crossings, and intersections with streets and roads, as well as using aggregates for the maintenance of traffic and water for use as a dust palliative. • Furnishing flaggers, pilot trucks, and drivers. • Furnishing, erecting, and maintaining warning devices such as signs, auxiliary barriers, channelizing devices, hazard warning lights, barricades, flares, and reflective markers. If a street must be closed to traffic, traffic control devices would be illuminated during hours of darkness. 3-53 It is anticipated that proposed grade separations will be completed and opened to vehicle traffic prior to implementation of nearby at-grade closures. This staging will ensure that local traffic patterns and flow are maintained to the extent possible. 3.18.5 Construction Materials And Waste All construction waste material generated during clearing, grubbing, and other construction phases would be removed from the project site and burned or disposed of by the contractor in accordance with state and local regulations. Litter and other general trash would be collected and disposed of at local landfill locations. NCDOT would require contractors to conduct historic, archaeological, wetland and threatened and endangered species surveys prior to approval and use of construction waste disposal and/or borrow sites identified for the proposed grade separation. 3.19 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS Table 3.19.1 lists the engineering factors and anticipated environmental impacts associated with the Build Alternative. These factors and impacts are based on the preliminary railroad design and crossing improvements. 3-54 TABLE 3.19.1 SUMMARY OF IMPACTS FOR THE BUILD (RECOMMENDED) ALTERNATIVE CONSTRUCTION FACTORS Mainline Length — miles 11.16 Existing At-Grade Roadway Crossings' 20 Proposed At-Grade Roadway Crossing Closures' 16 Proposed Roadway Grade Separations 3 Construction Cost $71,200,000 Right of Way & Utilities Cost $34,600,000 Total Cost $105,800,000 SOCIOECONOMICFACTORSZ Inside NCRR Outside NCRR Total Corridor Corridor Residential relocations along railroad corridor 3 11 14 Residential relocations at 24�" Street Grade Separation 0 10 10 Residential relocations at Kimball Road Grade Separation 0 3 3 Residential relocations at Peeler Road Grade Separation 1 0 1 Total Residential Relocations 4 24 28 Business relocations along railroad corridor 7 40 47 Business relocations at 24�" Street Grade Separation 0 6 6 Business relocations at Kimball Road Grade Separation 0 1 1 Business relocations at Peeler Road Grade Separation 1 4 5 Total Business Relocations 8 51 59 Church impacts along railroad corridor 0 1 1 Church impacts at 24�" Street Grade Separation 1 1 2 Church impacts at Kimball Road Grade Separation 0 0 0 Church impacts at Peeler Road Grade Separation 0 0 0 Total Church Impacts' 1 2 3 Cemeteries Impacted 0 0 0 Schools Impacted 0 0 0 Parks Impacted 0 0 0 Residential Receptors Impacted by Noise — No Build 1,241 Residential Receptors Impacted by Noise — Build 415 Reduction in Impacted Receptors (Noise) 826 Residential / Business Receptors Impacted by Vibration — 134 / 84 No Build Residential / Business Receptors Impacted by Vibration — 152 / 91 Build Increase in Impacted Receptors (Vibration) 18 / 7 CULTUR.4L RESOURCE FACTORS Archaeological Sites 0 Historic Properties Affected ° 1 3-55 TABLE 3.19.1 (cont.) SUMMARY OF IMPACTS FOR THE BUILD (RECOMMENDED) ALTERNATIVE JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES Protected Species Impacted 0 Stream Crossings 7 Wetland/Aquatic Systems — acres 5 0.17 Jurisdictional Streams — linear feet 5 600 UPLAND COMMUNITIES — acres 6 Pine Forest 0.0 Mixed Pine/Hardwood Forest 39.6 Disturbed/Maintained 167.4 PHYSICAL FACTORS 100-year Floodplain — acres 0.0 Prime and Unique Farmland — acres NA Hazardous Materials Sites (UST, LUST) 8 Number of Exceedances of CO NAAQS NA NOTES: 1 This number inclutles two closures within the stutly area that are part of a separete project. 2 Relocation reports included in Appendix D for impacts outside the NCRR Corridor. 3 Parking for two churches is impacted. One church at 22ntl Street is anticipated to be relocated. 4 The Build Alternative would have an Adverse Effect on the Lutheran Chapel. Anticipated impacts and mitigation are discussed in Section 3.3.9 and Section 3.12. 5 Impact quantities based on construction limits of the Build Alternative plus 25 feet. 6 Impact quantities based on a 100-foot corridor. Actual design footprint is anticipated to be approximately 50% of this width. 3-56 4.0 COMMENTS AND COORDINATION The major coordination milestones for this projed are described in chronological order in the following sedions. 4.1 SCOPING LETTER (July 20, 2009) A scoping letter was mailed out on July 2Q 2009 to local, state, and federal agencies, as well as the North Carolina State Clearinghouse, to solicit comments on the scope of this environmental document. The following agencies were solicited for comment: • City of Kannapolis • City of Salisbury • Town of Landis • Town of China Grove • Rowan County • Cabarrus County • Centralina Council of Governments • North Carolina Department of Transportation Rail Division • North Carolina Department of Transportation Highway Division 9 • North Carolina Department of Transportation Engineering and Safety Branch • North Carolina State Clearinghouse • North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources, Division of Archives and History • North Carolina Division of Water Quality • North Carolina Natural Heritage Program • North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency • U.S. Fish and Wldlife Services • Federal Highway Administration The scoping letter described the proposed environmental document as a Categorical Exclusion. The responses to this scoping letter are included in Appendix A.2. Subsequent to distribution of the scoping letter, it was decided to address the projed in an Environmental Assessment to provide a more imaortantPoiMs comprehensive evaluation, particularly for the locations , qscopilg,orsrmt-m-study,ktterwas affected by new roadway grade separations. maaedroage�resandsakehoklersin Juty o/2009. 4-1 4.2 NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD (NCRR) MEETING (July ?A, 2009) The majority of the proposed improvements are anticipated to be within the NCRR corridor. Therefore, a meeting was held at the outset of the study to confrm understanding of how property impacts would be addressed. It was verifed at this meeting that any impads to dwellings or businesses located within the NCRR corridor and diredly associated with railroad purposes would be addressed by NCRR. Any impads outside the NCRR corridor would be addressed by NCDOT right-of-way procedures. Maps and materials for the frst public workshop were also reviewed at this meeting. 4.3 FIRST CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP (July 28, 2009) The first Citizens Informational Workshop was preceded by advertisement via a newsletter direct mailed to addresses within the projed study area. The mailing list and newsletter are described below. 4.3.1 Mailing List—The NCDOT Rail Division developed a mailing list forthe projed that included area residences, businesses, and other interested parties. This list was used to distnbute the projed's newsletter and notifcation of the Citizens Informational Workshop. The original list contained over 1,650 addresses obtained from the Rowan and Cabarrus County property tau databases. The list was updated throughout the study as individual citizens requested addition to the list. 4.3.2 Newsletters — Projed newsletters were mailed to over 1,650 addresses in July and Odober of 2009. A copy of the newsletters, which contained information regarding the study process, alternatives and provided contad information for additional questions or requests, are included in Appendix A.4. The newsletters advertised the July 28`" and November 12`" Citizens Informational Workshops. The meeting was held on July 28, 2009 at the China Grove Community Building. The sign-in sheet included 62 citizens and 13 local offcials. A total of 11 written comments were received during the workshop or mailed/emailed following the workshop. The purpose of this workshop was to initiate the projed's public involvement �maatalrtPanls program, to provide information concerning the environmental study process, to receive comments ' ihefirstcitizen'simormatro�wl workshop was held inJutyW 2009 and from the public concerning the project and to ���bY62ci(izens. 4-2 introduce the members of the study team. Maps showing the preliminary build alternative (construdion of a second track on the existing NCRR/NS track between Reid and Kannapolis) were available. Citizens in attendance expressed concern regarding potential building impads and the importance of minimizing the impad of rail traffic on the roadway users and pedestrian safety. Of the 11 written comments received, only one comment stated opposition to the projed, all others stated recommendations for minimizing impacts, status of rail crossing, and a request to relocate the switch spurs to a non-urban location further north. 4.4 SECOND CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP (November 12, 2009) A second Citizens Informational Meeting was held on November 12, 2009 at the China Grove Community Building. This workshop was advertised by a second newsletter and mailed to the address list that had been updated to add citizens requesting inclusion following the frst workshop. The sign-in sheet included 53 citizens and 12 local officials. A total of eight written comments were received during the workshop or mailed/emailed following the workshop. The purpose of the second workshop was to provide information concerning the potential locations for grade separations (bridges) to provide safe opportunities for roadway crossings. Maps showing potential grade separations to be evaluated were available. Citizens in attendance expressed concern regarding increased disruption to vehicle traffic, pedestrian safety, property values, and emergency service response time. Of the eight written comments, two recommend dedication of a new emergency response facility located on the US 29/I-85 side of the tracks to beneft China Grove, Landis, and Rowan County. Two responses also stated concem regarding the closure of Thom Street and requested that Elm and Thom remain open until construdion is complete and that improvements be made to adjacent roadways. [Responses: The proposed crossing improvements were developed in consideration of local traffc patterns and would provide additional right-of-way to accommodate future bicycle and pedestrian facilities. As noted in Section 3.3.7, the proposed projed would aid in the redudion of emergency response times by providing three new grade-separated crossings that could be utilized when gates at closer at-grade crossings are adivated (either due to passing or �mrartantPaMs delayedtrains,maintenancevehicles,etc.).] • ihesecomlcitizen'sinformatiawl workshop was held in Nwem6erW 2009 aml aHemled by 53 citizens. 4-3 4.5 DIVISION OF AVIATION/ROWAN COUNTY AIRPORT MEETING (December 9, 2009) The projed team met with representatives of the North Carolina Division of Aviation and the Rowan County Airport to discuss proposed grade separation options in the Peach Orchard Road vicinity. The meeting was conduded to ensure that the proposed improvements were consistent with the airport's future expansion plans which include roadway eMensions. 4.6 ROWAN COUNTY/ROWAN COUNTY AIRPORT MEETING (January 26, 2010) Following the meeting with the Division of Aviation, coordination was also conduded with Rowan County management. This purpose of this meeting was to confrm that the proposed improvements were not only consistent with the airport's future plans, but also with the long-range transportation plan for Rowan County. 4.7 MARTIN MARIETTA MATERIALS MEETING (April 6, 2010) Due to at-grade crossing closures and the proposed grade separation at Peeler Road, a service road is proposed across the Martin Marietta Materials property adjacent to the NCRR corridor in this vicinity. A coordination meeting was held between representatives of the projed team and Martin Marietta Materials to discuss alignment options forthe service road in order to integrate with future plans for the property to the eutent possible. Input from this meeting was taken into account in the development of the service road alignment associated with the recommended altemative. 4.8 SMALL GROUP MEETING (March 16, 2010) In addition to the public meetings described above, the NCDOT Rail Division was also requested to present information on the projed and the development of alternatives at a meeting arranged by the Town of Landis and held in the Landis Town Hall. Using the maps that had been presented at the second Citizen's Informational Workshop, projed team members d� d th d� t d � d iscusse e propose improvemen s an receive input on proposed grade separations and local roadway connections. 4.9 SMALL GROUP MEETING (March 7, 2011) A small group meeting was held Monday, March 7, 2011 at the Blackwelder Park Baptist Church. The meeting was held to provide information to potentially affected citizens in the vicinity of the 24th Street 4-4 • Coordilwtion meefmgs wcre hNdwith Ravan CouMyAirport, Ravan County Management, and the TavnW Lamlis. . The propased grede sepxa(ion in the Peeler R oad� Peach Orchxd R oad vic'mity was coordinatedwith the NC Divisron of Avialion. • PoteMial Service Road impacts to the'a property were discussed witli Matin MxieltaMaterials. Bridge. A local offcials meeting was held at the church prior to the meeting. Thirteen local officials attended the meeting. Following the local officials meeting, the small group meeting was held in the church's Family Life Center from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Maps of the 24`" Street Bndge were displayed and projed team members were available to answer questions. Approximately 72 citizens attended the meeting. Eighteen written comments were received at the workshop. Five comments asked that Blackwelder Baptist Church maintain right and left hand tums onto Main Street from the church parking lot. Six comments asked that God's Tabernacle Church not be relocated. Two comments asked why a crossing at 22ntl Street was not preferable, two comments were concemed with being relocated by the projed, one comment asked for continued east-west connectors for improving both sides of Kannapolis, one asked that there be no more closing of crossings until the bridge is built, and one comment was complementary of the project saying that it would provide an excellent improvement to the area. [Responses: Specific details about access for the Blackwelder Baptist Church parking lots will be evaluated during the fnal design based on safe sight distances and appropriate spacing from existing driveways and side-streets. God's Tabernacle Church is located in approximately the center of the segment of Main Street where the grade will be substantially raised. Under this proposed option, it is not possible to avoid relocation of this property due to the direct impacts of the earthwork fill and the elimination of access to the property. A crossing at 22ntl Street was evaluated but required adding approximately 7,000 vehicles per day (traveling between US 29 and Main Street) to low-volume neighborhood streets. The neighborhood impad, anticipated from this travel pattern change, was the primary reason the 22nd Street option was not seleded. Additional east-west roadway connectors could be considered in long-range transportation plans for the area, but are beyond the scope of this railroad project. Project team members at the meeting noted that the proposed construction phasing is to construct the grade separations prior to closing any at-grade crossings.] 4.10 SMALL GROUP MEETING (March 22, 2011) A meeting was held at Lutheran Chapel in China Grove to discuss impads related to the adjacent track relocation and second track construction. This meeting was the first effort toward development of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) addressing mitigation strategies in accordance with Section 106 of 4-5 ImpaYdMPanls • A smaq group meetilg was hekl for citizens in the vicinily of the 2m^ Street Grade Sepxa(ion lo discuss potenlial impacts in thatarea . Theprojedleammetolrsiteatthe Lutlieren Chapel to discuss possibk milAmiza(ron and mitiga(ion options for impacts to Nxs historicalty eligibk WoP�Y the NHPA. Sedions 3.3.9 and 3.12 contain additional information on Sedion 4(f) and Sedion 106 regulations, anticipated impacts, and proposed mitigation. NCDOT representatives presented likely impads associated with the proposed projed and potential strategies to mitigate these impacts. Strategies discussed include the construdion of new parking areas and the potential closure/abandonment of Eudy Road to create additional space for parking. It was noted that the options were developed to prompt discussion and could be adjusted or new options developed as part of the process. It was concluded that church members will review the concept maps and discuss them with other congregation members and that NCDOT representatives will arrange a follow-up meeting to further discuss mitigation strategies for the MOA. 4.11 PUBLIC HEARING (Date TBD) A Public Hearing will be held following approval of this document. The Build Alternative will be presented as the Recommended Alternative at the hearing. Input received at the hearing will be described in the anticipated subsequent Finding of No Signifcant Impad (FONSI) document. ImpaYdMPanls . A public hex'mg will be conducted foqowilg approval aml distribulron of the EA. 4-6 APPENDIX A COORDINATION APPENDIX A.1 ��K•»i��H��i�a:� e ,nsrag � ��� �a,..,,m' STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA I�EPARTNIENT OF TRANSPORTATION BEVERLY EAVESPERDUE Gov�vvox M�MORANDLT1Vi TO: 7une �9, 2009 <dVame» « Organization» EUGENE A. CONTI, JR. SECRETARY �ROM: Mazc Hamel Rail Environmental Planning Engineer NCDOT Rail Division, Environmertal and Planning Branch S�JBJECT: Start of Study for the Proposed Double Track from Reid (south of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis along the North Cazolina Railroad Company (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern Railway (NS), in Rowan County. TIP Project No. P-3414, State WBS No. °, The North Cazolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division has retained the fixxn of Stantec Consulting Services Inc. to prepaze a Categorical Exclusion (CE) for a proposed additional railroad track along the NCRIL/NS line between Reid and North Kannapolis. The project is identified as Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Project No. P-3414. The purpose of this letter is to provide notification of the start of study and to solicit comments regarding potential concerns or data within the project study area. Please submit written comments to Mr. Marc Hamel at the address below by July � 2009. if you have any questions, please contact Mr. Hamel at 733-7245, extension 270. The following paragraphs provide a description of the project, the purpose and need for the proj ect, plus the general chazacteristics and natural resources of the proj ect study area. Proj ect Description The proposed project would provide an additional railroad track adjacent to the eacisting railroad track along the NCRR/NS line between Reid (south of Salisbury) and North Kannapolis. The proposed unprovements begin approximately half a mile north of Peach Orchazd Road (SR 2359) and extend to just south of East 22nd Street (SR 1254) in Kannapolis. The project would include a 10-mile section of second main track replaced on the old roadbed on the west side of the existing track. The project location is shown in the attached exhibit. MAILING ADDRESS: NC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTASION PROIECT DEVELOPM6NT AND ENVIliONMENTAL ANwLYSIS BRwNCH 1548 MALL SERVICE CENiER Ra.etctt NC 27699-1>48 TELePHONE: 919-733$14] FAX: 919-733-9794 WEBSITE.' WW4V.NCDOZGOV LOCATION: �IRANSPORTATIO� BUILDW G 1 $OURi WRNRJGfON $T2EET RAI.EIGH NC Double Track from Reid to North Kannapolis along the NCRR/NS Line, Rowan County TII' Proj ect No. P-3414 Start of Study Letter Page 2 of 3 Purpose and Need The proposed project is along the 100-mile rail corridor between Greensboro and Charlotte. This corridor is one of the most heavily traveled railroads in the state, hosting as many as 40 passenger and freight trains per day. The comdor is also part of the federally-designated Southeast High Speed Rail (SEHSR) corridor. This section of rail previously contained two tracks, but portions of the double track were removed in the 1960's as part of a signal system unprovement project. Since that time, rail traffic has greatly increased and additional capacity is needed. NCDOT's track improvements within the comdor focus on improving train travel and minimizing congestion. The proposed project would increase the overall corridor capacity and improve passenger train schedule reliability by allowing freight and passenger trains to quickly and efficiently maneuver around each other. General Characteristics of the Project Study Area The project study azea is located along 10 miles of the existing NCRR right-of-way between Reid and North Kannapolis in Rowan County. Land Use — Land use adjacent to the NCRR corridor is relatively rural in nature, with residential areas in the small towns of Landis and China Grove. Natural Resources — The praject lies within the Yadlan-Pee Dee River Basin in'the Lower Yadldn River Watershed (USGS Hydrologic Unit 03040103) (DWQ Subbasin 03-07-04) and Rocky River Watershed (USGS Hydrologic Unit 0304105) (DWQ Subbasin 03-07-12). A preliminary review of the USGS topographic quadrangles for the project study area did not reveal any waterbodies; however, a formal natural resource investigation will be completed duxing the course of the study. A review of the National Wetland inventory (NWn mapping inventory did not reveal any wetlands within the project study area. Foxxnal wetland delineations will be conducted during the course of the study. In accordance with provisions of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, the proj ect study azea will be evaluated for protected species habitat. The threatened and endangered species listed for Rowan County include the Bald eagle (Flaliaeetus leucocephalus) which is protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGPA), the Schweinitz's sunflower classified as Endangered [E], and the Geora a aster (Symphyotrichum georgianum} classified as a Candidate species [C]. Federal Species of Concem [FSC] for Rowan County include the Carolina darter (Etheostaoma collis collis), Yellow lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa) and the Prairie birdsfoot- trefoil (Lotus unifoliolatus var helleri). Double Track from Reid to North Kannapolis along the NCRR/NS Line, Rowan County TIP Project No. P-3414 Start of Study Letter Page 3 of 3 Potential habitat for Michaux's sumac, Schweinitz's sunflower and Georgia aster may exist along the railroad corridor and in clear-cut areas. Surveys will be conducted during the plants' flowering and/or fruiting seasons to identify any species in the project azea. Archeological and Historic Architectural Properties — A historic azchitecture field survey will be conducted during the course of the study. A formal azchaeological investigation is not anticipated; however, NCDOT awaits comments froiri the Sta�e Z'ii ice of Firc'riaeoiogy regarding tne levei oi invesugation required ior tnis project. MH/acs Attachments cc: File APPENDIX A.2 re�� a ��y'LK�]��il��il � �� �� ��A�ar/�� y� ��Y 20. ITj$ ' 1� � � � ./ .. � �r O � � � � ~ ^ � 9PR►L l2.1?'16 �� Quna► w�``� North Carolina De artment of Cultural Resources p State Historic Preservation Office Peter B. Sandbeck, Administrator Beverly Eaves Perdue, Governor Linda A. Carlisle, Secretary Jeffrey J. Crow, Deputy Secretary February 4, 2011 MEMORANDUM TO: Mary Pope Furr O ffice o f Human Environment N CD OT Division o f Highways # FROM: Claudia Brown Office of Archives and History Division of Historical Resources David Brook, Director SUBJECT: Proposed Construction of Additional Track from Reid (South of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis, P-5206, Rowan County, ER 10-1472 We are in receipt of your letter of December 10, 2010, transmitting the December 2010 survey with additional information from Fearnbach History Services (FHS), for the above proj ect. We appreciate your time and effort to answer the questions we had about the proposed China Grove Historic District. We apologize for the delay in our response. Justin Kockritz and Ann Swallow of our office had a meeting scheduled in Kannapolis for early January, and planned to drive through China Grove to see the proposed il1StOY1C Cl1StY1Ct 111 erson. Unfortunatel the meetin was ost oned due to winter weather until anua 25th. p Y� g p p J rY For the purposes of compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, we concur that the China Grove Historic District is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A for commerce and industry and Criterion C for architecture. The boundaries for the district proposed by FHS as opposed to the boundaries proposed by Mattson, Alexander and Associates appear appropriate, exce�t for the following location: ♦ Four parcels on the east side of Main Street, south of Centerview Street, that are not related to the historic district and that do not possess a distinctive architectural style. Thus we find that these four parcels should be excluded from the proposed historic district. PIN 102 150: concrete masonry unit motel PIN 102 149: metal automobile repair building PIN 102 148: metal automobile repair building PIN 102 147: brick restaurant 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. Location: 109 East Jones Street, Raleigh NC 27601 Mailing Address: 4617 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-4617 Telephone/Fax: (919) 807-6570/807-6599 Thank you for your cooperation and consideration. If you have questions concerning the above comment, please contact Renee Gledhill-Earley, environmental review coordinator, at 919-807-6579. In all future communication concerning this project, please cite the above-referenced tracking number. cc: Marc Hamel, mhamel ,ncdotgov Heather Fearnbach, heatherfearnbach(c�bellsouth.net � ��Y��� North Carolina Departinent of Administraiion Beverly Eaves Perdue, Govexnor August?7,200) Mr. Marc Hamc! NCDO'I' Rail Division 1553 Mail Service Cc�ter F2aleigh, NC 27699-I �53 B�itt Cobb, Sccretary Re: SCH File # 10-E-4220-OU27; SCOPING; Proposed additional double track from Reid (south of 5alisbury) tu North Kannapolis along the north Carolina Raitroad Company. TIP No. P-3414P, 5tate WBS No. 42647 Dear Mx. Hamel: 'fhe above refecenced environmental impact information has been submitted to the State Clearinghouse under the provisions of the National Emiromnental Policy Aet. Accoxding to G.S. 113A-10, when a s[ate agency is required to prepare an environmental document under ehe provisions of federal Iaw, ehe environmental docume�t meets the provisions of the State Enviro�uneutal Policy Act. Attuched �o tt�is letter for yo� consideration are the commenLS made by agencies i� the course of this review. If a�y further environmental review documents are prepared for this project, they should be forwarded to this office for intergovermnental review. Should you have any questions, please do not hesifatc to cell. Sincerely, �''�u,�[��c.c "{�7ii.�,'aik.11G�t �,7b1 Valerie W. McMilLan, Director State Enviionmental Review Clearinghouse Attachments cc: Region P Mul(hi� AAAress: Trlr{�hon¢r (919)80I-1V25 LocaOOnAAdm,u- 1301 MailSCrvi¢Cen�er Fa�(9191933�9?91 I16 WaUOncsSUn:� RalolEh� NC 29699-13J1 $um Cnuricr k51-0I-00 Helelgh, Nonli Carollna emuilvo/erte�vmonil[an�oa. e dn Fq�m( OyPa*�wliy'A�nno(me daion En�Vlo1rr �'�� � NCDENR Nor�h Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Bevedy Eaves Petdue Governor MEMOAANDiIM TO: FROM: RE: DATE: Valerie McMillan State Cleaiinghouse Melba McGee � Environmental Review Cooidinator Uee Fceeman Secretary , ���Y � ^� � i � �� '009 � �'`....� A C.J� "f y :'(. 10-0027 Scoping, Proposed Nor£olk Southern Railway Tnack fsom, keid to North Kannapolis in Rowan County August 26, 2009 I'he Depantment oE Environment and Natural Resources has reviewed the proposed pcoject. The attached corzvnents are Eor the applicant's consideration. Moxe specific comments will be pcovided during the environmental review process. Thank you £oc the opportunity to respond. If during the preparation of the enviconmental tlocument, additional in£oxmation is needed, the applicant is encoucagetl to noti£y oun respective divisions. Attachments 1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601 �nC Phone: 919-733-0984 \ FAX:9�9-7153060 Intemet www.enrstate nc.us NO1rtI1C3YO11IIa An Equal OppoBUnity lAffirmefive Acllon Employe�-5�°o Recyded \ 1 �Yo Post Consume� Pepe� ������`/� � l� � � , ��. � + ;a ; � �';.� ,�-\ a, � � i x. i ��� - < � .� f • ��. _ °� �� �r � ��. �� �p � �� -.:��`�`�:.�� � � .. .. . a°4.,. ,y�. �. .M:,.. .' ._ � North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission � TO: Melba McGee, Environmental Coordinator Depaztment of Environment and Natural Resources FROM: Marla Chambers, Western NCDOT Permit Coordinator �ja'�d- C�a'"'�'"' Habitat Conservation Prograzq NCWRC DATE: August 18, 2009 SUBJECT� Scoping review of NCDOT's proposed double track from Reid (south of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis along the North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR)/Norfolk Southem Railway (NS), Rowan Courty. TiP Project No. P- 3414,P. DENR Project N'o. 10-0027, due 8/19/2009. North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is requesting comments from the North Cazolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) regarding impacts to fish a�d wildlife resources resulting from the subject project. Staff biobgists }tave reviewed the information provided and have the following preliminazy comments. These comments are provided in aecordance with the provisions oFthe Nafional Environmental Policy Aa (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(c)) and the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (48 Srat. 401, as amended; 16 U.S.C. 661-667d). The NCDOT proposes to build au additional railroad track along a 10-mile section of the existiog NCRR/NS line between railroad control points "Reid° (south of Salisbury) and "Nort6 Kacmapolis'. The additional track would be built on the former roadbed where a seeond track was previously located, on the west side of the exisUng track The conidor appeazs to be situated on a ridge between the Town Creek and Cold Water Creek watersheds to the east and the Grants Creek and Irish Buffalo Creek watersheds to the west. Town Creek is ou the 303(d) list of impaired waters. Cold Water and Idsh Buffalo Creeks aze water supply watersheds in the vicinity of the southem portiou of the project and both bewme 303(d) listed dowustream of Kannapolis. We recommend enhanced sediment and erosio� control measures to minimize further degradation of the waterways. In additioq to help facilitate document prepazation and the review process, our general information needs are outlined below: Description of fishery and wildlife resources within the project area, includi�g a listing of federally or state designated threafened, endangered, or special concem species. Potential borrow azeas to be used for project construction should be included in the inventories. A Mailing Address: Division of Inland Fisheries • 1721 Mail Service CeMer • Raleigh, NC 27699-1721 Te�epnone: (9is)�o�-0220 • Fax: (si9) �o�-oozs P3414P, NCRR/NS double track Reid [o N. KannapoGs, Rowan Co. - Z- August IR, 2009 listing of designated plant species can be developed through consultation with the following programs: _ . � � �. d , y��1 The Natural Heritage Progam � " �,1� �r,p http-//www.ncnhp.org " 7GB - �: :, 1601 Mail Service Center � ° '.'� Raleigh, N. C. 27699-7601 � _. - � ' �'-J and, . -.. :_i.✓. i NCDA Plant Conseroation Program P. O. Box 27647 � ��" "� Raleigh, N. C. 27611 (919) 733-3610 2. Description of any streams or wetlands affected by the project. If applicable, include the linea� feef of stream that will be channelized or relocated. i. Cover type maps showing wetland acreage impacted by the project. Wetland acreage should i�clude all project-related areas that may undergo hydrologic change as a result oF ditching other drainage, or filling for project constmction. Wetland identification may be accomplished through coordination with the U. S. Atmy Corps of Engi�eers (USACE). If the USACE is not consulted, the persou delineating wetlands should be identi6ed and criteria listed. 4. Cover type maps showing acrcagc of upland wildlife habitat impacted by the proposed project. Potential bo=row sites and was[e areas should be included. 5. Show the e�ctent to which the project will result in loss, degradatioq or fragmentation of wildlife habitat (weYlands or uplands). 6. Include the mitigation plan for avoiding minimizing or compensating for direct wd indirect degradation in habitat quality as wetl as quantitative losses. 7. Address the overall environmertal effec[s of the project constcuction and quantify the contribution of this individual project to environmental degradation. 8. Provide a discussion of the probable impacts on natural resources, which will result from secondary developmenY, facilitated by the improved road access. 9_ If constmction of this facility is to be coordinated with other state, muuicipal, or private development projects, a descriptioo of these projects shoa7d be included in the environmental document, and al] project sponsors should be identified. Thank you for thc opportunity to provide input in the early plannin�; stan�es of this project- lf you have any questions regardi�g these comments, please contact me at (704) 485-8291. cc: Amy Euliss, NCDWQ ��� �CDENR North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources Division ot Wa�er Quali�y Beverty Eaves Perdue Coleen H. Sullins Govemor �Iredor , ,� ''� �Dee Freernan '� � ,�Secretary ��'s :.^79 '_ August 6, 2009 _ � *oi Xe• � � MEMORANDUM To: Marc EIamel, NCDOT Ru7 Division ,, Through: Melba McGee, P,nvironmental Coordinafor, Office of I,egislative and Intergovemmental Affairs From: Amy L'uliss, NC Division of WaCer Qualiry, Office Subject: Scoping comments on proposed improvements to the railroad track from Reid (south of Salisbury) W North Kannapolfs along t6e Norfh Cazolma Railroad Company (NCRRpNOrforlk Southem Railway (NS) fn Rowan Counry, StzteProjectNo. WBS No.42647, TIP No. P3414P. Reference your cortespondence dated July 20, 2009 in wbich you requested comments for the referenced projeot. Preliminary analysis of the project reveals the potenfial for multiple impacts to pere�nial strexms and jirzisdicdonal wefland6 in the projeof area. More speci5cally, impacts to: Further inves[igarions at a higher resolulion should be undertaken tio verSfy the presence of oTher streams and/or jurisdicfional wetlands in the area. In the event that any jurisdicfional azeu ue identified, the DivSSion of Water Quality requests thaf NCDOT consider it�e following environmental issues for The proposed projeet: Projeet Specif5c Comments: Town Creek and its unnamed tlibutaries aze class C; 303(d) waters of the State. Town Creek is on tt�e 303(d) Gst for impaired use for aquaoc life due to urban runoff and storm sewecs. NCDWQ is very wncemed wifh sediment and erosSon impacis that could result 4om [his project VCDWQ mcommends thaY Che most pmfec4ve sediment and erosion control BMPs be implemented in accordance witt� Derlgn Standards in Settsitive Wotersheds to reduce Tk�e nsk of nutrient mnoff to Town CYcek. NCDWQ requesis [hatroad desibm plans provSde heatment of the storm vra.ter mnoff through bes[ managemenTpractices as de7ailed in fhe most recent version of NCDWQ's .Stormwruer Best Man¢gement Pracrices. Trdnsportation PermiNng Unit DiiZ 1650 Mal Service Gen[er, Ralelgh, Nonh Camline 2]6894650 NOIt110ERO�lIld Location'. 2321 Grebiree 91vtl., Ralelqh, NoM Carollne 2)60d �Ypf�p�Y// Phone 913]339861 FAX'.9�9-9336893 KZIZLi2{{� In@met:http//h2oenostate.nc.uslndvetlands/ An Equal OpPOtlumlyl A��ma(rve Aqion Employer General Project Comments: 2. The environmental document shall provide a detailed and itemized prese�tafion of the proposed impacts to weilands and sfreams with eonesponding mapping. If mingation fs necessary as rryuired by 15A VCAC 21d.0506(h), ft is preferable to presen[ a conceptual (if nof finalfzed) mitigation plan wfth tUe en��ronmental documenCation. 3ppropriate mitigation plans will be required prior to issuance of a 401 WaTer QualCty Certification. 3. Environmental aseessmenl altcmatives shall oonsider desi�m crileria diuT redvice the impaots Co streams and wetlands from storm water runoff. These altemat�ves shall include road designs that allow for heatment of Yhe storm water mnoff through best menagement pracrices as detailed in Ihe most reeent version of NCUWQ Stm�mwater- BestManagemen( Praetices, suc6 as grassed swales, buffer areas, preformcd scour holu, retention basins, etc. 4. After the seleclion of the preferred altema[ive and pnor lo an issuence of the 401 W ater Qualiry Certification, NCDO'P is res�ectfully reminded that they will need ro demonstrate the avoidanoe and minfmization of impacts To wetlands (and slreams) m the maximum extent practieal. In accordancc with the Cnvironmental Managcment Commission's Rules {15A NCAC 2H.0506(h)}, mitlgation will berequfred Lor impaets o�Fbrzeater lhzn 1 acre to wetlands. In the evenf that mStigaCion is requfred, the mi5ge4on plan shall be designed to replace appropriate lost Punce�ons and values. The N C Ecosystem Enhancement Program may be available for use as wetland miPigation. 5. In accordanoe wfYh the Lnvironmental Mana�*ement Commissiods Rules {15A NCAC 2H.0506(f�)}, mitigation wll be required for fmpacts of greater than 1501inear feet W any single perennial strcam. In the event that mili�allon is requSred, fhe mCtigation plan shall be desi�,med lo replace appropriatc lost functio�s and valucs. The NC Ecosystem Lnhancement Program may be available for use as stream mi4gation. 6. NCDWQ is very concemed with sediment and crosion impacts that could result ftom this project NCDOT shall address tk�esc conccens by describing the potential impacfs that may occur to the aquatic environments and any mftigating facfors ihal would reduce theimpacts. 7. if a bridgc is being mplaced with a hydraulic convcyance oTher than xnofher bridge, NCD W Q believes the use of a b'afionwidc Pemrit meybe �equired. Please contact the US Army Corp oF En�ineers m defirmine the required permit(s). 8. If Ihe old bridge Ss removed, no discharge of bridge materiel into surface waCers is allowed unless oYherwise authorS�zd by the US ACOl. Strict adhercnce fo the Corps of �ngineers guidelines for bridge demoliNon wil7 be a condirion o£the A01 Water QualiTy CefificaYion. 9. Whenever possible, NCDWQ p�efers spanning sh-ucmres. Spanning strucNres usually do not requiro work witlrin the sveam or giubb5ng of tk�e streambanks and do not require sfream channel realfbmmenL 1 he horiwntal and verpcal clea�ances provided by bridges shall allow Tbr human and w�dlife passage bcnea[h the shucture. Pish passage and navieation by canoeists and boaters shall notbe blocked. Bddge supports (benb) shall not be placed in the stream whcn possible. 10. Bridge deck drains shall not diseh�ge dGecTly foto lhe sneam_ Sformwarer shall be directed across fhe bridge and pre-trea[ed Ilvough site-appropriate means (grasscd swales, pre-formed scour holes, vegeta[ed buffers, etc.) before entenng 4�e slream. I'lease refer to the most cusent version of NCDWQ's Stormwater Best Management Pr¢ctices. 1 L I{concreTe is used dunng construction, a dry work area shall be maintained to prevent direct contact between cunog concrete arid stream water. Water that inadvertently contacts uncured conerete shall not be diseharged to surface waters due to the potential for elevated pH and possible aquatic 1Sfe and fish kills. 12. If temporary access roads or detours aze constructed, ttic sCte shall be graded to fLs preconstruofion contows and elevatio�s. Dfsturbed areas shall be seeded or mulehed to sfabitiae the soil and appropriate nauve woody species should be planted. When using temporary sh-uctures [he area shall be cleued but not grubbed. Clearing the azea with chain saws, mowers, bush-hogs, or oikier mechanized equipme�t and leaving fhe sNmps and root mai infaci allows ihe area fo re-vegefate namrally and minimizes soil disturbance. 13. Placemeot of cu7verts and other structures in waters; streams; and wetlands shall be below the elevation of the sireambed by one foot for all culverts wfth a dfameter greater than 48 S�ches, and� 30 percent oP the eulvert diame[er foi culveRS having a diameter less Than 48 inches, to allow low f.ow passage oPwat��r and aquatic life. Desi�n and placement of culvens and other structwes incl�ding temporary erosion eontro] measures sLall noY be conducted in a manner that may result in dis-equilibrium of wedands or streambeds or banks, adjaoent to or upstream and down stream oF the above structuru. The applican[ is required to provide evidence that the equilibrium is being maSntafned if requested in wnting by NCDWQ. Lf this' co�dition [s unable W be met due to bedrock or other limiling featises encountercd during construcrion, Please contact NCDWQ for gufdarice on how to proceed and W determine whether or not a pettnit modification will berequired. 14. If muldple pipes or barrels are required, fhey 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 appropdate. W fdening the streem channel shall be avoided. Stream channel wfdenfng at theinlet or outlet end of snuctures typically decreases water velocity causing sedSment deposition that requires increased maintenance and disrupis aquat�c life pas'sage. 1 i. If foundallon test bori�gs aze necessazy; it should be noCed in the documcnt. Geotechnical work is appmved under General 401 CerUfication Number 3624�aGomvideP�rmit No. 6 for Survey Ac6vfties. 16. Sedime�t a�d erosion wntrol mensures sufficient to protecT waier resouroes musY be implemented and mainEamed in accordance with tt�e most recenP version of Norih Carolina Sediment and Erosfon Conh�ol Plannina and Design Manual and Yhe mostrewnl version of NCS0002�0. 17. All work in or adjacent to stream waters shall be oonduc[ed in a dry work area unless otherwise approved by NCDWQ. Approved BMP measures from the most currenP vcrsion of NCDOT Conslruction and Maintenance Acfivities manual such as sandbegs, rockberms, cofferdams and other drversion shvctures should be used To prevent excavation in flowing water. 18. SedimenT and ecosion confrol measures shall not be placed in weilands and streams. 19. Boirow/waste areas shall avoid weUands to the maximum exte�t pracficaL Impacis to wetlands in boirow/waste areas oould precipii-ate compensawry mitlgation. 20. While ihe usc of National WeBand Inve�tory (NWI) maps, NC Coas[al Rey*ion Fvaluation of Wctland SignSficance (NGCRPWS) maps and soil survey m&ps are useful tools, their inherent fnaccuracies require that qualified personnel perform onsite wetland delineations pxior to peimSt approval. 21. fieavy equipment shall be operated from Lhc bank ra$�er than in stream channels i� order to minimiu sedimen[ation and reduce the lfkelShood of fntroducin° other pollutants i�to sireams. ThSs equipment shall be inspected daily and maintained to prevent contaminadon of surface waters from leahing fucls, lubiicants, hydraulic Iluids, or otlier koxic maSerials. 22. In most eases, NCD W Q prefers the replaceme�t of the extsting strucmre a[ the same location with:oad clos�ac. If road closure fs noe feasible, a temporary detoar should be desSgned and located to avoid wetland impacts, minimize the need for clearino end to avofd desTabilSzSng sfream banks. If the structwe will be on a oew alibmment, the old structure shall be removed and the approach fills removed from the 100 year floodplain. Approach fills should be removed and resfored to the naNral o ound elevation. The area shall be stabilized with grass and planted wfth native free species. Tall tescue shall noY be used in rfparian areas. 23. Riprap shall not be placed 'm the active fhalweg channel or placed in the streambed Sn a manner that pmcludes aquatic ]ife passage. Bioengineering boulders or structures should be properly designed, sizcd and installed. Thank you for requcsting our input at this tima NCDOT is reminded that issuance of a 401 Water Quality Czrfification requires [haf approprfate measures be instituted ro ensure tt�a[ water qualiry s[andards are me[ and designated uses are not degraded or lost If you have any questiuns or require additional informaTion, please contact Amy Eul[ss at (336) 671-2886. ec: Jobn Thomas, US Army Corps of Bngineers, Ralefgh Field Of'fice � Kathy Matthews/Chris MiliTSChec, tinvironmenfal Pmfeerion Agency (elechonic copy only) Marla Chambers, NC Wildlife Resources Commis'sion (elec[ronic copy only) Wetlands/401 Transportatfon Group Fle Copy Depar[mentofEnvironme�[andNaturalResources �e,,;e�.,;,,bpR,tt, [ �FYI,°'f'�"��/ '� C INrERGOVF.RNMENTALREVIEW—PROJECTCOMNIFNTS r�o)�N�moa���`�/' C��o�:�Am: /S � P.ficrreviewoCchisp juu�hesbs:ntle¢m.inetl�ha�theB.�'R?a:mir(a)acd/orap�evalSlntlicaetlmsyneedabeobmimGlno�dufa�hisprojenfocomptywithNOrth CnrolinalswQues� . dingiheseve�eni¢sM1OUldbee3dmssed:omaRegiunalOflm=_indlca�e�on�hereverseofrtieCOrm.AGapphmtioni.lnfunnauonand�uitltl3oes relavive:o Nesz pl��s end pennits arc aveilable (mm Rie sune Regionel OtTe. PEftMITS Pel miltcocormrvn&opeamwancwarertma[ment ❑ � faciilnes, sewe: sysrcm=emrsimu &.cewcr syrtems I m� tlizcharg�ng [n:o sn¢,urfecs wmes NPDFS -permi� �o tllschar3e4nm sm(ace wnter eaNO� ❑ pennitmopermnnticonsttuccw:u�e.warev(acillnes tllscM1eegi�g'moosuresu�2ccwamrs_ . -,� waie�UsePcrmio ❑ WcIlComauctionPermit � Drtlgexnd� Penni� m wnswn3 opuaR Air Potiutlov Abetrmmt �I �ECi1l�iesenNmEmisSionSou�¢sazperlSAr'GC i(2Q OI00 dvu 2Q OJOOj Permi� m meswu R upevate Tmnspormuon Facdiej a G oerISAFCAC(2D-O80q2Q060t) � Anv open bumingasiocia�ed wicM1 su6jecoF�oposal mirh-S .am,lienr.vithtSANCAC2D1900 DunaL[ioo ooreoo �io�u o.`s:maures canuinin,q azSesms marennl mus!be in mmpllance wih 15 A � NCACID.]I10(e)(I)wM1�L�mqr.irunovfrntionantl ovel rnaorm de�nolltion. Cmma Flsbesros Convoi roup 91R"I WS950. SPLCIAL AVPLICASION PROCFAURES or REQURtEM6�TS in 90 tlays bcfore begin ronsw<tion or awa�d of cons�mciion pn-xia !�svz������ ���apoliceiion cechnical conle�ence usual. . oni80L'<ysbefoabegioacti�iry.Omsi2lnspuuon.Preappilra:ion ual. n.atliHOnal ly, ovmio p:r.nit m mnsvva uzsawaou nt Gcil Iry-grenwA aCmr NPDES. Re.�ly ume, 30 Ley.c afmr mceipt oF o� Issue ofNPDES peemit-uA;icAevw Is law.r. P¢�apo:lcauon mcM1nital conteance usualll neressery Comple¢ eppllcvtioo m�s�be iecxivetl eed permii ismetl prior m the nnallaiion oi a well. Applicacion wpY must be served o� ea<h aLjacen[ npanon pmperty owmo. Onula �nspecuon Poo-eppllcation con[erenm umal. Filling mny a�otre F sennnt m iiL tom NA. Department o(Adminls�re[ion and Federnl �retlge aad Fill Ycrmi[ Appllranon m�.�si be z�bmmeA a�d pzrmi�aceiveG poior m mvnction nnd operavoo oi�h<vou¢e. I`a puni! �� reqnlred In an ara withwt local zonieg, thm [here ea xddltionel mquiremen¢ and AppLCevion must be submit¢d at least 90 deys prior to convwaion or modifcazion o(ihe saurce �/A �� �Complev $o�nu Pcrmic ¢oolred vntler IS A NCA� 3QOBG0 The SeEimenntion PolWVOn Conirul An o`19D mua be propeAy addres�c� Por sny tantl tlim�Nm6 acu��ry. Ao emsia� & � saeimentz�loacJnvalplznwipbereµolrcalfooeo�mo¢amsbheduw�bM.Ple�(iletlwiG;propuRegiovelO�Tice(I.indQualiry Semon)A�.IeasUOdeysbvJOmheginnmgxmv�ry-Akeoi$��im�M1Cfirnecveora�ypartofanave. Anexprvssa�iewop�onls veilebte wP!: addiuonal ies. Sedim:n�etionantlerosionconvolmustbea�deusetlmaav�tlancew2M1NCDOS'seq�mvedOmgram. Partiwlera¢mtionfioidtlSCgivenm dui3n ana ns�ellueon of aopropna¢ perune'sr seeimm� rtepping dev!¢s m' well u steble smrmwn�ev covveyencrs sna outle6 � Oo-s¢e inspe<tioo usual. Sur¢ry bo�d Gled witM1 [NR Aond amwn[ woies ❑ MlningPe�mu ��o���a�.-amusbembaofa�cr�so�aR.umtl�a"�.dmustbemcePoetl� permu¢ ° pP�eGnavuon betove �he Oertnl[ cvi be issual. ❑ INOnbCamlina6umingpc�mii ��w�u�c�w¢,CI eH �4� It.22 ni s�� b1�.C.w1.a ncs I!s ❑ poRerm�,Fe,�a.� Noma� Pmms; Time (Fmtmory nme limrt) ao aars (90 dais) 90�IR0 tlays IN/A) ]0 days (N/d) t iays QS Da)'s) 55 days (90 drys) 90 days 9G Oays 60 tlays (90 days) zo a3r, (30 Gays) � (�oanys� 30�ays (60 dnys) Omsiieinspection by N C. Divisim Fores�Resourcea li penni� uceedtd days � 1 Gvy (NIA) _ � p i byNCD � .aRS q � "'dmoaWan � ,�ry �p tl cle e" c lo I d 1 p 1 155YOO�d b¢ (wq� estetl ntleas� wn days Sefore awa. b�m I5 planned N/h YO-I20deys (N/4) � �I.p t 4'opl �y' febg V[o Appl nt � u M1 ➢C.9 I(.v t�p. ePl V.� [ . ertv t[ .. a FAR� o Cpl .M I q e DamSac �ermi: 4� � ���' 4� QOa0. tC C rp C 30dxys ❑ n' Gn� +� cmin f sservw H aG� S[ �on 4 (6oea;s7 m mlceofffiOOOOmusteaomceaytneeppLmion.AnzCdLOnz. �o., _ bnsWp� � _tzgeor�he�WlpraleccoptwJlbCmeci�e0 Normal Pmucxs Tlme -- (s�s:urory tine Iim�Q P[R�GTS SCE^_lAL APPIIC/+IIOF PROCEDURFS or I'uQUIRLMLNSS FilesurtryboMofS5,000wiAENRmnr.NgmSTat.ofNQondioonal�M1a[ �penys ❑ PemiivmtlrillecoloaNryoiloreeswcll Ilope�dbydnllopernwothnll,uponabanaonmantbeplc�gc� N�q � ' S� fTRml d g I�mti. � []GepM1Y��taIE;Plo�onPCOmlt �PP � CldwlvhElvHtl �IOda P .a��'sueofperm:t � IOdxYs � 4ppl b ISCO 4[ C' tl pplic � f m NIA AppL:.anonfeasbxsedo�strvcwres IscPareeL.MUStindutledeclpdons �530tley5 ❑ S�ateLekesCOVZttuctionPermi[ �ffidvewingsofvmcwa&000fo(ownershlpo[nparien wq ��p— � beday, ❑ 401 Wa[uQualityCercilz[ion �� NIA (IiOdavs7 li CAMAPermi�forMNORtlevelopmrnc 52500�(zmustawmnoenyaopf;ceiion SSdeyz (i50 tlays) ❑ UMAPennitPorM.IN02davclopmcn[ 55000fxmustaccqmpanyappliatiuv �days tss aay�� '�SCVeralgudeeicmonumu¢xmlorevGlnornear[M1epmjeci e�i(anymo m.ntneeds�obemovedordavweQpleazemuly: (� N.C�Geod,^tic Survey, Box ➢bN9 Releigty NC 1�611 ❑ AbEnEOmmcn[o[anywe115,1(aquireLmu9[bunecmrdancevnNTetleI5A.5obchapttr2C0100. ❑ No�ificauo�ofvhepmpera&�onaloF¢elsrequesrelif'b�DM1an"wdergmwdsa�agetenks(OSTS)arediseovaatldun�ganyexcawuonoD+���on. 45 Cavs ❑ Complianwwid�tSANCAC2H1000(COesulSmmwa¢rRulu)ixmquiad �N��� ❑ l'arPemlicoorNeuseRipeoianBnReoR�lesaquimd" ' � OtLev cummenrs (nwch eLainonal peges 3s nmusary, bzingcercein io cia commenv eutM1Oriry) ,�3� - C�;-k k �-,.ti.,� ��, 6��,„,y �� 1�.� �a ,,� � �,.� . �f �,re.� �1��/�v DL�"sl — n)u C.�� S.(.� �;51 5 y � �� c�.+�:s-x.! {�a1�:Tian �n.<�t�t+�'�s ��.. flPi _ s��.f,1ei+ elv�k.�J.-1��� w�r d�.,.� �'• :4ifif' S e�,�- P.-��r��� c�w�.e.0 n,��-e:,F �.rxt � �r � �` tio� , ,k�a� *�€:'w�' REGIONAL OFFICES � '-`� _ Questions regarding these permits should be addressed to 2he Re�ional Office mW kad'�eTow. ❑ AshevilleRe�ional Of6ce �'MooresvilleRegional Office � Wilmington Regional O[fice 2090 US }iighway 70 610 East Center Avenue, Suite 301 727 Cardinal Drive Extensio� Swannanoa, NC 28778 Mooresville, NC 28ll 5 Wi7mington, NC 28405 (828) 296-4500 (704) 663-1699 � (910) 796-7215 f] Fayetievillo Regional OKc¢ ❑ Raleig6 Regional O(fice �� Winstnn-Salem Repional O[fice 225 NorCh Grcen Street, Suite 714 3800 Barrett D;ive, Suite ]01 S8i Waughtown Street FayetteviLle,NC28301-SOA3 Raleigh,NC27609 Winsro�-Salem,NC27107 (910) 433-3300 (919) 791-4200 (33� 77]-�000 ❑ R'ashin�ton Regional Office 943 Washington SquareMall Washl�gtoq NC27889 (252) 946-6481 COUNTY: RON.AN NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOU DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVIEW FO5: RT.i'.RCAI:6 MS SHIRLF,Y P01'E CLEP1t1NGH0U5£ CWhDiNF?".'OR DLPT OF TAAN5?Od9_9'I-.ON STA.EWSD�; PLANNING - M3C "i559 R,^.�I;IGH NC REVIEW DISTRIHUPION CCSPS - DIV OF ENhR6GNCY 1'�bACFM�NT ce�,vT�4�l�� coe DGNR .,EGI3Y�A7'1VE PS?'AIRS DEPT (.F ,GRTCOI.1[,RF D°PT Jb COLTORAL RES003C�:5 DEPT 0 TRANSPOk77T'_ON PROJECT INFOAMATION APPL_CHNT: NCDOS yy;=�;: Vatio�al Envi;onmer�.ta,l 2ol�i.ry Act Scopina STATE NIIM6ER: 10-G-E720-0O27 DATE RECEIVED: 0�/22/2009 AGENCY RESPONSE: 06/19/2Q09 REVIEW CLOSED: 08/29/2009 � ��� 1 ` �FiC� � ��� Og rr oi �:i S� l i ,,� 4� ��`� DBSC: Pr000sed atlditio�ial doub]e tl'ack from Reid (souLh of Salisb�aryl �o North Ka�naoolis alony the North Caiolina Rallroad Company. T-P Vo. P-39i9P, SCato W35 No. 926C�7 - includes improvements to begi.n appsox. half a mii.e norLh o#. Peach Orchazd Road (SH 2359) and extend to sonYh of Last 22nd Street (SR ]2547 in KannapVlis '1'he �Lk��hetl peoje;[ has beea subtvittetl f,o the N. C. State G easinyho[se ior inLergwernmer.tal review. Please raview a�d submit your responsc by the �bove indi.caCec Uate to 7.301 Mai1 Serv3ce Center, Ra'_eigh NC 27699-1301. i_` addieiona] revi^.w :ir�e i.s �5 A 2F5�L9` OP Tlll STGN:D BY: ¢sse cor_tacc this o£_°3ce at (979)809-2425. I3 3U3M1"."iP�C: � NO COMM6'.NT � 1 /N () ��l'L �,1...�.'nCHF.� 7—;3c�— �� / "'-\ ,(��1 �I� � � '.�,w� ". . . �. V , � i�: . �.e_,:':;`. 1 �,� ��:i y� �ti� , �Lti ���'�� STA"Cli OF NOR'IT3 CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATTON BfVYRLY EAVESPEftDUL' (iOVF.M`OR MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUBJECT: J�ly 3Q 2009 Ms. Chrys Bagget�t, llirecCOr State Clearinghouse Department of Administratio� Linda Dosse, P.E. Planning Enginee� Traosportation Pl�nning Branch Clearinghousel0-H-4220-0027 Euceivr A Conm, Ja. SGfRETMY . ......... �;� ���� '_�a �., � °ps �v' K �� _ \t, i>. ✓ � ., �ti , �,„ The subject NCRIUNS raiL Ilne runs through [he Cabarrus-Rowan Metropolitao Planning Acea There are sevecal recommended improve�nents on the Cabarrus-Rowan MPO long-rangc transportation plan within the project azea. Among them are: RS-0309A Grade separation and Extension of Kimball Road to Bostian Rd i� China Grove and Landis to I-85 U-4416 Orade Separation at Kice St in Landis SF-4909A Coushvct right mm lane at US 29 a�d Peach Orchazd Road in Salisbury NC 7 52 Bypass nocth of Chinu Grove across US 29, tbe railroad tracks, a�d i-85 Aiiport Pkwy Extcnsion to I'each Orcha�d Rd in Salisbury 22vd St Grade Separation in Kan�apoLis These recommendations should bc considered in any improvements to the rxi] coiridor. MAILING AD�RESS: LOCATION: NcoeaaA.meN:orTnnrvsvoA*n.orv ��.,�„�,�.;yi.�-��'�� Tr+nrvsPOa.�ro�BUn.owe TPNNSPOFTnTiONPLqrvNINGBPPNGH _�-�� � �. � „ �SOV�HWILIAINO(ONSYPEEf 15i4MaiL6cvioeCemlCa ������"-.�.����_��.��.����.� Rntec,rv.NC9801 Rn�eici�NC 9699-t556 hlf0/�nc�otorg/OOh/preconstmctttpN phone:9�9-]33-6]a5 .-v.:9�41332Ai] NORTH CAROLINA STATE CLEARINGHOUSE DEPARTMENT OF AI)MINISTRATION � INTERGOVF.RNMENTAL REVIEW COUNTY: ROWAID FO5:RAILftOADS BTATE NUMH£A: 10-E-4220-0029 i � DATE RECEIVED: 67/27/2009 , °�' AOENCY RESPONSE: ON/]9/2009 ji�` REVIEW CLOSED: OB/?_9/2009 .., n... �::.Ak MS dk.�NE:E Gi�'DFIII.L-i'd1RLFY � � -- �� . CL�.IF'N;HO[15E �_WRi>IIVnT�:i °�s7�'t;����}r�;`/Fn.,;;�tn.1^,�.. DGP'P OF CCLTORAL iiF.S00RCCS � ' ,°FTi. HISTORIC DaF ?R�v'L10N �JFE7CE . . i?SC 46P - A3CHi �ES dOILD:0..., �"� � a���3 aALtic� �c , ' �,.n ;•"� 5 REVIEW DISTRIHUTION �' P' FF-- ?� � \3°� � C':n--S - DIV OF ELE2;BVCY llANAGF.M6NT �i�V y��g CENTRALINA W6 . DFlNR LEGTSLA'PIVE 9FFA1R5 � - . Di,:PT OP 9GRICULTORF .. 5_� YJO? '�'O'�� �¢� i DSPT JF' CJ]!CORF1, RE300RCGS ��� � ($1... DLF'L OF 'PRANS30RTATION - 4; PROJECT INFORMATION � -� aj.�- (i'N.rPP U''�` 112PLIGAN7' NC!JOT �t SII'�IdS ���`'��� Typg: Nztiona7. 8nvixonm�nCal Po'_icy Act '1 Sco i.n p��) N G..low v�si F 9 a.� T3t�si D'cSQ rroposed addiLionel oi�ie `_���-4, f.*om R il 'vou�,:� �f .�1!sbi ��o tier:.Y�. �z�pp Kannaooli a'_ong tYF C-�YCh Ca_ol'.ia Railc�aa Comp�ry. I'ZP Co b419P a4� WI35 �� No. 92657 inClude� improvemerts to begi�i ap�rcx a]" a T le n_h o Pc _Y�. O_chard Road (S3 23h9) and exte�d to soutn of East 22nd St_eet (SR 1259) i.e Kao�apolis '1'he atlached oroject Yids beer� submitted to the �. C. BLaTe Clear'_nghouse for --nter9overm�entai review. Pl.oase review and submi.t ycu° rosponse 6y the anove inaicated date to �.301 Mail Service enLer, Ra vigh NC 2,6.9-].301. Ir addiLOnal review time is n�eded, p'ease contact tY�.is o£F3ce at !a19;D07-2�925. � I��TT Z�S A RESUST OP T_�115 Rk:V1EW T}�g pOI.LOWIN6 `5 SOBMITTED: � NO COMMEN'P � COMMF�1'CS —'_._.^'.'�J ,��v.� �Y: (�,.,, 1�- �„�:� �•�3•ag �.�co� �.e��cCa i� /IPE. /�_c�n�...��cd a�uE�:/�f�c��tr� . �:nz��,r��-,���Eu Ju� 2 7 zaas FlGH�IV�,L! �� AUG 0 4 ��D� ��� NCDOT RAIL DIVISIpN North Carolina Department of Enviranment and Natural Resources Beverly Eaves Perdue Governor MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: SUB3ECT: 7uly 31, 2009 Marc Hamel, NC L�OT Rail Division, Environmental and Pianning Branch Harry LeGrand,�Natural Heritage Program Start of Study — Proposed Double Track from Reid (south of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis); Rowan County REFERENCE: TIP ProjectNo. P-3414P, State WBS No. 42647 Dee Freeman Secretary The Natural Heritage Program has no record of rare species, significant natural communities, significant natural heritage areas, or conservation/managed areas at the site nor within 0.5-mile of the proj ect area. Although our maps do not show records of such natural heritage elements in the project area, it does not necessarily mean that they are not present. It may simply mean that the area has not been surveyed. The use af Natural Heritage Program data should not be substituted for actual field surveys, particularly if the proj ect area contains suitable habitat for rare species, significant natural communities, or priozity natural areas. Please do not hesitate to contact me at 919-715-8697 if you have questions or need further information. 1601 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699-1601 One Phone: 919-733-4984 \ FAX: 919-715-3060 Internet: www.enr.state.nc.us Np'��Z C���-�Ir.ina An Equal Opportunily 1 Aifirmafive Aclion Employer— 50°k Recycled 110% Post Consumer Paper �/T'�! /7�/Y/ /Jf GL YlL �LLbs� APPENDIX A.3 ��re���:i��t•�:��y�:���a:�ve���•���•»��yxK•����a:�:�a��ya > Federal Aid #: TIP#: P-5206 Count��: Rowan CONCURRENCE FORM FOR ASSESSMENT OF EFRECTS Project Descf•iption: Construetion of additional track froin Reid to North Kannapolis On March 8, 2011 and April 5, 2011, representatives of the r.t'�t� North (�'arn1i712 Tlp,��,�t�,�a»f �'r«,,....�_ • .r...,-.,,,-... r••� tiz. �,x � rc«e��viiuiivtl (ivt,liv t) � Federal RaiI Administration (FRA} North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office (HPO) ❑ Other Reviewed the subject project and agreed on the effects findings listed wi[hin the table on the reverse of this signature page. 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Ott22.p�ece:nFitie:r �Oi�9ix�pxesei��ati�es:il:ftiZ� ':.. �. . 1�Ti�rth: �ar�lma bep:arti�,e�it of Tx.a�spaz.fatiQn: (�FGl7QT): � � Fed�a'aI `Hi�Iiixay.�dmzni�rration �Fi3�.P;`j. �� I�icirtt� �arci[ir�a �2at�H'istori�;I.'z�es:ervafion�Offce::��Ii?C�). :; ., : :: . � O#h�.r,:s Mattsou, Alexander;. a�d Assocr�:t�s. �te:view�d:tti� suY�je�L:pisaject �C histajtiC. ai'clluteGtiara�;reso.u;ices.:,photogta��i rey���r• se,ssi:o�ifcozii�u;lfat�on: and'. t�_t� �iaities pre'seiit' a�r�:e.ct [� Ttrer.�:are:no::pco��rti�s:over:fi:fty�eaxsoidvaiiiiiixtlie;prajecf's.Area.of�.otentiialfi:f%�ts;�A2?L}: . . . . , , . . FheFe��:are:no: .rc� erhes.'kess:tkralz f . .. . , , P A Y�ax's oid; w�teh a#'e: et��sxd'.eied to rzt�£t`Gr•tfez`�a' Gb.nside�'aficin�f'J tivittun zhe: pxo}e�Ys.t1PE'. :� 'T'�ere;ate.prapert��s oy.er�iifty years:4lr� wit:kl�zk #�e �r.o,j.e��':&t1PE but : c,�cI;Q� tJi�.�istqx.i��[.irifox�i'a[iori �vai7a�ile a�d tha photo�rapk� �f Eac� prp:A��Ys.:t� prap�rtzes a.deti�i�ei� a5i'�� �'�`��j �i'� :EOrtsiii�Y�d n�.f �ligii�I"e. fi�r tti� N��o.�a� �egistez �z�ci �o �ii�fb,er �vA:luatiQn.o€.Ch�tn ;i's: neces�a, <,, Fho.tograghs. of th�se. �rogerti'.es ar� a#:ta�hed. .. .� ,: : : �7� �:': ra� �1�.�: .r��- ��. .. � :� :.. . ;.:.. . � Ther��a�e:ns�'I�T:atipria:l.Kegcsfer.-�isieii:or.�'fudyl:is€e:clprapeartEeS�w:kttxin;[�e:pcax:ect'�.�E: � �.� �ig��d; ;f1;I.1 p;zqpercie�: g'r:eater>tT��n..:�{3 .�ear�:�F:a�ge lo.eate:cl:i�: the•�':E haue. �aeeil cc3:�skii.e�e.d at;this c:c�nst�itati'on; xnii�ias.e.�. .. ..�+ti the �b4v� nc ....... .... : . , , . . .. . . . . ... • ... . ... ,. . , . . �a...: ;; .: ::.::::.::::: ��?;.: 'u�°eztce;, �.: Gcxm�i x�nce, f�r lat"s;t<nxG azckutec�srey�i:th Sectiiat� 1t��.oftlxe:I�aiiz�rtal. �isi�rie: �'r�serizatio� �.�z:a�� G� � � i � � (a� ��s ���eFl �ez:igLe*�� .��x tl�s, pxo� .;t. ' •. .. ; . ,. �--�--�- , . .. .. ... .: .. : lY�ore.:t'i3f�rinatii�n 'i.s:Fequ:este� :o:[i.pxopertic� '. . : :.� . : . . ,. ..: . .: �'�"' �':'� " ,�>�y`� -� j (.:Q . . 1.. -- �HV��.tart3s�'Di�isicin:.Aiiiraiiiistt�aCt#r, ��-aCtier:Fedei'a1 Age##�' Q�:te: I��pr�sei�Cative., HI?(� Datc . :.. : , � ��� , . . ;. . '� j � .. . .. . .. . .. .. . .�:;-s . � .^'i. . •.+!�.qt •:PxeseiEValipn :Z?�'�ce� If8 surv.ey repoct is gr�paeed; a G'r�al copx of�ttii� fosm xntl ttiG:ati(aeheel:l��t vril( b@ iit;cludcd:; �/� RECEIVED JAN 2 7 2010 NCI)Q�I' {�LI. DiVSSION BEVERLY EAVES PERDUE GOVERNOR ��� e��• STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA DEPAR'TMENT OF TRANSPORTATION December 7, 2009 -::_ i i Gc' � �`y-' � o � ��.: HIS'fC,��.., �_`:�;;�;�I.,,,:t.�'ri�� EUGENE A. CONTI, JR. SECItETARY b7r. Peter Sandbeck, Admniistmtor �(J9 - 1`}�{3 State Historic Preservation Office Depar[ment of Cultural Resources �,2G,�' 4617 Mail Service Center �' Y Raleigh, NC 27699-4617 �l1l�p Mr. Sandbeck, �� �I�II� SUBJECT: C-4901, Rail Division Double Track Project, Bowers to Lake (DTP-B2L), Davidson County, Division 9, WBS#42647 �' � .3005 ✓P-3A14P, Rail Division Double Track Project, Reid to North Kannapolis (DTP-R2NK), F+iz� � S Rowan Cou�ty, Division 9, WBS#42647 �Z Og -� ��9 P-3414N, Rail Division Double Track Project, Haydock to Junker (DTP-H27), Cabarrus and Mecklenburg Counties, Division 10, �VBS#42647, ER 0�2240- �JO� Thank you for cotrespondence of September 23, 2009 regarding one of the above-mentioned projects (i.e. P-34I4N). Based on the addition of, but not limited to, newly proposed grade separatio��s, these three (3) projects are no longer CE-level projects that would have been reviewed per NCDOT's Programm�tic Agreement (PA) with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). Since these three (3) projects are now to be handled as EA's, any formal recommendation for culhiral resource investigations shall be made by the SHPO as deemed appropriate. Therefore, a meeting was l�eld on Priday, December 4, 2009, behvecu Paul J. Mohler (NCDOT Arcl�aeologis[) and Joh�� Mintz (Office of State Archaeology [OSA]) to revie�v and discuss lhe prelimuiary study corridor and aerials for specific ]ocations along each of tF�e above- mentioned projec[s. Based on the mappi�g provided at this mee[ing the following �vas determined: From an archaeological perspective, "No rurther Nork" is required for the Bowers to Lake Double Track Project. If the study corridor changes prior to construction, then additional consultation with the Office of State Archaeology will be required. From an archaeological perspective, "No Further Worlc" is required for the Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track Project If the study corridor changes prior to co��shvction, then additional consultation with the Office of State Archaeology will be required. From an archaeological perspective, "Further Woric" is required for the Haydock to Junker pouble Track Project. T'he properties m be affected by the intersection realigiunent at NC 49 and Pharr Mill Road �vill require addi[ional investigations. The properties to be affected by the closing of the crossing at Hickory Ridge Road will also requ¢e additional investigations. New driveway access to all of the properties south of University City Boulevard will also require additional investigations. If the sh�dy corridor changes prior to construction, then additional consultation with che Office of State Archaeology will be required. Should you conwr with these findings, please fonvard a signed copy of this correspondence to our office so that we may move fonvard in the Section 106 process. If you have any questions conceming the accompanying information, please contact me at (919) 431-1609 or Mr. Paul J. Mohler, NCDOT Archaeologist, at (919) 431-1588. MAILINGADORE55: TELEPHONE 919-431-2000 LOCATION: NCDEPART�dENTOFTRANSPORTNTION FAX". 915-431-2001 PROJECTDEVELOP;AENT& HUTAAN ENVIRONIAENT UNIT ENVIRONLSENTHL ANALYSIS BFANCH - 1598 MAIL SERVICE CENTER ENVIFONM1tEHTAL RESOURCE CENTER Rn�ecnNC,Z7699-1598 Wees�ie: wJnvNCOOr.oec q701-116AiurvlicAVer�ue RnLEiGn NQ 27604 %� 5gag q (� ��k�i b o7i G�07�. MTW/pjm Sincerely, � �. Matt Wilkerson Archaeology Supervisor Human Environment Unit Enclosures (Study Cor�dor Plans and Aerials) �HPOConcunence: I� 1���-�( -�(�L�,� puty State Historic Preservation Officer ��OSA Reviewer: �� j��'� z, cc: John J. Mintz, OSA Colista Freeman, Rail Paul 7. Mohler; Archaeology C-4901, P-34I4P, & P-3414� Davidsoq Rmvan, Cabarrus, & Mecklen6urg Coun[ies Date: �� /c� � dJ0/D Date: � '1 /�o APPENDIX A.4 ila:3��yi�►�c•»��a��iia�r���i►e��a:�►e��� PROPOSED ADDITIONAL TRACK (TIP P-3414P) Mr. Marc Hamel �� North Carolina Department of Transportation Rail Division, Environmental Planning Branch 1553 Mail Service Center � Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP TUESDAY, JULY 28, 2009 5:00 PM TO 7:00 PM CHINA GROVE COMMUNITV BUILDING 412 SOUTH MYRTLE AVENUE A Citizens Informational Workshop for the proposed additional track along the NCRR line from Reid (south of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis is being held on Tuesday July 28, 2009 beginning at 5:00 pm and ending at 7:00 pm at the China Grove Community Building, located at 412 South Myrtle Avenue in China Grove. NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services for disabled persons who wish to participate in this workshop to comply with the American Disabilities Act. To receive special services, please contact Mr. Marc Hamel as early as possible so that arrangements can be made. k � �c � as �h � ��(t y ��a a � �-t Ci��B� ,� ; F �s� � ° 4 •pk� i Aza�aa�r� � a _ �c �`F. ��' �i . �' ra`r �5 S .' �� ChinaGrove � - h � 9�� � �, 29A µnr�,: st. r� c t. s� n�. �,c'�� �;£ � �� � � - y �F q 2 % w GET INVOLVED! In atltlition to participating in the workshop, you are invitetl to: Arrange small group meetings. The stutly team is available throughout the stutly process to meet antl tliscuss the project through informal question antl answer sessions with neighborhootl groups antl civic organizations. Call the stutly's tolbfree hotline at: 1-8003433721 (HOUrs of Operation: Bam -Spm, Montlaythrough Fritlay) Atltl your name to the mailing list. If you woultl like to receive future newsletters or meeting notices, you may atltl your name to the mailing list at the workshop or by contacting the stutly team. Call or write the stutly team. Comments antl suggestions will be tlocumentetl antl consitleretl tluring the entire stutly process. Vou may contact the stutly team or the NCDOT at the Pollowing atltlresses: Mr. MarcHamel N C Departmen[ of Trznsporta[ion Rail Division, Environmen[al Planning Branch 1553 Mail Service Cen[er Raleigh, NC 2]699-1553 (919)]33]245,ext 2]0 mhamel@n�otgov Mr. PaW Koch, PE S[an[ec ConsW[ing 801 Jones Franklin Road, Sui[e 300 Raleigh, NC 2]606 (919) 88S]394 Toll Free (800) 34&3]21 paW koch@sLn[ecmm If you have transportation questions on other projects, call our customer service offce at 1-877-DOT-4VOU or visit our websites: www.nctlot.org antl www.by[rain.org. Volume No. 1 July 2009 � NorthCaroiina�!epartmentotTransportation �� �� ! � � �� I�1� PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF ADDITIONAL TRACK FROM REID (SOUTH OF SALISBURY) TO NORTH KANNAPOLIS ALONG THE NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD (NCRR)/NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY (NS) ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA TIP PROJECT NO. P3414P WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE BEING STUDIED? The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division proposes to constmct an additional railroad track adjacent to the existing railroad track along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) between control points'Reid" (south of Salisbury) and "North Kannapolis" in Rowan County The proposed improvements begin approximately half a mile north of Peach Orchard Road (SR 2359) and extend to just south of East 22ntl Street (SR 1254) in Kannapolis. This project would indude a 10-mile section of second main track replaced on the fortner roadbed on the west side of the existing track. The enclosed vicinity map shows the project location. WHYAREIMPROVEMENTS NEEDED? The proposed project is along the rail corridor between Greensboro and Charlotte. This corridor is one of the most heavily traveled railroads in the state, hosting as many as 60 passenger and freight trains per day. The corridor is also part of the federally-designated Southeast High Speed Rail (SEHSR) corridor. This section of rail previously contained two tracks, but portions of the double track were removed as redundant in the 1960's as part of a signal system improvement project Since that time, rail traffc has greatly increased and additional track and its wpacity is needed. NCDOTs track improvements along this rail corridor focus on improving traffc flow and minimizing congestion. The proposed project would increase the overall corridor capacity and improve passenger train schedule reliability by allowing freight and passenger trains to quickly and effciently maneuver around each other. WHAT IS THE STUDY PROCESS? The proposed project is being studied in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in order to detertnine the potential impacts of the improvements on the human and natural environments. There are several basic steps, as described in the following paragraphs. The initial step in the study is to clearly define the purpose of and need for the proposed project. Preliminary alternatives are then developed that would fulfill the purpose and need. The option of not constructing the project (the No-Build Alternative) is also studied for comparison. The preliminary alternatives are compared to determine which altematives would have the least potential to impact the environmenL The alternatives with the most potential to impact the environment are eliminated from further study. The results of the detailed studies are summarized in an environmental document. The environmental document for the proposed project is known as a Categoncal Exdusion (CE). The CE describes the potential impacts of each detailed study alternative, ranging from residential relocations to wetland and stream impacts. Local offcials meetings, citizens infortnational workshops, and small group meetings are held throughout dunng the planning and design process to provide inPortnation on the proposed project, answer project-related questions, and gather feedback from the public on the proposed project. The NCDOT will identify a preferred altemative based on engineering considerations, costs, impacts on the human and natural environments and comments received from the public. A Public Hearing will be held at the end of the project planning process to provide citizens an opportunity to comment on the project forthe public record. WHAT ALTERNATIVES ARE BEING STUDIED? One build altemative (constmction of a second track on the Portner roadbed on the west side of the existing NCRR/NS track between Reid and Kannapolis) will be studied. A no- build alternative (option of not constructing the project) will also be studied for companson. WHYSHOULD 1 ATTEND THE PUBLIC MEETING? The study team is asking for your input regarding the proposed project. The workshop is a drop-in open house from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm with no fortnal presentation. Project Please plan to attend the ClTIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP Tuesday, Ju/y28, 2009 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm China Grove Community Building 412 South Myrtle Avenue, China Grove (Additional details on back page) North CBrolin8 �epartrnentoi Transport86on �� �rvr��� Proposed Double Track from Reid (South of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRRuNorfolk Southern Railway (NS) INFORMATION SHEET Citizens Informational Workshop for TIP No. P-3414P July 28, 2009 WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE BEING STUDIED? The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division proposes to construct an additional railroad track adjacent to the existing railroad track along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) between control points "Reid" (south of Salisbury) and "North Kannapolis" in Rowan County. The proposed improvements begin approximately half a mile north of Peach Orchard Road (SR 2359) and extend to just south of East 22"tl Street (SR 1254) in Kannapolis. This project would include a 10-mile section of second main track replaced on the former roadbed on the west side of the existing track. The enclosed vicinity map shows the project location. WHY ARE IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED? The proposed project is along the rail corridor between Greensboro and Charlotte. This corridor is one of the most heavily traveled railroads in the state, hosting as many as 60 passenger and freight trains per day. The corridor is also part of the federally-designated Southeast GETINVOLVED! in addition to participating in the workshop, you are invited to: High Speed Rail (SEHSR) corridor. This section of rail previously contained two tracks, but portions of the double track were removed as redundant in the 1960's as part of a signal system improvement project. Since that time, rail traffic has greatly increased and additional track and its capacity is needed. NCDOT's track improvements along this rail corridor focus on improving traffic flow and minimizing congestion. The proposed project would increase the overall corridor capacity and improve passenger train schedule reliability by allowing freight and passenger trains to quickly and efficiently maneuver around each other. WHAT ALTERNATIVES ARE BEING STUDIED? One build alternative (construction of a second track on the former roadbed on the west side of the existing NCRR/NS track between Reid and Kannapolis) will be studied. A no-build alternative (option of not constructing the project) will also be studied for comparison. Arrange small group meetings. The study team is available throughout the study process to meet and discuss the project through informal question and answer sessions with neighborhood groups and civic organizations. Call the study's toll-free hotline at: 1-800-349-3721 (Hours of Operation: 8am — 5pm, Monday through Friday) Add your name to the mailing list. If you would like to receive future newsletters or meeting notices, you may add your name to the mailing list at the workshop or by contacting the study team. Call or write the study team. Comments and suggestions will be documented and considered during the entire study process. You may contact the study team or the NCDOT at the following addresses: Mr. Marc Hamel NC Department of Transportation Rail Division, Environmental Planning Branch 1553 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 (919)733-7245,ext.270 mhamel@ncdot.gov Mr. Paul Koch, PE Stantec Consulting 801 Jones Franklin Road, Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27606 (919)865-7394 Toll Free (800) 349-3721 paul. koch@stantec.co m If you have transportation questions on other projects, call our customer service office at 1-877-dot-4you or visit our websites: www.ncdot.org and www.bytrain.org. I vowmei ��ivzooa �:%71��'3 � �7_1 �] �] � � [�7 ► I_1 � �:7_��3:I_1► I �'. RAIL CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS (TIP P-3414P) Mr. Marc Hamel North Carolina Department of Transportation ��' Rail Division, Environmental Planning Branch �� 1553 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 CITIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2009 S:OO PM TO 7:00 PM CHINA GROVE COMMUNITY BUILDING 412 SOUTH MYRTLE AVENUE A second Citizens Informational Workshop is being held for the additional track and rail crossing improvements along the NCRR line from Reid (south of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis. This second workshop is being he/d to gather input from the public on the project's recent expansion to inc/ude potential rail crossing improvements within the project limits. NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services for disabled persons who wish to participate in this workshop to comply with the American Disabilities Act. To receive special services, please contact Mr. Marc Hamel as early as possible so that arrangements can be made. �.t �� h5 �Fr �V �t�,� ��. �f{�� .�' ,� ��� �� ��r� s� '�xal�.� �r �� ��f f�'r .��f3$ �� r �� �� � �''�� �s � �.� � c;, ��� � � z �� �, `�'t � � S`� �� � � � `k� �- 3� s, � � ��. �hina Grave ��,na```�'� � Y �� � �� s���� L� ��� � � �� � r �, �{�. �� �. GET INVOLVED� ��a ���„� :;, �, �, `� � � �`�� � � w In addition to participating in the workshop, you are invited to: Arrange small group meetings. The study team is available throughout the study process to meet and discuss the project through informal question and answer sessions with neighborhood groups and civic organizations. Call the study's toll-free hotline at: 1-800-349-3721 (Hours of Operation: 8am — 5pm, Monday through Friday) Add your name to the mailing list. If you would like to receive future newsletters or meeting notices, you may add your name to the mailing list at the workshop or by contacting the study team. Call or write the study team. Comments and suggestions will be documented and considered during the entire study process. You may contact the study team or the NCDOT at the following addresses: Mr. Marc Hamel NC Department of Transportation Rail Division, Environmental Planning Branch 1553 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 (919) 733-7245, ext. 270 mhamel@ncdot.gov Mr. Paul Koch, PE Stantec Consulting 801 Jones Franklin Road, Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27606 (919) 865-7394 Toll Free (800) 349-3721 paul. koch@stantec.com If you have transportation questions on other projects, call our customer service office at 1-877-DOT-4YOU or visit our websites: www.ncdot.org and www.bytrain.org. Volume No. 2 October 2009 � Narth Garolina Oe�artment af Transportation PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF ADDITIONAL TRACK & RAIL CROSSING IMPROVEMENTS FROM REID (SOUTH OF SALISBURY) TO NORTH KANNAPOLIS ALONG THE NORTH CAROLINA RAILROAD (NCRR)/NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILWAY (NS) ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA TIP PROJECT NO. P-3414P WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE BEING STUDIED? The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division proposes to construct an additional railroad track adjacent to the existing railroad track along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) and examine potential rail crossing improvements between control points "Reid" (south of Salisbury) and "North Kannapolis" in Rowan County. The project limits begin approximately half a mile north of Peach Orchard Road (SR 2359) and extend to just south of East 22�d Street (SR 1254) in Kannapolis. After the first Citizens Informational Workshop (July 28, 2009), this study was modified to include rail crossing improvements within the established project limits. It was determined that a comprehensive analysis of the rail corridor would be the most efficient and thorough way to conduct environmental analyses and would result in the best overall design for the corridor. In addition to studying a 10-mile section of second main track, planning and design studies will examine the following at-grade rail crossings: 18th Street, 22nd Street, 29th Street, East Mill Street, Ryder Street, Central Avenue, Eudy Road, Thom Street, Centerview Street, Church Street, Mount Hope Church Road, Webb Road, Peeler Road, Peach Orchard Road, and the Reid Farm private crossing. These crossing improvement projects will be evaluated for potential grade separations (bridges), closures, or other improvements. (These locations were identified on maps displayed at the first CIW, but it was noted at the time that they were not part of the study.) The enclosed vicinity map shows the project location and rail crossings being studied. WHY ARE IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED? The installation of additional track and other proposed improvements or closures is to provide safer train and vehicle travel and minimize congestion on the existing rail line between Greensboro and Charlotte. WHAT IS THE STUDY PROCESS? The proposed project is being studied in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in order to determine the potential impacts of the improvements on the human and natural environments. The results of the environmental studies are summarized in an environmental document. The environmental document for the proposed project is known as an Environmental Assessment (EA). The EA describes the potential impacts of each detailed study alternative, ranging from residential relocations to wetland and stream impacts. The NCDOT will identify a preferred alternative based on engineering considerations, costs, impacts on the human and natural environments and comments received from the public. A Public Hearing will be held at the end of the project planning process to provide citizens an opportunity to comment on the project for the public record. WHY SHOULD 1 ATTEND THE PUBLIC MEETING? The study team is asking for your input regarding the proposed project. The workshop is a drop-in open house from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm with no formal presentation. Project team members will be available throughout the workshop to answer questions and provide any additional information you may need. Please plan to attend the next CI TIZENS INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP Thursday, November 12, 2009 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm China Grove Community Building 412 South Myrtle Avenue, China Grove (Additional details on back page) Volume 2 October 2009 North C�roiin� Oeparhment0# Trdnspork�tion � ������� Proposed Construction Of Additional Track & Rail Crossing Improvements From Reid (South Of Salisbury) To North Kannapolis Along The North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) INFORMATION SHEET Citizens Informational Workshop for TIP No. P-3414P November 12, 2009 WHAT IMPROVEMENTS ARE BEING STUDIED? The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division proposes to construct an additional railroad track adjacent to the existing railroad track along the North Carolina Railroad (NCRR)/Norfolk Southern Railway (NS) between control points "Reid" (south of Salisbury) and "North Kannapolis" in Rowan County. The proposed improvements begin approximately half a mile north of Peach Orchard Road (SR 2359) and extend to just south of East 22"tl Street (SR 1254) in Kannapolis. The project would include a 10-mile section of second main track replaced on the former roadbed on the west side of the existing track. WHYARE WE HOLDING A 2"'° WORKSHOP? Based on the need to provide safe opportunities for roadway crossings, the design team has identified several possible locations for grade separations (bridges). These locations may require additional right-of-way beyond the 200-foot NCRR corridor. The enclosed vicinity map shows the locations where grade separations are to be evaluated. More detail is on the corresponding large maps presented at this workshop. GETINVOLVED! In addition to participating in the workshop, you are invited to: WHYARE IMPROVEMENTS NEEDED? The proposed project is along the rail corridor between Greensboro and Charlotte. This corridor is one of the most heavily traveled railroads in the state, hosting as many as 60 passenger and freight trains per day. The corridor is also part of the federally-designated Southeast High Speed Rail (SEHSR) corridor. This section of rail previously contained two tracks, but portions of the double track were removed as redundant in the 1960's as part of a signal system improvement project. Since that time, rail traffic has greatly increased and the additional track and its capacity is needed. NCDOT's track improvements along this rail corridor focus on improving traffic flow and minimizing congestion. The proposed project would increase the overall corridor capacity and improve passenger train schedule reliability by allowing freight and passenger trains to quickly and efficiently maneuver around each other. Arrange small group meetings. The study team is available throughout the study process to meet and discuss the project through informal question and answer sessions with neighborhood groups and civic organizations. Call the study's toll-free hotline at: 1-800-349-3721 (Hours of Operation: 8am — 5pm, Monday through Friday) Add your name to the mailing list. If you would like to receive future newsletters or meeting notices, you may add your name to the mailing list at the workshop or by contacting the study team. Call or write the study team. Comments and suggestions will be documented and considered during the entire study process. You may contact the study team or the NCDOT at the following addresses: Mr. Marc Hamel NC Department of Transportation Rail Division, Environmental Planning Branch 1553 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 (919) 733-7245, ext. 270 mhamel@ncdot.gov Mr. Paul Koch, PE Stantec Consulting 801 Jones Franklin Road, Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27606 (919) 865-7394 Toll Free (800) 349-3721 pau I. koch @sta ntec. com For questions on other projects: customer service office: 1-877-dot-4you � web: www.ncdot.org and www.bytrain.org Note: There are six workshop maps on display. Please use this index to locate your area of concern. The staff will be happy to help you find the map you need. February 2011 � North Carolina Department of Transportatan ti�� ��v«�d � SMALL GROUP MEETING FoR: PROPOSED DOUBLE TRACK FROM REID (SOUTH OF SALISBURY) TO NORTH KANNAPOLIS PROPOSED 24t" STREET BRIDGE ROWAN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA TIP PROJECT NO. P-5206 Iformerlv P-341 DOUBLE TR.4CK (Reid to N. Kannapolis) The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Rail Division proposes an additional railroad track alongside an existing 10-mile section of North Carolina Railroad track from south of Salisbury to north of Kannapolis. The second main track would be replaced on the old roadbed on the west side of the existing track. The project also includes track alignment and roadway crossing changes to improve safety and increase train speed and reliability through the corridor. Please plan to attend the 24rh STREET AREA SMALL GROUP MEETING Monday, March 7, 2011 5:00 to 7:00 pm Blackwelder Park Baptist Church (Additional details on back page) One of the most important factors in improving safety along the rail corridor is reducing the chances of train and vehicle collisions. Therefore, several roadway crossings are proposed for closure and replacement with bridged crossings. Roadway bridges and underpasses are proposed at key locations along the 10-mile corridor to accommodate the re-routed vehicle traffic. ��Proposed i Closure of �. 29fh Stree � j �� J � � �'� .�°Mc:l�1 _tA� �-n�- ( 4 _ �r '�s'�`.l - . ' . _._. ; ^°rm ��,� Y' — I �� - I� �I,r I � I �f I � I � -J i�'r 24tb STREET BRIDGE The proposed 24�" Street bridge is intended to carry automobile traffic re-routed from the proposed closure of nearby crossings at 18�n 22"a and 29�" Streets. This bridge is proposed as a new roadway connection over the existing and proposed railroad tracks. Access to existing 24�" Street will be removed east of N. Cannon Boulevard (US 29). A new connection over the railroad tracks will be constructed from where Cannon Boulevard and 24�" Street currently meet and it will end at N. Main Street just north of Westview Street. The figure below shows the proposed 24�" Street bridge. Because of the elevation difference between N. Main Street and the proposed bridge over the railroad, a segment of N. Main Street from approximately 22ntl Street to 29�" Street will have to be raised gradually. Raising the elevation of N. Main Street will impact several properties and will also affect side-street access. The purpose of the upcoming meeting is to provide potentially affected citizens an early opportunity to view the draft preliminary design for this particular area of the overall project (larger versions of the figure shown below), ask questions of the project team members, and provide comments. A public hearing for the entire double-track project will be scheduled later this year. � �� �as � � s F1 S . � � t 5� _,, --- _ -.Y° ` N�n�_ . > �i�yy �-- -� _;=,- _ -��- _ �'`� �. ' , -T -- Proposed I I Closure of � � _ ' 22nd Street � � ]�–F 5 _ y— T I �—N i � � � �r � ' -. �1�i i� �= —�, , I � � �-� +-_.. � _ � � _ � i ��ii Y I , i- IL ,�� �I L I��+ E F �� —�L��L T i --� I I Proposed 24th Street Bridge-f�����, :� , 4 PROPOSED DOUBLE TRACK ALONG THE NCRR LINE (TIP P-5206) Mr. Marc Hamel ������ t, North Carolina Department of Transportation j Rail Division, Environmental Planning Branch ' "� 1553 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 24t" STREET AREA SMALL GROUP MEETING MONDAY, MARCH 7, 2011 5:OOPM TO 7:OOPM This small group meeting is being held to provide potentially affected citizens in the vicinity of the proposed 24th Street Bridge an early opportunity to obtain information and provide input. This proposed crossing is a part of the proposed Double Track along the NCRR line from Reid (south of Salisbury) to North Kannapolis. A public hearing for the entire project will be scheduled later this year. The meeting is being held on Monday March 7, 2011 between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm at the Blackwelder Park Baptist Church, located at 2299 N. Main Street in Kannapolis. The meeting will be an informal drop-in format with no formal presentation. Maps showing the draft preliminary design of the 24th Street area will be on display at the meeting. Members of the study team will be available to discuss the project and answer questions. NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services for disabled persons who wish to participate in this workshop to complywith the American Disabilities Act. To receive special services, please contact Mr. Marc Hamel at (919) 733-7245 ext. 270 as early as possible so that arrangements can be made. PROJECT CONTACTS Mr. Marc Hamel NC Department of Transportation Rail Division, Environmental Planning Branch 1553 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1553 (909) 733-7245 ext. 270 mhamel�ncdot.gov Mr.PaW Koch,PE Stantec Consulting 801 Jones Franklin Road, Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27606 (919) 865-7394 Toll Free (800) 349-3729 p a u I. k oc h� st a n t e c. c om If you have transportation questions on other projects, call our customer service office at 1-877-DOT-4YOU or visit our websites: wvw�.ncdot.org and wvw�.bytrain.org. APPENDIX B TRAFFIC ANALYSIS FIGURES L �� T C C W N fo � N N W d � � N W f1 O � % �� y Om � � N m V7 N m pN � -.pI 01 w < - � N N � a �� m - w� � � m � N N n O � � � W � L - Match to Exhibit 3 - _] Exhibit 2 Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track ��j�BS�� No Build Laneage With Proposed Signals ENGINEERS,PC L �� T m c x C N N � � � tC y � � m � N � � N a � — n � m � N � � N n � = n O �T � O � F� y �o < � m� �� �- m� O� —� m N � O1 � J c+ 3 m� w � fo N r m i - Match to Exhibit 2- na Exhibit 3 Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track ��j�BS�� No Build Laneage With Proposed Signals ENGINEERS,PC x x C L _�: � % % r � " n % % N u m A T � R1 .�7 2 Z� N w � � 1 X � o N o `omfac. c m � W � N �� 3 � a n fD � -� oo ;� 1 i i y � 3 a �. 3 'a m m � m � v �� � y� n o m'o � J 1 _ � m c N 01 —� p1 `D �� 1 i i m — � fO 3 a N � m � Fuu� 8 _ a y � J � o w w ��� � m � � y y � � � Mee�tivroxlitl � N C� � � � j f O � G N us[J i 11 � m � FIILL1 C � O �a � a fD o�""� g i 11 1 1 •; Exhibit 4 Hoeemen Ha Ca1rIM! Gmel Rtl � e � � a ~ �b,� ,.• �� Ek XOpe CM1 Ntl w isxor x .� � j y� � ` S ` d� �ffi wcn�Rn st m° � 1 P y � � � W Cer�rvav SY� � d wmom a � { � r � � i� 3 E ILMy 9 F 11 �� E�,��n m" EKeVAISSY 1 Z � i wy ' ' i Y � � � �� m. � ECanbrvMw 1 Q $ �� C t dl� � - Match to F�chibit 5 - Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track 2035 Build Laneage Ci I BSOI�[ ENGINEERS, PC "_E� � % I N T X � �o � o � .�. c v; o o W � �' �'p = � <c � 3 fDa a � m O U7 � N (n � N 0 0' �p m _ � N — N Of =' fn N O "� Q N J � m N W n � d $ O � ` N W � � O1 w m W < fp y C (D n O � a 3 > N m � O (p � m N � N WROUne A - Match to Exhibit 4 - � E 24M SY tl� Exhibit 5 Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track � GIBSOI�[ 2035 Build Laneage ENGINEERS,PC )C r xx� � x ' � N O 0 m D 3 � � � � m � i 0 � � 0 C 3 N omra CetlerSpnngc ome.�.� Nmeman fia comno.c�..oi aa Exhibit B wcnu�cn st wmom a � N �� ?� � ba 9.9��(• � j ��1(1l +pl� �aeP tlt)�, 1 f 9(1)�1 n m gg Vf9 � g �3—�1� 9��L'�1�1) ,�n�� 100(111)1 ^� � 9 ^ q'.l � HRp0) s9�9191 J j {� r et @]I Btl)J1 1 r ��'VY� � g � y .� � � w (c�) �m(� � 1 ���(� ]JR91J� j (' m I» � w 1es11 � � � � y a a � solsA �s��G1117 � 1 � � Sa(Sm Y0R0� � 1 1 i 011��� y :e�i� � � � 5 s 3 w � y s � �j��jm �SJ�1@l� � �m(sos) � j � ♦� ♦w ♦(sm 30.9(1@J 1 1 1 91B (30.� � m u xrsn�$�� ��� g�" � s� (ae) y�B(1� J 1 ���ro» ac�r� tl E i��=g5 _ � ��N`�� .§�u� J j l�semn ���n�1 1 � ��,��s�� € N Peeon arMeN Ntl Peek�litl wate na Anxorecnaa �, � m fi g �V �srn ��c�N �.���°In �teae) J' � �ia� N(1�r yp(tAJ ELIMM1ySt ,o�,� � � ��,»? � !' �' afmllg`_9 99 y � t�1(1) ^�� �]�% �i&° ���� �]5]1�5) 1'3L9�IIll9m) $�g'�R(6� � 1��zlm � 1 S�izl� � ���ia�si� E CliuiM S[ .aecaum�1 i f aap�i��1 1 f�ssn,j�l 1 i �(��H3� xan��.�—y°r ea(iml��mj�s y� y �aci) �y���c�� J 1 4 �' cm � e wmir s �����1 � fz �w,�a�=� ; y 9 � �sc+� m' �arm� � $ � B�(15m 9 � � �B9(1�) � 1��acn J 1 4�vc+s1 E GnbMm a,n��11f cso��lyy% am�s�y zsc������ = ��c��� is � � �'°un 3:s�sensm �����enn J 1 l�sna J � l�'m E lliam St � ,�`��� t r °�R�,� t r w9(tA19�e�atlszl���? _ � p ' g - Match to Exhibit 7 - Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track 2009 Peak Hour Volume G[BSO�I ENGINEERS, PC )C r Xx� � X � a N O O m D � � $ � m m x x 0 c G 0 C 3 m - Match to Exhibit 6 - Exhibit 7 I Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track 2009 Peak Hour Volume aa G[BSO� ENGINEERS, PC X �m XI�, fD X � .� � N O fa1 � D � � � � m m x 2 0 � C O C 3 m oollie aaa.san�e. wny om�.r Raeaman Ra ComM1erGrerel Rtl w isxor x Exhibit 8 wcn�Rn st wmom a � � �� : � Y �+sa(�en � � 1 ��zm S�y�J n(�g1) fn 301�7 1 1 s (� � � � ; g��, �m 5���za1 J j l�zrn %�,�� i t r :m��3N ,mc,em� — s N�� m� s; m can r 1 1 13rym�1 S P . �'`� 19��, i r a��r., � S :m� 9 _ d ' � `� (�) � .� s' ��wc+� Jjl�ro� %(��1 1 r 1Tl (13'p � � q � WU1�1�a.`aJ ��� v5](&) ��15(1� i j �r91RQ 99(]�J, 1 �r �a(�� N g & nru�� S ��_ �� � a � � nt (ttq .9 � � � am�s�m J1��♦��� emR�)J�i 1 i� �a(se�)� � � : mle%1 3 a � PaBG1 OrtI�BN Hd Peek�NE Haee no Mt Hope CM1 Rtl � � �B(1� �rznn ��s'�ena �a(+� J � � �a'H°� ,aa�� ��� � t � ELIMM1YSt ,�m� � & 3m� � # o �� ,o1sA� � ; y �—al� � �a(t9 '6 � 8 ��(sxl �H��.so(�,1 �93�xo(�,) �9 a�,oa�„m � 1 l �snm J I 4 �zo�m J �� �zs�m 9C11J b�� i�lY]1J ECIiuiMS[ �aecm»�11 i ni�eon�1 � i s�c+za)�l 11' iz�a9e s�(+sl���� io�lier7�#�� _ 5 C ��� ��9��� J 1 4�'�'� ����ir �m��.y�: 'm����'� �' �, _a� B � ex(fe1) �eul a Y v ��o(m3 � S .� 3.$ � is s H 9�ie�Rei) .� � y�isemo J 1��+wc+mi �� l�sm J 1 4�s�vm a�,��� t r ��, ,�,�,� e�� � issciw��1 1 i m(�e�)�1 � i% zn����� °m�,��-9s nre������ � 9 �gg�se(wl w a'sa a'�zf+s13 ffi@�a��n(+sl 9.7.7���� 9:3N�erRSt) .�59�n1s�1 J j l�esc+sm � J 1��cnsr � ���rzc+a til]3�J, 1 r ]C(2� � iQ(129�� ♦ SO�Bf�.Y.�i 5P1(151)�7' p� 25fl31�7 q1 � LBCMII `J�`�o� ? SU�1J`��& �(�1� a9 — � � - Match to Exhibit 9 - Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track 2035 No Build Peak Hour Volumes e wmir s G[BSO�I ENGINEERS, PC k r xx � W x ' � N O W N D 3 � � � m d � x 0 C C O C 3 m Eutly Rtl Exhibit 9 ;p N9 d D � ����nn j ��xpl aJ rg/OC g'11 r � � � � x � 9 �� � J1 � t�ecsn J j l � cen u����tr 4B1(1B�y $ � � ]4�5�1 ^d ,� ^d � 9 V 9 �at15(9� 1 � r ]B(10� tr �� wao��a si i � 8 !� t ea(u�) : � ss Ral tr ve � �s 3 K `7 p M (G) b 98��]Rl p� i j ��6I(t3A 3R1J' jry � x�~�Y�i a�� t� �� —a �5 �atvr .He J 4 �mmn � 1 wnms zm� �c��� 1 i ,mna,» �aa,� s� s� �� _ g L nz aoel 99 � �)lyl onvwvey � � � �°5� 30J J t � ��� d S zm� �a� � � � � � - Match to Exhibit 8 - ' #�i(sl �tl��HB(� ElnSt � 1 <<?r��� �`��1 1 P m 160811 � R � ��� � � w ��% V '�'i s� � �z�,� a 51� ue �sa J j V r3(1� am� 1 1 f ]N(91%� u ^ � i ean� �y� n 'o � 91101 �.L' � 3 �10�B1) J j � r3R1 ,����1 i f a(�fl�P.�H � a' � i I6) m H ? � tm(tca� i � � r9f4 ���J 11 � 1��1� � � � 91�A1 �9'� � 5 "�,m � 313�338) r s� pal -E RytlerA� �tr 95� ��� Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track 2035 No Build Peak Hour Volumes 'n � �@ E fi � m � $ � ° t �r (sol 5 � y � 3B(3� i j �r%R61 E]2MSl 05 (1M) J � 1 �r 1B(��� 1 @(1fi1��� �� � C� s'�5 il� ♦ � l�) � � 1 xttpet) 1 e �� e� n S w � e � $ CiIBS01�[I ENGINEERS, PC 1 + XX m r. m k X �' NX ON w0 NW D� �D � � 3� �� W� m �d � _ _ O � �C O� C � 3� W � N ."t1 D mn aQ c nT o° � �w N �re �� _y : y $� � Y �.,xa,en N omrac. � 1 l�-�t-a �svcaw� � �''+('� r aeee�orcnemaa �� ����� t r � � r �� , � � �' � �wRa � — � 'a � o�na � J i w J � j os° 1 � i� 1 4 �� V � ` � y+ �.teiptu� ti e� � � �s(�1 1 �� i j` .�sN� Peekrlia �/� �4 J 1 1 r aca�� ; � � "°""°" a� '� i t r "w'° � ���� g CaMls + 1 � G2vellitl J 1p(� � 1 wcnu�cn st c w 1 � � ���« � � �s,�n w,�� � 1 ����-,�, ����^7 1 r � MtXOpeCM1Rtl � a m � � fi g _ ` � „ `� ELIMM1ySt ��� ��tr 1 A 4 4 � � � .xJ .�3.�3 � �.i(-1% � 1 l�a�'� J 1 4� J ��� ecn�tinse "���tr ��ir ��tr 1L& 1 1 � ` J 1 4� ewmirs ��ir � _ � �ey �� L b � � g S N.7� �6(-� � � J l l � a an ,1 1 4 � ♦ E GnbMm 9(JIy1 1 � �7 � �m �N= � g �� _ � w � � � � � � —��-� � — „��, �1�� ���� Q (� E lliam St ,��-„�„ m � ;� t r # a(-zsl� i � v - Match to Exhibit 11 - Exhibit 10 I Reid to North Kannap olis Double Track 2035 Build Rerouted Peak Hour Volumes G[BSO� ENGINEERS, PC + Xk � �� m K X �' ., x NN O � W W �� aD �� � �� �� m� �d � i= �o ,� °o �— 3� �3 m �D mn °'a c _, n= Oj � y N aa � :w S ��i' > 5 W FouM i I � � 1 1 1 � 1 `� EROintl3 tr Exhibit 11 � � � 4 � � �.,�-,� � 1 4��,�� � •a� (-n ec31' i 1 i �� � �� �, t § � IOnballfitl , a ` r ""��tr W NouM SY - Match to Exhibit 10 - � 9� EImSY � 1 � t _itr ` a u ` � s' � s' v� �''c-10� 1 l� .1 � 1.r�F�m J I � ERYCx� ca �'' � '�? � �-zs��,�i t r � � �yV � s V = 'S t.t5(-aN � �-mis,� � 1 � �-m I-toil i� � r i j 1 r 8!(d� J J' � -'R (-'10+� � 1 1 � 1 � -0(-1�11 6y � n r � i s� E HaoM � ° �t�I-061) 1 4 � � caa� tr � s � � 1 �� a� q �@ e S $ Rd � w � 8 4 � ,J, � �E21M31 1 � � t � � ���� �� ` �,� � ��al-al a �-imFi� s" �-ie�-isl � 1 4�}a�c-i� � 1� r J l �-ze�-is� J 1 1 � -}JI-�11� „' E22MS[ J, f' E]YMSt �('�� � -0(� � ' -�u1Z1�1 � � Po' � � al-t�l� rzl-ttn�r. � � � v W]]ntl St , � ~ J , J J 11 � 1 � � �.113(-3fL9) o,;.,.�,, � 1 � �:s -0�, � 1 � E,�� 3c�� g � � ;p N9 � d D � Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track 2035 Build Rerouted Peak Hour Volumes � b il� '�' J 1 I �,� � � � a� � � � g G[BSO�I ENGINEERS, PC X � m X Z �� N O L omfe m N � a O W _ a' �. 3 � n� D fO � � < m � 3 � � " � � f%J CetlarSynrpc R� N � laiq MaetlowR< � i 0 c � G 0 c 3 � �� 15(SfJ D(q � �OJ 1 N�9 RuwnenRtl �� j 1]8(1H) YlI101)1 ��� CC�IIIG J 1 � G2vellitl q3�55�J 0(%� 0](]511 n P N - Match to Exhibit 13 - m � � �B(1� �0I41 rmIMI � � � ELIMM1ySt r]9(� E CliuiM S[ titr g�� e wmir s Exhibit 12 Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track ��j�BS��I 2035 Build Peak Hour Volumes ENGINEERS,PC " x I r 3� x � m �°m_ X Z � � �m x � y a 3' n� a m� 0 � a= m� W 8 S �' a -3p 3� D f° a � m o ag� m `��� � � �$ � � � w N N � 2 0 c � G O C 3 m Eutly Rtl � :y ¢ s��� > wrso�b � 1 s� t9ryaJ � 1 um� � �a � a' � e L 9(6) 1 � ` ENwM tr Exhibit 13 ; C 5 v � � ����o� J 1 l�ory� �R1 rolm rz �1 � � �+ r e�3 N88 ' �— ss(a� ��°��onm J 1 l � �sz�xa 6+���1 i f �ac�m�'i �'a inren�.,.... • � �ss(�zs1 �� Y�maw� J 1.��a3om� y�^�� � t r se, ryen � �a(sol—� $ f; � � ��� is�a�, � �o� tr �� wao��a si �H � � � ���o� - Match to F�chibit 12 - ? � ���� H�S��el+� o�st J 1 l ���iem a� ,,,,�i t i is (im � ; : C ��� d s e ��c+m 9'v](�9 ����3111� J �aanc��� � � �3BCSm ,���� r ��,�� ERYtlerA� �c„a� a �.+a��1 t r � tmRn� � S 9 ''a�wnze�=�=��� �§��aro� ��� �1��=m �1 oim � 1 1 f'iwusei� 1 1 otm�e_„ .utsm��� ONI� �343" � � 9 1 �r0(% E191M1S1 a � _R1� � � s��� g N'eMIBrRw , � 9 fa(1q J �' ta(ty� o �q Sy s' � �y �N9(99% 1 4 �,��,i n.,, tunmunm ti �N r3�� �9g M a `� 3 89 �8' �OM 5 on� � 1 J 1 l �sm ���'J 1 ! ��J 1 1 � EP2M3 1�311 m 0(%� i� 3= o m � � a� 55 �el� �� „ J l �ncz,q J 1 wxzmst ♦ Y(3JJ ,B(109� �I 1 120(1817� wle�1 �n � � s'� '_o �oM ss"s �uty o,;�„�, J 1 l �to �m a(al J 1 �` Et811iS1 8 o1W � �. �fel� 9�9 ; w � `B � i Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track 2035 Build Peak Hour Volumes m N fi � � � � � � e aan s� 2l](]1]�J � 1 aW(3�511 � � qg L�� 959�](�l 1 � � � � EP3�tl51 �aom�11 f 10(1%� A g 9 8 a�� �j4 10(1�� + } 10(1� 1 1 1 �+m � �� N i� � � G[BSO�I ENGINEERS, PC �� f C=v � �` % I r N T T X � W�Z N 0� M K C C m o OW �� a � � = � � c a � N _' 0� .:1 q7 m �� O. Q 3 � fo �n � mm� v � m r° °_ O o m o n _ ' �wm � N rj d -. T� C d � N � � W — a � � .� = O N � y � � N 'y (p W < �p y C fD n O � n � > N N � O (p � � N � N z 0 � 0 N n m N � 1 ♦ E39NSY � � 1 e�aanw •a' a d � i4 • �' rrvu � � s�mnn.. (ti wo.,nom �llle umsi , r �,«� 111P nma.�er d 1i' eazmse g� i9 3 Y� �'M a �� �� •JL a d WxxMSt i i11 •� Exhibit A1 I Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track Studied Alternatives D r � m .T1 Z D 1 C m m D r 1 m z Z D � G m m N D r � m � z D 1 < m m w G[BSO� ENGINEERS, PC C ? � �` �` I r � T m � z m c x n � N O L C W p W F N N ? 3 C W O' (� fC 3 2 �. � f0 !n � Cn m 'O � fC O. � fD O d � d < N N = M N (p — � � � n N J � � _ d � 0 � J p y y � � � N � � � �p C p 'w �. � n N O .� y � � O � � N � m Dollie Cir i�iBClBf Springs Rd � ��y' �SZZ �l 1 I� I Long � .�'� Meadow Rd ` i \'�s � C m N � N � � ��� 0 J11 ,SLZ 1 ��� ' N O � O a Driveway � � � � 0 0 Z 0 1 O y c� d m Z n �1 � Z N � 2 G. m N � � � ��a ��� Q Peach Orchard Rd i i r � a � � a. . Peeler Rd � Exhibit A2 Reid to North Kannapolis Double Track �`j[BS�]�[I Studied Alternatroes ENGINEERS,PC APPENDIX C PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE FOR THE JUKE BOX ROAD AND ETHEL LANE CLOSURES (NCDOT TIP NO. P-4405) ��a Y � � � � ':�= m � � � '�`! �'� _ a. �. � -� � _ � f f,j Z = _3-r � _ � _ .. � €�E __ _- I ]��3 L`�_�,`_ ? E _ - I { !I'�= ' x � — � - e ° _ - ; — - '� — � _ - � ! s � � e — — .. ,. I _ --`� '--- �3��� � s _ T'- �.c] I_1 � � I.r- - � ' � \ ' � ` - - — _ x f Z Q I � -- ��-����' ���--�" - %� '� �-'� ` _, � �. _` � � _ . �`E -�� -. °- ..- r `�: i- - k= , �: � � � _� -=43 ��,. - �.���� : ` ' F �� � �- �-- � �� . -� , ���.�. � -.� _� � � �-,•-�� - �- - �. `- � � _ �� �� ��'_ � �-��� • `°-. � � �, � _ �, ;,; �- =, -. �� _ � � �� .. - � �:' : �� � �.. �� �' ��£ �� � \ � ` ��- ���- y . �$� �--R} $- - � -i �_� '�'._°--; -: � �- �.�.-� ��` �.: �' _ __ .;- '- �.� � � - ; \� - `°4� _ �� _- � � =s � � , \. -� z � �� '�..; ' � �, . � .t v ,_�'�"� �:� � �.- � �< - _ ' _ �' � _ - � - ,� '- •; s.� . -� g��-.r-r� �.y^� _ _ \ � �_ � '� 3Y _'\'�i .ti3q �Y:_.�'i� � i5� � G4-s � �E„ s. . .��.i :"� -�-3� ��i :'9 �' =8' � � � `f" �� y. a�.s� _..- _:" ��.= �s � I .� ` -°,t.` �ie�a�� �- �� '`�c4� i ' �` � � � .M1-� _ M, c_ .a .� - < _ ' " � � ��'` "a��s-'-.£� � �� � � �°� �-` �_�� : 4-_�� r � .�` � , � �-� .�- � �'_ � `��g� -� �'�'-- � ��` i, / " p.�, �v-y'�' 'i` '�'� � �Ia� � �._ L .x4 —� � � _ . �-� � . __ . ,� -� -_..,.�z-_��-�" � � Jr - - ���'»�= I APPENDIX D RIGHT-OF-WAY RELOCATION REPORT (OUTSIDE NCRR CORRIDOR) E1S RELOCATION REPORT � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 coUrvrY Rowan I.o. No.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA DESCRIP710N OF PROJECT: PiO�OSBd COIIStfUCflOn ` To CP North Kanna oli ESTIMATED DISPLACEES � North Carolina Department of Transportation REIOCATION AS815TANCE PftOGRAM Section A of 5 Sections CONSTRUCTION LIMITS >nal Track along the NCRR from CP Reid INCOME LEVEL Displacees Owners Tenants Total Minorities 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP Residential 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Businessos ... 3. 4 7 1 VALUEOFDWEILING .. DSSDWELLINGAVAILABLE Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 o-zoM p So•�so p o-20� So-aeo � ANSWERALLQUESTIONS 20-40tn � 150-250 � 20-40m 950-250 Yos No Explaln all "YES" answors. � ao-7orn � 250-a00 � 4o-70ns p zso-400 � x t. Will special relocation services be necessaryl 70•10ou � 400-600 O 7o•loorn p 40o-Boo � x 1_. W ill schools or churches be affected by 10o ua p eoo ua � 10o ua Q soo uP b displacement? TOTA� 0 0 0 0 X 3. Will business services still be avallable REMARKS (Respond by Number) atter project7 #3. Business services will still be available after the project x 4. will any business be displaced? If so, t#4. See aitached sheet for business detail indicato size, type, estimated number of #8. As m8ndated by law employees, minorities, etc. #5. Thefe afe no houses involved x 5. Will relocation cause a housiny shortage? #�14, Local Realtors and newspapers -��� 6. Souroe for available housing (list). x 7. WiII additional housing programs be needed? x 8. Should Las[ Resort Housing 6e coosidored? x 9. Are there large, disabied, elderly, etc. � . families7 x 10. Will pubiic housing be noodod for project? x 11. Is public housing availablQl It should be noted that there is one buslness that was vacant x 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing at the tlme of the study that is nof included in the count ���� housing available during relocalion period? x 13. W III there be a problem of housing within � financial means? X 14. Are suitable businoss sites available (Ifst � � source). � � 15. Number monlhs estimated to complete Re�ocnTioH? 18 months „ Kris Barr ot Wav i ✓// �B� � 2 Copy Division Reloca6on File EIS SECTION A WBS ELEMENT: 42647.1.i BUS/NESS 10 NO.: P•5206 CONSTRUCTION LIMITS COUNTY: ROWAN Business Size Fu�l Time Part Ttme 1 Johnn s Automotive Repalr Owner Servlco Gara e 3000 sf 3 full tlme 2 art time 2 Alort Alarm Owner Relall - 2600 sf 2 full time 2 part time 3 H . 29 Indoor Flea Market Tenant Re�all 4800 sf 4 Bee Bo s Tenant Resfaurant 2260 sf 4 full time 2 aN lime 5 D's Auio Care Tenant Retall 400 sf 2 full time 1 art llme 6 Latino bod sho 2 Re afr Tonant Service Gara e 2250 sf 2 full lime 1 ari time 7 Martin Su I Owner Warehouse 18,000 sf 3 tull time i art lime EIS RELOCA710N REPORT � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOft ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 COUNTY Rowan I.D. NO.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: PI'OpOS2d COI1Sl1'UCtlO '' To CP North Kannapc ESTIMATED DISPLACEES Type of Displacees Owners Tenants Residential 0 0 Businesses 0 0 Farms 0 0 Non-Profit 0 0 ANSWER All QUESTION Yes No Explaln al! "YES" answers. Total Minorities 0 0 ,0. ,.<. 0 0 �-0 0 0 X i. rvm sp�wd� ieiuce�wn se�vwes ue necessary• X 2. Wiil schools or churches be affocted by � displacement? x 3. Wfll business services still be available . . . after proJect? x 4. Wiil any business 6e disptaced? If so, indicate size, type, ostimated number of employees, m(norilies, alc. X 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? � 6. Source for available housing (list}. x 7. Will addit+onal housing programs be needed? x 8. Should last Resort Flousing bQ considered? X 9. Are there large, disablad, eiderly, etc. familias? X 10. Will public hous(ng be needed for proJect? x t 1. Is public housing available? X 1?_. Is it felt there will tre adequale DSS housing � housing available during relocation period? x t3. Will there be a problem of housiny within financial means? x 14. Are suitabfe business sites availablo (tist source). 15. Number months esUmatad to complete � RELOCATION? 18 months ..,. ..,v._ Kris Barr North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM � Section A of 5 Sectic PROPOSED RIGHT OF WAY Of Additional Track along the NCRR from CP Reid INCOME LEVEL 0-15M 15-25M 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP 0 0 0 0 0 VALUE OF DWELLING DSS DWELLING AVAILABLE Owners Tenants For Sale For Rent 0-20M 0. $ 0-150 Q 0-20M Q E 0•150 20-40M Q 150-250 Q 20-40M p 150-250 � 40-70m � 250�4U0 p 40-70M Q 250-400 �i 70-100nf � A00�600 � 70-100M � 400-60D '100 UP p 600 UP p 100 UP 0 600 UH TOTAL O` O O - O rteMartKS (Respond by Numher) #3. Business servicos will still be availab�e after iho project ��;JC �� � �Q� D ����; �/'�,���/ 3 /y/ii Date Relocation Coordinator Date Otlginal & 1 Copy: Relocation Coordinator 2 Copy Division Relocation File � EIS RELOCATION REPORT � North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCATION AS5ISTANCE PROGRAM � EJ.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 couN7Y Rowan Section B of 5 Secti I.o. No.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA CONSTRUCTION LIMITS oesctziPTiotv oF PRO�ecr: Proposed Construction Of Additional Track alang the NCRR from CP Rei< �,�' ��wr��� °�x��,� � �- � '� ,� �;� To CP North Kannapolis ESTIMA7ED DISPLACEES INCOME LEVEL Type of Non-Proflt Owners Tenants Total Mtnorities 0-15M 15-25M 0 0 0 0 —o 0 2 � 2 - - 4 1 -'`_a!l�LUEOfDWELLING. � 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants 0 0 0 0 0-20M � $ 0-150 . ANSWERALLQUESTIONS � � � - 20-40M 150-250 Kplaln atl "YES" answers. 40-70M 250•400 � X L WIII SpeGal relocalion sBrVlceS be tteCessaryi x 2. Will schools or churches be affected by displacement? x 3. WIII business services still be available � c after project? X � 4. WIII any bus(ness be displaced? If so, indicate size, lype, estimated number of employees, minorities, etc. x 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? c 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 larga, disabled, elderly, etc. , families? x 10. Will pubiic housing be needed for project? X 11. Is public housing available? x 12. Is iF felt there wikl be adequate 6SS housing housing available during relocation period? x 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financial means? x 14. Are suitable business sites available (list soarce). �r 15. Number months estimated to complele . . RELOCATION� 18 months �;� 3 �--- 3-14-11 Kris Barr C 70•i0067 t..) 100 ur TOTAL O 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP 0 0 DSS DWELLING AVAILABI,E For Sale For Rent 0-20M $ 0•750 � 20•40M Q 150-250 40�70m �'> 250-400 �^� 600 UP I ii I 10� UP ;1] �17 600Uv aem,v�KS (Respond by Number) #3. Business services wiil stilE be availabie after the project #4. 1. Rowan Bolt & Supply, lnc. ; Owner Retail; 9600 sf; 3 fulll 2 part time employees 2. Trane/Trout; Owner Heating & Air Supply; 5500 sf; 2 fuli / 7 part time employees 3. Higgins Automotives; Tenant Car Dealsr; 450 sf; 2 full! 1 part time employees 4. American Legion; Tenant 5000 sf; 2 full! 1 part time employees #14. Local Realtors and newspapers � 2 Copy Division Relocatlon File EIS RELOCATIbN REPORT � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 CouNTV Rc I.D. NO.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NF DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: PfOpOS2d COIIS�I'i °- �.� To CP North Kan ESTIMATED DISPLACEES Type of DispEacees Owners Residential 1 Businesses 1 Farms 0 Total Minorities 0 1 0 0 1 D. 0 0 0 is North Carolina Department of Transporfaiion RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Section B of 5 PROPOSED RIGHT OF WAY mal Track along the NCRR from C WCOME LEVEL 0-15M � 15-25M � 25-35M � 35-50M � 50 UP 0 0 0 0 1 D3S DWELIING AVAILABLE For Sale For Rent Non-Profit � � � 0 040M $ 0•150 (J 0•20M 8 $ 0450 0 ANSWER AlL QUESTIONS 20-40M (' 150•250 p 20-40M g5 'I50•250 q Yes No Explaln all "YES" answers. 40•7�M 250�400 AO•70M � 37 250•400 � g X 1. Wil! special rebcation services be necessary? 70•100rn 400-600 � 70-10orn 20g 400-600 30 x 2. Will schools or churches be affected by 10o ua q sao ua ,� 10o uP � 87 s0o uv 3y displacement? TOTAL 1 0 606 89 x � 3. Will business services sti0 be available REMARKS (R63pO11CI by �NUIribQI'� � after project? #3. Some business services wiil still be available x 4. Will any business be displaced? ff so, #4. Morgan'S Ca�pet- indicate size, type, estlmated number of Retail Carpet Supply; 5400 sf; 3 fuli/ 2 part time employees empEoyees, mi�orities, etc. #11. Public housing is availabie in the surrounding counties x 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? #12. DSS housing is available or can be built if necessary ';; 6. Source for available housing (list). #14. Local F2ealtors and newspapers x 7. Wfll additionai housing programs be #8. As mandated by law needetl? x 8. Should last Resort Housing be wnsidered? x 9. Are there large, disabled, eiderly, etc. fami�ies? x 10. Will pablic housing be needed for project? x 11. Is public housing available? x 12. is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing hous(ng avaiiable during relocation period? x 13. Will there be a problem of housing within financiai means? x 14. Are suitable business sltes available (list source). ? 15. Number montbs es6mated to complete �� r�e�ocnr�oH? 18 months �=��rt� —�i o..— 1 Date ;�Bc�l � � Date 1 Copy: Relocation Coordinator 2 Copy Division Relocation File EIS RELOCATION REPORT North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCA710N ASSISTANCE PROGRAM � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 couNrv Rowan Section C of 5 Sections I.D. No.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA CONSTRUCTION LIMITS oESCRi�rior� oF PRO�ECr: Proposed Construction Of Additional Track along the NCRR from CP Reid ; To CP North Kanna olis ESTIMATED pISPLACEES INCOME LEVEL Displaceos Owners Tenants Total Minorities 0-15M 15-25M Residential 4 4 8 0 0 0 BUSI�BSS85 9 9 1£3 2 ,.,.:YR[:UE OF DWEILING Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 a•zoM ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS 2Q-40M Yes No Explain alf "YES" answers. 40-70en x 1. Will special relocation services be necessary7 70-100M x 2. Will schools or churches be affected by t0o uv . displacement7 TOTAL �� — �� -� — ■� �■ -� — _� �- �- — �� — ia� 3. WIII business services still be available aflar project? 4. WIII any business be displace<i? If so, indlcate size, type, estimated num6er o( employees, minoritios, etc. 5. Will relocatlon cause a hous(ng shortage? 6. Source for available housing (list). 7. Will addi[tonal housing progrems be needed? 8. Should Last Resort Housing ba considered? 9. Aro lhere large, disabled, elderiy, etc. famllies? 10. W ill pubtic housing be needed for project7 11. is public housing available? 12. Is it felt there will be adequate DSS housing housing available during relocation period7 13. W ill there be a probfem of housing within financtal means7 14. Are suitahlo business sites available (list source). 15. Number month�s estimated to complete RELOCA710Ni I �I�y mOi1�I7S ...<.. :�,.,.. BSiCSiI O $ 0-150 � 150•250 p 250-400 � aoo-soo 3 600uP 4 25-35M 35-50M 0 2 DSS DWELLING F For Sale 50 UP 0 0•20M g $ 0•150 p 2o�4orn 65 �50-zso p ao-�oM 137 250-400 p �o•�oorn 209 400�soo q 10our �g7 6aouP 4 606 #3. Business services will be available after project ti4. See attached business breakdown #8. As mandated by law #11. Public housing is available in 1he surrounding counties #12. DSS housing is available or can be built if necessary #14. Local Realtors and newspapers It should be noted that there are 5 businesses that were vacant at the time of the study and not counted // 2 Copy DiNslon Relocation File 37 E!S SECT(ON C WBS ELEMENT: 42647.1.1 BUSINESS 1D NO.: P-5208 CONSTROCTIONLIMITS COUNTY.• ROWRN Buslness Slze Full Time Part Time 1 Johnson's Restaurant Tenant Restaurant 1800 sf 2 3 2 Tenant Kelth Booker Attorne 450 sf 2 1 3 Tenant Precfous Pots Groomin Selon 650 sf 1 1 4 Tenant Jimm 's Halr Salon 650 sf 2 1 5 Tonant Panaderfa Oda 's 450 sf 2 8 SS Graham Arche Ovmer Retail 3200 sf 3 1 7 8are Fumiture - Owner Showroom 5000 sf 8 3 W arehousa 6000 sf 8 Tuscarora Yarns, Inc. Owner Induslrial 37,000 sf 35 9 Goodman Farm Su 1 Owner Retall 4000 sf 3 2 10 Farm 8ureau Tenant Insurance 4300sf 2 1 11 Ro Lasslster Dentist Owner Office 1500 sf 2 1 12 Kirk's Lube & �rake Clinic Owner Gara e 4000 sf 3 1 13 Manus Edvcaiio�al Machlne 4wner Tralnin Facillt 1000 sf 2 1 14 Manus En ravin Ownor Retai! 1000 sf 1 15 Howard Electric Co.( Kitchen & Bath Owner Warehouse 4000sf 2 7 16 Southend Tavern Tenant Restaurant 7150 sf 2 1 17 X�rane Golt Tenant Retail ]450 sf 2 1 18 KLM Troasure S eclalit 650 sf 2 � 1 Tenant Retail r �:: ?, EIS RELOCATION REPORT North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 COUNTY Rowan Section C of 5 Sections i_o. No.: P-5206 F.A. PRO�ECT NA PROPOSED RIGHT OF WAY �esct�iPTtoN oF Pao�ECr: Proposed Construction Of Additional Track along the NCRR from CP Reid To CP North Kannapolis ES7IMATED �ISPLACEES INCOME LEVEL � Displacees Owners Tenants Tota� Minorities Residential 0 3 3 0 Businesses t.� 0 1 0 Farms 0 0 0 0 Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 � ANSWERAILQUESTIONS � Yes No Explaln all "YES" answers. X 1. Will special relocalion services be necessary? x 2. W ill schools or cburches be aKected by . displacement? x 3. Will business services slill be available after project? x 4. Will any business be displaced? If so, indicate size, type, esfimated number of employees, minoritles, otc. x 5. Will rolocation cause a housing shortage? �� 6. Source for available housing (list). x 7. Will addiUonal housing programs be needed? � x 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? x `�. Are lhere large, disabied, eldedy, etc. - - � - families? X 10. Will public housing be neecied for proJect? X 11. Is publlc housing available? x 12 is it fel[ there will be adequate DSS housing � housing available during relocation period? X 13. Will there be a problom of housing within - � �. � Mancial means? X 14. Are suitable buslnoss sites availablo (list source). � � 15. Numbor month�s estimated to complete REI.00ATIONi �j $ �ppntj�S � `�.,,_. of 0-15M 15-25M 0 0 VALUE OF DWELLWG Owners Tenan 0-20M Q $ 0-150 20-40M Q 150-250 40-JOnt p 250-400 7Q-100M p 400-800 '100 UP p 600 UN TOTAL O REMARKS 25-35M 35-SOM 50 UP 2 1 0 .,. aSSDWEILINGAVAILABLE For Sale For Rent p 0•20n+ g $ 0-150 Q 0 20-40M s�j 150-250 4 p aoaom 937 2ao-400 �g 3 �o-�aaM 209 Qoo-soo 30 p �oo uv 187 ao0 uP 37 3 606 89 #4. 1. Concord Phone Company! Owner Retail; 1350 sf; 2 full / 1 part time employees #8. As mandated by law #11. Public housing is available in the surrounding counties #12. DSS housing is available or can bo built i( necessary #14. Local Roaltors and newspapors It should be noted that there is ona business that was vacant at the time of the study and not Included in the count 3-14-11 _ IRelocalion 3�iy�� Dale Onginal & 1 Copy: Relocalion Coordinator 2 Copy Uivision RalocaUon Fllo EIS RELOCATION REPORT North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCATION ASSIS7ANCE PROGRAM � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 courvrv Rowan Section D of 5 Sections i.o. No.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA CONSTRUCTION LIMITS �rscR;!� r!on or PRO�ECr: Proposed Construction Of Additionai Track along the NCRR from CP Reid To CP North Kannapolis ESTIMATED pISPLACEES INCOME LEVEL Type of Displacees Owners Tenants Total Residential 0 0 0 Businessas 6 7 1.3 Farms 0 0 0 Non-Protit 0 0 0 AMSWER ALL QUESTIONS Yes No Expfafn all "YES" answors. X _ �� �� _� x x x � x x Z Z Revfsed �s 0-15M 15-25M 0 0 0 2 VALUE OF DWELLING 0 Ownors Q 0-20M 20-40M 40-70M Z 7O-IOOM 2. Will schools or churches be aifected by 10o ur displacoment? TOTAL 3. Will business services stitl be availablo aker project? 4. Will any business be dispEaced? If so, indicate size, type, estimated number of employees, minorities, etc. 5. Will relocation ca�so a housing shortage? 6. Source (or availabia housing (list}. 7. Will additiona� housing programs be needed? 8. Should Last Resort Housing be considered? 9. Are there lerge, disablod, eldetly, etc. familios? 90. Will public housing be needed for project? 11. Is pubiic housing available? 12. Is it felt there will be adoquate DSS housing housing available during relocation period? 13. Will lhore be a probiem of housing within financial means? 14. Are suftable business sites available (list source). 15. Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION? 18 months ,.,,- � J-IY'll (ris 8arr Date $ 0-150 150•250 250-400 400-600 600 UP 0 REMARKS 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP 0 0 0 DSS DWEI.LI For Sale � 0-20M 20�40M Q 40-70M 70-100M D �oouP p 0 0 �spond bv Numbei For Rent 0-150 !� 250 400 Q 400-600 � soour p #3. Business services wiil be available after lhe project #4. See attached sheet far business detail #5. No houses involved in this section #14. Local Realtors and newspapers 0 It should be noted that thore is 7 busfnesses that wore vacant at the fime of the study and not included in the count �� 3 >Y �� � RelocaUon Coordinator pate Original R t Copy: Relocation Coordinalor 2 Copy Divlsion Relocation File EIS SECTION D WBS ELEMENT: 42647.1.1 BUSINESS !D NO.: P-5206 CONSTRUCTIONLIMtTS COUNi'Y.� ROWAN Buslness Size Full Tlme Part Time 1 James Shaver O themolo izt 3500 sf 4 2 Owner 2 Landis Roal Estate Tenant Realtor 384 sf 2 1 3 Salvadon Center Church Tenant Church 1280 sf 4 Bear Pen Hunl Club Tenant Club 570 sf ' 5 JD's Giass Remodelln Owner Retail 1AQOsf 3 1 6 Tatooz Tenani Salon 734 s( 2 T Kanno olls Photo ra h Tenant Phot ra her 734 sf 1 8 Kannopolis Com uter Tenant Computer Re air 734 sf 1 9 Poteats Transmisslo�s Parts Owner Retail Warehouse 24,000 sf 5 2 10 Qualit Motors & Tires Owner 2 Gara es 2633 sf/1344 sf 4 2 11 Pro Clean Tenant Auto Delall 1250 sf 2 2 12 Brothers Tire Sales, Inc. Owner Retail 12,OOOs1 4 2 13 Ral h Pavero Automotiva Owner RetailWarehouse 24,OOOsf 5 2 F 1i i�e t. t� (i: EIS RELOCATION REPORT � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 couNrv Rowan I.o. No.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA �escRiPrieN oF PRO�ecT: Proposed Construction ( To CP North Kannapolis ES7IMATED DISPLACEES Type of Dispfacees Owners Tenanis Total Minorities Residential 0 4 4 0 Businesses 0 1, . 1 0 Farms 0 0 0 0 E` North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM along 7 .�T�yr/_�7 INCOME LEVEL 0-15M 15-25M 2535M 35-50M 50 UP 0 0 0 2 2 VALUEOFDWELIING DSSDWE4LINC�AVAILABLE vners Tenants For Sale For Rent Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 o-zoM p So•iso p o•soM g bo-iso p x X X ANSWERALLQUESTIONS 20�40M � 150•250 p 20�40M g5 150-250 q No Explain all "YES"answers. 40-70M p 250�400 p 40-70m �37 250-400 �g x 1. WIII special relocation services be necessary? 7o-1ooM p 400-60o q 70-1oo�n -� ypg 400-soo 30 x 2. Will schools or churches be affected by aoo ur p 600 ua p �oo ua � g7 aoo uP 37 displacement? TOTn� 0. 4 � 606 89 3. Will businass services stlll be available ReMnaKS (Respond by Number) after project? #3. Business services will be available after the project 4. Wili any business ba dispiaced? If so, #4, 1. Broadway Associales; Tenant indicate size, type, estimated number of Post Office; 3500 sf; 4 full ! 2 parE time empioyees � � employees, minorities, etc. X 5. W ill relocation cause a housing shortage? #&. As manda�ed by faw 6. Source for available housing (list). #11. Public housing is available in the the surrounding counties X 7. WiII additional housing programs be #12. DSS housing is available or can be built if necessary needed? II. ShoWd Last Resod Hous(ng be #14. Local Realtors and newspapers considered? X 9. Are there large, disabled, eldedy, etc. � . families? x 10. WIII public housing 6e needed for project? x 11. Is public housing avallable? x 12. Is Il tolt thare will be adequate DSS hous(nc� It should be noted that there is one business that was .. �. � housing available during relocation period? vacant at the time of the study and not included in the count x 13. Will Ihere be a problem of housing within . . . financial means? x 14. Are suitable business sites avaliable (list source). 15. Number months estimated to complete ae�ocnnQN? 18 months ���7 .__, laht of W; 3�1yl�� 2 Copy Division Relocalion File EIS RELOCATION REPORT � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 couNTV Rowan I.o. No.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA oescRiP�ioN oF PROdecr: Proposed Construction Of �-; To CP North Kannapolis ESTIMATED DISPLACEES Displacees Owners Tenants Residential 0 0 Businesses 2 2 Farms 0 0 Non-Profit 0 0 AN3WER ALL QUESTION Yes No Exptain alI "YES" answers. � C n x 1. Will special relocation services be necessa x 2. W ill schools or churches be affected by displacement? x � 3. Will business services sti�i be availabte aker project? x 4. Will any businoss be displaced? if so, indicate sfze, type, estimated numberof employees, minorities, etc. x 5. Wiil reloca�ion cause a housing shortage? '��. 6. Source foravailable housing (list). x 7. W ill additional housing programs 6e needed? x 8. Shouid Last Resort Housing be consitlered? x 9. Ara there large, disabled, eidedy, etc. families? x 10. Wiii public housing be needed for projed? x 11. Is public housing available? x 12. Is it felt there wili be adequate DSS housing housing available during relocation period? X 13. Will ihere he a problem of housing within financial means? x 14. Are suitable business sites avaitable (list source}. 15. Number months estimated to complete RELOCATION? 18 monfh3 ..,,.. 3- Ktis Barr North Carolina Qepartment of Transporlation REI.00ATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM E of 5 Sections TRUCTION LIMITS along the NCRR irom CP Reid INCOME LEVEL s 0-15M T5-25M 0 0 0 ,O VALUEOFOWELLING 0 Owners Tenar Q 0•20M $ D•150 2Q•40M 150•250 4Q•70hf 250-400 ry? 70-100M 400•600 1 OO UP fJ 600 UP 25-35M 35-50M 50 UP 0 0 DSS DWELLING AVAILABLE_, For Sale For Rent 0-20M p $ 0-150 � 20-40m � 150•250 (� 40-70h� J 250�400 � 70•�OOM �J 400�6�0 t00UP 600UP O 0 0 #2. One church is impacted #3. Business services will be availabke after the project #4. 1. Players Sports Bar and Grif!- Restaurant; 2000 sf; 3 fulU 1 part time employees 2. Lambert Alignment Service Garage; 1200 sf; 3 full / 2 part lime empfoyees 3. Kannapolis Nouse of Prayer Church; 1885 sf 4. United Veterans Bingo; 4000 sf; 3 full / 1/ part time employees #5. No houses involved in this section #14. Local Realtors and newspapers It should be noted that there is one business that was vacant at the time of the study and was nof counted 3 1�(�c� Date I Copy: Relocatlon Coordinator 2 Copy Diviston RelocaUOn File EIS RELOCATION REPORT � E.I.S. ❑ CORRIDOR ❑ DESIGN WBS: 42647 couNrY Rowan I.D. No.: P-5206 F.A. PROJECT NA DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT: PI'OpOSOd COt1Sfi'UCt10 To CP North Kannapc ESTIMATED DISPLACEES North Carolina Department of Transportation RELOCA7ION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM � Section E of 5 Sections PROPOSED RIGHT OF WAY Additional Track along the iVCRR from CP Reid INCOME LEVEL Displacees Owners Tenanis Total Minorities 0-15M 15-25M Residential 6 4 10 1 0 0 BUSIl1BSSBS 1:. 1 2 0 VALUE OF DWELLING Farms 0 0 0 0 Owners Tenants Non-Profit 0 0 0 0 Q-zoM p So-�eo ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS 20-40M Q 150-250 Yes No Explain all "YES" answers. 40-70M � 250-aoo X 1. Will special relocalion services be neceSSary? 70-900ht 3 400-600 x 2. W ill schools or churehes be affectod by too uv 2 soo ur - displacementl TO7AL 6 � x 3. Will businoss seroices still be available - � � REMARKS F 2535M 35-50M 50 UP 1 4 5 .,. ..D&S DWELLING AVAILABLE For Sale For Rent p o-2oM g S o-�so p p 2o-aon� gg 150-250 q p 4o-�oM 137 2so�aoo 18 p �o•�oorn ypg aoo-soo 30 2 �oaur �g7 600uv 3� 4 606 89 aflor project? #3. Business services will be available after the project x 4. Will any business 6e displaced? If so, y4. 1. Amocco; Owrler indicate size, type, estimated number of Conveniencel Gas! Carwash; 21,OOOsf; 211 employees employees, minoritles, etc. 2. Appliance Surplus; Tenant x 5. Will relocation cause a housing shortage? Recycling/ 1II00 sf; 2 full/1 part time employees � � 6. Source for available housing (list). x 7. Will additional housing programs bo needed? x S. Should Last Resort Housing be (t8. As mandated by law considered? x 9. Are thare large, disabled, elderly, etc. �11. Public housing is available in the surrounding counlies famllies? #12. DSS housing is available or can bo built if necessary x 10. Will public housing be noeded for project? #14. Local Realtors and newspape�s x 11. Is public housing available? x 12. Is it fell thcrc will bo adoquate DSS housing � housing available dunng relocation period? x 13. Will Ihere bo a problem of housing within financial means? It should be noted that there is one business that was vacant x 1M1. Rre suitable business sites avallable (iist at the time of the study that was not included in the count source). - .�. � 15. Number months estimated to complete . � RELOCATION% 18 months .. .-; `� e. _ of 3-14-11 3 2 Copy Division Relocalion File r� APPENDIX E MOBILE SOURCE AIR TOXICS (MSATs) ANALYSIS Mobile Source Air Toxics (MSAT) Background Controlling air toxic emissions became a national priority with the passage oP the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA) oP 1990, whereby Congress mandated that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulate 188 air toxics, also known as hazardous air pollutants. The EPA has assessed this expansive list in their latest rule on the Control oP Hazardous Air Pollutants Prom Mobile Sources (Federal Register, Vol. 72, No. 37, page 8430, February 26, 2007) and identiPied a group oP 93 compounds emitted Prom mobile sources that are listed in their Integrated Risk InPormation System (IRIS) (http://wwca.epa.gov/ncea/iris/index.html). In addition, EPA identiPied seven compounds with signi£icant contributions £rom mobile sources that are among the national and regional-scale cancer risk drivers Prom their 1999 National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA) (http://wwca.epa.gov/ttn/atw/natal999/). These are acrolein, benzene, 1,3-butadiene, diesel particulate matter plus diesel exhaust organic gases (diesel PM), Pormaldehyde, naphthalene and polycyclic organic matter. While FHWA considers these the priority mobile source air toxics, the list is subject to change and may be adjusted in consideration oP Puture EPA rules. Air toxics analysis is a continuing area oP research. While much work has been done to assess the overall health risk oP air toxics, many questions remain unanswered. In particular, the tools and techniques Por assessing project-speciPic health outcomes as a result oP liPetime MSAT exposure remain limited. These limitations impede the ability to evaluate how the potential health risks posed by MSAT exposure should be Pactored into project-level decision-making within the context oP the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Nonetheless, air toxics concerns continue to be raised on highway projects during the NEPA process. Even as the science emerges, we are duly expected by the public and other agencies to address MSAT impacts in our environmental documents. The FHWA, EPA, the Health EPPects Institute, and others have Punded and conducted research studies to try to more clearly dePine potential risks Prom MSAT emissions associated with highway projects. The FHWA will continue to monitor the developing research in this emerging Pield. The 2007 EPA rule mentioned above requires controls that will dramatically decrease MSAT emissions through cleaner Puels and cleaner engines. According to an FHWA analysis using EPA's MOBILE6.2 model, even iP vehicle activity (vehicle-miles travelled, VMT) increases by 145o as assumed, a combined reduction o£ 72o in the total annual emission rate Por the priority MSAT is projected Prom 1999 to 2050, as shown in Figure 1. NEPA Contest The N cequlces� the £ullest e C poss161e� thet the po11c1es� �eg�la[SO�s� a�d 1 ws o£ Che Fede�al ^ be e�p�e[ed a�d erlmlNSteceL c ocLeoce ith i mectel pcotectloc goels. The alsol �eq�ci�es Fede�al age�clesVl e�dlsclpll�a�y app� ac h i� pla��l�g a�d declslo�-makl�g £o� a�y a C[ha[ adve�sely Smpects the e i The cequlces ecL P teL the e acL�e olLecce o£ �potectlel impects� the�� cel acL h�ma�%em i whe� c slde�l�g app�wal o£ pmposed C� �spo�[a[SO� pm]ects.� �eLLltloc � velueticg the potectlel �te1 e££ects� w elso teke i the ceeL £oc se£e ecL�e££SC1ect cspoctetloc�� echlcg ��Leclsloc thet the best cell p�bllc i TheeF A pollcles a�d p�oced��es £o� impleme�Cl�geNPPA s pcesccl6eL�bp ceguletloc Sc 23 CPR 4 991. 30W 2010 2030 2030 3WC �050 CalendarY¢a� �GM-�IeseI4M �����������-FORM-FO�maltlehtle �������������NALH-NapM1lM1alene BENZ-nenEene - BGTA 1,3 mlatllene - ACRO-A[�oieln ----- VMT-VebldtMllesT2veletl Figuie 1: NATIONAL MSAT EIIISSION TRENOS 1999 - 2050 FOR VEHICLES OPERATING ON ROA�i]AYS OSING EPA's MOBII.E6.2 MOOEL �1�� uel e o£ polpepclle ocgeNC m e pco]ecteL to be 561 t es/pc £oc��1999� Lecceesleg to 393 t es/pc�£oc 2050. �2� eeLS £oc specl£SC locetloes mep be LS££eceet� LepeoLleg locally de�lved 1�£o�ma[SO� �ep�ese�[S�g vehlcle-mlles C�avelled^ vehicle speeds, vehicle mix, Puels, emission control programs, meteorology, and other factors Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. MOBILE6.2 Model run 20 August 2009. Analysis of MSAT in NEPA Doc.-�ents The FHWA developed a tiered approach Por analyzing MSAT in NEPA documents, depending on speciPic project circumstances. The FHWA has identiPied three levels oP analysis: 1. No analysis £or projects with no potential £or meaning£ul MSAT e££ects; 2. Qualitative analysis Por projects with low potential MSAT ePPects; or 3. Quantitative analysis to diPPerentiate alternatives Por projects with higher potential MSAT ePPects. For projects warranting MSAT analysis, the seven priority MSAT should be analyzed. This project is considered level 2 as described above. Qualitative MSAT Analysis For both Build and No Build alternative, the amount oP MSAT emitted would be proportional to the vehicle miles traveled, or VMT, assuming that other variables such as Pleet mix are the same Por each alternative. For traPPic on roadways, small-scale changes in travel patterns will occur based on elimination oP at-grade crossings and replacement with grade separations. These changes primarily aPPect local streets and short trips. Due to the local network which is characterized by parallel alternatives and in some cases a grid system, the ePPect on VMT is expected to be negligible. Regardless, emissions will likely be lower than present levels in the design year as a result oP EPA's national control programs that are projected to reduce annual MSAT emissions by 72 percent £rom 1999 to 2050. Local conditions may diPPer Prom these national projections in terms oP Pleet mix and turnover, VMT growth rates, and local control measures. However, the magnitude oP the EPA-projected reductions is so great (even aPter accounting Por VMT growth) that MSAT emissions in the study area are likely to be lower in the Puture in virtually all locations. Consequently higher levels oP MSAT are not expected Prom the Build Alternative. The grade separations, access roads and other associated roadway improvements contemplated as part oP the project alternative will have the ePPect oP moving some traPPic closer to nearby homes, schools, and businesses; therePore, under the alternative there may be localized areas where ambient concentrations oP MSAT could be higher under the Build Alternative than the No Build Alternative. The localized increases in MSAT concentrations would likely be most pronounced along the areas where roadway is planned on new location, particularly at the Peeler Road/Peach Orchard crossing. However, the magnitude and the duration oP these potential increases compared to the No-Build alternative cannot be reliably quantiPied due to incomplete or unavailable inPormation in Porecasting project-speciPic MSAT health impacts. In sum, when a highway is widened, the localized level o£ MSAT emissions Por the Build Alternative could be higher relative to the No Build Alternative, but this could be oPPset due to increases in speeds and reductions in congestion (which are associated with lower MSAT emissions). Also, MSAT will be lower in other locations when traPPic shiPts away Prom them. However, on a regional basis, EPA's vehicle and Puel regulations, coupled with Pleet turnover, will over time cause substantial reductions that, in almost all cases, will cause region- wide MSAT levels to be signiPicantly lower than today. Incoaxplete or Unavailable Information for Project-Specific MSAT Health Impacts Analysis In FHWA's view, inPormation is incomplete or unavailable to credibly predict the project-speciPic health impacts due to changes in MSAT emissions associated with a proposed set oP highway alternatives. The outcome oP such an assessment, adverse or not, would be inPluenced more by the uncertainty introduced into the process through assumption and speculation rather than any genuine insight into the actual health impacts directly attributable to MSAT exposure associated with a proposed action. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible Por protecting the public health and welPare Prom any known or anticipated ePPect oP an air pollutant. They are the lead authority Por administering the Clean Air Act and its amendments and have speciPic statutory obligations with respect to hazardous air pollutants and MSAT. The EPA is in the continual process o£ assessing human health ePPects, exposures, and risks posed by air pollutants. They maintain the Integrated Risk In£ormation System (IRIS), which is "a compilation oP electronic reports on speciPic substances Pound in the environment and their potential to cause human health ePPects" (EPA, wc�?ca.epa.gov/ncea/iris/index.html). Each report contains assessments oP non-cancerous and cancerous e££ects £or individual compounds and quantitative estimates oP risk levels Prom liPetime oral and inhalation exposures with uncertainty spanning perhaps an order oP magnitude. Other organizations are also active in the research and analyses oP the human health e££ects o£ MSAT, including the Health E££ects Institute (HEI). Two HEI studies are summarized in Appendix D oP FHWA's Interim Guidance Update on Mobile source Air Toxic Analysis in NEPA Documents. Among the adverse health ePPects linked to MSAT compounds at high exposures are cancer in humans in occupational settings; cancer in animals; and irritation to the respiratory tract, including the exacerbation oP asthma. Less obvious is the adverse human health ePPects oP MSAT compounds at current environmental concentrations (HEI, http://pubs.healthePPects.org/view.php?id=282) or in the Puture as vehicle emissions substantially decrease (HEI, http://pubs.healthePPects.org/view.php?id=306). The methodologies Por Porecasting health impacts include emissions modeling; dispersion modeling; exposure modeling; and then Pinal determination oP health impacts - each step in the process building on the model predictions obtained in the previous step. All are encumbered by technical shortcomings or uncertain science that prevents a more complete diPPerentiation oP the MSAT health impacts among a set oP project alternatives. These diPPiculties are magniPied Por liPetime (i.e., 70 year) assessments, particularly because unsupportable assumptions would have to be made regarding changes in travel patterns and vehicle technology (which aPPects emissions rates) over that time Prame, since such inPormation is unavailable. The results produced by the EPA's MOBILE6.2 model, the Cali£ornia EPA's Em£ac2007 model, and the EPA's DraPtMOVES2009 model in Porecasting MSAT emissions are highly inconsistent. Indications Prom the development oP the MOVES model are that MOBILE6.2 signiPicantly underestimates diesel particulate matter (PM) emissions and signiPicantly overestimates benzene emissions. Regarding air dispersion modeling, an extensive evaluation oP EPA's guideline CAL3QHC model was conducted in an NCHRP study (wwca.epa.gov/scram001/dispersion alt.htm#hyroad), which documents poor model perPormance at ten sites across the country - three where intensive monitoring was conducted plus an additional seven with less intensive monitoring. The study indicates a bias oP the CAL3QHC model to overestimate concentrations near highly congested intersections and underestimate concentrations near uncongested intersections. The consequence oP this is a tendency to overstate the air quality benePits oP mitigating congestion at intersections. Such poor model perPormance is less di££icult to manage £or demonstrating compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards Por relatively short time Prames than it is Por Porecasting individual exposure over an entire liPetime, especially given that some inPormation needed Por estimating 70-year liPetime exposure is unavailable. It is particularly diPPicult to reliably Porecast MSAT exposure near roadways, and to determine the portion oP time that people are actually exposed at a speciPic location. There are considerable uncertainties associated with the existing estimates o£ toxicity o£ the various MSAT, because o£ £actors such as low-dose extrapolation and translation o£ occupational exposure data to the general population, a concern expressed by HEI (http://pubs.healthePPects.org/view.php?id=282 ). As a result, there is no national consensus on air dose-response values assumed to protect the public health and welPare Por MSAT compounds, and in particular Por diesel PM. The EPA (http://wwca.epa.gov/risk/basicinPormation.htm#g ) and the HEI (http://pubs.healthePPects.org/getPile.php?u=395) have not established a basis Por quantitative risk assessment oP diesel PM in ambient settings. There is also the lack oP a national consensus on an acceptable level oP risk. The current context is the process used by the EPA as provided by the Clean Air Act to determine whether more stringent controls are required in order to provide an ample margin oP saPety to protect public health or to prevent an adverse environmental ePPect Por industrial sources subject to the maximum achievable control technology standards, such as benzene emissions Prom rePineries. The decision Pramework is a two-step process. The Pirst step requires EPA to determine a"saPe" or "acceptable" level oP risk due to emissions Prom a source, which is generally no greater than approximately 100 in a million. Additional Pactors are considered in the second step, the goal oP which is to maximize the number oP people with risks less than 1 in a million due to emissions Prom a source. The results oP this statutory two-step process do not guarantee that cancer risks Prom exposure to air toxics are less than 1 in a million; in some cases, the residual risk determination could result in maximum individual cancer risks that are as high as approximately 100 in a million. In a June 2008 decision, the U.S. Court oP Appeals Por the District oP Columbia Circuit upheld EPA's approach to addressing risk in its two step decision Pramework. InPormation is incomplete or unavailable to establish that even the largest oP highway projects would result in levels oP risk greater than saPe or acceptable. Because oP the limitations in the methodologies Por Porecasting health impacts described, any predicted diPPerence in health impacts between alternatives is likely to be much smaller than the uncertainties associated with predicting the impacts. Consequently, the results oP such assessments would not be usePul to decision makers, who would need to weigh this inPormation against project benePits, such as reducing traPPic congestion, accident rates, and Patalities plus improved access Por emergency response, that are better suited Por quantitative analysis. MSAT Conclusion What we know about mobile source air toxics is still evolving. As the science progresses FHWA will continue to revise and update this guidance. To that end we expect that a number oP signiPicant improvements in model Porecasting and air pollution analysis guidance are Porthcoming in the EPA's release oP the Pinal MOVES model and the issuance o£ the PM 2.5 Hot Spot Modeling Guidance. APPENDIX F NATURAL RESOURCES TECHNICAL REPORT DATA APPENDIX F.1 �����,:��� - "- qq�9E qssq a = a i i i &� %� a, s°A° � �; - =s=s°=�a�= "_° A �� � � � �� �o �g �a£ �6z zs��a a � �1i a �I _ � f � _ � z �&aA�a�gaLZ�EV �` �, = a �gaa �Y9a�H44v$ � a a . �RaaYB„Ao_�na2 � 1 --' � �"Ai- \` 4 TC���t`; ` I � � �`•�� r--O� y �(4 � � 1 � � � � `� � � i� 1 � _ �1 � E '� � `��� �� 3 x � 1 �' ��_ . � � � � � y� � � R y��.:. '. v ;z:vr 1 1 '1 t� � �` �: 3 �x�� � 1� 1 x �.,- � Y� r � �,7 � � � ��,`dA'4_ -.. 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H�, V d`Y ' L ��`I ��,+ �, L �� � �;._ ii. �kil.• APPENDIX F.2 ��yia�r�i��y�reu�ii�� Natural Resources Technical Report TIP P-3414P, Rowan Appendix B Scientific Names of Species Identified in the Report Plants Common Name American elder American elm Beggar's-ticks Blackberries Black cherry Black gum Box elder Bradford pear Broomsedges Chinese privet Christmas fern Cottonwood Crab grasses Crepe myrtle Crossvine Dandelion Eastern red cedar Fescue Flowering dogwood Fox-tail grass Geranium Georgia aster Grapes Greenbrier Japanese honeysuckle Loblolly pine Multiflora rose Northern red oak Paw-paw Poison ivy Redbud Red maple Sassafras Schweinitz's sunflower Silky dogwood Slippery elm Smooth sumac Sourwood Southern red oak Spicebush Scientific Name Sambucus canadensis Ulmus americana Bidens spp. Rubus spp. Prunus serotina Nyssa sylvarica Acer negundo Pyrus calleryana Andropogon spp. Ligustrum sinense Polysrichum acrosrichoides Populus deltoides Digitaria spp. Lagerstromia indica Bignonia capreolata Taraxacum officinale Juniperus virginiana Festuca sp. Cornus florida Setaria geniculata Geranium carolinianum Symphyotricum georgianum Vitis spp. Smilax rotundifolia Lonicera japonica Pinus taeda Rosa mulriflora Quercus rubra Asimina triloba Toxicodendron radicans Cercis canadensis Acer rubrum Sassafras albidum Helianthus schweinitzii Cornus amomum Ulmus rubra Rhus glabra O�ydendron arboreum Quercus falcata Lindera benzoin NC NCDOT Rail Division B-1 November 2010 Natural Resources Technical Renort TIP P-3414P, Rowan Countu, NC Sweetgum Sycamore Trumpet creeper Tulip poplar Vasey-grass Violets White clover White oak Wild onion Willow oak Winged elm Animals Common Name American crow American kestrel American robin American toad Bald eagle Barn swallow Black racer Blue-gray gnatcatcher Bluehead chub Bluejay Carolina chickadee Carolina wren Cedar waxwing Chimney swift Common carp Common grackle Common yellow-throat Copperhead Corn snake Coyote Crayfish Creek chub Eastern bluebird Eastern box turtle Eastern cottontail Eastern fence lizard Eastern garter snake Eastern ribbon snake Eastern towhee Liquidambar styraciflua Platanus occidentalis Campsis radicans Liriodendron tulipifera Paspalum urvillei Viola spp. Trifolium repens Quercus alba Allium sp. Quercus phellos Ulmus alata Scientific Name Corvus brachyrhynchos Falco sparverius Turdus migratorius Bufo americana Haliaeetus leucocephalus Hirundo rustica Coluber constrictor Polioprila caerulea Nocomis leptocehpalus Cyanocitta cristata Poecile carolinensis Thryothorus ludovicianus Bombycilla cedrorum Chaetura pelagica Cyprinus carpio Quiscalus quiscula Geothlypsis trichas Agl�strodon contortrix Elaphe guttata Ca�rus latrans Cambarus sp. Semorilus atromaculatus Sialia sialis Terrapene carolina Sylvilagus floridanus Sceloporus undulatus Thamnophis sirtalis Thamnophis sauritus Pipilo erythrophthalmus NCDOT Rail Division B-2 November 2010 Natural Resources Technical Renort TIP P-3414P, Rowan Countu, NC Eastern silvery minnow European starling Five-lined skink Gizzard shad Golden shiner Goldfinch Gray squirrel Gray treefrog Great blue heron Groundhog House finch Indigo bunting Killdeer Marbled salamander Mourning dove Northern cardinal Northern mockingbird Northern water snake Raccoon Rat snake Redbreast sunfish Redfin pickerel Red-eyed vireo Red-headed woodpecker Red-tailed hawk Rosyside dace Sharp-shinned hawk Song sparrow Spring peeper Timberrattlesnake Tufted titmouse Turkey vulture Virginia opossum White-eyed vireo White-tailed deer Hybognathus regius Sturnus vulgaris Eumeces fasciata Dorosoma cepedianum Notemigonus crysoleucas Carduelis trisris Sciurus carolinensis Hyla sp. Ardeaherodias Marmota monax Carpodacus mexicanus Passerina cyanea Charadrius vociferus Ambystoma opacum Zenaida macroura Cardinalis cardinalis Mimus polyglottus Nerodia sipedon Procyon lotor Elaphe obsoleta Lepomis auritus Esox americanus Vireo olivaceus Melanerpes erythrocephalus Buteo jamaicensis Clinostomus funduloides Accipiter striatus Melospiza melodia Pseudacris crucifer Crotalus horridus Baeolophus bicolor Cathartes aura Didelphis virginiana Vireo griseus Odocoileus virginianus NCDOT Rail Division B-3 November 2010 APPENDIX G ROADWAY MAINTENANCE OF TRAFFIC P-3414P: DTP: R2NK Roadway Maintenance of haffic Stvting North and moving Soufh. -Y20- {newlocationroadwmaintvnaccessmNo6leAcresandRddFvm} 11ils road is new location except at the tie with ihe eeisting road rys4m and tlils shoWd be able m be bwlt without an offsite demw. -Y21- {HadevSt} 11ils road shodd be able m be bwlt without ar� offsite demw. 'lhe grades are close m e�isting. -Y2- {Peelerto Cedar Springs grade separation} The East side shodd be able m be bwlt without ar� offsite demw as the east side is mostly new locatioa TheWestsidewillneedanoffsitedewwduringco�tructionofthebridgeand fhe ties m fhe bridge. A Demw Rouk m be presented m fhe Division for approval is listedbdow: � f VILINITYAMPMIO�ETOIIRFOIIIEFON-Y3�PEELERR�. � � -vaa- {ceaarspd��rtrsasco�e�ro�} 11ils comecmr road uses parts of ihe eeisting roads SoutMurk ID ar�d Long Meadow Dr. 11ils mecmr shoWd be able m be built wlille traffic is using these roads or by use ofthe offate route listed for PeeledCedar Springs abwe. -Y4- { Webb St} Webb St will remain an at grade crosang with the rvlroad. The proposed work is m imprwe the grades approaclilng the intersection and add the concrete mediarJislands at the aossing. 11ils work codd be bwlt by utiliang liRs of uphalt for the road co�truction and ar� offate demw wlille the crossing is closed for the rvl co�truction. A Demw Rouk m be presented m the Diviaon for approval is listed bdow: J � � / j Q . . . . \ � � �+'/ ��' � � � l � B�Wiwry � I ` 6 !� VICINT'MAPANDDETOURROUIEFORV-0- WEBBROAD � � -Y10- {Kimball} 11ils is a new location road. -Y12- {RydevAve} Ryder Ave will remain an at grade crossing with the rvlroad. The proposed work is m imprwe the grades approaclilng the intersection and addthe concrete mediarJislands atthe sing. lfiis work codd be bwlt by utiliang liRs of asphalt for the road construction and an of(�ite demw�sivg Mill St (befove iPs crossivg is close� wlille ihe crossivg is closedforthervlconstruction. YM" Mvn \ � / �, VICININ MAPAND DETOUR ROU7E FOR-YM- US 29A an offsite demw. A �� � APPENDIX H REFERENCES REFERENCES Cabarrus-Rowan Municipal Planning Organization (CRMPO). 2009. Long-Range Transportation Plan 2035. http://www.crmpo.org/Forms/MPO_Long_Range_Transportation_Plan.pdf City of Kannapolis. 2004. 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